Coaxial cables are everywhere in homes, quietly working behind the scenes. They connect TVs, modems, security cameras, and more. But when it's time to choose one for your setup, things can get confusing. The two common types are RG6 coax cable and RG59 cable.
They may look alike, but they behave very differently. Picking the right one can mean the difference between clear reception and fuzzy frustration. This guide will break down the practical differences between them so you can make a smart decision. Whether you're wiring a living room or setting up a modem, knowing your TV cable types matters.
What is a Coaxial Cable?
A coaxial cable is used to carry signals for TV, internet, and radio. It’s made of four layers: a core conductor, an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and a protective jacket. This design keeps interference out and your signal strong. Coaxial cables are popular because they’re reliable, easy to use, and don’t cost a fortune. While there are many features of RG6 cables:
- Thicker Conductor - Allows for better signal transfer over long distances.
- Enhanced Shielding - Protects against interference from other electronic devices.
- Applications - Perfect for HDTV, satellite TV, and internet services.
If you've ever called a television cable company or worked with internet and TV providers, odds are they've installed some type of coaxial cable in your home. The most common types for residential use are RG6 and RG59.
What Does RG Mean?
The “RG” stands for “Radio Guide,” a military term from the old days. It’s followed by a number that identifies the cable type. The numbers don’t follow a logical pattern—they’re just labels. Over time, certain types, like RG6 coaxial cable and RG-59, became the go-to standards for home installations. Features of RG59 cables include:
- Thinner Conductor - Suitable for short-distance connections.
- Limited Shielding - Can handle low-frequency signals effectively.
- Applications - Used for analog video and older security systems.
These cables differ in thickness, shielding, and signal handling. Knowing the RG6 and RG59 differences can help you pick the best coax for cable TV, internet, or security systems.
RG6 Coaxial Cable for High-Bandwidth Applications
The RG6 cable is thick, tough, and built for speed. It's the heavyweight of home TV cables, and it shows. With better insulation and stronger shielding, it resists interference like a champ. That makes it ideal for longer cable runs and high-frequency signals.
Want to hook up your modem or connect multiple TVs? Go with coaxial cable RG6. It’s also the best coaxial cable for the internet and is often used by TV cable companies for new installations. If you’re choosing between RG6 or RG59 for anything digital, RG6 coax usually wins.
RG59 Coaxial Cable for Low-Bandwidth Applications
RG59 cable is the slimmer, older cousin of RG6 coax cable. It was popular back when analog ruled the TV world. Its thinner design means less shielding and more signal loss. But it still works fine for short-distance or analog signals.
Some people use RG-59 for CCTV or audio-video setups. If you’re just wiring a small room or need a quick fix, it might do the job. But for high-speed or HD video, RG 59 cable can fall short. That’s why understanding RG6 vs RG59 is key before buying.
Differences Between RG59 and RG6 Cables
Choosing between these two isn’t just about guessing. The RG6 and RG59 difference comes down to how they’re built and what they’re built for. Here’s where the numbers and names start to matter in real ways.
RG59 vs. RG6 Comparison Chart
To make life easier, we’ve stacked them side-by-side. Here’s how RG59 vs RG6 coaxial cable measures up:
|
Feature |
RG59 |
RG6 |
|
Outer Diameter |
~6.1mm |
~6.9mm |
|
Shielding |
Single or Dual |
Dual or Quad |
|
Frequency Range |
Up to 50 MHz |
Up to 1 GHz and more |
|
Signal Loss |
Higher at longer distances |
Lower at longer distances |
|
Best For |
Analog video, CCTV |
Digital TV, Satellite, Internet |
|
Cost |
Generally cheaper |
Slightly more expensive |
|
Distance |
Short runs (<100 ft) |
Long runs (>100 ft) |
|
Internet Compatibility |
Poor |
Excellent |
As you can see, there are various aspects that set both the RG59 and RG6 cables apart from each other. On that note, let’s go over the key differences in more depth to give you a better idea.
