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The Best SATA Cables

Written by Edwin Jones / Fact checked by Andrew Wright

best SATA cable

One of the most underestimated but crucial parts that PC builders need is the SATA Cable. They would typically use the one in the motherboard’s package without giving any thought to it. That shouldn’t be the case.

You must purchase the best SATA cable for your system if you intend to maximize your equipment. For example, if you’re upgrading from a hard disk drive to a solid-state drive, you must look at your existing wiring. Chances are it is not optimized to take advantage of the greater read/write speed of the upgrade.

Also, getting a lousy cable could destroy either your drive or motherboard. Or both. To help you choose when building or upgrading your system, I’ve compiled some of the best SATA III Cables I could find in the market.

SATA-III-cables

Top 1

BENFEI SATA Cable

47-stars

Type Straight
Length 18 inches
Transfer Rate 6.0 Gbps

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Top 2

Cable Matters SATA Cable

45-stars

Type 90-degree
Length 18 inches
Transfer Rate 6.0 Gbps

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Top 3

Monoprice SATA Cable

4-stars

Type 90-degree
Length 18 inches
Transfer Rate 6.0 Gbps

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Best SATA Cable Reviews

1. BENFEI SATA Cable III

Benfei is one of my go-to brands whenever I need any kind of cable, including those for PCs. I recommend this high speed SATA cable because of the locking latch they built-in the connectors. These keep the connections secure, so there’s little to no risk of the internal links loosening during transit.

The Benfei 18-in SATA Cable III is for connecting motherboards and host controllers to various internal and external SATA drives. More than that, since it adheres to the latest SATA standard, it transfers data at a blazingly fast 6 GBPS – two times faster than the previous version.

I cannot claim this as the best SATA 3 cable out there, but it comes close. It’s a 3-pack combo, so it’s perfect when for CPUs with multiple drives. The backward compatibility is also a godsend because I can use it even on older computers that cannot support SATA 3.0.

My only qualm with this package is that it doesn’t come with a power cable. I will have to purchase it separately if I’m building a new system or use the existing connectors if I’m upgrading. Although it is not a serious issue per se, it would’ve been more convenient if they made it a package option.
Pros
  • Built-in locking latches on both ends keep the connection secure
  • Designed to hook up SATA-equipped drives to motherboards and host controllers
  • Adheres to the latest SATA III standard for ultra-fast transfer speeds
  • A 3-pack combo, perfect for building/upgrading systems with multiple drives
  • Backward compatible with previous SATA versions
Cons
  • No option to purchase with power cables – must be bought separately
If you’re looking to upgrade your computer system with faster drives, this Benfei cable is a good option. It’s not only fast, but it’s also secure and will keep connections intact, even during transport.

2. Cable Matters Right SATA III

If you’re upgrading or building computers with smaller cases, this angled high speed SATA cable is fit for connecting drives to your motherboard – especially if there’s limited space. And since it’s compatible with 2.5” SSDs, 3.5” HDDs, optical drives, and RAID controller host cards, you can use it on just about everything you need.

The right angle on one end of the connector means you can place your drives awfully close to other components. Another option would be to use the angled connector on the motherboard side to quickly run the cable under the board for a clean cable management look.

It has an easy-grip surface, so even if your fingers are a bit slippery, you won’t have difficulty plugging it in or taking it off. And to ensure it stays in place when installed, the manufacturer included latching clips, which lock it in place.

My only concern about this is that its connectors are a bit blocky and oversized. If your connectors are spaced too closely on either the motherboard or the drive, then you can’t use the adjacent plug. It’s going to be an issue if the neighboring connectors are crucial as well.
Pros
  • Compatible with 2.5” SSDs, 3.5” HDDs, optical drives, and RAID controller cards
  • Right-angled connectors allow you to install SATA drives close to other components
  • Could also let you run SATA cables under the motherboard much more easily
  • Easy-grip surface, letting you easily remove and install the SATA cables
  • Stays in place when installed via the latching clips
Cons
  • Blocky and bulky connectors may block adjacent plugs
This is a highly-recommended option if you’re using smaller cases like the mini-ITX. Just make sure that your plugs are not too close together, so you do not run into issues when assembling your PC.

