Best Instrument Cables of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Instrument cables are an essential component of any musician's toolkit. They are used to connect instruments, such as guitars or keyboards, to amplifiers or other audio equipment. These cables come in a variety of lengths and styles, and can be made from different materials, such as copper or silver. The quality of the cable can greatly affect the sound of the instrument, so it is important to choose a cable that is durable and reliable. Some popular brands of instrument cables include Mogami, Planet Waves, and Monster Cable.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fender Pro Instrument Cable, Straight/Straight, 10ft Cover #TOP 1
Fender Pro Instrument Cable, Straight/Straight, 10ft
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable Cover #TOP 2
Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Cable Matters 2-Pack Guitar Cables Cover #TOP 3
Cable Matters 2-Pack Guitar Cables
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Instrument Cables

#TOP 1

Fender Pro Instrument Cable, Straight/Straight, 10ft

990820024
Black
10ft
Fender Pro Instrument Cable, Straight/Straight, 10ft Cover
Fender Professional Series Instrument Cable, Guitar Cable 10 ft, Guitar Accessories, Stage Ready with Anti-Kinking Design, Black

The Fender Professional Series Instrument Cable is designed to avoid twisting, kinking, and physical memory, providing a smooth and uninterrupted sound transmission. The resilient 95% oxygen-free spiral shielding eliminates handling noise, while the 8mm PVC jacket ensures low noise interference. The 22-gauge conductor enhances signal path strength, and the nickel-plated connectors provide durability. This instrument cable is perfect for musicians who demand high-quality sound transmission and reliable performance.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Excellent performance
Durable and thick
Hefty design prevents tripping
Great value for the money
What We Don't Like
Male ends could be larger
#TOP 2

Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable

990820086
Tweed
15ft
Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable Cover
Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable, Guitar Cable, Guitar Accessories, Straight/Angle, Tweed, 15ft

The Fender Deluxe Series Instrument Cable is a high-quality cable designed to deliver durability, conductance, and transparency. It features 95% oxygen-free braided shielding for crystal-clear audio, custom kink-resistant 8mm tweed Jacket, 20 gauge conductor for ultimate signal path strength, 24K gold-plated connectors that won't tarnish or degrade your sound, custom molded ends that offer strain relief, and hook-and-loop ties for keeping cables efficiently coiled and ready for your next gig.

What We Like
High durability
Great sound quality
Gold plated jacks
Affordable price
Versatile lengths available
What We Don't Like
Heavy for some users
Unusual length options
#TOP 3

Cable Matters 2-Pack Guitar Cables

500027-6x2-E
Black
6 ft
Cable Matters 2-Pack Guitar Cables Cover
Cable Matters 2-Pack 1/4 Inch TS to TS Electric Guitar Cable 6 Feet - Guitar Cord/Guitar Amp Cord/Instrument Cable for Electric Guitar, Mandolin, Bass AMP, Keyboard, Mixer, Equalizer

Cable Matters Guitar Cables are designed for connecting your electric guitar or other instruments to amplifiers or mixing consoles. The straight-to-straight design features a flexible jacket that helps prevent kinking, making installation hassle-free. With rugged metal connectors and gold-plated tips, you can expect superior signal transmission. The dual foil and braid shielding protect against electromagnetic noise, ensuring a clean sound. Additionally, the heavy-gauge, oxygen-free copper conductors provide excellent audio quality, while the polyethylene insulation enhances high-frequency response, letting you enjoy every note clearly.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
Good sound quality
Flexible and durable design
Suitable for home use
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Plastic connector shells
Not suitable for heavy use
#TOP 4

GLS Audio Instrument Cable - 20ft

37-082
Brown/Yellow
20ft
GLS Audio Instrument Cable - 20ft Cover
GLS Audio Instrument Cable - Amp Cord for Bass & Electric Guitar - Straight to Right Angle 1/4 Inch Instrument Cable - Brown/Yellow Braided Tweed, 20ft

