The specifications
| Cat6 | Cat6a | |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth | Up to 250 MHz | 500 MHz |
| 1 Gb/s distance | 100 m | 100 m |
| 10 Gb/s distance | About 55 m | 100 m |
| Alien crosstalk | Not fully specified; picks up more noise at high frequencies | Improved specification |
| Cable size | Thinner, easier to pull | Thicker and stiffer; needs more pathway space |
The 100-meter figure is a channel: 90 meters of installed cable plus up to 10 meters of patch cords.
Why it matters for access points
Desks rarely need more than 1 Gb/s. Wi-Fi access points are different: newer Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 access points can exceed 1 Gb/s, and many have multi-gigabit ports. Cat6a to every access point location is the most common place where the upgrade pays off.
PoE and heat
Higher-power PoE, used by newer access points and some cameras, heats cable bundles. Cat6a's construction handles this better, which matters in large bundles running through ceilings. See PoE vs PoE+ for power levels.
Cost and installation
Cat6a costs more per foot, takes longer to terminate and needs more space in conduit, trays and patch panels. Older NYC buildings with tight ceilings and shared risers can make that extra size a real constraint, so check pathways before you choose.
How we usually recommend it
- Long-term space, five years or more: Cat6a everywhere, or at minimum to every access point and camera.
- Short lease: Cat6 to desks, Cat6a to access points.
- Distances over 100 meters or between closets and floors: neither; use fiber.
Whatever you choose, the installation matters as much as the category: proper termination, certification testing and labeling. Our structured cabling page has a cost estimator for your space.
Sources
Technical figures checked against the sources above. Standards and product details change; confirm with the manufacturer for your equipment.
