Choosing an LAN cable can surprisingly be quite difficult. Factors like transmission speed, noise resistance, and ease of wiring... with so many manufacturers and types available, it's hard to decide which one to pick. Recently, I researched various products from popular brands and realized that the cable you should choose is completely different depending on the用途.

First, if you prioritize ease of wiring, a thin and flexible type is recommended. Flat cables are about 1-2mm thick and can be laid flush against desks and around furniture. In actual tests, even a 2mm cable only floats about 4mm above the desk, making it look neat. It's also convenient for passing through carpets or window gaps. However, thinner cables are more susceptible to noise interference, so they’re not ideal for online gaming that requires stability.

On the other hand, if you focus on stable communication, shielded STP cables are effective. They maintain high speeds even in noisy environments and reduce interference from surrounding electronic devices. Some brands can sustain speeds over 9000Mbps during testing, which is reassuring for gamers. However, because they are thicker and stiffer, routing them along a desk can be difficult. They can float nearly 20mm above the surface.

Price ranges vary widely, from about 500 yen for budget brands to over 1500 yen for premium options. Trusted brands like Buffalo, UGREEN, Elecom, and Sanwa Supply are all available. For regular tasks, cheaper options are fine, but if you're serious about gaming, it’s worth investing a little more. Ultimately, the key to choosing is to decide whether to prioritize ease of wiring or stability depending on the用途.