OM3 vs OM4 vs OM5: Which Multimode Fiber Should You Choose?
Multimode fiber is widely used inside data centers due to its low cost and high performance over short distances. The three most common multimode fiber types are OM3, OM4, and OM5. Each offers different levels of bandwidth, reach, and future‑proofing.
1. OM3, OM4, OM5 Comparison Table
| Fiber Type | Jacket Color | Bandwidth | 100G SR4 Reach | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OM3 | Aqua | 2000 MHz·km | 70m | Lowest |
| OM4 | Aqua | 4700 MHz·km | 100m | Medium |
| OM5 | Lime Green | 28000 MHz·km | 150m | Highest |
2. OM3 — Entry‑Level Multimode Fiber
OM3 is the most cost‑effective option for short‑distance links. It supports 10G, 40G, and 100G, making it suitable for rack‑to‑rack connections or small data centers.
3. OM4 — The Mainstream Choice
OM4 offers significantly higher bandwidth than OM3 and supports longer 100G SR4 distances. It is the most common choice for modern data centers due to its balance of performance and cost.
4. OM5 — Designed for Future Upgrades
OM5 is optimized for SWDM (Short‑Wave Division Multiplexing), enabling higher bandwidth and longer reach for next‑generation speeds such as 200G, 400G, and 800G.
It is ideal for large‑scale data centers planning long‑term upgrades.
5. How to Choose
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Small or mid‑size data centers: OM3
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Modern data centers: OM4
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Future‑proof deployments: OM5
6. Conclusion
OM3, OM4, and OM5 each serve different needs. OM3 is cost‑effective, OM4 is the mainstream standard, and OM5 is built for future high‑speed applications. OptiModule provides all multimode fiber types, including MPO/MTP solutions.