CAT5E Ethernet Cable 185ft Gray - Outdoor CMX Rated

In this review of the CAT5E Ethernet Cable 185ft Gray, the bottom line is simple: this cable is aimed at installers and home users who need a long, reliable wired connection for outdoor or mixed indoor/outdoor runs. The single biggest reason to buy is the cable's use of 24AWG solid copper conductors and CMX outdoor rating, which together deliver consistent gigabit-friendly performance and durable, weather-ready installation for long-distance network runs.

Key Features

• Length and color: 185ft in gray gives plenty of reach for yard, attic or basement runs while remaining unobtrusive against typical exteriors.
• Copper conductors: 24AWG solid copper cores maintain signal integrity for demanding data transfers and support high-speed networking up to 350MHz.
• Outdoor rating: CMX rating makes this cable suitable for outdoor or exposed pathways when routed properly and protected from direct sunlight or moisture.
• Connectors and boots: EZ pass through RJ45 connectors with strain relief boots reduce termination stress and provide a secure plug-in interface.
• Standards compliance: UL ETL listing and EIA/TIA-568B compliance ensure the cable meets common industry installation and performance expectations.

Who It's For

This cable is a good match for network installers, homeowners, and small businesses that need a long Cat5e run for routers, switches, VoIP phones, satellite receivers or security cameras where a wired link reduces latency and improves reliability. The solid copper cores and CMX rating are especially useful for runs that transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

It is not aimed at users who require shielded cable for high EMI environments or certified outdoor fiber solutions for very long runs. If you need shielded Cat6 or a higher category cable for future-proofing beyond gigabit performance, look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid 24AWG copper conductors provide stable, high-performance signals for HD streaming and surveillance.
• CMX outdoor rating and robust strain relief boots make it suitable for many exterior routing scenarios.
• EZ pass through RJ45 connectors with gold-plated contacts simplify termination and reduce connection loss.

Cons

• Cat5e is not as future-proof as Cat6 for multi-gigabit over longer distances, so heavy future bandwidth needs may prefer higher category cable.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The CAT5E 185ft gray cable is a practical, value-minded choice for anyone needing a long, reliable wired link that crosses indoor and outdoor areas. With solid copper conductors, CMX outdoor rating and EZ pass through RJ45 connectors, it handles HD streaming, VoIP and surveillance reliably; buyers who need higher categories for future multi-gig speeds should consider Cat6 instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be used outdoors permanently?
It is CMX rated for outdoor application but should be routed with protection from direct sunlight and extreme moisture to prolong life.

Will it support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
The 24AWG solid copper conductors are suitable for common PoE devices, provided run length and power class are within device specifications.

Is this cable assembled in the USA?
Yes, it is made with foreign and domestic parts and assembled in the USA by PHAT SATELLITE INTL.