If you never go for 10Gb Cat 7 is pretty pointless. I'd at least go for Cat 6a.
Cat 7 is individually shielded pairs by default, it's almost a requirement for routing through a home attic that's close to any form of AC power (like 6a). Source, I had to run 7 to my PC room because 6a (UTP) would dip down to 2.5Gb causing a big delay while gaming. The cable I'm on is also 100ft (less than the 37m of 10Gb on 6). That is of course unless you go SFTP or FTP which is a total bitch to deal with because it doesn't like to bend (like most good 6a cables).Cat6 (6 and 6a) also supports 10Gb. Really, the only difference is how long the cable can be before the signal degrades and the bandwidth frequencies that the cable can handle. Really, there is zero reason to go with Cat7.
I got that, I was just using my example as a reference that problems can happen and it sucks to redo wire that should have worked. I routed mine on the rafters above all the AC lines and was still having issues. For clarification to the OP, I used standard Cat 6 unshielded, roughly 60ft.I was agreeing with you, just mentioning that 10Gb is also available on 6 and shouldn't play a huge factor into using 7. If it's a pre-wire job, you should be able to see all of the electrical runs as well and keep the cable away. I used 6a in my runs at the house. Worked fantastically.
I have had good experience with Monoprice spools and Cable Matters. I'm not sure if Monoprice offers Cat 7 yet but it's been over a year since I've been shopping for cable like that. Being lazy and wanting to get the job done quickly I used a 100ft patch cable in my case. Now watch as every network guy on the board cringes lol.Many thanks all for the responses. I checked on prices and the Cat 7 is not much more expensive. So... I'm inclined to go with Cat 7. Other than some extra cost... is there any downside to Cat 7
— Limitations?
— Backward comparability?
Also... what brand of Cat 7 would you recommend?
Much appreciated!!
I have had good experience with Monoprice spools and Cable Matters. I'm not sure if Monoprice offers Cat 7 yet but it's been over a year since I've been shopping for cable like that.