AWG to mm² Converter
Convert between American Wire Gauge (AWG) and metric cross-sectional area (mm²)
Wire Gauge Converter
Common: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24
Enter wire cross-sectional area
About AWG Wire Gauge
What is AWG?
AWG (American Wire Gauge) is a standardized wire gauge system used primarily in North America for the diameters of round, solid, nonferrous, electrically conducting wire. The AWG system has been in use since 1857 and is defined by ASTM B258.
How AWG Numbers Work
The AWG number is inversely related to the wire diameter:
- Lower AWG numbers = Larger diameter (e.g., AWG 10 is thicker than AWG 14)
- Higher AWG numbers = Smaller diameter (e.g., AWG 24 is thinner than AWG 18)
- Each decrease of 3 AWG doubles the cross-sectional area
- Each decrease of 6 AWG doubles the wire diameter
Common AWG Sizes
| AWG | mm² | Diameter (mm) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 2.08 | 1.628 | Lighting circuits |
| 16 | 1.31 | 1.291 | Extension cords |
| 18 | 0.823 | 1.024 | Low-voltage electronics |
| 22 | 0.326 | 0.644 | Telephone wire |
Why Convert AWG to mm²?
- International standards use metric measurements (mm²)
- European and Asian manufacturers specify wire in mm²
- Current capacity calculations often require cross-sectional area
- Engineering calculations use metric units
- Ensure compatibility between US and international wire specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does AWG get larger as the number gets smaller?
AWG is an inverse gauge scale. Lower gauge numbers represent larger conductor diameters and lower resistance per unit length.
When should I convert AWG to mm²?
Convert when a North American drawing, BOM, or test report must be aligned with metric tooling, procurement, or international customer specifications.
Does AWG directly define ampacity?
No. AWG defines conductor size. Ampacity still depends on insulation, ambient temperature, bundling, and installation method.
Why is resistance listed with the conversion?
Resistance data helps engineers connect size selection to voltage drop and thermal performance instead of using diameter alone.
Can the same AWG be used in a wire harness and a cable assembly?
Yes, but the final choice depends on routing density, current load, insulation system, and mechanical constraints inside the assembly.
Need a Custom Cable in This Conductor Size?
Whether your drawing uses AWG or mm², we build the matching cable assembly: