AWG to mm² calculator

Convert American Wire Gauge to conductor diameter and cross-sectional area — or reverse the conversion from mm² back to AWG. Results update as you type.

AWG → mm²

AWG size

Conductor diameter: 0.644mm
Cross-sectional area: 0.326mm²

mm² → AWG

Cross-sectional area

Equivalent AWG: --

Common sizes

Nominal cross-sectional area (copper) at standard AWG steps.

AWG	Diameter (mm)	Area (mm²)
#20	0.812	0.52
#18	1.024	0.82
#16	1.291	1.31
#14	1.628	2.08
#12	2.053	3.31
#10	2.588	5.26

Area only reflects the conductor; finished crimp terminals and connectors use their own stamped barrel sizes.

Use the size you just converted

Match AWG to the right wire barrel: crimp terminals, connector housings and wire connectors are all rated by the wire gauge they accept.

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert AWG to mm²?

AWG is a logarithmic scale — each gauge step changes the cross-section by about 26%. The calculator converts directly: diameter d(mm) = 0.127 × 92^((36−AWG)/39), then area A = π(d/2)². For example 12 AWG ≈ 4.0 mm², 10 AWG ≈ 6 mm².

Is AWG the same as SWG?

No. AWG (American Wire Gauge) and SWG (Standard Wire Gauge, imperial) have different diameters for the same number — SWG is thicker at low numbers. Always confirm which standard a spec uses before ordering cable or crimp terminals.

What is the difference between conductor area and diameter?

The diameter is the physical width of the copper; the cross-sectional area (mm²) is the amount of copper that carries current. Current capacity scales with area, not diameter — a small diameter change is a big area change because area ∝ d².

How it works

IC Source Direct sizes wire by AWG the same way the industry does. Conductor diameter follows d(mm) = 0.127 × 92^((36 − AWG) / 39) and area follows A = π × (d ÷ 2)². The values shown are for bare copper conductor — finished crimp barrels and insulation add their own dimensions.

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