Category 6 Blue Cable 23AWG 4-Pair 500 ft - Riser-Rated Network Cable

In this review of the Category 6 Blue Cable 23AWG 4-Pair 500 ft pull box, the bottom line is straightforward: this is a dependable bulk cable for installers and IT teams needing long runs for Ethernet and LAN infrastructure. It is best for projects that require a riser-rated, high-frequency Cat 6 cable with solid conductors and a full 500 ft pull-box for reduced splice points. The reviewer found the cable meets standard Category 6 expectations for 250 MHz transmission, is easy to handle from the spool, and is suitable for conventional RJ45 terminations and Power over Ethernet applications.

Key Features

• 500 ft pull box: provides a long continuous run to reduce joins and simplify installation in closets or between racks.
• 23 AWG solid copper: offers solid conductors that support stable connections and consistent signal quality for fixed runs.
• CMR riser rating: allows floor-to-floor vertical riser routing in commercial buildings where a riser-rated cable is required by code.
• 250 MHz performance: suitable for Category 6 Ethernet links and common LAN applications up to the standard frequency range.
• Blue jacket: makes it simple to identify on a cable tray or in a bundle when maintaining or expanding a network.
• Bulk without connectors: compatible with standard Category 6 RJ45 connectors so installers can terminate to their preferred jacks and patch panels.

Who It's For

The cable is aimed at network installers, small to medium IT departments, and contractors who need a riser-rated, long continuous feed of Category 6 for structured cabling runs in commercial or multi-floor buildings. It is a practical choice for wiring closets, inter-floor risers, and permanent in-wall or conduit installations where solid conductors are preferred.

Those who should look elsewhere include users wanting pre-terminated patch cables or buyers who require an internal pair separator for maximum alien crosstalk suppression; the construction here is twisted and cabled without fillers or pair separators, which some high-end installations prefer to avoid.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable 500 ft pull box reduces the need for splicing and speeds up larger installs.
• Solid 23 AWG copper conductors provide consistent performance for fixed cable runs.
• CMR riser rating and UL/CSA flame test compliance allow vertical riser routing in commercial buildings.
• Works with standard Cat 6 RJ45 terminations and supports Power over Ethernet.

Cons

• Absence of an internal pair separator means it may not match the alien crosstalk performance of some shielded or separator designs.
• Sold as bulk cable without connectors, so additional termination time and parts are required.

Specifications

Our Verdict

This 500 ft Category 6 blue cable is a sensible, cost-effective choice for installers and IT teams needing riser-rated bulk cable for commercial or multi-floor projects. It delivers solid 23 AWG conductors, straightforward handling from the pull box, and compatibility with standard terminations, making it good value where a separator-free Cat 6 riser cable meets the installation needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be used for Power over Ethernet?
Yes. The solid 23 AWG conductors are compatible with common PoE standards such as IEEE 802.3 af.

Is this cable suitable for vertical riser installation?
Yes. It is listed as CMR riser-rated and passes UL 1666 and CSA Ft4 flame tests for riser use.

Does the cable include connectors?
No. It is bulk cable without connectors and requires standard Cat 6 RJ45 connectors or patch panels for termination.