With the rapid development of information technology, network connectivity permeates almost every aspect of our lives. Ethernet cables are the mainstay of network connectivity, but the types and choices of Ethernet cables are often confusing. The two forms of flat vs. round Ethernet cable are widely discussed among the many options.
This article will help you clear your mind and grasp the differences between these cables so that you can make the most appropriate choice when needed.
Flat Ethernet Cables
The copper wires of flat Ethernet cables are arranged in a twisted-pair, side-by-side configuration rather than the concentric circles common in round wires. This twisted pair arrangement gives the cable a flat appearance, hence the name flat cable.
Most flat cables are unshielded, mainly because it is more challenging to implement overall shielding on a flat cable than on a round cable. So, flat cables have relatively poor protection against external electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Due to their unshielded design and simplified construction, flat cables are relatively inexpensive. This makes them an affordable option in some cost-sensitive scenarios.
Advantages
- Appearance and Installation: Flat cable is typically thinner and more flexible, making it easier to install in tighter spaces or along surfaces such as walls and floors. This makes it ideal for scenarios where aesthetics are essential or cables must be hidden.
- Easy to bend: Flat cables are more accessible than round cables, making them suitable for environments that require traversing bends or corners, such as home network cabling.
- Suitable for specific environments: Flat cables’ low-profile design may be more practical in specific environments, such as the desk’s underside or a wall gap.
Disadvantages
- Performance: Flat cables may be slightly less resistant to interference and protection than round cables, especially in long-distance and high-speed network environments.
- Distance Limitations: Flat cables may be limited in their travel distance, making them unsuitable for long-distance transmission of 30 meters.
- Electromagnetic interference: Flat cables lack external protection and shielding, resulting in electromagnetic interference between wires.
Round Ethernet cables
Round Ethernet cables are based on round insulated wires with a unique structure and characteristics. They typically contain multiple layers of filler material that help maintain the cable’s round shape. This design allows the cable to retain its original round shape while providing better protection and isolation.
The fillers inside such cables are also very good at reducing the heat generated by friction. This is essential to maintaining the cable’s performance under high loads and prolonged use.
Due to its superior protection and suitability for long transmission distances, round cables are often used in data centers where longer cable lengths are required or where they need to pass through walls.
Advantages
- Performance: Circular cables typically have better interference immunity and transmission performance, making them suitable for large networks, data centers, and other critical performance scenarios.
- Distance: Round cables are more reliable over long distances, supporting high-speed networks and delivering better signal quality.
- Broad applicability: Due to their high performance, round cables are suitable for various network cabling scenarios, whether a home network, a corporate office, or a large data center.
Disadvantages
- Installation Complexity: Round cables can be more challenging than flat cables, especially when traveling through tight spaces or being hidden.
- Appearance: When aesthetics are essential, round cables may be less desirable than flat cables. 3.
- Price: Compared to flat cables, round Ethernet cables are much more expensive.
Flat vs. Ethernet Cable
| Feature | Flat Cable | Round Cable |
| Appearance | Flat shape | Cylindrical shape |
| Durability | Generally less durable | More robust construction |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible | Less flexible |
| Cable Management | Easy to conceal and navigate around corners and under carpets | Bulkier can be more challenging to manage and hide |
| Installation | Easy to install | Requires more effort |
| Application | Suitable for short to medium distances, ideal for residential or small office setups | Excellent performance over longer distances, commonly used in data centers and professional installations. |
| EMI Protection | Very Good | Good, Improved with technology |
| Distance Limitation | Shorter distances | Longer distances |
| Cost | Usually more affordable | Slightly higher cost due to enhanced construction and performance |
Flat vs Ethernet cable, how to choose
Transmission Distance
Round cables have padding and shielding, so they are less affected by EMI and suitable for long-distance transmission. Compared to round Ethernet cables, flat network cables do not have the support of a conductor separator and shield protection and are only ideal for short distances, with a maximum length of about 30 meters.
Application scenarios
Flat Ethernet cables are flexible and flat, making them ideal for environments where space is limited. For example, flat cables are a perfect choice when cables must be hidden cleverly in corners, under carpets, or between floors. Many home users find that flat cables save space and avoid tripping hazards when setting up a home theatre or office environment.
In contrast, round Ethernet cables stand out for their more rugged nature. They are preferred for their durability and robust insulation when building offices, industrial environments, data centers, and outdoor installations.
Future expandability and practical needs
If you plan to set up your network for the long term and need to add new equipment from time to time, the durability of round cables may save you maintenance costs. Often, the thick plastic coating of round cables can withstand external damage.
Conversely, flat cables may be more appropriate if you make temporary connections or if aesthetics are important. Flat cables are thin on the outside, making them prone to wear and tear but also easy to bend.
However, many of today’s flat cables are designed with durable materials that can withstand bending and twisting and are less prone to wear and tear, so they may be more durable.
Conclusion
Ultimately, flat vs round Ethernet cable, whichever you prefer, should be carefully evaluated to meet your needs.
Flat cables are more flexible and save space, but are less durable and have shorter transmission distances. Round Ethernet cables are suitable for long transmission distances, are more resistant to EMI, and are ideal for installation in data centers.
Choosing the suitable cable improves the network’s stability and overall experience. We hope that through the analysis in this article, you can understand the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of cables to make a wise choice and smoother network connections.
If you want to make Ethernet cables, read our previous article, “How to make Ethernet cable?“
FAQ
Q. Are flat Ethernet cables necessarily less durable than round Ethernet cables?
A. Generally speaking, round Ethernet cables have better durability than flat cables because of their thick coating and padding. However, many of today’s flat cables are designed with durable materials that can withstand bending and twisting and are less prone to abrasion, so they may be more durable.
Q. Don’t all flat Ethernet cables have a shield?
A. No, most flat Ethernet cables are not shielded due to their form factor. However, as technology advances, flat cables are increasingly equipped with shields and twists that rival the EMI protection offered by round wires.
Q: Do flat Ethernet cables support PoE (Power over Ethernet) applications?
A: Flat Ethernet cables can support PoE applications, providing power and data connections for devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. However, to ensure proper power delivery, it is essential to use cables rated for PoE.
Q. Do round cables have better signal quality?
A: Round cables are usually shielded to resist electromagnetic interference (EMI), providing a better signal. Conversely, due to their thin profile, flat cables may experience signal degradation over long distances or in high EMI areas and may have less signal quality than round cables.