Shielding Effectiveness and Signal Loss
Shielding keeps your signal clean. RG59 versus RG6 shows a big gap in this area. RG6 coax cable uses foil and braid shields that block interference from electronics and nearby cables. RG59 cable has weaker shielding, so signals degrade faster. Especially in homes with smart devices, shielding matters more than ever.
100 ft. Cable Loss at Different Frequencies
At 100 feet, signal loss becomes real. RG-59 vs RG-6 shows different drop rates. At 100 MHz, RG59 can lose up to 6.1 dB. RG6 might lose just 4.5 dB. As frequency rises, RG-59 drops faster. That’s bad news for HD video or fast internet. For long runs, always use RG6 coax for internet or digital TV.
Differences between RG6 Dual and RG6 Quad Shield
If you go with RG 6 coax cable, you'll face another choice: dual shield or quad shield? Before we dive into the differences, know this: dual shield is standard for most homes. Quad shield is tougher, used in areas with heavy interference or longer runs. Here’s a breakdown of what sets them apart:
- Dual shield has two layers of protection (foil + braid)
- Quad shield adds two more layers (total of four)
- Quad shield is thicker and harder to bend
- Dual is easier to install for indoor projects
- Quad handles high interference better
- Quad is preferred by internet modem cable installers in cities
- Dual shield works well in quiet suburbs
- Quad is slightly more expensive
- Both are great for TV and cable
- Both use standard RG6 connectors
Other Factors to Consider When Buying Coaxial Cables
The devil's in the details. Choosing the best coax cable means thinking beyond just RG59 vs RG6. There are other pieces to this puzzle. Before grabbing that reel off the shelf, keep these in mind:
- Cable length (shorter = better signal)
- Indoor vs. outdoor jacketing
- Cable flexibility (important for tight spaces)
- Use of solid vs. stranded core
- UV resistance for outdoor use
- Fire rating (important for in-wall installs)
- Compatibility with your device connectors
- Manufacturer warranty or rating
- Verified performance (look for third-party testing)
- Intended use: internet, TV, or cameras?
In addition to these, there are a few more important things that you need to keep in mind as well. Here are the other factors to consider as well.
Jacketing
The jacket keeps your cable safe from damage. Indoor cables have a softer shell. Outdoor versions resist UV and moisture. Use the right one, or you’ll be replacing cables sooner than you'd like.
Impedance
Most coaxial cable RG6 vs RG59 types have a 75-ohm impedance. That’s perfect for TVs and modems. Don't mix it with 50-ohm types used in radio systems. Stick with 75-ohm for the best cable for a cable modem or TV.
Cable TV Considerations
TV setups have their own needs. If you're wiring for cable TV, go with the best coaxial cable for TV that supports HD and long runs. That’s almost always RG-6 coaxial cable. Also, check with your TV and internet service providers for compatibility.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between RG 59 vs RG 6 shouldn't be a guessing game. If you're working with the internet or HD TV, go with coaxial cable RG6. For old-school analog, RG59 can still do the trick. Think about what you're connecting, how far the cable needs to go, and how much signal quality matters to you. In most cases, RG6 coaxial cable is the safer bet. It handles more, lasts longer, and works with most internet & TV providers. If you need dependable cables for your home, then check out TS Cables for the best in TV and internet wiring.
FAQs About RG6 & RG59 Coax Cables
What is RG6 and RG59?
RG6 and RG59 are types of coaxial cables used to transmit audio, video, and internet signals. RG6 is thicker and handles higher frequencies, while RG59 is thinner and works with low frequencies.
What is RG59 coaxial cable used for?
RG59 is used for analog video transmission, older cable systems, and short-distance CCTV setups.
What is RG6 cable used for?
RG6 is ideal for HDTV, satellite TV, and broadband internet services due to its superior shielding and frequency range.
Can you use RG6 connectors on RG59?
No, RG6 connectors are generally not compatible with RG59 cables due to size differences in the cable diameter.
