Though they are not the most future-proof tech out there, coaxial cables are great for Internet access. Many parts of the world still use coax cables for cable Internet connections. For what it’s worth, these cables can offer speeds of up to 1 Gbps. Yet, when it comes to choosing the best coaxial cable for Internet connections, it can be confusing. In this guide, we will discuss the best coaxial cable for internet use.
What Are Coaxial Cables?
Coaxial cables, also known as Coax cables, are a type of electrical cable widely used for data/signal transfer. Compared to previous versions, these copper wire-based cables were designed to carry data without causing major interference. In addition to a central copper wire, these cables will have an insulator made of plastic or foam. These sections are added to protect the signal inside from outside factors.
Designed to transfer signals over long distances, coax cables have been in use since the 20th century. In the early phases, coaxial cables were used for applications such as telephone and telegraph services before being adopted by cable TV providers. During this second phase, many sectors used coaxial cables to carry high-frequency signals. In the 1970s, companies started using coaxial cables for Internet access.
By the 1990s, coaxial cables had become the standard for home and commercial internet connections. These were easy to set up, and the maintenance requirements were relatively low. Although the speeds were not comparable to current needs, coaxial cables offered better protection for signal transfer, making them a convenient option for broadband internet.
Thanks to standards like DOCSIS, we now have access to cable internet connection that delivers speeds as high as 1 Gbps. In addition to these, coaxial cables are also used for TV connections, especially when fiber internet and other options are unavailable. Therefore, if you have an old house, this space may already have a coaxial cable infrastructure in place.
Coax Cable Applications
Let’s quickly look at the typical applications of coax cables:
Cable TV
The robust construction of coaxial cables makes them an ideal choice for cable TV networks. You can notice a coax cable that connects the wall outlet to your TV’s set-top box. This application is common worldwide.
Broadband Internet
Coaxial cables can also bring high-speed, broadband Internet to home customers. While not comparable to fiber-optic cables, coaxial cable can offer speeds up to 1 Gbps. This setup requires a modem.
CCTV Systems
Coaxial cables are a convenient option for CCTV systems because they can transmit high-quality data over long distances. The additional protective layers of coax cables make this transfer more reliable.
Satellite TV/Radio
Satellite TV/radio equipment may also use coaxial cables to transfer signals from the antenna to the end-user equipment. This system maintains quality even at lengths of several meters.
Home Audio-Video Setups
Audio-video setups at your home can also use coaxial cables for high-quality signal transfer. You can identify a coaxial cable on devices such as DVD players.
Home Networking
Not many networking devices ship with a coaxial cable. However, you can use a coaxial cable to connect your router and devices by setting up a MoCA adapter.
Choosing the right coaxial cable could be key to whether these application requirements are fulfilled. Note that some of these applications may need coax cables with advanced shielding depending on the signal type and environment.
Different Types of Coaxial Cables
Since not all signals are the same, you need to have different types of coaxial cables. Here are the common types you can find in the market.
RG-6
RG-6 coaxial cables are the most widely available type of coaxial cable on the market. They are most suited for TV, satellite connections, and broadband Internet. These cables have a typical impedance of 75 ohms and offer better resistance to interference. As a result, these cables excel at handling digital signals over long distances.
RG-59
RG-59 coaxial cables are packed with a thinner conductor compared to other options. This works well when you need to carry analog signals over a relatively short distance. However, when you deal with digital signals over long distances, RG-59 cables are somewhat ineffective.
RG-11
You would need to choose RG-11 coaxial cables when setting up a network or surveillance system. These cables are less prone to signal loss, thanks to the advanced shielding and thicker construction. As a result, you can easily use them to carry high bandwidth without interference.
RG-8 and RG-213
These two coaxial cable categories are most commonly used in setups for amateur radio or broadcasting equipment. Compared to others, it has a lower impedance of 50 ohms, and it is best suited for high-voltage situations. But work best when you want to transfer this signal over long distances.
Twinaxial
Twinaxial coaxial cables are made by twisting together two inner conductors. They work best when you want to enable a high-speed line for a short distance. You can spot twinaxial cables for TV production and video, as they are also packed with better shielding.
In addition to these common types, you can also find other categories such as hardline, semi-rigid, flexible, and specialized types. A definite advantage of coaxial cables is that you can customize their construction and shielding capacities according to the specific purpose.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Coaxial Cable
Before purchasing a coaxial cable for Internet access or other purposes, consider the following factors.
Type
You should check whether the type of coaxial cable is suitable for your purpose. If you are looking for a coaxial cable that works best for internet access, consider using RG6. Compared to other options, such as RG59, this is a better choice.
Quality
Ensuring the correct coaxial cable type is the first step; it does not guarantee maximum performance. If you want best-in-class performance, you should check whether the cable uses thicker copper conductors. Solid copper cores are better than copper-clad aluminum.
Length
You should also check whether the coaxial cable has the required length. You can look for some reserve, but going for an ultra-long cable can lead to signal loss. Like Ethernet cables, shorter coaxial cables are the most suitable option for home Internet access.
Connector
Though coaxial cables are widely used, different devices and sectors may use unique connectors. Therefore, you should verify that you have the correct connector. F-type connectors are my go-to choice because they are better at preventing signal loss.
Shielding
Depending on where you deploy them, coaxial cables should also have the proper shielding. It is better to go for a dual-shielded coaxial cable. However, if you plan to keep the cable next to other electronic equipment, you can also opt for quad shields.
Compatibility & Certification
You may have found the right choice in terms of compatibility and certification, but you should also check the devices that you have. If you are using this cable for internet access, you should check the port available on the ISP modem and the other ports at your house. Otherwise, you may need additional adapters.
With these points in mind, you can easily find the right coaxial cable.
Top 5 Best Coaxial Cables for Internet
Here are the top five coaxial cables suitable for home Internet access.
#1 G-PLUG 3FT RG6 Coaxial Cable
You can consider the G-PLUG 3FT RG6 Coaxial Cable if you need a budget-friendly cable with a weather seal and impressive performance. This cable is reasonably priced and suitable for broadband Internet and digital TV setups. The product comes with an extension coupler, which is particularly helpful during setup. You can expect it to work with ISPs like Xfinity.
#2 Monoprice RG6 Quad Shield CL2 Coaxial Cable
The Monoprice RG6 Quad Shield CL2 Coaxial Cable is another excellent option for meeting broadband Internet needs at home or elsewhere. You get a six-foot cable with an F-type connector that can serve the purpose. It features a 75-ohm impedance and quad shielding, making it an ideal choice for use with other electronic equipment at home.
#3 GEARit Coaxial Cable for Direct Burial
The GEARit Coaxial Cable for Direct Burial is a worth-considering option when you want the best protection and performance. It is designed for direct burial and works well when you need to extend your Internet connection over long distances underground. This particular variety is 15 feet long, but you can easily find a cable that extends up to 200 feet in length.
#4 The CIMPLE CO Coaxial Cable
I can also recommend The CIMPLE CO Coaxial Cable, which offers incredible performance for Internet and other digital needs. For instance, you can use it for satellite extension. This dual-shielded cable is slightly more expensive than other options but offers exceptional weather and UV resistance. The flexible PVC jacket is a nice addition from a handling perspective.
#5 GE RG6 Coaxial Cable
The GE RG6 Coaxial Cable is a significant consideration when you want a less expensive option for long-distance coax cabling. The 50-foot version of this cable will cost less than $20, despite its excellent construction. You can easily use it for cable Internet and satellite-based systems. Rest assured, you can count on its weather resistance, among other qualities.
Wrapping Up
I believe I have made it relatively easier to choose the best coaxial cable for home Internet access. Choosing the right cable can not only offer the best speeds but also provide impressive protection from interference.
