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Our This vs That series takes two similar products and highlights what makes them unique. In this post, we compare SJTOW and SJOOW cables, which are both types of portable cord. This means that they are both used as portable power in commercial, industrial, indoor, outdoor, and residential applications. However, the letters in their name indicate that these portable cords have different constructions which can make their uses different as well.

What is SJTOW Cable?

SJTOW cord is a flexible portable cord designed for use in portable tools, motors, floor maintenance equipment, washing machines, and portable lights. It is also ideal for hospitals and sound equipment. The letters in the SJTOW cord can tell you about the specific characteristics of this cable:

  • S= Service Cord
  • J= Junior Service
  • T= Thermoplastic
  • O= Oil-Resistant Outer Jacket
  • W= Weather Resistant

What is SJOOW Cable?

SJOOW Cord is a portable cord designed for use in portable tools and equipment, portable appliances, small motors, and associated machinery. The letters in SJOOW can tell you about the specific characteristics of this cable:

  • S- Service Cord
  • J - Junior Service
  • OO- Oil-resistant insulation and outer jacket
  • W- Weather Resistant

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Since these portable cords share a lot of letters, it is easy to see they have a lot of similarities. They are both junior service cords, which means they both have a voltage rating of 300V. This also indicates they are for light-duty use as opposed to extra hard service. They are also both weather resistant.

However, there are two main differences in the construction of these portable cords. The "T" in SJTOW indicates that the jacket and insulation are both made of thermoplastic materials. A very common material used in this power cord is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). The "OO" in SJOOW portable cord means that both the insulation and jacket are oil-resistant. Since there is no "T" in the name, that indicates that rubber is used in the construction instead of Thermoplastic or Thermoplastic Elastomer.

While both power cords are flexible, the SJOOW cord tends to be more flexible because of its EPDM insulation and Neoprene jacket. The thermoplastic material in the SJTOW portable cord, however, makes it more durable. While these portable cords have similar applications, their varying constructions can make a big difference. For example, SOOW portable cord also has similar uses, but its construction makes it more suitable for extra-hard usage. You can read more about the difference between SOOW and SJOOW portable cords here.

If you still have questions about portable cordage, check out our FAQ Page. We also have an article that breaks down the different power cord types based on the letters in their names.