Cables Direct Online Cat5e 10FT Network Ethernet Patch Cable
Bottom line: The Cables Direct Online Cat5e 10FT Network Ethernet Patch Cable ($5.65 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Supports Gigabit 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX at 350MHz; main trade-off: CCA conductors, not solid copper - lower conductivity than pure copper.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Supports Gigabit 1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX at 350MHz
- ✓ Backwards compatible with older Cat5 gear and retro hardware
- ✓ Snagless molded boots keep the clip from catching in a switch panel
- ✓ Same cable sold in 1 to 200 ft, so runs stay consistent
Cons
- ✗ CCA conductors, not solid copper - lower conductivity than pure copper
- ✗ Cat5e caps at Gigabit; no 2.5G/10G headroom like Cat6/6a
- ✗ PVC jacket is not plenum-rated for in-ceiling runs
- ✗ White jacket shows dirt and scuffs in floor-level runs
Manufacturer description
The Cables Direct Online Cat5e patch cable is a 10-foot white Ethernet run built for the unglamorous job of getting a PC, modem, router, switch, or game console onto the network without drama. Rated to 350MHz, it supports both Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T) and Fast Ethernet (100BASE-TX), and it stays backwards compatible with older Cat5 gear, which is what makes it a sensible patch for retro rigs and vintage networking hardware that never needed anything faster. Construction is CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) conductor under a flexible PVC jacket, with molded strain relief boots and a snagless…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Cables Direct Online Cat5e 10FT Network Ethernet Patch Cable using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro networking cards category. Cables Direct Online's retro networking cards lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for retro networking cards of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this Cat5e cable do full gigabit speeds?
Yes. It is specified for Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T) and Fast Ethernet (100BASE-TX) at 350MHz, so a gigabit router or switch port will negotiate 1000 Mbps over this run.
Does it work with older Cat5 equipment?
Yes, it is backwards compatible with Cat5, which is why it suits older switches, hubs, and vintage PCs that never supported gigabit in the first place.
Is the wire solid copper?
No. The conductors are CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) under a PVC jacket. That keeps the cost down and the cable flexible, but it is not the same as a pure copper conductor.
Can I use it with a PlayStation, Xbox, or smart TV?
Yes. It is a standard RJ45 patch cable listed as compatible with PCs, laptops, routers, switches, modems, and gaming consoles.
What if 10 feet is too short or too long?
The same cable is offered in lengths from 1 foot to 200 feet, so you can pick a closer fit rather than coiling slack behind a desk.
Key Features
- Enhanced Performance: Our Cat5e Patch Cable is designed to support Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T) and Fast Ethernet (100BASE-TX), providing reliable and stable connections for your network devices.
- Superior Construction: Constructed with high-quality CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) conductors and durable PVC jacket, this patch cable offers excellent durability and flexibility, ensuring long-lasting performance even in demanding environments.
- Universal Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of devices including PCs, laptops, routers, switches, modems, gaming consoles, and more, our Cat5e Patch Cable offers versatile connectivity options for various networking setups.
- Easy Installation: Featuring molded strain relief boots and snagless design, this patch cable allows for easy installation and reduces the risk of cable damage during installation or removal.
- Length Options: Available in various length options ranging from 1 to 200 feet, our Cat5e Patch Cable provides flexibility to suit different networking setups, whether it's a small home network or a large-scale business infrastructure.
Full Specifications
| Brand | Cables Direct Online |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Model | B07W685B5K |
| Frequency | 350 MHz |
| Cable Type | Ethernet |
| Item Shape | Round |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Compatibility | PC |
| Connector Type | RJ45 |
| Number of Pins | 8 |
| Outer Material | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
| Special Feature | Ethernet |
| Connector Gender | Male-to-Male |
| Specification Met | EIA, TIA |
| Compatible Devices | Ethernet |
| Data Transfer Rate | 350 MHz |
| Indoor Outdoor Usage | Indoor, Outdoor |
| Compatible Phone Models | VoIP phones |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
| Ethernet Cable Category | Cat 5e |
| Full listing title | Cables Direct Online Cat5e 10FT Network Ethernet Patch Cable, 350Mhz Internet Wire, Backwards Compatible with Cat5, for PC, Modem, Router, Consoles for Home and Office, White |
Ready to buy?
Cables Direct Online Cat5e 10FT Network Ethernet Patch Cable, 350Mhz Internet Wire, Backwards Compatible with Cat5, for PC, Modem, Router, Consoles for Home and Office, White is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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