The GLS Audio Instrument Cable is built to last and made with high-quality oxygen-free copper, ensuring durability. Its flexible design prevents twists and tangles, and the braided tweed cloth jacket provides extra durability. The cable features 1/4" tips and double insulator shields for maximum isolation, resulting in low noise and low capacitance. This instrument cable is perfect for bass and electric guitar players.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Durable and reliable
Great value for price
Classic vintage look
Silent operation
What We Don't Like
Jack quality could improve
Limited color options
#TOP 5

Ernie Ball Flex Instrument Cable Straight/Straight 10ft - Orange

P06416
Orange
10 feet
Ernie Ball Flex Instrument Cable Straight/Straight 10ft - Orange Cover
Ernie Ball Instrument Cable, Orange, 10 feet (P06416)

Introducing the Ernie Ball Flex Instrument Cable Straight/Straight 10ft - Orange, the perfect companion for musicians seeking a reliable and high-performance cable. With its flexible and tangle-resistant design, this cable ensures hassle-free setups and effortless performance. The 95% shielding provides exceptional noise reduction, allowing for clear and pristine sound transmission. The compact connector design adds convenience, making it easy to connect and disconnect without any hassle. Experience a reliably clear signal with natural frequency response, delivering your music with precision and accuracy. Additionally, the Ernie Ball Flex Instrument Cable comes with a limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance. Upgrade your musical experience with the Ernie Ball Flex Cable today!

What We Like
Solid build quality
Great sound quality
Flexible and low noise
Variety of colors
Doesn't tangle easily
What We Don't Like
Possible shipping issues
Minor packaging concerns
#TOP 6

Gearlux 25ft Instrument Cable - 2 Pack

NINIC25
2 Pack
25 Ft
Gearlux 25ft Instrument Cable - 2 Pack Cover
Gearlux Instrument Cable/Professional Guitar Cable 1/4 Inch to 1/4 Inch, Black, 25 Foot - 2 Pack

The Gearlux Instrument Cable is a reliable choice for musicians, featuring two 25-foot cables that provide ample length for both studio and live performances. With its durable 1/4" connectors, you can trust that your connections will remain secure. The professional-grade OFC noiseless design ensures clear sound transmission without unwanted interference, enhancing your overall audio experience. Plus, this product is backed by a lifetime guarantee, giving you peace of mind in your investment. Whether you're recording or performing, this cable offers the quality and convenience you need.

What We Like
Good quality cables
Responsive seller
Little to no distortion
Quick replacement process
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
One damaged cable end
#TOP 7

Amazon Basics TS 1/4 Inch Tweed Cloth Jacket Right-Angle Instrument Cable

Amazon Basics
BC302YB-10FT
Yellow & Brown
10 Foot
Amazon Basics TS 1/4 Inch Tweed Cloth Jacket Right-Angle Instrument Cable Cover
Amazon Basics TS 1/4 Inch Tweed Cloth Jacket Right-Angle Instrument Cable for Electric Guitar, 10 Foot, Yellow & Brown

The Amazon Basics Instrument Cable is an ideal choice for connecting your electric guitar, bass, or keyboard to an amplifier or PA system. With a 23 AWG oxygen-free copper center conductor, this cable ensures improved signal clarity, allowing you to enjoy high-fidelity performance without any noise or interference. The OFC spiral shield and conductive PVC shield effectively block interference from outside sources, further enhancing the overall sound quality. Its 1/4-Inch Straight-to-Right Angle connectors provide convenient connectivity options. The braided yellow-and-brown tweed-cloth outer jacket not only adds a touch of style but also offers reliable strength and flexibility. Backed by an Amazon Basics 1-Year Limited Warranty, this instrument cable is a reliable and durable choice for musicians.

What We Like
Well-built braided cable
Right-angle connector convenience
Good quality for price
Coils well without twisting
What We Don't Like
Cheap feel of materials
Smaller jacks than competitors
#TOP 8

Ernie Ball Braided Cable 10ft

P06081
Black
10ft
Ernie Ball Braided Cable 10ft Cover
Ernie Ball Braided Instrument Cable, Straight/Angle, 10ft, Black (P06081)

