AWG (American Wire Gauge) to mm2

This resource provide a conversion table to AWG to mm2 wire sizes.

AWG (American Wire Gauge) to mm2
AWG mm2
20 0.52
18 0.82
16 1.31
14 2.08
12 3.31
10 5.26
8 8.36
6 13.30
4 21.20
2 33.60
1 42.40
1/0 53.50
2/0 67.40
3/0 85.00
4/0 107.00


American Wire Gauge (AWG) standards and metric wire sizing systems are two common methods used to specify the size of electrical wires, each with its own advantages and applications.

AWG, developed in the United States, uses a numerical scale where smaller numbers represent thicker wires. For example, AWG 10 is thicker than AWG 14. This system is widely used in North America and parts of Latin America. AWG sizes are defined based on the cross-sectional area of the wire, and they are convenient for specifying wire sizes in the electrical industry.

On the other hand, the metric wire sizing system, also known as the millimeter (mm) sizing system, uses the cross-sectional area of the wire in square millimeters to denote wire sizes. In this system, larger numbers indicate thicker wires. Metric wire sizes are more commonly used in Europe and many other parts of the world where the metric system is standard.

One notable difference between AWG and metric wire sizing is the way sizes are designated. AWG uses a numerical scale that isn't directly related to the physical dimensions of the wire, whereas metric sizing directly relates to the wire's cross-sectional area in square millimeters.

The choice between AWG and metric wire sizing often depends on regional standards and practices. In industries with global operations, both systems may be encountered, requiring careful conversion and understanding of wire size specifications. Despite these differences, both standards aim to ensure safe and efficient electrical installations by properly matching wire sizes to current-carrying requirements and environmental conditions.