| AWG / kcmil | Diameter (in) | Diameter (mm) | Copper Ampacity 75°C (A) | Aluminum Ampacity 75°C (A) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/0 (0000) | 0.460 | 11.68 | 230 | 180 | Service entrance, large feeders |
| 3/0 (000) | 0.410 | 10.40 | 200 | 155 | Service entrance, feeders |
| 2/0 (00) | 0.365 | 9.27 | 175 | 135 | Large subpanels, feeders |
| 1/0 (0) | 0.325 | 8.25 | 150 | 120 | 100A subpanels, feeders |
| 1 | 0.289 | 7.35 | 130 | 100 | Large branch circuits, feeders |
| 2 | 0.258 | 6.54 | 115 | 90 | 90–100A branch circuits |
| 3 | 0.229 | 5.83 | 100 | 75 | Large branch circuits |
| 4 | 0.204 | 5.19 | 85 | 65 | 60A branch circuits, A/C units |
| 6 | 0.162 | 4.11 | 65 | 50 | 50A branch circuits, A/C, EV |
| 8 | 0.128 | 3.26 | 50 | 40 | 40A branch circuits, ranges, dryers |
| 10 | 0.102 | 2.59 | 35 | 30 | 30A branch circuits, A/C, water heaters |
| 12 | 0.081 | 2.05 | 20 | 15 | 20A general-purpose branch circuits |
| 14 | 0.064 | 1.63 | 15 | — | 15A lighting, outlets (Cu only per NEC) |
How to Use This AWG Wire Gauge Chart
Use this chart to compare AWG size, wire diameter, copper ampacity, aluminum ampacity, and common applications side by side. Start by finding the conductor size you are considering, then review the material-specific ampacity column and the typical use case to see whether that size is in the right range for your project.
This chart works best as a quick reference before final sizing. For an actual installation, also check breaker size, conductor material, insulation type, temperature rating, voltage drop, and any local code amendments that apply to your job.
What AWG Means
AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, the standard sizing system used for many electrical conductors in the United States. In the AWG system, a smaller gauge number means a larger conductor. For example, 6 AWG wire is larger than 10 AWG wire, and 1/0 is larger than 1 AWG.
Larger conductors usually have lower resistance and can carry more current, which is why AWG size affects both ampacity and voltage drop. If you need help choosing a conductor instead of only comparing sizes, use our wire size calculator for ampacity or voltage drop calculator for long wire runs.
Copper vs Aluminum Ampacity
Copper and aluminum conductors do not have the same ampacity at the same AWG size. Copper typically carries more current than aluminum of the same gauge because it has lower resistance and different physical properties. That is why this chart includes separate ampacity columns for both materials.
When comparing conductor options, material choice can affect not only ampacity but also conductor size, termination requirements, and voltage drop. For raceway planning after choosing a conductor, see our conduit fill calculator.
Common AWG Sizes and Typical Applications
Some of the most commonly referenced wire sizes in residential and light commercial work are 14 AWG, 12 AWG, 10 AWG, 8 AWG, and 6 AWG. These are often used for lighting circuits, receptacle circuits, water heaters, dryers, ranges, air-conditioning equipment, and EV charging circuits, depending on the installation details.
Larger sizes such as 4 AWG, 2 AWG, 1/0, and 4/0 are more commonly used for feeders, subpanels, service entrance conductors, and other higher-load applications. Always verify the final conductor size against the current NEC, termination temperature ratings, and equipment manufacturer instructions.
AWG Wire Gauge Chart FAQ
What does AWG mean in wire sizing?
AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, a standard system used to describe wire diameter in the United States. As the gauge number gets smaller, the wire gets larger and can generally carry more current.
How do I use an AWG wire gauge chart?
Use the chart to compare AWG size, wire diameter, ampacity, and common applications. Match the conductor material and ampacity column to your installation, then verify temperature rating, insulation type, and any local code requirements.
Is AWG ampacity the same for copper and aluminum wire?
No. Copper and aluminum conductors have different electrical characteristics, so the ampacity values are different. Copper usually carries more current than the same AWG size aluminum conductor under the same conditions.
Can I use this chart alone to size wire for a circuit?
Not by itself. An AWG wire gauge chart is a useful reference, but proper wire sizing also depends on voltage drop, ambient temperature, conductor count, insulation type, terminal ratings, and the latest NEC and local amendments.
What are common AWG sizes for household circuits?
Common residential examples include 14 AWG copper for many 15-amp lighting circuits, 12 AWG copper for many 20-amp general-purpose circuits, and 10 AWG copper for many 30-amp appliance circuits, subject to code requirements and equipment specifications.
Use Our Calculators
Need help turning this AWG chart into an actual conductor choice? Use our calculators to size wire, check voltage drop, and plan raceway fill.