MATERIAL UPDATE: Computer Wire vs. Insulated Wire

Posted: July 17, 2026

Computer Wire vs. Insulated Wire

A question that has been coming up a lot at the door and on the phone with customers has been the difference in price and classification for computer wire and insulated wire. Below are the pictures and grading updates on how we buy scrap copper wire.

: Insulated Wire (Cat 5/6) – Has less plastic inside therefore is a higher price.

: Computer Wire – These are regular wires from appliances which have more plastic.

If you still have questions or would like some further explanation of how we are buying various copper wires for scrap, feel free to call us or contact us thr0ugh our website.

INSULATED WIRE PRICE

COMPUTER WIRE PRICE

Cat 5/6 vs. Cat 5/6 Cross

Another change we have at our scale is the difference between Cat 5/6 and Cat 5/6 Cross. The Cat 5/6 Cross (pictured above) has an extra piece of plastic which adds weight to the wire, therefore resulting in a lower price at the scale. Be sure to cut your Cat 5/6 before bringing it in and sorting it correctly.

CAT 5/6 PRICE

CAT 5/6 CROSS PRICE

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