When purchasing coaxial cables, many buyers encounter terms like “RG6”, “RG59”, or just “coaxial cable”. This often raises a key question:
What is the difference between RG and coaxial cables?
Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all. This guide explains the terminology, structure, performance differences, and when to choose each type for your RF, video, or communication project.
The Confusion Explained – Are RG Cables and Coax Cables Different?
Where the Confusion Comes From
Many assume “RG cable” and “coaxial cable” refer to different technologies. In fact, RG cables are a subset of coaxial cables.
- “Coaxial cable” is the general term for any cable with a central conductor, insulating dielectric, and outer shield.
- “RG” stands for “Radio Guide” – a military-originated naming system used to classify coaxial cables.
So: All RG cables are coaxial cables, but not all coaxial cables are RG cables.
Real-World Example
An installer might ask for “coaxial cable for CCTV”. One supplier sends RG59, another offers LMR-200. Both are coax, but their performance and connectors differ.
What Does “RG” Stand For in Coaxial Cables?
Origin of the RG Numbering System
“RG” stands for Radio Guide, a military specification system developed during WWII (e.g., RG-6, RG-58). Though deprecated officially, these numbers are widely used in commercial markets today.
Common RG Cable Types and Their Properties
| RG Cable | Impedance | Diameter | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| RG59 | 75Ω | ~6.1mm | CCTV, analog video |
| RG6 | 75Ω | ~7.0mm | Satellite, DVB, TV signal |
| RG58 | 50Ω | ~5.0mm | RF radios, GPS modules |
| RG213 | 50Ω | ~10.3mm | HF radio, military RF |
Note: RG numbers do not follow a linear sizing or performance scheme. Always verify specs.
What Are Non-RG Coaxial Cables?
Beyond RG-type cables, many modern coaxial cables use brand-specific or industry-standard names:
Examples Include:
- LMR Series (Times Microwave): low-loss, flexible, outdoor-rated
- Triaxial Cables: extra shielding for broadcast/video
- Semi-rigid Coax: microwave & aerospace
These cables might not carry an “RG” label but often outperform RG cables in frequency, loss, and weather resistance.
RG vs Non-RG Coaxial Cables – Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | RG Cables (e.g. RG6) | Non-RG Coax (e.g. LMR-400) |
|---|---|---|
| Naming System | Military (obsolete) | Commercial/Proprietary |
| Impedance Options | 50Ω, 75Ω | 50Ω (mostly) |
| Frequency Range | Up to ~2-3 GHz | Up to ~6–18 GHz |
| Loss Performance | Moderate | Low-loss |
| Outdoor Durability | Limited | Excellent (UV, waterproof) |
| Flexibility | High (thin RG) | Variable (LMR flexible) |
For high-frequency, low-loss RF systems, non-RG cables are generally superior.
How to Choose Between RG and Non-RG Coax?
Ask Yourself These Questions:
- What frequency range will the cable carry? (>3 GHz requires better shielding)
- Is the run indoor or outdoor?
- How long is the cable run? (>20 meters = loss concern)
- Is budget or performance the top priority?
When to Use RG Cables:
- CCTV & analog video
- Short-run DVB or TV signal
- Cost-sensitive projects
When to Use Non-RG Coax (e.g. LMR, Low-Loss):
- WiFi, LTE, 5G antennas
- GPS and satellite communication
- Outdoor RF systems and repeaters
Bafitop’s Coax Cable Solutions
We offer both RG-standard and high-performance non-RG coaxial cables for industrial and commercial use:
| Product Model | Type | Impedance | Rated Frequency | Application Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFT-RG6-QC | RG6 | 75Ω | Up to 2.5 GHz | TV, DVB, set-top boxes |
| BFT-RG58-50 | RG58 | 50Ω | Up to 1 GHz | Wi-Fi, RF module lines |
| BFT-LMR240-LL | Low-Loss | 50Ω | Up to 6 GHz | Cellular, outdoor comms |
| BFT-RG213-MIL | RG213 | 50Ω | Up to 30 MHz | HF/military transmission |
All cables are RoHS-compliant, UV-rated (select models), and available with custom lengths or connectors.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use RG59 instead of RG6?
Technically yes, but RG6 has better shielding and lower loss — especially for satellite or digital signals.
Q2: Is LMR400 a coaxial cable?
Yes. It is a type of low-loss coaxial cable, not labeled under the RG system but widely used in RF.
Q3: Are RG numbers standard globally?
No. RG is a U.S.-based legacy system. Other countries may use IEC or DIN standards.
Q4: Can I use RG cables outdoors?
Only if rated for outdoor use (e.g., RG6 with weatherproof jacket). Otherwise, use LMR or similar.
Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Cable
Need to ensure you’re choosing the right coax for your system?
📧 Email: sales@bafitop.com
📞 Phone: +86-15817341810
Request a datasheet, consult with our cable engineers, or ask for a free sample pack customized to your project needs.
