Wire Gauge Calculator

Convert AWG wire sizes to diameter, cross-sectional area, resistance, and ampacity instantly. Free, private, no signup needed.

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AWG Wire Size Converter

Common:
Select a gauge to see all specifications instantly

The Wire Gauge Calculator converts American Wire Gauge (AWG) sizes into their physical and electrical properties instantly. Whether you are an electrician planning a wiring project, a hobbyist building electronics, or an engineer designing a power system, this tool gives you the exact diameter, cross-sectional area, resistance per kilometer, and ampacity for any standard AWG size. All calculations run locally in your browser.

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How to Use

  1. 1
    Select AWG Size: Choose a wire gauge from the dropdown menu or click a quick preset.
  2. 2
    View results instantly: Diameter, area, resistance, and ampacity update in real-time.
  3. 3
    Copy any value: Use the copy buttons next to each specification to save it.
  4. 4
    Reference the chart: See where your gauge sits relative to the largest and smallest options.
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The AWG Formula

The AWG system uses a precise mathematical formula to determine wire diameter:

d = 0.005 ร— 92^((36 - n) / 39) inches, where n is the gauge number.

For gauges larger than 1 AWG, the numbers go negative: 1/0 (n=0), 2/0 (n=-1), 3/0 (n=-2), and 4/0 (n=-3). The cross-sectional area is then calculated from the diameter, and resistance is derived from copper resistivity (1.724 ร— 10โปโธ ฮฉยทm at 20ยฐC).

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Why Ampacity Matters

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Safety First
Using wire too thin for the current causes overheating, melting insulation, and fire risk.
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Right Sizing
Every six gauge steps approximately doubles or halves the wire diameter.
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Power Handling
4/0 AWG carries ~230A while 30 AWG carries only ~1A โ€” choose wisely for your project.
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Code Compliant
Always verify against the National Electrical Code (NEC) for your specific installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AWG?

AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, a standardized system used in North America to measure the diameter of electrical conductors. Lower gauge numbers = thicker wires.

What is the difference between AWG and SWG?

AWG (American) and SWG (British Standard) use different formulas and are not interchangeable. This calculator uses the AWG standard only.

Does the resistance include temperature effects?

Resistance values are for copper wire at 20ยฐC (68ยฐF). Wire resistance increases with temperature, so actual values may be slightly higher.

Can I use this for aluminum wire?

This calculator provides values for copper wire only. Aluminum wire has higher resistance and typically requires a larger gauge for the same current.

Is this tool free?

Yes, this tool is 100% free with no subscriptions, hidden fees, or limits.

Is my data private?

Absolutely. All calculations happen locally in your browser. Your data never leaves your device.

๐Ÿ”’ Privacy Note: This tool processes all data locally in your browser. No information is ever uploaded to our servers.
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