AWG Wire Gauge Lookup

Choose a standard American Wire Gauge size to see the nominal diameter and cross-sectional area of a solid round wire in metric and imperial units. This dimensional reference does not recommend ampacity, breaker size, voltage drop, conductor size, or code compliance. Calculate it clearly with Figur.

How the awg wire gauge lookup works

Choose a standard American Wire Gauge size to see the nominal diameter and cross-sectional area of a solid round wire in metric and imperial units. This dimensional reference does not recommend ampacity, breaker size, voltage drop, conductor size, or code compliance.

Method and assumptions

Figur applies the AWG dimensional progression for solid round wire: diameter in inches = 0.005 × 92^((36 − gauge)/39). Geometric area is calculated with πd²/4 and converted to mm².

  • The selected gauge represents a standard solid round AWG wire from 4/0 through 40.
  • Dimensions are nominal and exclude insulation, coatings, and the bundle geometry of stranded wire.
  • The tool reports diameter and area only; material and installation do not change those nominal dimensions but do affect permitted electrical performance.

Dimensional reference only. It does not calculate ampacity, breaker size, voltage drop, conductor selection, or electrical-code compliance. Confirm any design or installation against current tables, the authority having jurisdiction, and a qualified professional.

Sources and references

Worked example

Look up the dimensions of 12 AWG solid round wire.

12 AWG has a nominal diameter of about 2.05252538849 mm and area of 3.30877287611 mm².

Frequently asked questions

Why does a larger AWG number mean a smaller wire?

AWG is a logarithmic gauge progression: every three gauge steps change diameter by about a factor of 92^(3/39), and 39 steps span a 92-to-1 diameter ratio.

Can I use this to choose a wire or breaker?

No. It reports nominal solid-wire dimensions only; safe conductor and breaker selection depends on material, insulation, temperature, installation, load, voltage drop, and applicable code.

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