The 7 Best SATA Cables

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The 7 Best SATA Cables

Upgrading your existing PC or building a new one? Take a look at the best SATA cables compatible with your component and rig. Summary List Data transmission between the CPU and motherboard is a crucial process, and when something fails, your system doesn't perform as intended. The best SATA cables interconnect your hardware to ensure smooth and constant data flow, so settling for a reliable one is important. When buying a SATA cable to upgrade or build a new system, you need to consider several things. They include transfer speed, length, latching connectors, compatibility, and connecting angle. Here are the best SATA cables available today. Premium pick

9.60 The Inateck is a premium SATA cable bundle that allows you to transmit data seamlessly through your PC components. You get two data and power SATA cables, which come in handy when setting up other hard drives to different systems. Performance-wise, the Inateck delivers a speed of up to 6Gbps, allowing the system to upload required information fast and efficiently. All SATA cables are flexible, offering one with a straight SATA connector and the other that's right-angled. Both designs bend easily for quick installation when placing them around tight places. The power cables come in either four-pin ATX to dual 15-pin SATA or 15-pin to dual 15-pin SATA plugs for broad compatibility. As such, you can use them on most old and new motherboards. Available in red, this SATA cable is an excellent solution for anyone who wants to build a system with a sporty design. The custom-fitted design makes the Inateck long-lasting while eliminating unpleasant interruptions once installed. You don't need to worry about loose fittings after a few months of use. Read More Key Features Comes with two SATA data and power cables Custom-fitted Downwards compatible with SATA I and II Specifications Brand: Inateck Cable Type: Lightning Length: 18-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Excellent build quality Offers both straight and right-angled connectors Comes as a complete solution pack Cons Molded plugs are pretty tricky to clean Buy This Product Inateck Editors choice

9.40 Defined by its ultra-fast data transfer speed, the Cable Matters is an impressive pick for anyone who wants to upgrade or build a computer with a small case. The cable transmits at 6Gbps, ensuring adequate data transfer in most CPUs whether you're using a RAID configuration or gaming rig. The flexible jacket makes installation a breeze in computers with tight cases. Additionally, it features an easy-to-grip surface, so you won't have difficulties plugging it in and out, even when your hands are slippery. The included latching clips ensure the cable stays in place despite frequent vibrations. There's a 90-degree, right-angle connector on one end, which eliminates the need to bend the cable excessively to avoid damages. The foil shielding and wire insulation provide unrivaled protection. Highly compatible, the Cable Matters works well with most SATA-equipped devices like Extreme PRO 240GB, Crucial MX100, Samsung 850 EVO SSD, and more. The three-pack design ensures you have a ready replacement in case of any malfunctions. Read More Key Features SATA I, II, III compatible Stainless steel clip Tinned copper conductors Three-pack SATA cables Specifications Brand: Cable Matters Cable Type: SATA Length: 18-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Long-lasting performance Included latches ensure a firm connection Surface is easy to grip Cons Quite large for some devices Buy This Product Cable Matters Best value

9.20 The StarTech is a long-lasting and speedy SATA cable designed for building more portable cases. The right-angled design provides a quick connection even when the drive's SATA port is in a limited space. Once you install this cable, it sits nicely with the rear panel of your drive to eliminate clutter in micro form factor computer cases. The low-profile design takes less space in a narrow construction, ensuring maximum airflow so your system can work properly. Transferring information in both working and gaming stations is a breeze as the StarTech delivers a speed of up to 6Gbps. The stylish red color lets you build a system that's unique. The flexible jacket is easy to grip, so you can quickly plug and unplug the cable from its respective ports. It's 12 inches long, making it easy to install the cable without requiring additional management. You can also choose the 36-inch size to suit your unique building needs. Read More Key Features 90-degree SATA connector 3.0 bandwidth support Right-angled connector Specifications Brand: StarTech Cable Type: SATA Length: 12-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros High-speed performance Low-profile design ensures maximum airflow 12-inch length is ideal for portable cases Striking red color looks attractive Cons Doesn’t have locking latches on the connectors Buy This Product StarTech

9.00 If you want a high-speed and reliable SATA cable, consider the Benfei. It comes with latching connectors that lock once installed to ensure a snug fit and secure data connection. There aren't any accidental disconnects, even with the vibrations around your system, so data flows smoothly. Though durable, the low-profile design reduces clutter on your computer case to maintain a clean look. It also helps increase airflow, allowing your system to work smoothly. Data travels at a speed of 6Gbps, which is four times faster than the initial SATA standard. Available in a three-pack design, you'll have the versatility to connect RAID 0, 1, and 5 drives with one purchase. The Benfei is compatible with 2.5-inch SSD drives, optical DVD drives, 3.5-inch drives, and RAID controller host cards. You don't need to make any technical modifications or adaptations since the three cables are backward compatible with older computers and SATA drives. Read More Key Features Three pack combo Low-profile cable jacket 18-month warranty Stainless steel clip Specifications Brand: Benfei Cable Type: Not Provided Length: 18-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Broad compatibility Backward compatible with old SATA versions Fast data transfer rates Three-pack design comes in handy when setting different RAID configurations Cons Bending the cable is somehow hard Buy This Product Benfei

