What is the difference between RCA and Component?

The component is a type of video signal or configuration while RCA is a plug type. Component cables are often composed of several RCA cables. Component cables can also use other connectors besides those from RCA. Differences in video quality depend more on the variety of the equipment used in the cable fabrication and the way it was built rather than on one type of cable being used.

Cheap cables may be suitable for short distances, but long distances need a more massive conductor and better protection that is often found only on pricier cables. With component, the video signaling is split into two or more messages that are sent separately.