RG-316 vs RG-58: PTFE Precision vs Classic Flexibility
RG-316 and RG-58 are both 50-ohm cables but serve different purposes. RG-58 is a larger, more flexible cable popular in ham radio, CB, and test equipment for decades. RG-316 is a much thinner PTFE cable designed for precision test leads, SMA bench connections, and applications requiring stability over a wide temperature range.
The Short Answer
RG-58 is the right choice for HF and VHF antenna feedlines, patch cables for radios, and any run where physical size and connector compatibility favor the larger cable. RG-316 is for precision lab applications, SMA test leads, and environments where temperature or chemical resistance matter.
Key Differences at a Glance
- RG-316 diameter is 0.098" vs RG-58's 0.195" — half the size
- RG-316 rated to 200°C; RG-58 limited to 85°C
- RG-316 uses PTFE dielectric and jacket for chemical resistance
- RG-58 has much higher power handling: 200W at 30 MHz vs RG-316's 30W
- RG-316 loss at 1 GHz: ~16 dB/100ft vs RG-58's ~14.3 dB — similar at 1 GHz
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | RG316 | RG58 |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50 Ohm | 50 Ohm |
| Frequency Range | DC – 6 GHz | DC – 1 GHz |
| Velocity Factor | 0.7 | 0.66 |
| Dielectric | Solid PTFE | Solid PE |
| Shield | Silver-plated copper braid (90%) | Tinned copper braid (95%) |
| Jacket | FEP | PVC |
| Center Conductor | Silver-plated copper clad steel, 7×0.17mm | Tinned copper, 19×0.18mm |
| Min. Bend Radius | 0.5 in (13mm) | 1.0 in (25mm) |
| Max Voltage | 1200 VRMS | 1400 VRMS |
| Temperature Range | -55°C to +200°C | -40°C to +85°C |
| Weight | 1.0 lb/100ft | 2.2 lb/100ft |
Attenuation Comparison (dB per 100 ft)
| Frequency | RG316 | RG58 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 MHz | 5.5 dB | 4.3 dB | -1.2 dB (RG58 worse) |
| 450 MHz | 12.5 dB | 9.8 dB | -2.7 dB (RG58 worse) |
| 900 MHz | 18.5 dB | 14.3 dB | -4.2 dB (RG58 worse) |
| 1.8 GHz | 27 dB | 21.5 dB | -5.5 dB (RG58 worse) |
| 2.4 GHz | 32 dB | 25.5 dB | -6.5 dB (RG58 worse) |
| 5.8 GHz | 55 dB | 44 dB | -11 dB (RG58 worse) |
When to Choose Each Cable
Choose RG316 when:
- SMA and MCX test equipment leads
- Precision lab and bench cables
- High temperature environments to 200°C
- Thin routing inside equipment
Choose RG58 when:
- Ham radio HF/VHF feedlines
- CB radio antenna cables
- PL-259 and BNC patch cables
- General-purpose short jumpers
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for a ham radio jumper?
RG-58 is the traditional choice for PL-259 ham radio jumpers due to its larger size and compatibility with UHF connectors. RG-316 is better suited for SMA connections on VHF/UHF equipment and handheld radios.
Build Your RG316 or RG58 Cable
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