The cost of a reel of fiber optic cable varies widely, typically ranging from $0.09 to $6 per foot depending on type, strand count, and construction.

Pricing Overview

Fiber optic cable prices depend on several factors, including fiber type (single-mode or multimode), strand count, cable construction, and intended application. For bulk material purchases:

• Single-mode fiber: $0.10 to $0.50 per foot
• Multimode fiber: $0.30 to $1.00 per foot
• High strand-count cables: A 12-strand cable may cost around $0.50 per foot, while a 24-strand cable can reach $1.00 per foot
• Specialized cables: Armored or direct-burial cables can cost $0.50 to $5 per foot, depending on durability and environmental protection For retail purchases, prices are generally higher, ranging from $1 to $6 per foot, especially for pre-terminated assemblies or patch cables with connectors .

Reel Length and Total Cost

Fiber optic cables are often sold in reels of 500 meters to 2 kilometers or more. For example:

• A 2000-meter (approx. 6560 feet) reel of standard multimode fiber at $0.50 per foot would cost around $3,280
• A high-count 288-strand backbone cable at $6 per foot could cost over $39,000 for a similar reel length

Factors Affecting Price

1. Fiber Type: Single-mode is generally cheaper per foot than multimode for short distances but better for long-haul applications.
2. Strand Count: More strands increase the cost proportionally.
3. Construction: Indoor riser-rated cables are cheaper than plenum-rated or armored cables. Outdoor cables with water-blocking or polyethylene sheaths cost more.
4. Core Material: Glass fiber cores are more expensive than plastic optical fibers but provide superior performance for speed and distance.
5. Pre-Termination: Factory-terminated cables with connectors are more expensive than bulk reels .

Conclusion

The price of a reel of optical cable can vary from a few hundred dollars for small, low-strand indoor cables to tens of thousands for high-strand, armored, or long-distance outdoor cables. For accurate pricing, it is recommended to specify the fiber type, strand count, reel length, and environmental rating when requesting quotes from suppliers such as RS Components, Farnell, or MCL Data Solutions .