Original vs duplicate cable is a serious issue in the electrical market today. Many people unknowingly buy duplicate or fake cables because they look similar to original ones. But using duplicate cables can be dangerous for home safety, increase the risk of short circuit, fire, and appliance damage, and reduce the life of your electrical system.
In this blog, we explain how to identify original vs duplicate cable in just 2 minutes, using simple checks that anyone can do—homeowners, electricians, and buyers.
Why Identifying Original Cable Is Important
Duplicate cables may look fine from outside, but inside they often contain:
- Low-purity copper or mixed metal
- Less copper weight
- Poor insulation quality
- Fake markings and certifications
This leads to overheating, voltage drop, and serious safety risks. Always prefer trusted cable brands and verified sellers. You can explore reliable electrical cable solutions at https://kekable.com/.
2-Minute Checklist: Original vs Duplicate Cable
Follow these simple steps to identify an original cable quickly.
Step 1: Check Cable Marking & Printing (30 Seconds)
Original cables have clear, continuous, and permanent printing on the wire insulation.
Original Cable Signs:
- Brand name printed clearly
- Wire size (sq mm) mentioned
- Voltage grade and ISI details
- Printing does not fade easily
Duplicate Cable Signs:
- Blurred or uneven printing
- Missing wire size or standards
- Printing disappears when rubbed
Step 2: Check Copper Quality (30 Seconds)
Cut a small piece and look at the conductor.
Original Cable:
- Bright, shiny reddish copper
- Smooth and uniform strands
- No black spots or dull finish
Duplicate Cable:
- Dull or dark copper
- Mixed metal or aluminium core
- Uneven or thin strands
High-quality copper is essential for safe current flow. Learn more about quality-focused cable manufacturing at https://kekable.com/.
Step 3: Weight Test (20 Seconds)
Original cables contain full copper weight as per standard.
- Take two cables of same size
- Original cable feels heavier
- Duplicate cable feels light due to less copper
This is one of the fastest ways to spot fake cables.
Step 4: Flexibility Test (20 Seconds)
Bend the cable gently.
Original Cable:
- Flexible and smooth bending
- Insulation does not crack
Duplicate Cable:
- Feels stiff
- Insulation cracks or hardens
Good flexibility indicates quality insulation and proper copper stranding.
Step 5: Insulation Quality Check (20 Seconds)
Press the insulation with your nail.
Original Cable:
- Regains shape quickly
- No deep mark left
Duplicate Cable:
- Permanent nail mark remains
- Insulation feels brittle
Poor insulation is a major cause of electrical fire.
Quick Comparison Table: Original vs Duplicate Cable
| Feature | Original Cable | Duplicate Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Purity | High (99.9%) | Low or Mixed |
| Weight | Standard | Lightweight |
| Insulation | Strong & Flexible | Weak & Brittle |
| Safety | Very High | Low |
| Lifespan | Long | Short |
Common Tricks Used in Duplicate Cables
- Thicker insulation to hide less copper
- Fake ISI or certification marks
- Similar brand name spelling
- Attractive low pricing
Always buy cables from authorized dealers and reputed manufacturers like those listed on https://kekable.com/.
Safety Risks of Using Duplicate Cables
Using fake cables can cause:
- Electrical fire
- Frequent MCB tripping
- Appliance damage
- Higher electricity loss
Saving money on cheap cables can lead to costly repairs later.
Final Verdict
Identifying original vs duplicate cable does not require expert tools. With these simple 2-minute checks—marking, copper quality, weight, flexibility, and insulation—you can protect your home, family, and appliances.
Always choose original, certified cables for long-term safety and peace of mind.
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