StarTech.com 2m Blue CAT8 Ethernet Cable, Snagless RJ45, 25G/40G, 2000MHz, 100W PoE++, S/FTP, 26AWG Pure Bare Copper Wire, LSZH, Shielded Network Patch Cord w/Strain Reliefs, Individually Tested

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

For £14.98 ex-VAT, this is a sensible “just works” CAT8 patch lead if you’re doing a modern office setup where PoE++ matters and you want proper shielding. The S/FTP and LSZH jacket are the real tell here: fewer headaches in busy comms areas (lots of power/adjacent cabling) and it’s a lot less likely to get you into the “why are my links flaking?” rabbit hole. StarTech also being individually tested is one of those boring details that saves time when you’re rolling out multiple runs.

That said, I’d only buy CAT8 for the *right reason*. If you’re connecting standard 1/2.5/10GbE gear, CAT6/6A typically does the job just fine and you won’t see value from the higher headroom. Also, at 2m it’s basically a patch lead—so if you need longer runs or in-wall cabling, you’re better off thinking about the right installation spec and not paying “CAT8 pricing” unnecessarily. Who should buy? IT teams and integrators in the UK who want a shielded, PoE-ready patch cable for sensitive rack-to-switch or patch panel-to-device runs, especially where cable routing is tight. Who shouldn’t? Anyone trying to save money for ordinary office networking—this is overkill unless you know you benefit from it.