3. Monoprice 90-Degree SATA III Cable

This wire is one of the high quality SATA cables you could purchase in the market. It’s well-built and comes in a unique blue color – perfect for specialized designs and gaming computers. If you’re following a color motif, then having this color option is excellent for your build.

As a testament to its build quality, the materials Monoprice used for this SATA cable are of higher quality than their other models. They also have tighter tolerances, allowing for higher performance over previous SATA standards. However, they’re still compatible with older SATA 1.0 and SATA 2.0 plugs.

The connectors have metal latches that give audible clicks when secured to ensure correct installation. Aside from all these features, the Monoprice SATA cable is also one of the more affordable options in the market. This item offers excellent value, especially if you need just one line.

It must be noted that it will only work as fast as the slowest device in the system. If you want to maximize its performance, you have to ensure that both your motherboard or RAID connector and your drives are SATA 3.0 rated to enjoy the fastest transfer speeds.
Pros
  • Comes in a unique blue color – perfect for specialized designs and gaming setups
  • Higher quality components and tighter tolerances over previous SATA standards
  • Still compatible with older SATA 1.0 and SATA 2.0 plugs
  • Comes with metal latches that give audible clicks to ensure correct installation
  • Offers excellent value, especially if you need just a single cable
Cons
  • Will only work as fast as the slowest device in the system
If you’re building a desktop computer and you have a design in mind, this SATA cable could fit well in your setup. Just make sure that all your devices at SATA 3.0 are compatible so that you can maximize it.

4. StarTech Right-Angled SATA Cable

If you’re looking for a short cable that you could use for building in more portable cases, this 12-in SATA is the solution for you. Its optimal length allows you to install it without excess cable that requires additional management.

This is one of the flexible SATA cables in the market with a low profile design, significantly improving the use of space and airflow within the computer case. It also has an available left- or right-angled design, which ensures compatibility with various motherboard and case designs and models.

The high-speed SATA 3.0 cable can be used for both gaming and high-end workstations, ensuring that you get the most out of your latest devices. It also comes as a red color-keyed cable, making it stylish and letting your build stand out from other designs.

What I don’t like about this cable design, though, is that the maker did not include any locking latches in the connectors. Although they fit quite well when installed, the additional peace of mind of having it locked in place would be welcomed. Furthermore, I fear that they might come loose when I transport the computer.
Pros
  • Optimal 12-in length for more portable cases
  • Flexible, low profile design improves the use of space and airflow
  • Has left- or right-angled designs, compatible with various motherboards and cases
  • High-speed SATA 3.0 cable makes it suitable for high-end gaming and workstations
  • Stylish red color-keyed cable lets your build stand out from other designs
Cons
  • No locking latch on connector ends, which might come loose during transport
Sometimes, a short 12-in SATA cable is more than enough for your needs – and this is the perfect solution for that. Its striking red color is also unique and will let your build stand out from others.

5. BENFEI Right Angle SATA III Cable

If you want to set up drives with a RAID configuration for add-on speed and/or reliability, this option is perfect because it comes as a three-pack set. The number allows you to connect RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 5 drives with just a single purchase.

Besides the RAID setup, you can also use these cables to connect hard drives, solid-state drives, DVD drives, Blu-Ray drives, and all other SATA-supported equipment. And since it’s a SATA III cable, it’s four times faster than the original SATA standard – up to 6.0 GBPS.

Beyond that, it is also backward compatible with older versions, so you can use it to replace cables, even on older computers with older SATA drives. It also comes with an 18-month warranty and lifetime customer service, so you can make the most out of your purchase.

However, the cables are quite stiff and difficult to bend. This makes it hard to install in some cases, especially in builds that have small spaces and require tight turns. It could make your cable management complicated, but it won’t be an issue if you have a bigger CPU.
Pros
  • Three-pack cable perfect for setting-up drives in RAID configurations
  • Compatible with hard drives, solid-state drives, DVD drives, Blu-Ray drives
  • Four times faster than the original SATA standard – up to 6.0 GBPS
  • Backward compatible with older SATA versions
  • Comes with an 18-month warranty and lifetime customer service
Cons
  • Cables are quite stiff and can be difficult to bend
This is the perfect package if you’re looking to build a CPU with multiple SATA drives. As long as you have enough space or are patient enough, you won’t have any problems installing this at all.

