Armored vs Unarmored Fiber Optic Cable: Which One Should You Choose?

Fiber optic cables are at the heart of data transmission in modern communication networks. Choosing the right type of fiber optic cable is crucial to ensuring long-term network stability, but it can be challenging due to the need to select the best option between armored and unarmored fibers. This article will explain the differences between them and help you make the best decision for your needs.

Armored Fiber vs. Unarmored Fiber Cables: What Are They?

Before diving into the comparison, it’s important to understand what armored and unarmored fiber optic cables are.

Armored fiber cables

feature an additional protective layer around the fiber core, typically made from steel or aluminum. This armor significantly enhances durability, making these cables suitable for harsh environments. Based on the application environment there are two types: armored indoor cables and industrial outdoor cables, each designed for specific applications. The metal armor shields the cable from dust, oil, gas, moisture, and rodents.

Industrial armored cables

, known for their high tensile strength, pressure resistance, flexibility, and long-term durability, are perfect for demanding installations, including underground or direct burial setups and inter-building connections. For more detailed information, check out this article:

What is Armored Fiber Cable?

Unarmored fiber cables

, on the other hand, lack this metal protection. They are lighter, more flexible, and easier to install in controlled environments such as office buildings and data centers.

Armored Fiber vs. Unarmored Fiber Cables: What Are Key Differences?

To help you choose the right fiber optic cable, it’s crucial to understand the key differences between armored and unarmored cables. Here’s a breakdown of the most important aspects:

Feature	Armored	Unarmored
Durability	High (resistant to physical damage, water, and rodents)	Moderate (basic protection from dust and minor impacts)
Installation Complexity	Higher (heavier and less flexible)	Easier (lighter and more flexible)
Cost	Higher (due to added protection)	Lower (cost-effective)
Protection	Strong (waterproof, fire-resistant, rodent-resistant)	Limited (basic protection from physical damage)
Flexibility	Low (stiff and rigid)	High (ideal for tight spaces and bends)

Armored Fiber vs. Unarmored Fiber Cables: How to Choose?

The choice between armored and unarmored fiber cables depends on several factors:

Outdoor vs. Indoor Deployment:

For outdoor environments, industrial armored fiber cables provide superior protection against harsh conditions, offering high tensile strength, pressure resistance, and rodent-proofing—making them ideal for underground or direct burial applications. Indoors, such as in data centers or office riser wiring, standard armored fiber cables deliver adequate protection while maintaining flexibility for easier installation. Armored cables safeguard optical fibers from dust, oil, moisture, and rodents in both cases, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Risk of Physical Damage:

High-risk areas, such as industrial sites or underground installations, require armored fibers to prevent damage from environmental hazards.

Installation Constraints:

If flexibility and ease of installation are priorities, unarmored fibers are a better option.

Budget Considerations:

Armored fibers generally cost more, so unarmored fibers may be a more economical choice if additional protection is unnecessary.

Conclusion

Both armored and unarmored fiber optic cables have their benefits based on your needs. Armored cables offer superior protection for rugged, high-risk environments, while unarmored cables are a more flexible and cost-effective option for indoor use. Understanding these differences ensures you make the right choice for long-term performance and reliability.

At FS, we provide a wide range of fiber optic cables to suit various environments. Whether for outdoor, industrial, or indoor installations, we have the perfect solution for your network. Explore our products today to find the right cable for your needs.