CCTV Cable Types: RG59 Coax vs Cat6 — Which Should You Run

New IP installs use Cat6 — one cable does data and power. Keep RG59 only for analog or HD-over-coax cameras you already own.

Published 2026-08-14

CCTV Cable Types: RG59 Coax vs Cat6 — Which Should You Run

The cable question is really a camera-type question.

Cat6 — for IP cameras

Every IP/PoE camera uses Cat6: one cable carries data and power (PoE) to a switch or PoE NVR. It supports 4K, long runs to 100m, and is the default for new builds.

RG59 siamese — for analog / HD-over-coax

A RG59 siamese run carries video on coax plus 12V power on the paired leads. Use it only for existing analog or HD-over-coax cameras. Pair with baluns if you must bridge coax to Cat6 at either end.

How to decide

New IP system → Cat6, full stop.
Existing coax cameras → RG59, or baluns to reuse old coax with IP.
Long >100m IP runs → fiber (media converter) not thicker coax.

See our IP-camera-to-NVR guide for the full chain.

Frequently asked

Is Cat6 better than RG59 for CCTV?

For IP cameras, yes — Cat6 carries data and power together and supports 4K. RG59 is only for analog or HD-over-coax cameras.

Can I use RG59 with an IP camera?

Not directly. You would need baluns or a media converter to bridge coax to the IP network; running Cat6 is simpler for a new IP install.

Are SurveilForge accessories compatible with Hikvision, Dahua and Axis cameras?

Yes — they follow open surveillance standards (IEEE 802.3af/at PoE, RJ45, BNC, DC 12V/24V) and work with any brand using those standards, including Hikvision, Dahua and Axis. SurveilForge is an independent brand, not affiliated with any camera OEM.