6. Cable Matters SATA III

This is one of the good SATA cables you can purchase. It’s compatible with popular brands such as Crucial, Kingston, LG Electronics, Samsung, Seagate, and Western Digital. So if you’re using any of these brands, I’d highly recommend this for you.

It’s designed to be a low-profile cable with a flexible jacket, allowing you to have a clean installation and cable management setup. It also has a built-in stainless steel clip, so you’re guaranteed a secure connection throughout its lifetime.

Performance-wise, it transfers data – both read and write – at breakneck speeds, allowing you to get the most out of your SSDs and markedly increasing your computer’s performance. It’s also solidly built, so you’re guaranteed that it will last for as long as you’re using your computer.

The only problem I encountered with this is that its connector is a bit wide. You might have issues installing this if you’re using smaller motherboards with connectors that are too close together. I recommend that you check your parts first if they’re wide enough before purchasing.
Pros
  • Compatible with popular brands such as Crucial, Samsung, Seagate, Kingston, etc
  • Low profile cable with a flexible jacket for a clean installation and cable management
  • Built-in stainless steel clip guarantees a secure connection
  • Fast read and write speeds increase computer performance
  • Solidly built and will last as long as your computer
Cons
  • Connector is a bit wide and may not fit plugs if they’re too close together
If you want a SATA cable that’s been known to work with popular brands, then this is the option for you. It’s also a low profile design, so your case will look clean and classy with this cable.

7. Inateck SATA Cable

If you’re looking for the fastest SATA cable and the best SATA power cables in one package, then Inateck’s offering is the deal that you’re looking for. Each pack includes 2 power cables and 2 SATA cables for a complete solution.

The SATA cable itself is colored red, making it perfect for builders who want a sporty design. The included power cables come either in 4-pin to dual 15-pin SATA power plug or 15-pin to dual 15-pin SATA power plug, making it compatible with most motherboards, both new and old.

You also have connector options as the package has one straight SATA connector and one right-angled SATA connector, giving you installation flexibility. You also don’t have to worry about build quality and longevity as each plug is custom-fitted, making sure that it won’t come loose over time.

My only qualm about the plugs is that since it’s molded to the company’s custom-fit design, maintenance and cleaning can be difficult. You cannot visually inspect the plugs without disassembling and unplugging the whole unit.
Pros
  • Complete solution pack contains two SATA cables and two power cables
  • Red SATA cable makes it perfect for builders with a specific sporty design in mind
  • Comes in both 4-pin to dual 15-pin and 15-pin to dual 15-pin SATA power plugs
  • Straight and right-angled connectors are both available in the package
  • Excellent build quality and longevity due to molded, custom-fit plugs
Cons
  • Molded plugs can be difficult to clean and maintain
The Inateck SATA Data and Power Splitter Cable is perfect if you’re looking for a complete setup. This package is all that you need to ensure your new SATA drive will work upon installation.

8. Relper-Lineso Right SATA III Cable

If you’re setting up workstations or servers that require multiple drives or even RAID configurations, then this six-pack is what you need. You can install up to six physical drives with just this package, saving you time.

These right-angled SATA cables take up less space than straight wires, allowing you to use them in more compact cases and workstations. Furthermore, each connector has a built-in latch that makes an audible click to confirm proper seating and connection

The SATA cables have gold-plated phosphor copper connectors to ensure that you will have a reliable connection to your memory drives. It even comes with a limited lifetime warranty and product support, so you’re confident that these cables will last as long as your computer.

My only gripe about these cables is that they’re quite different from what is described. They’re more dark blue instead of bright blue, so if you’re buying this because of its color, you might be a bit surprised when it’s darker than described.
Pros
  • 6-pack set, perfect for multiple drive installations or RAID configurations
  • Right-angled connectors take up less space, suitable for more compact cases
  • Built-in latch makes audible click to confirm proper seating and connection
  • Gold-plated phosphor copper connectors ensure reliable data transfer
  • Lifetime warranty and product support included
Cons
  • Cable color is darker than expected
This six-pack is perfect for those who wish to set up servers with RAID configurations requiring multiple drives. It’s also right-angled, so it would fit in more compact and portable cases.

