What is the difference between RG59 and RG6?

Ever scratched your head wondering why your TV picture isn't as clear as it should be, or why your internet sometimes slows down, even with a fast plan? Often, the answer lies hidden in the cables connecting your devices. Just as choosing the right road for a smooth drive is key, selecting the right cable for your home network is crucial. Two common types you'll often hear about are RG59 and RG6. But what is the difference between RG59 and RG6?

This isn't just about different numbers; it's about how well your digital TV signals, high-speed internet, or even security camera feeds perform. As experts in network performance testing, we know the right cable makes all the difference. While both are coaxial cables designed to carry signals, their inner workings are distinct. 

Understanding their core differences, from conductor size to shielding, can save you frustration and ensure you have the best possible connection. In this guide, we'll cut through the confusion, clearly explaining the unique strengths and weaknesses of each cable, so you can confidently pick the perfect one for your home or business.

What are the Coaxial Cables - The Basics of RG59 and RG6

When we talk about your home's digital backbone, coaxial cables are often the unsung heroes. They carry everything from your favorite TV shows to your lightning-fast internet. But what exactly is a coaxial cable, and why do terms like RG59 vs RG6 even matter? Think of it like a specialized highway for your data, built to keep signals clean and clear.

What is inside a Coaxial Cable? 

At its heart, any coaxial cable, whether it's an RG6 cable or an RG59 cable, shares a similar build. It's like a layered cake designed for electrons.

Here's the breakdown:

Central Conductor: This is the innermost wire, usually made of copper. It's the main highway for your electrical signal. Think of it as the core data carrier.

Dielectric Insulator: A layer of plastic or foam material surrounds the central conductor. Its job is crucial: it keeps the inner wire perfectly centered and separated from the next layer. This helps maintain the cable's impedance, which is vital for good signal quality.

Metallic Shield: This layer, often made of braided copper or aluminum foil, wraps around the insulator. It's the cable's bodyguard. Its primary purpose is to protect the signal from outside interference, such as radio frequency interference (RFI) or electrical noise (EMI), that can affect your picture or internet speed. Good shielding is a big difference between RG6 and RG59.

Outer Jacket: The final layer is a protective plastic coating. It guards the cable from physical damage, moisture, and sunlight, which is essential for outdoor runs.

The "RG" Designation: What Does it Mean?

You see "RG" on cables all the time, right? It stands for "Radio Guide." This term dates back to World War II military standards, which essentially classified different types of cables based on their specifications. So, when you see RG59 or RG6, it indicates that they have different designs, built for other purposes. These numbers aren't just random; they indicate specific technical properties that determine how well a cable performs in various tasks. Understanding these designations is crucial for making the right choice for your setup, whether you're dealing with an older coaxial RG59 vs. RG6 scenario or a new installation.

RG59 Cable - Built for Specific Needs

Let's start with the veteran of the coaxial world: the RG59 cable. This type has been around for a while and possesses a particular set of skills. While it might not be the superstar for every modern task, it still holds its own in specific situations.

Key Characteristics and Specifications of RG59

The RG59 cable is generally thinner and more flexible than its RG6 counterpart. This flexibility comes from its design.

Here's what is RG59 all about:

Thinner Conductor: 

The central wire in an RG59 coaxial cable is typically a finer 20 or 22 AWG (American Wire Gauge). Think of it like a smaller garden hose – it can carry water, but not as much or as far as a fire hose. This thinner conductor means higher electrical resistance.

Signal Loss (Attenuation): 

Due to its thinner conductor and less robust shielding, RG59 cable exhibits more signal loss over distance compared to RG6. This means the signal gets weaker faster as it travels down the cable. For example, over long runs, signals like those for broadband internet can quickly degrade, leading to frustrating slowdowns or dropped connections.

Frequency Range: 

RG59 performs best at lower frequencies. This is a crucial point to consider when comparing RG59 and RG6. Modern digital signals, such as those from cable TV or satellite, operate at significantly higher frequencies than older analog signals.

Ideal Applications for RG59: Where it Shines (and Where it Doesn't)

So, where does the RG59 cable still fit in today's tech landscape? Primarily, it excels in older or less demanding video applications.

