Cat5e Direct Burial Ethernet Cable 180 ft - Gel Filled Outdoor

Our review of this 180 ft Cat5e cable finds it best for installers and homeowners needing a long, reliable outdoor run. The biggest reason to buy is its direct burial design with gel filling and solid 24AWG pure copper conductors, which together prioritize signal integrity and protection for underground installations. The reviewer found the included booted RJ45 plug and UL ETL listing reassuring for professional installs where durability and standards compliance matter.

Key Features

• Gel filled construction: Protects the cable core from moisture and contaminants to extend service life in underground runs.
• Solid 24AWG pure copper: Provides consistent conductivity across long distances for stable gigabit-capable performance.
• Direct burial rating: Designed for underground application so it can be placed without conduit in many installations.
• Up to 350MHz performance: Suitable for high speed Ethernet and gigabit networking across the 180 ft length.
• RJ45 EZ pass through connectors: Booted plugs with strain relief assist with neat terminations and reduce connector stress at the cable ends.
• UL ETL and EIA/TIA-568B compliant: Meets recognized standards which helps for professional and residential installations.

Who It's For

The cable is aimed at installers, electricians, and homeowners who need a long outdoor Ethernet run without routing conduit, such as connecting outbuildings, security cameras, or remote network drops. Its pure solid copper conductors and compliance make it well suited for projects that require consistent performance over extended distances.

It is less suitable for permanent submerged applications or where cable will be constantly exposed to water; the manufacturer specifically advises against long-term submersion and to keep connector ends elevated and dry. Those wanting waterproof indoor patching or short indoor runs may prefer standard indoor-rated patch cables instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Built for outdoor use with gel filling that reduces moisture intrusion compared with non-filled cable.
• Solid 24AWG pure copper conductors deliver reliable signal and support high gigabit speeds up to the cable's rated frequency.
• Direct burial rating simplifies installation for underground routing without conduit in many cases.
• UL ETL listing and EIA/TIA compliance give confidence for professional installs.

Cons

• Not intended for long-term submersion; ends must be kept above standing water which may limit some outdoor use cases.
• Gel filled cables are thicker and less flexible than indoor patch cables, which can be harder to handle in tight conduits.

Specifications

Cable Type	CAT-5E 4-Pair UTP
Length	180 ft
Conductor	24AWG solid pure copper
Performance	Up to 350MHz
Rating	Direct burial, outdoor
Connector	Booted RJ45 EZ pass through with strain relief
Certifications	UL ETL listed, EIA/TIA-568B compliant

Our Verdict

The 180 ft Cat5e direct burial cable is a practical choice for outdoor network runs where durability and standards compliance matter. Installers and homeowners who need a long, dependable connection without conduit will find it good value due to solid copper conductors and gel filling that protect signal quality; avoid it for permanently submerged applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be submerged?
It is not recommended for long-term submersion; keep the connector ends at least 3 ft away from standing water.

Is the cable suitable for gigabit Ethernet?
Yes, the solid 24AWG pure copper conductors and up to 350MHz performance support gigabit networking over the stated length.

Are connectors included?
Yes, the cable comes with booted RJ45 EZ pass through connectors with strain relief for easier terminations.