100G QSFP28 DAC Cable CR4 QSFP28 to QSFP28 Passive 3m - Reliable 100G

In this review the 100G QSFP28 DAC Cable CR4 is judged on real deployment needs: it is for network engineers and data center teams who need a simple, cost-effective way to link QSFP-100G ports at very short distances. The bottom line is that this passive QSFP28 to QSFP28 twinax cable delivers a reliable 100-Gigabit link between adjacent racks or within a rack with no extra power draw, and every cable is individually tested in a signal integrity lab before shipment, which makes it a safe choice when predictable short-reach connectivity matters.

Key Features

• 100GBASE-CR4 compatibility: Provides a direct 100-Gigabit link between QSFP28 ports for high-throughput short links.
• 3-meter length: Ideal for connections within racks and between adjacent racks without excess slack or signal loss.
• Passive twinax design: Requires no extra power to operate, simplifying deployment and reducing heat inside the rack.
• AWG30 conductor: Offers a balance of flexibility and signal performance suitable for common data center layouts.
• Factory tested: Each cable passes TDR and VNA testing and is individually tested on switches for verified signal integrity.
• Support and warranty: Includes a 30-day free return window, a 5-year free warranty and lifetime technology support for long-term reliability.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at network administrators and data center operators who need a low-cost, robust solution to connect QSFP28 ports at 100G over very short distances. It suits environments where predictable, factory-tested performance matters and where passive copper is preferred to avoid additional power or optical transceivers.

Those who need longer runs, optical isolation, or active cabling with signal conditioning should look elsewhere, since passive twinax is optimized for short-reach links rather than multi-meter or campus-spanning connections.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Cost-effective for short 100G links compared with optics-based solutions.
• Zero extra power required because it is a passive twinax design, reducing rack heat.
• Each cable is tested in a signal integrity lab and validated on switches, which improves confidence in deployment.
• Includes a 5-year warranty and lifetime technology support for long-term use.

Cons

• Passive twinax is only suitable for very short links, so it is not appropriate for longer-distance or fiber-required runs.

Specifications

Product type	100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 to QSFP28 passive twinax cable
Length	3-meter (9.9ft)
Conductor	AWG30
Port compatibility	QSFP28 to QSFP28 (100G)
Testing	TDR & VNA lab testing; individual switch validation
Warranty	5-year free warranty and lifetime technology support

Our Verdict

The 100G QSFP28 DAC Cable CR4 is a practical, good-value option for short-reach 100G links where cost, low power draw and verified signal integrity matter. Network teams needing reliable intra-rack or adjacent-rack connectivity will appreciate the factory testing and warranty; organizations requiring longer distances or fiber connectivity should consider optical alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable compatible with Dell 100G switches?
Yes, it is 100% compatible with Dell 100G Ethernet switches and is listed as a replacement for similar DAC models.

Do these cables require additional power or transceivers?
No, as a passive twinax cable it requires no extra power or active transceivers to provide a 100G link.

What warranty and return options are available?
The cable ships with a 30-day free return option, a 5-year free warranty and lifetime technology support.