Patch cords are short cables that connect devices in a network, such as computers, routers, switches, servers, modems and more. They are also known as patch cables, Ethernet cables or network cables. Patch cords come in different types, such as CAT5e, CAT6 and CAT6a, which have different specifications and performance levels. Patch cords also have different styles of connectors, such as RJ45, which is the most common type for Ethernet networks.
One of the differences between patch cords is the design of the RJ45 connector and its boot. The boot is the plastic cover that protects the connector from damage and provides strain relief to the cable. There are two main types of boots: snagless and molded. In this article, we will explain what snagless patch cord and molded patch cord are, how they differ from each other, and how to choose the right patch cord according to the place you are going to use it.
What is snagless patch cord?
A snagless patch cord is a patch cord that has a special boot that protects the RJ45 connector’s lock. The lock is the small tab that secures the connector to a port. The snagless boot stops the lock from getting stuck or pulled on other cables, ports or objects when you move or unplug the patch cord. This lowers the chance of breaking or damaging the lock, which can affect the connection quality and stability.
Snagless patch cords are good for applications where there are many plugging and unplugging cycles or where there are many cables nearby, such as in network racks, patch panels or behind desks. Snagless patch cords are also easier to handle and remove than molded patch cords.
What is molded patch cord?
Molded patch cord is a type of patch cord that has a standard boot that connects the RJ45 connector to the cable. The RJ45 connector’s lock is exposed and unprotected. Molded patch cord is stronger and more durable than snagless patch cord, as it has a tighter bond between the connector and the cable. It also has a lower profile than snagless patch cord, which can save some space in tight areas.
Molded patch cords are suitable for applications where there are not many insertion cycles or where there is not much interference from other cables or objects, such as in hard-to-access spaces or permanent installations. Molded patch cords are also more economical than snagless patch cords.
The difference between them
The main difference between snagless patch cord and molded patch cord is the design of the boot and the lock of the RJ45 connector. Snagless patch cords have a special boot that covers the lock and prevents it from getting snagged or broken when unplugging or moving the cable. Molded patch cords have a standard boot that joins the connector to the cable and leaves the lock exposed.
The table below summarizes some of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of patch cord:
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Snagless | Protects the lock from damage | More expensive |
| Easier to handle and remove | Higher profile | |
| Ideal for frequent insertion cycles | Ideal for crowded areas | |
| Molded | More durable and robust | Risk of breaking or damaging the lock |
| Lower profile | Harder to handle and remove | |
| More economical | Not suitable for frequent insertion cycles | |
| Not suitable for frequent insertion cycles | Not suitable for crowded areas |
Choose the right patch cord according to the place you are going to use it
When choosing a patch cord for your network, you should consider several factors, such as:
- The type of network you have (CAT5e, CAT6 or CAT6a)
- The length of the cable you need
- The color of the cable you prefer
- The environment where you are going to use the cable (indoor or outdoor, humid or dry, hot or cold, etc.)
- The number of insertion cycles you expect to perform
- The amount of space and interference you have around the cable
Based on these factors, you can decide whether a snagless patch cord or a molded patch cord is more suitable for your needs. Generally speaking, you should choose a snagless patch cord if you:
- Have a network that requires high-bandwidth and high-performance cables, such as CAT6 or CAT6a
- Need a short or medium length cable (up to 10 feet)
- Want a cable that is easy to identify by color
- Use the cable in an indoor environment that is clean and dry
- Plug and unplug the cable frequently or move it around often
- Have many cables or objects near the cable that can cause interference or snagging
On the other hand, you should choose a molded patch cord if you:
- Have a standard or low-bandwidth network, such as CAT5e
- Need a long cable (more than 10 feet)
- Don’t care about the cable color
- Use the cable in a moist, dusty, hot or cold outdoor environment
- Plug and unplug the cable rarely or never move it
- Have few cables or objects that can interfere or snag the cable
These are general guidelines and not absolute rules. You may have different preferences or requirements for your network. The most important thing is to choose a patch cord that meets your specifications and expectations.
Conclusion
Patch cords are important for any network. They link devices and enable data transfer. But patch cords are not all the same. There are different types, such as snagless and molded, that have different designs and features. Snagless patch cords have a special boot that protects the RJ45 connector’s lock from snagging or breaking. Molded patch cords have a standard boot that connects the connector to the cable and exposes the lock.
The difference between snagless and molded patch cords affects their performance, durability, ease of use and cost. You should choose the right patch cord for your network, considering factors such as network type, cable length, color, environment, insertion cycles and space. This way, you can ensure a reliable and stable network connection for your devices.
