Learn about coaxial cable connectors—F-Type, BNC, N-Type, SMA, TNC, and UHF. Compare impedances, frequencies, and...
Published by Wassalat Technical Team
A coaxial cable is only as good as its connectors. The right connector ensures optimal signal transfer, prevents interference, and provides reliable, long-lasting connections.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about coaxial cable connectors—from F-Type to BNC, from crimp to compression, and from 50Ω to 75Ω.
Connectors are the critical interface between your cable and equipment. A poor connector can:
| Property | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Impedance | Must match cable (50Ω or 75Ω) to prevent reflections |
| Frequency Range | Must support your operating frequency |
| VSWR | Lower is better (1.2:1 or less) |
| Insertion Loss | Lower is better (0.1-0.3 dB typical) |
| Durability | Number of connect/disconnect cycles |
Here's a quick overview of the most common coaxial connectors:
| Connector | Impedance | Max Frequency | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-Type | 75Ω | 3 GHz | TV, Satellite, CATV |
| BNC | 50Ω or 75Ω | 4 GHz | Video, CCTV, Test |
| N-Type | 50Ω | 11 GHz | RF, Antennas, WISP |
| SMA | 50Ω | 18 GHz | WiFi, IoT, Cellular |
| TNC | 50Ω | 11 GHz | Military, Aerospace |
| UHF / PL-259 | 50Ω | 300 MHz | Amateur Radio |
| RCA | 75Ω | 10 MHz | Consumer Video/Audio |
F-Type connectors are the most common coaxial connector in the world. They're used for TV, satellite, and cable broadband internet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 75Ω |
| Max Frequency | 3 GHz |
| Connection Type | Threaded (Screw-on) |
| Typical VSWR | 1.2:1 |
| Insertion Loss | 0.15 dB |
| Durability | 500+ cycles |
Quality: Basic
Tools Needed: None (screw on by hand)
Best For: Temporary connections, DIY
⚠️ Not Recommended: Permanent installations, satellite
Quality: Good
Tools Needed: Crimp tool
Best For: Professional installations
Advantage: Reliable, cost-effective
Quality: Excellent
Tools Needed: Compression tool
Best For: Professional, weatherproof installations
Advantage: Best signal quality, weatherproof
BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors are quick-connect connectors widely used in video, CCTV, and test equipment.
| Parameter | 50Ω BNC | 75Ω BNC |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50Ω | 75Ω |
| Max Frequency | 4 GHz | 4 GHz |
| Connection Type | Bayonet (Twist & Lock) | |
| Center Pin | Larger | Smaller |
| Common Use | RF Test, Radios | CCTV, Video |
N-Type connectors are the professional standard for outdoor RF applications. They provide excellent performance and weather resistance.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 50Ω |
| Max Frequency | 11 GHz |
| Connection Type | Threaded |
| Weatherproof | Yes (with weather boot) |
| VSWR | 1.15:1 |
| Insertion Loss | 0.1 dB |
SMA (SubMiniature version A) connectors are small, high-frequency connectors used in compact devices like WiFi routers, cellular modems, and IoT equipment.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 50Ω |
| Max Frequency | 18 GHz |
| Connection Type | Threaded |
| Durability | 500 cycles |
| Common Use | WiFi, IoT, Cellular |
TNC (Threaded Neill-Concelman) connectors are threaded versions of BNC connectors, offering better vibration resistance and weather protection.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 50Ω |
| Max Frequency | 11 GHz |
| Connection Type | Threaded |
| Durability | 500+ cycles |
| Common Use | Military, Aerospace |
UHF (Ultra High Frequency) / PL-259 connectors are older-style connectors commonly used in amateur radio.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 50Ω (nominal) |
| Max Frequency | 300 MHz |
| Connection Type | Threaded |
| Common Use | Amateur Radio |
Connectors are installed using different methods:
How it works: The connector is crimped onto the cable using a crimp tool
Pros: Quick, consistent, reliable
Cons: Requires correct tool and die
Best For: Professional installations
How it works: The connector is compressed onto the cable
Pros: Excellent weather resistance, low signal loss
Cons: Requires compression tool
Best For: Outdoor, satellite, professional
How it works: The connector is soldered onto the cable
Pros: Very reliable, excellent electrical connection
Cons: Requires soldering skill, time-consuming
Best For: High-end RF, military
How it works: The connector screws onto the cable
Pros: No tools required
Cons: Poor reliability, high signal loss
Best For: Temporary connections only
| Method | Quality | Weatherproof | Tools Required | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screw-On | ⭐ | ❌ | None | Beginner |
| Crimp | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⚠️ | Crimp Tool | Intermediate |
| Compression | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | Compression Tool | Intermediate |
| Solder | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | Soldering Iron | Advanced |
| Feature | F-Type | BNC | N-Type | SMA | TNC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 75Ω | 50/75Ω | 50Ω | 50Ω | 50Ω |
| Max Frequency | 3 GHz | 4 GHz | 11 GHz | 18 GHz | 11 GHz |
| Connection | Threaded | Bayonet | Threaded | Threaded | Threaded |
| Weatherproof | ✅ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Quick Connect | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Size | Small | Medium | Large | Very Small | Medium |
| Cost | $ | $$ | $$ | $$ | $$$ |
| Common Use | TV, Satellite | CCTV, Video | RF, Antennas | WiFi, IoT | Military |
The F-Type connector is the most common coaxial connector worldwide. It's used for TV, satellite, and cable broadband internet.
50Ω connectors are used for RF and wireless applications. 75Ω connectors are used for video and CATV. They are not interchangeable.
Yes. F-Type connectors are designed for RG6 and other 75Ω cables. Use the correct size for your cable (standard or RG11).
Compression F-Type connectors are the best for satellite TV. They provide excellent weather resistance and low signal loss.
50Ω BNC connectors have a larger center pin than 75Ω connectors. They are not interchangeable and using the wrong one causes signal loss.
Most WiFi devices use SMA or RP-SMA connectors. RP-SMA (Reverse Polarity SMA) is common on consumer routers to prevent accidental connection of wrong antennas.
N-Type connectors are the best for outdoor antennas. They're weather-resistant, low-loss, and support frequencies up to 11 GHz.
Yes, adapters exist to convert between connector types (e.g., F-Type to BNC). However, each adapter adds signal loss and can degrade performance.
VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) measures signal reflection. A perfect match is 1:1. Higher numbers mean more reflection. Good connectors have VSWR below 1.2:1.
Quality connectors last 500+ connection cycles. With proper installation, they can last 20+ years without degradation.
Heat in connectors indicates a poor connection or impedance mismatch. In high-power applications, this can be dangerous and cause equipment failure.
Crimp and compression connectors are designed for single use. Screw-on connectors can be reused but may not provide reliable contact after repeated use.
We stock a full range of professional coaxial connectors—from F-Type for TV to N-Type for RF and SMA for WiFi. Quality connectors for every application.
Last Updated: July 2026
© 2026 Wassalat. All rights reserved.
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