Free reference tool
AWG to mm² Converter
Convert between American Wire Gauge (AWG) and metric cross-section (mm²) instantly, and look up the closest standard size on either scale.
Pick an AWG size to see its metric equivalent.
Pick a metric size to see its nearest AWG equivalent.
Conversion result
—
Full AWG ↔ mm² reference table
Sizes are matched by closest cross-sectional area, not by name. AWG and metric ranges don't line up exactly, so the nearest match is usually a size up or down from what you might expect. The ampacity column is an approximate reference for 75°C-rated copper conductors; see the Cable Size Calculator for a result adjusted to your own conditions.
| AWG | Cross-section (mm²) | Approx. copper ampacity (75°C) |
|---|---|---|
| 14 AWG | 2.08 mm² | 20 A |
| 12 AWG | 3.31 mm² | 25 A |
| 10 AWG | 5.26 mm² | 35 A |
| 8 AWG | 8.37 mm² | 50 A |
| 6 AWG | 13.30 mm² | 65 A |
| 4 AWG | 21.15 mm² | 85 A |
| 3 AWG | 26.67 mm² | 100 A |
| 2 AWG | 33.63 mm² | 115 A |
| 1 AWG | 42.41 mm² | 130 A |
| 1/0 | 53.48 mm² | 150 A |
| 2/0 | 67.43 mm² | 170 A |
| 3/0 | 85.03 mm² | 195 A |
| 4/0 | 107.22 mm² | 225 A |
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't 10 AWG convert to a round mm² number?
AWG sizes are based on a geometric progression of wire diameters, while metric sizes are chosen as round cross-section numbers. The two systems were never designed to align. 10 AWG, for example, works out to roughly 5.26 mm², closest in practice to a 6 mm² conductor.
Should I round up or down when converting?
For anything carrying real current, round up to the next standard size on whichever scale you're switching to, never down. A slightly larger conductor is safe; a slightly smaller one may not meet ampacity or voltage-drop requirements.