AWG to MM Converter

American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized system for wire diameter. Smaller AWG numbers mean thicker wire. Diameter and cross-sectional area determine current capacity, voltage drop, and mechanical strength, so accurate conversion is essential for selecting safe conductors.

Use the AWG diameter formula: diameter (in) = 0.005 × 92^((36 - AWG)/39), then convert inches to millimeters (× 25.4). Example: 12 AWG ≈ 0.0808 in = 2.05 mm diameter.

Diameter is a single dimension, while cross-sectional area determines how much current the wire can carry. Area is computed as A = π × (d/2)^2. For example, 12 AWG has about 3.31 mm² area even though the diameter is only 2.05 mm.

AWG is logarithmic and historically based on the number of drawing steps. Each gauge step changes diameter by a constant ratio (92^(1/39)). Every 3 AWG steps roughly doubles or halves the cross-sectional area.

Yes. AWG describes total conductor cross-sectional area, regardless of whether it is solid or stranded. Stranded conductors have slightly larger overall diameter due to air gaps, but the conductive area is equivalent.

Common equivalences: 14 AWG ≈ 2.08 mm², 12 AWG ≈ 3.31 mm², 10 AWG ≈ 5.26 mm², 8 AWG ≈ 8.37 mm². Exact diameters vary slightly by standard, so use the calculator for precision.