What fiber optic cable is the cheapest

OM1 multimode fiber optic cable is generally the cheapest type of fiber optic cable.OM1 multimode fiber is the most affordable option among fiber optic cables, typically used for short-distance communication such as within local area networks (LANs) due to its lower bandwidth and shorter maximum transmission distance compared to higher-grade multimode or single-mode fibers . Its larger core size (62.5µm) allows the use of inexpensive LEDs for light transmission, which contributes to its lower cost .Cost ComparisonSingle-mode fiber (OS1/OS2): Costs less per foot than higher-grade multimode fibers but requires more expensive transceivers and equipment, making the overall system cost higher .Multimode fiber (OM1–OM5): OM1 is the least expensive, followed by OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, which are progressively more costly due to higher bandwidth, longer reach, and advanced features like short wavelength division multiplexing in OM5 .Price range: OM1 cables can cost as little as $0.13 per foot for simple drop cables, while higher-count or higher-grade cables can reach $6 per foot or more .Factors Affecting CostFiber count: Cables with more strands (e.g., 24-core vs 2-core) are more expensive .Construction: Indoor riser-rated cables are cheaper than plenum-rated or armored cables designed for harsh environments .Application: Short-distance LANs can use OM1 effectively, while long-distance or high-speed networks may require more expensive multimode or single-mode fibers . In summary, OM1 multimode fiber optic cable is the cheapest choice, especially for short-distance, low-bandwidth applications, while single-mode and higher-grade multimode fibers are more expensive due to performance and equipment requirements.