Analog CCTV:

The most common application of RG59 is in analog closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. These systems typically operate at lower frequencies and don't require the vast bandwidth of digital signals. The flexibility of RG59 also makes it easier to snake through walls and around corners in surveillance setups.

Short-Run Analog Video:

For very short connections between older VCRs, DVD players, or some older gaming consoles and a TV, RG59 can still be used effectively. We're talking about runs of only a few feet.

When Not to Use It:

Generally, it is best to avoid using RG59 for digital TV, satellite TV, or broadband internet. Its higher signal loss and weaker shielding will lead to poor picture quality, pixelation, or unreliable internet speeds. When comparing coax RG6 vs. RG59 for a new digital installation, RG6 is almost always the preferred choice.

Here's a glance at RG59's sweet spot:

RG6 Cable - The Modern Standard

Now, let's talk about the champion of modern home and business connectivity: the RG6 cable. If you've recently had cable internet installed or upgraded your TV service, chances are you're using RG6. This cable is built for today's high-demand digital world.

Key Characteristics and Specifications of RG6

The RG6 coaxial cable is designed to handle the higher frequencies and greater bandwidth required by today's devices. This makes it the go-to choice for almost any new installation involving digital signals.

Here's what is RG6 cable made of and what sets it apart:

Thicker Conductor:

The central conductor in an RG6 coaxial cable is typically a beefier 18 AWG. That thicker wire means less electrical resistance and significantly less signal loss over longer distances. Think of it as a wider highway – more data can travel faster and farther without hitting traffic.

Superior Shielding:

This is a significant advantage of RG6 vs RG59. RG6 cables often feature more robust shielding, commonly triple or even quad-shielded. This enhanced shielding utilizes multiple layers of foil and braid to create a significantly more effective barrier against external interference, such as radio waves and electrical noise. This means a clearer signal, especially in environments with numerous other electronic devices.

Higher Bandwidth:

The design of RG6 allows it to handle a broader range of frequencies. This higher bandwidth capacity is essential for carrying multiple high-definition channels, high-speed internet data, and other demanding digital signals simultaneously without degradation.

Typical Applications for RG6: The Go-To Cable for Modern Demands

The versatility and performance of RG6 cable make it the standard for most contemporary applications. If you're unsure which cable to use, RG6 or RG59, the answer for most new digital setups is overwhelmingly RG6.

Digital Cable TV (CATV):

Whether you're getting dozens of HD channels or watching on-demand content, RG6 is the industry standard for delivering crisp, clear digital cable TV signals.

Satellite TV:

Services like Dish Network and DirecTV rely on the superior performance of RG6 to transmit their vast array of channels and data. The long cable runs often needed for satellite dishes also make RG6 a necessity due to its lower signal loss.

Broadband Internet (Cable Modem):

Your cable internet connection demands high bandwidth and minimal interference. RG6 cable provides the robust connection needed for fast downloads, smooth streaming, and reliable online gaming.

RG6 vs. RG59 - The Definitive Comparison

One of the most significant differences between RG6 and RG59 lies in their central conductor.

RG59: Has a thinner central conductor (typically 20-22 AWG)—this smaller wire results in higher electrical resistance. Imagine trying to push a lot of water through a narrow straw.

RG6: Features a thicker 18 AWG central conductor. This larger wire offers less resistance, allowing signals to travel farther with less degradation. It's like pushing water through a wide pipe – much more efficient.

Here's a comprehensive comparison table summarizing the difference between RG59 and RG6:

Practical Advice and Best Practices for Choosing the Right Coaxial Cable

After breaking down the RG6 vs. RG59 debate, how do you make the right call for your specific setup? It's about aligning the cable's capabilities with your modern connectivity needs. As we've seen from countless network performance tests, selecting the appropriate cable is fundamental to a reliable system.

When to Choose RG6

For virtually all new installations and most upgrades in today's digital world, RG6 is your champion.