9. StarTech USB3S2SAT3CB SATA III

This conversion cable was recommended on Reddit when I needed to back up one of my computers to an internal drive in a different PC. This allows any internal 2.5” drive to be attached externally, just like a USB thumb drive.

It’s absolutely perfect for my purpose, as it allows me to easily swap drives without having to assemble and disassemble an enclosure or the CPU tower case. It’s convenient for me, especially when I do my monthly backups to the internal SSDs I keep in stock at my home office.

This cable’s 5 GBPS transfer speed is perfect, allowing me to back up my 1 TB drives in less than 5 minutes. It also doesn’t require any external power, so even if I lose electricity during the backup procedure, I’m sure that my data won’t be corrupted because it’s being powered by my laptop.

The main downside of this cable is that it’s not meant for long-term connections. The entire drive could be corrupted if the line is inadvertently removed during use. It’s designed for temporary use only – like backing up entire computers or restoring data from a backup drive.
Pros
  • Allows any 2.5” internal drive to be connected to any external USB port
  • Easily swap drives without assembling and disassembling an enclosure
  • Perfect for connecting backup internal drives to computer systems
  • Transfers data up to 5 GBPS, allowing 1 TB backups in less than 5 minutes
  • Doesn’t require an external power source
Cons
  • For temporary connections only – drive corruption is possible if removed during use
This is the perfect cable if you need to back up whole computers on internal drives. It’s easy to use, and you won’t need any complicated disassembly process to attach a drive – albeit temporarily.

10. Cable Creation SATA III Cable 

The 5-pack Cable Creation 8-inch SATA III cables are perfect for building high-end workstations and advanced gaming computers that require multiple drives. You can also use them for servers, especially those that utilize advanced RAID setups that use as many as four drives.

This compact cable is perfect for micro PCs, Mini ITX cases, and other small builds. You won’t have any problems hiding the extra cable length as it’s just enough for what you need. The connectors on both ends also click into place when installed, ensuring a solid contact with their locking latches.

Its bright red color is also perfect for gaming and themed PC builds, ensuring that it will blend in with the builder’s chosen design. More than that, it also comes with a two-year warranty and lifetime tech support, so you’re sure that this cable will last as long as you need it to.

My only concern is that the SATA connectors can be a bit too large. It sometimes causes interference with the power port on some drives and can even block access to some other plugs on smaller motherboards. Just make sure that there’s ample space on both the drive and the board, and you can use this.
Pros
  • 5-pack is perfect for RAID setups, high-end workstations, and gaming computers
  • Compact 8-in length is perfect for micro PCs, Mini ITX cases, and other small builds
  • Connectors click into place securely when installed
  • Bright red color perfect for gaming and themed PC builds
  • Comes with a two-year warranty and lifetime tech support
Cons
  • SATA connectors can be a bit too large and sometimes block nearby plugs
If you need a large pack when building a computer or server with multiple drives in a small case, then this compact pack is an ideal pick.

11. Neeyer SATA III Cable

If you have a computer with multiple components, like dual-graphics cards and water cooling, that requires a lot of twists and turns, then this is the cable for you. It’s a flexible SATA cable that can be bent at any angle as necessary, making it easier for you to install.

It comes in the standard black color to be easily hidden in the dark spaces of your cases. Its connectors also have metal latches that ensure that they won’t loosen over time or fall-out during transport. These make sure that you’ll have a clean and secure build that you can safely move around.

For data integrity, the SATA cable itself is separated into shielded dual-channel upload and download pathways so that your drives will operate efficiently. It’s also backward compatible with both SATA 1.0 and SATA 2.0 so that you can use this cable even on older PCs.

