What is a Wire Gauge, Its Uses, and How It Works

Published: 17 Jul 2025

Do you need to measure wire size but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry. With a wire gauge, it’s easy. This small tool helps you pick the right wire for your job. In this guide, we’ll explain what a wire gauge is, how to use it, and why it’s useful. Let’s make it simple!

What is Wire Gauge?

It measures the thickness of wires, rods, or sheets. In general, it appears as a circular plate or disc made of hardened or stainless steel with multiple holes or slots of different sizes. It’s often used in electrical works and metal jobs to choose the right size of wire or material diameter.

How to Use Wire Gauge

Using a wire gauge is simple. Here’s how:

Take the wire you want to measure.
Get your wire gauge tool. It will have slots or holes marked with numbers.
Slide the wire into each slot.
When you find the one that fits snugly, check the number. That number is your wire gauge.
Smaller numbers = thicker wire
Bigger numbers = thinner wire

Uses of Wire Gauge

Why use a wire gauge? Here are a few good reasons:
Helps you choose the right wire for electrical work.
Make sure the wire can handle power without getting hot.
Avoids damage to tools or machines.
Keeps your home or worksite safe.

Conclusion

A wire gauge helps you measure wire sizes quickly and safely. Now you know what it is, how to use it, and why it’s helpful. Keep one in your toolbox—you’ll be glad you did!

FAQs

14 gauge wire in mm?

It is about 1.63 mm thick

What is the unit of wire gauge?

Wire gauge uses numbers, not units like mm or inches.

How much does a wire gauge cost?

A wire gauge tool is not expensive. Prices often start around $5.

How do I measure wire and cable size using a wire gauge?

Use the tool, find the slot where the wire fits, and read the number next to it.