If you're designing or upgrading an Ethernet network, choosing between 23 AWG and 24 AWG Ethernet cable might seem like a minor detail. In reality, conductor gauge directly affects voltage drop, PoE power delivery, cable resistance, thermal performance, and long-distance signal stability.

For engineers, it’s about predictable network bandwidth and power integrity. For system integrators, it’s about avoiding field failures. For procurement teams, it’s about balancing copper cost and long-term reliability.

This guide explains how cable gauge impacts PoE (Power over Ethernet), long cable runs, heat buildup, and structured cabling performance — and when 23 AWG is worth the upgrade.

What Is the Difference Between 23 AWG and 24 AWG?

AWG (American Wire Gauge) defines conductor diameter. The smaller the number, the thicker the conductor.

• 23 AWG = thicker copper conductor
• 24 AWG = slightly thinner copper conductor

That thickness difference may look small on paper, but electrically it reduces resistance — which directly affects data transmission stability and power delivery.

How Gauge Affects Electrical Resistance

Lower resistance means:

• Less voltage drop
• More stable PoE power
• Reduced heat buildup
• Better long-distance signal integrity

In long horizontal runs (70–100 meters), resistance becomes critical. If resistance increases, voltage at the powered device drops — especially in high-load PoE applications.

For additional performance context, see our guide on Ethernet cable length and signal loss.

23 vs 24 AWG for PoE, PoE+, and PoE++

Modern networks increasingly rely on PoE to power:

• IP cameras
• Wi-Fi access points
• VoIP phones
• Digital signage
• Access control systems

As power levels increase (PoE+, PoE++), conductor resistance matters more.

Why 23 AWG Performs Better for High-Power PoE

23 AWG cable:

• Reduces voltage drop across 90–100m runs
• Improves thermal dissipation in bundles
• Supports stable power delivery for high-wattage devices

In high-density enterprise deployments, this stability prevents device resets and unexpected performance drops.

If you're evaluating cable for PoE-heavy environments, explore available options under Ethernet cable collections.

Performance Over Long Cable Runs

When cable runs approach the 100-meter Ethernet limit, attenuation and resistance both increase.

Thicker conductors (23 AWG) provide better signal margin, especially in:

• Large office floors
• Warehouses
• Campus backbone segments
• Industrial environments with EMI exposure

For deeper understanding of gauge impact, see our wire gauge performance guide.

Heat, Bundling & High-Density Installations

In data centers and equipment rooms, cables are often bundled tightly. When running PoE at scale, heat accumulation becomes a real engineering variable.

Higher resistance in thinner conductors generates more heat. Over time, excess thermal stress can degrade insulation and affect signal quality.

For large deployments using copper cabling systems, thermal performance should be evaluated alongside cost.

Cost vs Performance Tradeoffs

Procurement teams often ask: Is 23 AWG worth the extra copper cost?

• 24 AWG: Lower cost, suitable for short runs and lower power loads
• 23 AWG: Higher stability for long runs and PoE-heavy deployments

If your installation includes high-powered devices or future expansion planning, 23 AWG may reduce long-term troubleshooting costs.

Decision Matrix

• Short runs (<50m), low power devices → 24 AWG is typically sufficient
• 90–100m runs with PoE+ → 23 AWG recommended
• High-density PoE++ environments → 23 AWG strongly preferred
• Budget-sensitive, small office → 24 AWG acceptable

Frequently Asked Questions

Does 23 AWG increase network speed?

No. Speed is defined by cable category (Cat6, Cat6A). Gauge improves electrical stability, not bandwidth rating.

Is 23 AWG required for PoE?

Not always. For lower power PoE over short distances, 24 AWG may be sufficient. For higher loads or longer runs, 23 AWG improves reliability.

Does thicker cable reduce voltage drop?

Yes. Lower resistance reduces voltage drop across the length of the cable.

Is 23 AWG harder to terminate?

It may require compatible connectors rated for thicker conductors. Always verify connector compatibility.

Should procurement standardize on one gauge?

For large facilities, standardizing 23 AWG simplifies design consistency and future upgrades.