Wire Size Calculator.

Determine proper wire gauge with our wire size calculator.

Recommended AWG

Voltage Drop

1.2 V (0.5%)

Material

Copper

Wire sizing reference.

AWG Copper (A) Aluminum (A)
14 AWG15A
12 AWG20A15A
10 AWG30A25A
8 AWG40A30A
6 AWG55A40A
4 AWG70A55A
3 AWG85A65A
2 AWG95A75A
1 AWG110A85A
1/0 AWG125A100A

Frequently asked questions.

What wire size do I need?

Wire size depends on amperage, distance, and material. Use the calculator above — it factors in all three and includes voltage drop.

What wire size is required for 50 amps?

For 50A with copper: 6 AWG (rated 55A). For aluminum: 4 AWG (rated 55A). Longer distances may require upsizing.

What wire size is needed for EV charging?

48A charger: 6 AWG copper. 32A: 8 AWG copper. 16A: 12 AWG copper. Check local codes — some require upsizing by one gauge.

How does distance affect wire size?

Longer runs increase voltage drop. The calculator automatically upsizes wire when the voltage drop exceeds 3%.

What is voltage drop?

Voltage drop is the reduction in voltage due to wire resistance. NEC recommends under 3% for branch circuits. Shown in the calculator results.

Is copper better than aluminum?

Copper has better conductivity (smaller gauge needed). Aluminum is lighter and cheaper but requires larger gauge. Compare both in the calculator.

What AWG size should I use?

Enter amperage, distance, and material in the calculator. It instantly shows the recommended AWG with voltage drop.

How is wire ampacity calculated?

Ampacity is based on gauge, material, and insulation rating per NEC Table 310.16. The reference table above shows standard 75°C ratings.

Can I use a smaller wire size?

No — undersized wire overheats, causing insulation damage and fire risk. Always match wire to the breaker and load requirements.

What gauge for an EV charger?

48A: 6 AWG copper. 32A: 8 AWG copper. 16A: 12 AWG copper. Always check local codes before installation.

How we calculate this.

Methodology

Recommended AWG is determined by matching amperage to NEC Table 310.16 ampacity ratings (75°C). Voltage drop is computed as: Vdrop = (2 × Distance × Amps × Resistance/ft) ÷ 1000. If voltage drop exceeds 3%, the wire is automatically upsized to the next gauge.

Assumptions

  • 75°C insulation rating per NEC Table 310.16
  • Copper ampacity: 14AWG=15A, 12AWG=20A, 10AWG=30A, 8AWG=40A, 6AWG=55A, 4AWG=70A, 3AWG=85A, 2AWG=95A, 1AWG=110A, 1/0AWG=125A
  • Aluminum ampacity: 12AWG=15A, 10AWG=25A, 8AWG=30A, 6AWG=40A, 4AWG=55A, 3AWG=65A, 2AWG=75A, 1AWG=85A, 1/0AWG=100A
  • Voltage drop threshold of 3% for branch circuits
Reviewed by ChargerLoad Editorial Team