• Digital TV and Satellite Services: If you're connecting to cable TV, satellite, or an HDTV antenna, an RG6 cable is non-negotiable. It handles the high-frequency digital signals with minimal signal loss, ensuring crystal-clear pictures and reliable channel access.
• High-Speed Internet (Cable Modem): Your broadband internet connection demands high bandwidth and robust interference rejection. RG6 coaxial cable delivers the necessary performance for fast downloads, smooth streaming, and stable online gaming. Don't compromise on your internet speed with an inferior cable.
• Long Cable Runs: Whenever you need to run a coaxial cable over a significant distance (e.g., from an outdoor antenna to an indoor TV or across a large home), RG6 is the clear winner. Its lower attenuation ensures your signal remains strong, preventing frustrating drops or degradation.

When to Choose RG59 

While RG6 dominates the modern landscape, there are a couple of niche scenarios where RG59 might still be used, but always with a word of caution.

• Analog CCTV Cameras (Short Runs): If you're working with an existing, purely analog CCTV system and only need very short cable runs (typically under 100 feet), RG-59 can still be used. Its flexibility can also make installation easier in confined spaces. However, for any new or upgraded surveillance system, especially those using HD-over-coax technologies, you'll want RG6.
• Legacy Analog Video/Audio: For connecting very old analog video players or audio equipment over short distances, RG59 might be present and work. However, even then, an RG6 cable often provides better performance if you're replacing old wiring.
• Important Note on Choosing: Unless you are 100% certain your application is old, analog, and short-distance, selecting RG6 or RG59 for a new project almost always defaults to RG6. For anyone searching for "Ethernet cables" for network connections, remember that coaxial cables, such as RG6, are not Ethernet cables. Ethernet cables, such as Cat5e and Cat6, are used for local area networks (LANs), while coaxial cables are used mainly for internet service providers (ISPs), cable TV, and satellite services.

Here are the essential best practices for coaxial cable installation:

Important tip: Coaxial cables like RG6 are not Ethernet cables. For LAN, use Cat5e vs Cat6 Ethernet cables.

Conclusion

The choice between RG6 vs RG59 doesn't have to leave you scratching your head anymore. While both cables served their purpose in different eras of technology, RG6 emerged as the champion for modern digital applications. Its superior conductor thickness, enhanced shielding, and ability to handle higher frequencies make it the wise choice for virtually any new installation.

RG59 versus RG6 boils down to this: RG59 had its day with analog systems, but today's digital world demands the performance that only RG6 can deliver. Whether you're setting up cable TV, satellite service, high-speed internet, or modern security systems, RG6 ensures your signals stay strong and clear.

Ready to upgrade your home's connectivity? Start by identifying which cables in your system may be limiting your performance. 

FAQs:

What is the difference between RG58 and RG6?

The most significant difference is impedance: RG58 is a 50-ohm cable, while RG6 is a 75-ohm cable. RG58 is typically thinner and has higher signal loss, making it suitable for radio communications, such as ham radios, and older computer networks. RG6 is thicker and has less signal loss, making it ideal for modern digital TV, satellite, and broadband internet applications.

What is RG59 used for?

RG59 is used mainly for older analog video signals, such as classic CCTV security cameras or short connections for VCRs. It's suitable for lower frequencies and shorter cable runs, but not recommended for modern digital TV or high-speed internet due to higher signal loss.

What is the difference between RG59 and RG59U?

There's generally no significant difference in performance between RG59 and RG59U. The "U" usually means "general utility" or "universal" and often just indicates a slight variation in the jacket material or construction by the manufacturer. Functionally, they're the same type of cable.

What is the difference between coax cables?

Coaxial cables differ primarily in their RG number (thickness or gauge), impedance (50 ohms vs. 75 ohms), shielding quality, and signal loss over distance. These differences make each type suitable for specific applications, such as RG6 for digital TV and internet (75 ohms, low loss) or RG58 for radio communication (50 ohms, higher loss).

Can I use RG59 instead of RG6?

Not typically for modern applications. While you can physically connect them, using RG59 instead of RG6 for digital TV, satellite, or internet will likely result in poor signal quality, pixelation, or slower speeds. RG59 has higher signal loss and weaker shielding, making it unsuitable for the higher frequencies used by modern services.