Want to know if fiber optic cables are better than copper cables? Check out this guide today for a detailed fiber optic cables vs. copper cables comparison.

Are Fiber Optic Cables Better than Copper Cables?

While copper cables have been around longer than fiber optics, what makes the latter the first and the best choice for telecommunications and transmission? Fiber optic cables were first used in 1953, and since then, they have become a leading choice for IT projects across the globe.

All internet service providers or businesses requiring transmission over long distances already know that fiber optic cables are invaluable for you. In this guide, we’ll discuss fiber optic cables vs. copper cables in detail.

You can buy a variety of fiber optic cables, including singlemode cables, at Fibermart.

Speed

When it comes to speed, fiber optic cables lead the race, while copper cables don’t even come close. Fiber optic cables can carry up to a record-breaking 319 terabits per second. They can carry a huge amount of data, whereas copper cables are limited to 10 gigabits per second. So in the fiber optics cables vs copper cables speed test, fiber optics wins.

Reach

Since fiber optic cables are much faster, they also make a better choice for sending signals over longer distances. When you compare fiber optics cables vs. copper cables for reach, copper cables don’t win here either because they can only carry signals for 100 meters. Fiber optic cables, on the other hand, can carry data for almost 25 miles with less signal loss than copper.

Cost

Copper does win this one comparison in our fiber optics cables vs. copper cables guide. It costs way less than a fiber optic cable. However, more hidden costs, replacement costs, interference, maintenance, and risk of tampering are involved in copper cables. Hence, fiber optics are more cost-effective and a long-term investment.

Reliability & Durability

When it comes to reliability, fiber cables beat copper cables. Since copper cables are electrical conductors, they will be impacted by electrical surges and interference. Fiber optic cables, on the other hand, use light signals to carry data, so electromagnetic interference (EMI) is not a problem.

Durability is also a huge factor when comparing fiber optics cables vs. copper cables. Since harsh environments and external conditions don’t impact fiber optic cables, they can withstand a pressure of around 200 pounds. Copper cables can only withstand around 25 pounds since they’re fragile.

If you want to buy fiber patch cables, LC pigtail, singlemode cables, or MP cables, shop with us today at Fibermart. We’re a leading OEM retailer, and you can find top-quality products on our website.

For more information, contact us today!