Top Electrical Wire Picks for Professional Contractors
For most contractor jobs, Southwire’s Copper THHN Wire stands out as the top pick. It is versatile, durable, and meets stringent safety standards. Its main advantage is the rugged PVC insulation that resists abrasion and moisture, ideal for conduit wiring. However, it is not suited for direct burial unless placed in conduit, which is a limitation to consider.
Choosing the right electrical wire is critical for safety and efficiency on any job site. Contractors need wire that is durable, code-compliant, and easy to work with.
We compared popular models from trusted brands to help you find the best option for your specific applications. From THHN for conduit to NM-B for residential rough-ins, each wire has unique strengths.
Our top picks
Southwire Copper THHN Wire
Southwire’s THHN wire is a staple for electricians. It features a durable PVC insulation and nylon jacket that resists abrasion, moisture, and chemicals. Available in various gauges and colors, it is suitable for both new installations and rewiring projects.
Pros
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- High temperature rating
- Wide range of sizes
Cons
- Requires conduit for installation
- Can be stiff in cold weather
Cerro Wire NM-B Romex
Cerro’s NM-B cable, commonly known as Romex, is a reliable choice for residential wiring. It features a PVC outer jacket with color-coded conductors for easy identification. It is simple to strip and install, making it a favorite among contractors for new homes and additions.
Pros
- Easy to strip and install
- Color-coded jacket for identification
- Cost-effective for residential
Cons
- Not for wet or outdoor locations
- Susceptible to damage if not protected
Cerro Wire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable
This UF-B cable is designed for direct burial without conduit, making it ideal for outdoor lighting, landscape, and underground branch circuits. Its heavy-duty PVC insulation resists moisture and sunlight, and it is sunlight resistant for above-ground use where exposed.
Pros
- Suitable for direct burial
- Moisture and sunlight resistant
- Saves time by eliminating conduit
Cons
- Harder to bend than NM-B
- Not for use in conduit as it is harder to pull
AFC Cable Systems MC Cable
MC cable provides a robust solution for commercial projects. The metal armor offers physical protection and can be used in exposed locations where NM-B is not allowed. It is pre-assembled, reducing installation time compared to conduit systems.
Pros
- Protective metal armor
- Suitable for exposed locations
- Faster to install than conduit
Cons
- Heavier and less flexible
- Requires special connectors
Southwire SIMpull THHN Wire
Southwire’s SIMpull THHN features a special lubricant that makes pulling wire through conduit easier and faster. This reduces physical strain and saves time on large jobs. It is available in a variety of gauges and colors.
Pros
- Reduces friction during pulling
- Saves time and effort
- High-quality insulation
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than standard THHN
- Lubricant may attract dust
Cerro Wire THHN/THWN-2 Build Wire
This THHN/THWN-2 wire offers reliable performance at a competitive price. It is suitable for both residential and commercial applications, and its dual rating allows for use in wet or dry locations. It is a solid choice for contractors looking to manage costs.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Dual rated for wet and dry
- Good conductivity
Cons
- Limited gauge availability
- Less flexible than some premium wires
Southwire 250 ft 12/2 NM-B Wire
This 12/2 NM-B wire from Southwire is a contractor favorite for branch circuits. It comes in a convenient 250-foot roll, reducing waste on typical jobs. The wire is easy to strip and install, and it meets all residential codes.
Pros
- Convenient roll length
- Trusted brand quality
- Easy to work with
Cons
- Not for outdoor use
- May be more expensive per foot than bulk spools
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Gauge | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southwire Copper THHN Wire | 14 AWG to 500 MCM | Conduit wiring in commercial and industrial settings | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Cerro Wire NM-B Romex | 14/2 to 10/3 with ground | Residential branch circuits and lighting | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Cerro Wire UF-B Underground Feeder Cable | 14/2 to 6/3 with ground | Direct burial and outdoor applications | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | AFC Cable Systems MC Cable | Metal clad (MC) | Commercial and industrial branch circuits | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Southwire SIMpull THHN Wire | Pre-applied SIMpull | Long pulls in conduit | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | Cerro Wire THHN/THWN-2 Build Wire | 14 AWG to 2 AWG | Budget-conscious projects | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Southwire 250 ft 12/2 NM-B Wire | 250 ft | Residential remodeling and additions | 9.2 | Check price |
What to look for
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between THHN and NM-B wire?
THHN is a single conductor wire meant for conduit, while NM-B is a multi-conductor cable with an outer jacket for dry residential locations.
Can NM-B wire be used outdoors?
No, NM-B is not rated for outdoor use. Use UF-B cable for direct burial or outdoor areas.
What does AWG mean?
AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, a standard for wire diameter. Lower numbers indicate thicker wire capable of carrying more current.
How do I choose the right gauge for a circuit?
Use 14 AWG for 15-amp circuits and 12 AWG for 20-amp circuits. For larger loads, consult the NEC ampacity chart and consider voltage drop for long runs.
Is THHN wire suitable for wet locations?
Standard THHN is rated for dry locations. THWN-2 is rated for wet locations. Many wires are dual-rated THHN/THWN-2, so check the marking.
What is the advantage of MC cable over conduit?
MC cable is faster to install because it comes with an integrated metal armor, eliminating the need for separate conduit. It provides mechanical protection and can be used in exposed areas.
Can I use UF-B wire in conduit?
Yes, UF-B can be used in conduit, but it is harder to pull due to its thicker jacket. It is primarily designed for direct burial.
What is the maximum temperature rating for THHN wire?
THHN is rated for 90°C in dry locations and 75°C in wet locations if dual-rated THWN-2.
How much wire is on a typical roll?
Residential rolls often come in 50, 100, 250, and 500 feet. Contractors often buy larger spools for bigger projects to save cost per foot.
Does wire color matter?
Yes, color indicates insulation and is used for identification. White is neutral, black/red are hot, green or bare is ground. Jacket colors for NM-B indicate gauge sizes.
Our take
For most contractor work, the Southwire Copper THHN Wire is the best all-around choice due to its durability and versatility. If your focus is residential, the Cerro Wire NM-B Romex offers ease of installation and code compliance. For outdoor projects, the Cerro UF-B cable is essential. Ultimately, the Southwire SIMpull THHN can save significant time on large conduit jobs, making it a worthy investment for any contractor.
Jake Monroe
Jake worked as a residential contractor for over a decade before shifting to full-time writing. He evaluates power tools, hand tools and workshop gear through the lens of someone who has actually used them on job sites, not just read the box.