8.80 The CableCreation is a suitable option for building advanced gaming computers and high-end workstations requiring multiple drives. You don't have to find ways to hide extra cable length since the eight-inch design fits well in most Mini ITX cases, micro PCs, and other small builds. However, you can choose the 18-inch size when dealing with more sizeable PCs. The locking latch mechanism on each end ensures the connectors stay in place after plugging them into their respective ports. They deliver a clipping sound that alerts you when the cable has established a firm connection. These five-pack cables significantly improve the reliability of data transmission as they have strong error correction capabilities. You can also use them on servers with advanced RAID setups featuring up to four drives. The bright red jacket makes CableCreation suitable for people who want to make gaming computers. Read More Key Features Five-pack combo Excellent for small form factor computers Seven-pin SATA plug Specifications Brand: CableCreation Cable Type: SATA Length: 8-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Eight-inch length eliminates the hassle of hiding extra cables Red color jackets are ideal for gaming builds Useful five-pack design Locking latches ensure a secure connection Cons Large connectors may block nearby plugs Buy This Product CableCreation

8.60 The Sabrent is an affordable solution designed to connect host controllers and motherboards to DVD drives. It provides you with a blazing-fast speed of up to 6Gbps for exceptional performance when transferring data, RAID configuration, or playing games. The flexibility in these cables is noteworthy, so you won't have a problem connecting them in tight spaces. Despite being easy to bend, the low-profile jacket provides mechanical, flame, and moisture protection for maximum longevity. The Sabrent comes in a three-pack, so you can quickly replace a malfunctioning cable for seamless operations. Like most SATA cables, these cords come with metal locking latches to provide a firm and secure connection. With such a mechanism, you don't have to worry about signal loss, data interference, or anything that may cause a drop in performance. Being backward compatible, you can use these cables to provide secure backups on old computers that don't support SATA 3.0. Read More Key Features Connects to serial ATA hard disks Straight SATA connectors Comes in a three-pack Available in two colors (blue and black) Specifications Brand: Sabrent Cable Type: Optical Length: 20-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Excellent build quality Ultra-fast data transfer speeds Backward compatible with SATA I and II Cons Doesn’t come in small lengths Buy This Product Sabrent

8.40 Durability, speed, and broad compatibility are some of the stand-out features of the QIVYNSRY SATA cables. Underneath the braided cables are aluminum foil shields that reduce interference from electromagnetic radiation. They allow the cords to achieve a speed of 6Gbps, so you can transfer large gaming files without experiencing dropouts. Anyone who needs to make multiple connections simultaneously will love the QIVYNSRY as it comes in a three-pack. The nylon braided cables are sturdy enough to withstand almost all forms of punishment without tearing or fraying. There's also a wear-resistant PVC jacket that makes the QIVYNSRY durable compared to some standard-build SATA cables. You can settle for a color that blends with your build by picking between black and white. These cables are compatible with many hard disks, CD-ROMs, internal serial ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) hard drives, and recorders. The latching locks on the three cables reduce the chances of floppiness and breakage in your connections. Read More Key Features Comes with two straight connectors Durable PVC jacket Aluminum foil shield Specifications Brand: QIVYNSRY Cable Type: Not Provided Length: 18-inch Data Transfer Rate: 6Gbps Pros Wide compatibility Long-lasting body High-speed data transfer Nylon braided for extra protection Cons Pretty stiff to connect in tight places Buy This Product QIVYNSRY

FAQ

Q Which Port Should I Plug in My SATA Cable

It doesn't matter which port you plug in your SATA cable, provided they are of the same speed. Motherboards have several SATA ports. When all ports are of the same color, they have the same speed. However, if the colors differ, the ports are of different configurations, which means different speed levels. If your motherboard has ports of different colors, use SATA Three port because it is the fastest at a rate of six gigabits per second.

Q Should I Upgrade My SATA Cable

Companies often introduce new generations of SATA cables to the market. This can be challenging to users as they may want to buy the latest versions. However, the difference between the generations is hardly noticeable regarding performance. Therefore, you don't necessarily have to upgrade your SATA cable every now and then. Besides, speed is mainly determined by the port, not the cable. Therefore, buying a new SATA cable won't affect the performance significantly. But you can purchase a new SATA cable if you want one with a different length.

Q Are SATA Cables Repairable

SATA cables can experience problems, which can be mechanical, thermal, or electrical. For instance, the connector's pin can get damaged, affecting the functionality of a cable. Short circuits can also damage SATA cables. Moreover, frequent usage of a SATA cable can cause wear and tear and eventually degradation of the sheath. When your SATA cable has an issue, your storage device won't read. You'll see this message, "hard drive not found." In such an instance, check if your cable is tightly connected to the port. Then, disconnect and reconnect it. If the problem persists, consult a technician who will examine it and solve the issue. Note that in some instances, for example, if your cable is severely damaged, you may be advised to replace it.