The Ernie Ball Braided Cable is a 10-foot instrument cable designed for musicians seeking quality and reliability. This cable features a combination of straight and angled connectors, allowing you to easily connect to various instruments and setups. The braided design not only enhances durability but also reduces interference, ensuring a clear sound. This means you can enjoy a more consistent performance without worrying about signal loss. Whether you’re practicing at home or performing on stage, this cable is a convenient choice for any guitarist or bassist.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Secure connectors
Great sound quality
Stylish design
Good price value
What We Don't Like
Shipping delays
#TOP 9

New bee Guitar Cable for Electric Instruments

Black
10FT
New bee Guitar Cable for Electric Instruments Cover
New bee Guitar Cable 10ft Electric Instrument Bass AMP Cord for Electric Mandolin, Pro Audio (Right Angle to Straight, Black)

The New bee Guitar Cable is a 10ft long low noise high fidelity instrument cable that provides enhanced signal transfer and noise rejection. It features 1/4 straight and right angle metal connectors, making it ideal for a variety of instruments, pedals and amps. The cable is compatible with a wide range of electronic equipment including mixers, power amplifiers, microphones, electronic organs, electric guitars, electric basses and more. Its easy disassemble feature allows for quick and easy repairs while its flexibility makes it a nice choice.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Durable construction
Great price
Functional and reliable
Good length for use
What We Don't Like
Lead may be slightly short
Minor grounding issue reported
#TOP 10

Amazon Basics 1/4 Inch Straight Instrument Cable

Amazon Basics
BC355-10FT
Black
10 Foot
Amazon Basics 1/4 Inch Straight Instrument Cable Cover
Amazon Basics TS 1/4 Inch Straight Instrument Cable for Electric Guitar/Bass and Keyboard, 10 Foot, Black

The Amazon Basics 1/4 Inch Straight Instrument Cable is perfect for connecting your electric guitar, bass or keyboard to an amplifier or PA system. With its 23 AWG oxygen-free copper center conductor, OFC spiral shield, and conductive PVC shield, it provides high-quality, noise-free, high-fidelity performance by blocking interference from outside sources. The black outer jacket makes it strong and flexible, while the 1/4-Inch Straight-to-Straight connectors add to its reliability.

What We Like
High quality construction
Clean sound quality
Reliable for practice and gigs
Fast delivery
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for heavy live use
Long-term durability uncertain
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between an instrument cable and a speaker cable?

There is a difference between instrument cables and speaker cables. An instrument cable has a signal wire and a shield for carrying instrument level signals. A speaker cable has two identical wires for carrying speaker level signals. Using an instrument cable as a speaker cable can be damage your equipment.

2. What do instrument cables do?

Your instrument cable is low power and high impedance. It's built to convey a weak unamplified signal from your guitar to your amp, where it's boosted up to a useable level.

3. What should I look for in an instrument cable?

The key factors to look for when choosing instrument cable are good screening from noise, low capacitance and high quality connectors. Keeping noise to a minimum is achieved by shielding the conductor from electrical interference, usually with a braided copper, some form of conductive plastic jacket, or both.

Editor's Notes

During our instrument cable research, we found 26 instrument cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 286,914 customer reviews through our big data system to write the instrument cables list. We found that most customers choose instrument cables with an average price of $18.52.

The instrument cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of instrument cables, including Fender, Cable Matters, GLS Audio, Ernie Ball, Gearlux. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.

Instrument Cables Comparison Table

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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP10
Brand Fender Fender Cable Matters GLS Audio Ernie Ball Gearlux Amazon Basics Ernie Ball New bee Amazon Basics
Connector Type 1/4 Inches Straight 1/4" Straight, 1/4" Angle 1/4 Inch Ts 1/4 Inch Ts - 1/4 Auxiliary Gold 1/4" Straight, Gold 1/4" Right Angle 1/4 Inch Ts (Tip-sleeve) Auxiliary
Cable Type Instrument Cables Braided Cloth Audio cable Guitar Cable - 1/4 inch AUX Coaxial XLR AUX
Compatible Devices Musical Instrument Musical Instrument Tablet Amplifier - Guitar Musical Instrument Musical Instrument Amplifier, Microphone, Musical Instrument, Headphone Musical Instrument
Special Feature Flexible Braided Braided Braided - Tangle Free Braided Braided, Tangle Free Flexible -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy