The 10 Best Waterproof Ethernet Cables

Editor's Notes

November 18, 2020:

With the release of Cat8 ethernet cables last year, we've seen a good deal of shift in this category, so this list was updated accordingly. We removed everything older than Cat6 and rated for less than 1 Gbps, not only because there are better options available, but also because, with the increase in internet speeds, anything slower than that is shifting closer and closer to obsolescence. In place of these are a number of Cat8 cables that are waterproof and rated for outdoor use, as well as a few Cat7 versions that offer a good value while still providing high enough performance for most uses.

For some, performance is the top priority, in which case, we recommend the Haslo Tech Shielded Patch or Annnwzzd LinkinPerk. Both of these support bandwidths of up to 2000 MHz, considerably more than the vast majority of networks call for, so the cable shouldn't be the thing limiting your performance. The Yauhody 3-Pack also provides great performance, and it can be convenient if you need to grab a few cables to connect multiple devices. That said, the 10 Gbps of the Snanshi Direct Burial should also be plenty for most homes and small offices, and the wide selection of sizes make it easy to choose the exact length you need. In terms of durability, the CertiCable MC BX is probably the best option. Its MC/BX aluminum jacket and gel-filled core help it resist not only water, but also abrasion and extreme temperatures.

While the prevalence of mesh wireless networks is making fully wired connections less common, there is still a need for high-performance cables, if only to supply internet to your router. Because of this, a 3-foot cable might be all someone needs, though for people trying to cover large areas with a powerful network that has more stability than a booster can provide, some of these long cables may prove quite useful. It's for this reason we included options available in short lengths, like the Phizli Outdoor, as well as large spools like the Vertical Cable 069-558. We hoped to provide a comprehensive list that covered nearly everyone's needs.

March 10, 2019:

There are a lot of different Ethernet cables on the market, and the nomenclature can be a little confusing. Currently, most non-commercial applications only require category 5 ratings, but it can't hurt to use a more advanced cable, in order to future-proof your setup. The main difference to the consumer is in the price. When it comes to waterproof cables, on the other hand, there are two types: standard, sealed PVC cables, and gel-filled varieties. The gel filling actually serves as a self-healing layer that seeps into any nicks or creases and ensures that the jacket retains its integrity over time. Snanshi, Geplink, and Ultra Spec make great products that are suitable for most consumers, though the Snanshi is the only to claim full shielding and, therefore, actual Cat7 capabilities. Technically, it's capable of speeds as high as 100Gbps, although such high-end networks do not yet exist. Ubiquiti's bulk spool is useful for underground installation by professionals, who will have the expertise needed to ensure that custom-installed connectors have the same level of integrity as the sealed cable itself. For those working with high-end projects, it's tough to beat Vertical Cable's range of products, as their gel flooding means they're suited to more sensitive applications. And Vivo's bulk selection is ideal for custom security networks, as its all-copper construction is certified to fully support Power over Ethernet, which is a must-have for many camera units. Finally, CertiCable's aluminum-clad variety is fully armored, and will protect your connection from electrical interference, as well as hungry rodents.