What Is the Difference Between Solid and Stranded Wire?

What Is the Difference Between Solid and Stranded Wire?

Solid wire consists of a single metal conductor of uniform diameter. Stranded wire consists of multiple thinner wires twisted together to form a conductor of equivalent cross-sectional area. Both types are available in the same AWG gauge sizes, and at the same gauge, both carry the same rated current. The choice between solid and stranded depends on the application.

Solid Wire

• Standard for NMD-90 residential wiring (14 and 12 AWG) in Ontario — most in-wall branch circuit wiring is solid
• Easier to terminate at screw terminals, which are designed to capture a solid conductor reliably
• Does not flex well — repeated bending causes work-hardening and eventual fracture, making it unsuitable for applications that move
• Less expensive than equivalent stranded wire at smaller gauges

Stranded Wire

• Used in applications that require flexibility — extension cords, appliance cords, motor leads, panel feeders that are pulled through conduit, and any conductor that must flex during use
• More flexible and resistant to fatigue from repeated bending
• Stranded conductors must be handled differently at terminals — they can loosen from screw terminals over time as individual strands flatten, so ferrules (crimp end caps) or pressure-type terminals (like WAGO or Ilsco connectors) are preferred for stranded-to-device connections
• Panel wiring above 4 AWG in Ontario is typically stranded due to the stiffness of large solid conductors

EZSMART electricians use the correct conductor type for every application. Contact us for residential wiring, panel work, or any electrical project across Ontario.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp