I have installed literally MILLIONS of feet of Cat5e and Cat6 cable in various locations around the world during my career.
After terminating, I always use a FLUKE tester, and have very few test poorly.
I have also had the experience where the manufactured (purchased) cables have a high defect rate.
So, I suppose it all depends on your ability to make your own.
If you're one of the people that leaves the wires untwisted and hanging 2 inches out of the connector... better off buying them.
If you can make a cable that looks at least as good as the cheaper manufactured ones, and tests just as good, I say make your own. It's cheaper to buy the bulk materials if you're running a LOT of cable.
If you are just needing one or two cables, maybe it's better off just to buy them.
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I have installed literally MILLIONS of feet of Cat5e and Cat6 cable in various locations around the world during my career. After terminating, I always use a FLUKE tester, and have very few test poorly. I have also had the experience where the manufactured (purchased) cables have a high defect rate. So, I suppose it all depends on your ability to make your own. If you're one of the people that leaves the wires untwisted and hanging 2 inches out of the connector... better off buying them. If you can make a cable that looks at least as good as the cheaper manufactured ones, and tests just as good, I say make your own. It's cheaper to buy the bulk materials if you're running a LOT of cable. If you are just needing one or two cables, maybe it's better off just to buy them.