What is the Difference Between Cable and Wire?

The main difference between wire and cable lies in the number of conductors they contain. A wire is a single electrical conductor, typically made of copper, aluminum, or sometimes steel. Wires are used to carry electrical current from one point to another and are often sold in spools or coils, available in various sizes or gauges. On the other hand, a cable is a group of two or more conductors, such as wires, that are twisted, wrapped, or otherwise bound together. Cables are designed to transmit power or signals over longer distances and are often used to connect devices or appliances to a power source.

Some key differences between wires and cables include:

Conductors: Wires are single conductors, while cables are groups of multiple conductors.
Usage: Wires are used to carry electrical current between points, while cables transmit power or signals over longer distances.
Construction: Wires can be solid or stranded, with a conductive core (usually copper or aluminum) and an insulating layer. Cables have multiple wires encased in sheathing, with each wire insulated in its own color-coded layer of thermoplastic.
Labeling: Wires are typically labeled with material, maximum voltage rating, and gauge, while cables have a more complex labeling system based on the number of conductors and their specific functions.

In summary, wires are single conductors used to carry electrical current, while cables are groups of multiple conductors designed to transmit power or signals over longer distances.