Wire Gauge (AWG)

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Select an American Wire Gauge (AWG) size to see its diameter, maximum current capacity for chassis wiring, and resistance per 1000 feet. Essential for selecting safe wire sizes in power supplies, automotive wiring, speaker cables, and general electronics projects.

Results

How to use this calculator

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Determine your current requirement** Calculate the maximum current your wire needs to carry.
2. **Select different AWG sizes** Compare specifications until you find one rated above your current requirement.
3. **Choose with safety margin** Always select a wire gauge rated for at least 25% more current than your maximum expected load.

Pro Tips

Lower AWG numbers mean thicker wire with higher current capacity (0 AWG is very thick, 30 AWG is hair-thin).

22 AWG is the most common wire for breadboard prototyping and general hookup wiring.

For long wire runs, also consider voltage drop use a thicker gauge or calculate acceptable voltage loss.