RG59 vs RG6 Coaxial Cable: Which One Do You Really Need?

■ RG59 vs RG6 Coaxial Cable: The Right Choice for Your Project

In terms of setting up TV, internet, or any security system, one question comes up again and again: Would I go with RG59 or RG6 coaxial cable?

A seemingly trifling aspect, but an incorrect choice will result in not only signal distortion, interrupted connection and the necessity of redoing cables eventually, but also frustration, time and budget wastage.

This guide will explain the ground-level variabilities that exist with RG59 and RG6 by not merely giving the technical parameters but how they hold up in practical scenarios. Explore the best cables that fit your needs, identify the frequent pitfalls, and know what to look for before buying cables.

■ What Is a Coaxial Cable? (And Why It Matters)

To begin with, a coaxial cable is a type of cable that carries high-frequency signals from one point to another, featuring low levels of interference. It’s used for:

• Cable TV and satellite signals

• Broadband internet (via cable modems)

• CCTV and cameras

• Over-the-air antennas

It is possible to track the main elements in every coax cable:

• Center conductor (possibly copper or copper-clad steel)

• Dielectric insulator (a type of plastic covering around the center wire)

• Shielding (foil and/or braided metal to block interference)

• Outer jacket (protects the cable from damage and weather)

The letters “RG” stand for Radio Guide, a military term from World War II. The numbers (like 59 or 6) are just labels — they don’t mean anything mathematical. Think of them like model numbers.

Even though the official names are now “Series-59” and “Series-6,” everyone still calls them RG59 and RG6. We’ll stick with those terms so you can shop confidently.

■ RG6 Cable: Built for Modern Signals

If you're installing cable TV, satellite, or internet today, RG6 is almost always the better choice.

Here’s why:

RG6 handles high-frequency signals better because of its larger center conductor and better shielding. This means less signal loss over distance and stronger resistance to interference from Wi-Fi routers, cell towers, or power lines.

Best uses for RG6:

• Cable or satellite TV

• Internet (DOCSIS 3.0/3.1/4.0 modems)

• HDTV and 4K antenna systems

• Long cable runs (over 50 feet)

■ RG59 Cable: A Legacy Option for Short Runs

RG59 was once the standard for analog video and CCTV. But times have changed.

Here’s how it compares:

Because of its thinner wire and weaker shielding, RG59 loses signal faster, especially at higher frequencies. At 900 MHz, it loses 37% more signal than RG6 over the same distance.

Where RG59 still makes sense:

• Short analog video connections (under 25 feet)

• Older CCTV systems with BNC connectors

• Siamese cables (RG59 + power wire) for powering cameras

But even in CCTV, RG6 is now preferred for HD and IP camera systems using HD-TVI, HD-CVI, or HDCCTV.

■ Signal Loss: The Hidden Cost of Cheap Cable

Signal loss (also called attenuation) is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the number, the weaker your signal becomes.

Here’s a direct comparison over 100 feet:

At 900 MHz — a common frequency for cable TV — RG59 loses 3 dB more signal than RG6. That’s half the signal strength lost just by using the wrong cable.

So if you’re running cable more than 30–50 feet, RG59 isn’t worth the risk.

■ RG6 Dual Shield vs. Quad Shield: What’s the Difference?

Not all RG6 cables are the same. Shielding matters — especially in cities or near electronics.

Both have the same 75-ohm impedance and conductor size. The difference is interference protection.

• Dual shield is cheaper, more flexible, and easier to terminate. It works well in most homes.

• Quad shield resists EMI/RFI better but is stiffer and harder to work with. It’s overkill for simple setups.

■ Other Key Factors When Buying Coaxial Cable

Don’t just look at the label. Check these details before you buy.

1. Jacket Type

• PVC (Indoor): Standard jacket. Not UV-resistant. Use inside only.

• Plenum-Rated: Fire-safe for air-handling spaces (like drop ceilings). Required by code in commercial buildings.

• Outdoor-Rated: UV-resistant, waterproof. Use for exterior walls, underground conduit, or exposed runs.

2. Impedance

Both RG59 and RG6 are 75-ohm cables, which is standard for video and TV. Don’t confuse them with 50-ohm cables (used for radio, not video).

3. Conductor Type

• Bare Copper (BC): Best for conductivity. Use for permanent installs.

• Copper-Clad Steel (CCS): Stronger but less conductive. OK for short runs or antenna systems.

• Avoid aluminum center conductors — they break easily and corrode.

4. Connector Compatibility

Make sure your cable works with standard connectors:

• F-type (for TV, internet, satellite)

• BNC (for CCTV)

Use compression connectors for best results — they’re more reliable than crimp or twist-on types.

■ FAQ

Q: Can I use RG59 instead of RG6 to save money?

A: Only for short analog video runs under 25 feet. For anything else, the savings aren’t worth the risk of poor performance. RG6 prices are close to RG59 now — go with the better cable.

Q: Is RG6 good for CCTV cameras?

A: Yes. When wiring HD-over-coax camera systems (mostly, HD-TVI), RG6 is recommended for anything over 100 feet. The lower attenuation improves image quality.

Q: RG6 max distance?

A: For digital video (cable TV and internet), stick to under ~200 feet without a signal booster. For longer runs, add an amplifier or go fiber optic.

Q: Does shielding really make a difference?

A: Yes. A 2021 field study by SCTE found using quad-shielded RG6 cut electromagnetic interference by 60% in a high-EMI environment compared to single-shielded cables.

Q: Can I mix RG59 and RG6 during an installation?

A: Actually yes, but it's not recommended. The weakest link (RG59) will be low-grade to the overall system efficiency. Only one type per run.

Q: Where does the difference between RG6 and RG11 lie?

A: In contrast, RG11 boasts an almost infinitesimal level of signal loss and is specially designed for over 300 feet extremely long runs. But it’s thicker, stiffer, and harder to install. Do most installations with RG6 — it’s an excellent balance between signal quality and flexibility.

Q: Do I need to ground coaxial cable?

A: Yes, and this is especially advised for installations done outdoors. You must use a ground block and then bond it to your home’s electrical ground. This protects against surges generated by lightning and static electricity.

■ Final Recommendation: What You Should Buy

■ Bottom Line

Choosing between RG59 and RG6 isn’t just about price — it’s about performance, reliability, and future-proofing.

• RG59 is outdated for most modern applications. Use it only for short, low-frequency analog jobs.

• RG6 is the right choice for 95% of today’s installations — from internet to 4K TV to HD security cameras.

Invest in the right cable upfront. It costs a little more, but it saves time, avoids callbacks, and keeps your customers happy.

And remember: the best cable is the one that works — the first time, every time.

Contact us for more information

Will is the Copper Cabling Product Manager at Zion Communication, 

specializing in the development and marketing of Ethernet cabling solutions. 

With extensive industry experience, he is dedicated to delivering high-performance 

and reliable cabling products to OEM/ODM clients worldwide.

will@zion-communication.com

+86 -18268007201