What is Bigger, 2 AWG or 3 AWG? – Complete Comparison Guide

By Jianyun Cable – Professional Manufacturer of Quality Electrical Cables

1. Direct Answer: Which is Bigger – 2 AWG or 3 AWG?

2 AWG is bigger than 3 AWG.

In the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system, a lower number means a thicker (larger diameter) wire. Therefore:

• 2 AWG is thicker, has larger cross-sectional area, and can carry significantly more current than 3 AWG.
• 3 AWG is thinner than 2 AWG by approximately 26% in cross-sectional area.

2. Understanding the AWG System

The American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized logarithmic system used primarily in North America to define the diameter of solid, round, non-ferrous electrical conductors (mainly copper and aluminum). Key rule:

Every time the gauge number decreases by 3, the cross-sectional area approximately doubles.

This means 2 AWG has roughly twice the cross-sectional area of 5 AWG, and about 26% more area than 3 AWG.

3. Side-by-Side Size Comparison: 2 AWG vs 3 AWG

4. Ampacity & Current-Carrying Capacity

Ampacity values depend on insulation temperature rating, ambient temperature, and installation method (NEC 2023/2026 Table 310.16). Typical values for 90°C-rated insulation (THHN/THWN-2, copper):

5. Copper vs Aluminum: How Material Affects 2 AWG & 3 AWG

Aluminum has lower conductivity, so larger sizes are needed for the same current:

6. Typical Real-World Applications

• 2 AWG Copper: Large subpanels, main service entrances (100–200 A), EV chargers (Level 2 80A+), commercial feeders
• 3 AWG Copper: Smaller subpanels, 100 A service upgrades, large appliance circuits, backup generator connections
• Aluminum equivalents: 1/0 AWG aluminum ≈ 2 AWG copper; 2 AWG aluminum ≈ 4 AWG copper

7. How to Choose Between 2 AWG and 3 AWG

1. Calculate exact load (continuous + non-continuous) and breaker size.
2. Determine run length and allowable voltage drop (3% recommended for feeders).
3. Choose material: Copper for flexibility and conductivity; Aluminum for cost savings on large feeders.
4. Verify insulation & environment (wet/dry, ambient temperature, conduit fill).
5. Always follow local code (NEC, CEC, etc.) – many jurisdictions require upsizing for continuous loads.

8. Final Summary

2 AWG is definitively bigger than 3 AWG – with about 26% more cross-sectional area, higher current capacity, and greater suitability for demanding applications. The choice between 2 AWG and 3 AWG ultimately comes down to your calculated load, voltage drop, material preference, and code requirements.

Need certified, high-quality 2 AWG, 3 AWG, or any AWG size electrical wire? Contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. for professional-grade solutions trusted worldwide.