AWG Wire Size Converter
Convert
AWG is a logarithmic gauge: a 3-gauge difference is a factor of ~2 in diameter. Convert to mm, inches, or copper Ω/m.
American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a logarithmic wire-size standard: each 3-gauge step halves (or doubles) the diameter, and each gauge step multiplies by 92^(1/39). Lower AWG numbers are thicker wires with lower resistance.
Converting AWG to physical diameter (mm/in) or to copper resistance per metre (Ω/m) is essential for power wiring (choosing a gauge for current and voltage drop), PCB trace design, and antenna feedlines. Note the AWG→Ω/m conversion uses copper resistivity (1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m) and is an approximation — see the limitation note.
Common applications
Sizing house wiring (12–14 AWG); selecting a PCB trace width; comparing speaker cable gauges; checking voltage drop over a long run.
Frequently asked questions
American Wire Gauge — a logarithmic standard where lower numbers are thicker wires. A 3-gauge difference is a factor of ~2 in diameter.
≈ 2.05 mm (0.0808 in).
It's an approximation using copper resistivity (1.68×10⁻⁸ Ω·m). Real wire varies with alloy, temperature, and stranding. Use it for estimates.