The only downside with this cable is that its external build quality is not as stylish as the others. If you’re looking to build a showcase computer, I would suggest that you go for a different cable or just run this SATA cable under the case and motherboard, where it cannot be seen.
Pros
  • Flexible cable that can be bent at any necessary angle, making it easier to install
  • Comes in standard black color for easy hiding
  • Connectors have metal latches that ensure secure connections over time
  • Separate dual-channel upload and download pathways to ensure efficiency
  • Backward compatible with both SATA 1.0 and SATA 2.0
Cons
  • External build quality is not as high as other SATA cables
If you need something more functional than aesthetic, then this is the cable for you. It’s also black and flexible, so you could easily run it in the nooks and crannies of your case to hide it.

12. QIVYNSRY SATA III Cable

This SATA cable’s 18-inch length is perfect for most builds. It’s the standard length for most cables and will let you quickly run data cables in and around your computer as you see fit. If you have some extra unneeded length, you can simply tie it off and hide it underneath your motherboard.

The cable is designed to connect motherboards and host controllers to internal SATA-equipped drives. This allows the computer to transfer data at extremely high speeds – it takes only 5 seconds to move a 1 GB file.

The best thing that I like about this cable is its PVC jacketed and nylon braided cable. It adds extra protection to the wire while also looking good. It also comes in either black, blue, or red, allowing you to choose the best color that will go with your build.

However, having such a thick outer layer means that the SATA cable is a bit stiff. It can be difficult to wedge into a computer case’s tight spaces, more so if it’s small and compact – like the Mini ITX tower. Nevertheless, it looks good, so I believe the effort will be worth it.
Pros
  • 18-inch length is perfect for most CPU builds
  • Connect motherboards and host controllers to internal SATA-equipped drives
  • Transfers data at extremely high speeds – takes only 5 seconds to transfer a 1 GB file
  • PVC jacketed and nylon braided cables add extra protection while adding style
  • Comes in either black, blue, or red for optimum customization
Cons
  • Can be quite stiff and difficult to wedge into tight spaces in the PC case
If you want something that looks good, has excellent protection, and has multiple color options, then this is the choice for you. Just be mindful that it can be a bit challenging to install.

What to Look for When Buying SATA Cables

best-sata-cable-for-ssd

The number one thing that I look for when buying a SATA cable is the length – it must fit in the case I’m working on. If it’s too long, I might have a problem putting the extra wiring length, while a cable too short will just not do.

In my experience, the average length needed is 18-inches, which gives you just enough slack so that you can have options where you can run your SATA cable in your computer case.

Another thing that I look for is the left- or right-angled SATA connectors. I prefer these connectors when I’m working on smaller builds, but I also have to be mindful – do I want it left-angled or right-angled? It depends on a case-by-case basis, so you have to be sure of what you need before making a purchase.

Lastly, I prefer SATA cables with latches on both ends so that I’m sure that they wouldn’t come loose over time or during transport.

We also have a list of the most affordable VGA to DVI adapter for your reference. Furthermore, check our reviews about fiber optic cable if you need

Are all SATA Cables the Same

Both yes and no. The more affordable cables are typically the same across different brands, varying only in the finish quality. However, branded wires are different from the rest. You can see this with better build quality and extra features like latches and wiring covers.

What are the Best SATA Cable Brands

The brands that I trust the most Benfei, Cable Matters, and QIVYNSRY. You can add more brands there; just make sure that you read their reviews, so you know that they’re providing good items. You can also check out the brands that major stores, like Best Buy, carry. Those are typically reliable as well.

Is it OK to Bend SATA Cables

best-sata-3-cable

Yes, you can bend them a couple of times. Don’t do it repeatedly at a single location, though, as you run the risk of metal fatigue and breaking the wire inside.

What Kind of SATA Cable Do I Need for SSD

The best SATA cable for SSD would be the latest SATA III-standard cables. These offer the fastest transmission rates, up to 6 GBPS. If you want to maximize your SSDs, make sure that you choose the latest standard.

Conclusion

I’ve previously worked with all the cables I’ve reviewed above, so I’m confident of their quality. However, it doesn’t mean that they’re the only good cables on the market. You can make choices of your own, just make sure that it’s the best for you.

Remember, the best SATA cable you could use should fit your needs. Consider the length you need, as well as the space you have – both on the motherboard or host controller and the drive. Once you know your requirements, browse through your options and choose the SATA cable with the best reviews.

5/5 - (2 votes)