LMR-195 vs RG-174: Short Cable, Big Difference
LMR-195 and RG-174 occupy similar roles — both are thin, flexible cables for short antenna connections, router pigtails, and indoor runs. But their construction differs significantly. RG-174 uses solid PE dielectric and tinned copper braid, making it inexpensive and flexible. LMR-195 uses foamed PE with a foil + braid shield — the same low-loss architecture as LMR-400, just in a smaller package.
The Short Answer
RG-174 is adequate for GPS pigtails and very short connections under 3 feet. LMR-195 is the better choice for WiFi antenna extensions, cellular connections, and any run over 3 feet where signal quality matters at 2.4 GHz or above.
Key Differences at a Glance
- At 2.4 GHz, LMR-195 loses about 17 dB/100ft vs RG-174's estimated 35+ dB
- LMR-195 uses foamed PE + foil/braid vs RG-174's solid PE + single braid
- Both are approximately 0.195" outer diameter — same connectors fit both
- LMR-195 UV-resistant jacket holds up outdoors; RG-174 PVC degrades in sunlight
- LMR-195 costs about 2× more per foot than RG-174
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | LMR195 Times | RG174 |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50 Ohm | 50 Ohm |
| Frequency Range | DC – 6 GHz | DC – 3 GHz |
| Velocity Factor | 0.83 | 0.66 |
| Dielectric | Foamed PE | Solid PE |
| Shield | Aluminum foil + tinned copper braid | Tinned copper braid (90%) |
| Jacket | PE | PVC |
| Center Conductor | Bare copper clad steel, 1.12mm | Bare copper clad steel, 7×0.16mm |
| Min. Bend Radius | 1.0 in (25mm) | 0.5 in (13mm) |
| Max Voltage | 600 VRMS | 1100 VRMS |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C |
| Weight | 1.8 lb/100ft | 0.8 lb/100ft |
Attenuation Comparison (dB per 100 ft)
| Frequency | LMR195 Times | RG174 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 MHz | 3.3 dB | 6.6 dB | +3.3 dB (RG174 worse) |
| 450 MHz | 7.1 dB | 14.5 dB | +7.4 dB (RG174 worse) |
| 900 MHz | 10.2 dB | 21.5 dB | +11.3 dB (RG174 worse) |
| 1.8 GHz | 14.9 dB | 32 dB | +17.1 dB (RG174 worse) |
| 2.4 GHz | 17.3 dB | 38 dB | +20.7 dB (RG174 worse) |
| 5.8 GHz | 28.9 dB | 65 dB | +36.1 dB (RG174 worse) |
When to Choose Each Cable
Choose LMR195 Times when:
- WiFi antenna runs 3-25 ft
- Cellular booster short connections
- RP-SMA access point pigtails
- Any run above 1 GHz
Choose RG174 when:
- GPS pigtails under 3 ft
- Internal device wiring
- Consumer electronics connections
- Very short jumpers where loss is irrelevant
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cable is better for a WiFi antenna extension?
LMR-195 by a wide margin at 2.4 and 5 GHz. Even a 10-foot run of RG-174 at 2.4 GHz will cost you noticeable signal. LMR-195 keeps losses manageable for runs up to 25 feet at 2.4 GHz.
Are LMR-195 and RG-174 connectors interchangeable?
Both cables have similar outer diameters so many connector types physically fit both. However, connectors sold as "for RG-174" may not crimp correctly on LMR-195 due to slight differences in jacket and braid dimensions. Use connectors specified for the cable you are terminating.
Build Your LMR195 Times or RG174 Cable
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