RG8X vs RG58 – Which Coaxial Cable is Better?

By: Jeremy Neisser

When it comes to setting up a reliable communication network, choosing the right coaxial cable is crucial. Two of the most commonly used coaxial cables in the industry are RG8X and RG58. While both cables share some similarities, they also have some distinct differences that can impact their performance in certain applications.

In this article, I will provide a comprehensive comparison of RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables, including their physical characteristics, performance, and application.

Understanding Coaxial Cables Before diving into the comparison, it's important to understand what coaxial cables are and how they work. Coaxial cables are made up of a center conductor, an insulating layer, a braided shield, and an outer jacket.

The center conductor carries the signal while the insulating layer and braided shield work together to prevent interference and signal loss. The outer jacket provides protection against environmental factors such as moisture and temperature changes. Coaxial cables are used in a wide range of applications, including telecommunications, broadcasting, and computer networking.

RG8X vs RG58 - Key Takeaways

• RG8X and RG58 are two commonly used coaxial cables in the industry.

• Coaxial cables are made up of a center conductor, an insulating layer, a braided shield, and an outer jacket.

• The choice between RG8X and RG58 depends on the specific application and requirements.

RG8X vs RG58 – Which Coaxial Cable is Better?

What is RG8X

RG8X coaxial cable is a type of coaxial cable that is used for a variety of applications, including radio frequency (RF) transmission, video transmission, and data transmission. It is a popular choice for amateur radio operators and other radio enthusiasts because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with.

RG8X coaxial cable consists of a center conductor, a dielectric insulator, a braided shield, and an outer jacket. The center conductor is typically made of copper or copper-clad steel, while the dielectric insulator is made of a non-conductive material such as polyethylene or Teflon. The braided shield is made of copper or aluminum wire, and the outer jacket is made of PVC or other materials.

RG8X coaxial cable is similar to RG8U coaxial cable, but it has a smaller diameter and is more flexible. This makes it easier to work with in tight spaces and allows it to be used in applications where RG8U would be too bulky or inflexible.

You might be interested in: Top 3 Best Coax Cable for CB Radio: Reviews and Buying Guide

What is RG58

RG58 coaxial cable is another popular type of coaxial cable that is used for a variety of applications, including RF transmission, video transmission, and data transmission. It is commonly used in computer networking applications, such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi, as well as in amateur radio and other RF applications.

RG58 coaxial cable consists of a center conductor, a dielectric insulator, a braided shield, and an outer jacket. The center conductor is typically made of copper or copper-clad steel, while the dielectric insulator is made of a non-conductive material such as polyethylene or Teflon. The braided shield is made of copper or aluminum wire, and the outer jacket is made of PVC or other materials.

RG58 coaxial cable is similar to RG59 coaxial cable, but it has a smaller diameter and is more flexible. This makes it easier to work with in tight spaces and allows it to be used in applications where RG59 would be too bulky or inflexible.

In summary, both RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables are popular choices for a variety of applications. RG8X is typically used in RF and data transmission applications, while RG58 is commonly used in computer networking and RF applications. The choice between these two types of coaxial cable will depend on the specific application and the requirements of the user.

Physical Comparison

Size and Dimensions

When it comes to size, RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables are quite similar. Both cables have a diameter of around 0.2 inches (5 mm), which makes them relatively easy to work with. However, RG8X is slightly thicker than RG58, with a diameter of 0.24 inches (6.1 mm) compared to 0.2 inches (5 mm) for RG58. This difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in certain applications.

In terms of length, both cables are available in various lengths, ranging from a few inches to hundreds of feet. The length you choose will depend on your specific needs and the distance between your equipment.

Material Composition

The material composition of coaxial cables can affect their performance and durability. Both RG8X and RG58 cables have a similar construction, with a center conductor made of copper or copper-clad steel, surrounded by a dielectric insulator, and an outer conductor made of braided or foil shield. The outer conductor is then covered with a protective jacket made of PVC or other materials.

However, RG8X is generally considered to be a higher quality cable than RG58 due to its thicker center conductor and lower loss. RG8X has a center conductor of 0.108 inches (2.74 mm) compared to 0.04 inches (1.02 mm) for RG58. This thicker center conductor allows for better signal transmission over longer distances and at higher frequencies. Additionally, RG8X has a lower loss per unit length than RG58, which means that it can transmit signals over longer distances with less attenuation.

In summary, while RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables are similar in size and construction, RG8X is generally considered to be a higher quality cable due to its thicker center conductor and lower loss. However, the specific cable you choose will depend on your specific needs and application.

Performance Comparison

Signal Strength

When comparing RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables, one of the main factors to consider is signal strength. RG8X cable has a higher signal strength than RG58 cable, which means it can transmit signals over longer distances without losing strength. This makes it a better choice for applications that require long cable runs, such as in large buildings or outdoor installations.

Frequency Range

Another important factor to consider when comparing these two types of coaxial cables is their frequency range. RG8X cable has a wider frequency range than RG58 cable, which means it can transmit a wider range of signals. This makes it a better choice for applications that require high-frequency transmissions, such as in radio and television broadcasting.

Attenuation

Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength as it travels through the cable. RG8X cable has lower attenuation than RG58 cable, which means it can transmit signals over longer distances without losing strength. This makes it a better choice for applications that require long cable runs, such as in large buildings or outdoor installations.

In summary, when comparing RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables, it is important to consider factors such as signal strength, frequency range, and attenuation. RG8X cable is a better choice for applications that require long cable runs and high-frequency transmissions, while RG58 cable is a better choice for shorter cable runs and lower frequency transmissions.

Application and Usage

RG8X Usage

RG8X coaxial cable is widely used in applications that require high-frequency transmission. It is commonly used in amateur radio, CB radio, and marine VHF radio applications. RG8X is also used in applications that require high power transmission, such as in amplifiers and transmitters.

RG8X is preferred over other coaxial cables because of its low loss and high power handling capabilities. It has a lower loss than RG58 and is more flexible than RG213. RG8X is ideal for long cable runs, and it can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.

RG58 Usage

RG58 coaxial cable is commonly used in applications that require low-frequency transmission. It is ideal for applications that require low power transmission, such as in CCTV cameras, computer networks, and other low-frequency applications.

RG58 is preferred over other coaxial cables because of its low cost and easy availability. It is also more flexible than RG8X and RG213, making it easier to install in tight spaces. RG58 is ideal for short cable runs, and it is commonly used for indoor applications.

In summary, RG8X and RG58 have different applications and usage. RG8X is ideal for high-frequency and high-power applications, while RG58 is ideal for low-frequency and low-power applications. Choose the right coaxial cable based on your specific application requirements.

You might be interested in: SMA vs BNC: Two Common Coaxial Connectors Differences

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros and Cons of RG8X

RG8X is a type of coaxial cable that is commonly used in many applications. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using RG8X:

Pros of RG8X

• Low loss: RG8X has a low loss of signal, which means that it can transmit signals over long distances without losing much of its strength.
• High power handling: RG8X can handle high amounts of power, making it ideal for applications where high power is required.
• Durable: RG8X is a durable cable that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling.

Cons of RG8X

• Cost: RG8X is generally more expensive than other types of coaxial cable, which can make it less attractive for some applications.
• Size: RG8X is a relatively thick cable, which can make it difficult to work with in tight spaces.
• Weight: RG8X is also heavier than other types of coaxial cable, which can make it more difficult to install and handle.

Pros and Cons of RG58

RG58 is another type of coaxial cable that is commonly used in many applications. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using RG58:

Pros of RG58

• Cost: RG58 is generally less expensive than other types of coaxial cable, which can make it more attractive for some applications.
• Size: RG58 is a relatively thin cable, which makes it easier to work with in tight spaces.
• Lightweight: RG58 is also lighter than other types of coaxial cable, which makes it easier to install and handle.

Cons of RG58

• High loss: RG58 has a higher loss of signal than RG8X, which means that it may not be suitable for applications that require long-distance transmission.
• Low power handling: RG58 can handle lower amounts of power than RG8X, which may make it less suitable for high-power applications.
• Durability: RG58 is not as durable as RG8X and may not withstand harsh weather conditions or rough handling as well.

Overall, both RG8X and RG58 have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific needs of the application.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables have their own advantages and disadvantages. RG8X is a thicker cable with lower loss and higher power handling capabilities, making it suitable for longer cable runs and higher frequencies. On the other hand, RG58 is a thinner cable with higher loss and lower power handling capabilities, making it more suitable for shorter cable runs and lower frequencies.

When it comes to cost, RG58 is generally cheaper than RG8X, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, for applications that require higher performance, such as in professional audio or video production, RG8X may be the better choice despite the higher cost.

Ultimately, the choice between RG8X and RG58 will depend on the specific needs of the application. It is important to consider factors such as cable length, frequency range, power handling capabilities, and budget when selecting a coaxial cable.

In summary, both RG8X and RG58 coaxial cables are reliable options for a range of applications. By understanding the differences between the two, you can make an informed decision about which cable is best suited for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between RG8X and RG58?

RG8X and RG58 are both coaxial cables, but they differ in terms of their specifications. RG8X has a larger diameter and a lower loss than RG58. RG8X is also more expensive than RG58.

What are the specifications of RG8X coaxial cable?

RG8X coaxial cable has a characteristic impedance of 50 ohms and a frequency range of up to 1 GHz. It has a solid copper center conductor, a foam polyethylene dielectric, and a braided copper shield. The outer jacket is made of PVC.

Can RG8X be used as a substitute for RG58?

RG8X can be used as a substitute for RG58 in many applications. However, it is important to consider the specifications of the cable and the requirements of the application. RG8X may be overkill for some applications, and RG58 may be insufficient for others.

Is RG8X a good coaxial cable for high frequency applications?

RG8X is a good coaxial cable for high frequency applications up to 1 GHz. However, for frequencies above 1 GHz, it may not be the best choice. In such cases, a cable with a higher frequency range may be needed.

What is the diameter difference between RG8X and RG58?

RG8X has a larger diameter than RG58. The diameter of RG8X is 0.405 inches, while the diameter of RG58 is 0.195 inches.

What are the common uses for RG8X coaxial cable?

RG8X coaxial cable is commonly used in amateur radio, CB radio, and other communication applications. It is also used in some video applications and in test and measurement equipment.