RJ45 Connector vs Keystone Jack, What’s the Difference?

RJ45 connectors and Keystone Jacks are common components in network cabling, but they significantly differ in design and usage. This article will analyze the characteristics and differences between Keystone Jacks and RJ45 connectors to help you better understand their applications in different network scenarios.

RJ45 Plug and Ethernet Keystone Jack Overview

What is an RJ45 Plug?

The RJ45 connector is a standard network connector used for copper Ethernet connections. RJ45 stands for “Registered Jack 45” and is a standard physical interface for connecting computers, routers, switches, and other network equipment. RJ45 connectors typically have 8 pins corresponding to the eight wires in a network cable carrying data and power signals.

The RJ45 connectors are widely used in LAN. The most common types of RJ45 connectors are those used for copper cables, such as Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, which support Ethernet connections at different speeds.

What is a Keystone Jack?

The Keystone Jack is used in data communications, especially in local area networks.  The network Keystone Jack is designed to be mounted on a patch panel or wall plate. The network Keystone  Jack is typically used with the plug, which supports various connectivity types, such as RJ45 and RJ11. Ethernet keystone jacks are popular in Ethernet cabling systems because they are easy to install and can be used for many different types of data and voice applications.

Network Keystone Jack vs Plug, What are the Differences?

RJ45 Plug vs Jack: Design and Structure

The RJ45 plug is a male connector that connects Ethernet cables to network equipment. It has eight pins inside, corresponding to eight wires in a specific order to connect the copper wires in the network cable. When inserted into the socket, the RJ45 connector has a small locking clasp to ensure a stable connection.

The network Keystone Jack is a female connector designed to accept a connector and securely connect it to the network. The Ethernet Jack has a modular design that makes it easy to plug into a standardized part of the panel, with terminals on one side for punching in the cores of an Ethernet cable and an RJ45 interface on the other side to provide an RJ45 connector for use with the plug.

Ethernet Jack vs Plug: Application

RJ45 plugs are primarily used to terminate Ethernet cables and are typically used in network setups to connect devices to an Ethernet network. They are particularly suitable for use at the end of longer cables to enable direct connection of devices and are ideal for quickly establishing connections between devices.

Keystone modules are used to terminate Ethernet cables in wall outlets, patch panels, or surface mount boxes, providing a modular and customized solution for network connectivity. They are ideal for creating flexible networks in office, home, and data center environments.

Network Keystone Jack vs Plug: Installation Process

Installation of the RJ45 connector first need to strip the outer skin of the cable to a certain length, be careful not to damage the wires inside. Then in accordance with the T568B or T568A standard arrangement of wires inside, and insert the cable into the RJ45 connector, you need to make sure that all the wires are completely into the connector and the wire sequence is correct, the following need to cut off the excess wire, and finally use the crimping pliers to tighten the connector to ensure that the contact is good.

To install a keystone modular, strip the outer jacket of the network cable and insert the wire cores into the network keystone jack's wiring slots according to color. Press the wire core into the terminal slot to contact the metal contacts. Finally, attach the keystone jack to the wall outlets or patch panels.

Plug vs Jack: Cost

Network Keystone Jacks cost more than RJ45 plugs. Ethernet jacks are more expensive because they can be used with different cables and in different situations. RJ45 plugs are cheaper because they are simple and designed for Ethernet cables. 

Cat6 Keystone Jacks vs Cat6 RJ45 Plugs: How to Choose the Right Termination?

If you need to connect network devices directly and the scenario is relatively simple, Cat6 RJ45 connectors may be more appropriate. If you need network management and cabling in a patch panel or wall, the Cat6 network Keystone Jack is a better choice. So, what factors should you consider when choosing a Keystone Jack and an RJ45 connector?

Application Requirements

Make sure your network setup has the right connectors and jacks for your existing networking devices. The RJ45 connector should match the port and cable type to ensure good connectivity, while the keystone jack should match the specifications of the panel to support management of the structured cabling system.

Network speed and performance

Your choices should be able to handle the network's speed and performance needs, especially in high-performance networks like Gigabit Ethernet. Consider the network's data transfer speed and stability to ensure your chosen products will work well and won't cause any problems.

Future Expandability

Choose products that support future technologies and higher bandwidths to save money and time. Allow for room to expand to cope with future changes in network requirements.

Reliability

Finally, choosing well-known brands and certified high-quality products ensures the stability and durability of connectors and sockets. High-quality materials and superb manufacturing processes can greatly reduce the occurrence of network failures and improve the overall reliability and longevity of the system.

FAQs about Ethernet Jack and RJ45 Connector

Q: Are Keystone Jacks and RJ45 Connectors interchangeable?

A: No, they cannot be used interchangeably as there are significant differences in their design and use, and they have specific applications.

Q: Are there also different shield types for RJ45 connectors? Does it matter?

A: Yes, it does matter, if the cable is shielded then a shielded RJ45 connector should be used. Conversely, if the cable is unshielded, an unshielded RJ45 connector should be used. The shielding type of the connector must match the shielding type of your cable.

Q: Does Keystone Jacks work with any cable type?

A: Keystone Jacks can be used with many cables, including Ethernet, USB, HDMI, and more. Choose an Ethernet jack module that matches your desired cable for the best results.

Q: Which is cheaper?  Network Keystone Jack or RJ45 Connectors?

A: RJ45 connectors are cheaper than jacks because of their simpler design and specific functionality. However, the total cost depends on the project.

Conclusion

Both RJ45 connectors and Keystone jacks are important for networking. RJ45 connectors are for Ethernet networking. Network Keystone jacks are versatile and can accommodate various connector types, making them suitable for wider networking needs.