Published on 10/13/2026
A buyer orders 200 pigtails and sees two lines on the quote: RG316 and RG316D. The price differs by a few cents per meter. Is the second one a better cable or just a different label? It is a different construction, with one real change: an extra shield layer.
Short answer: RG316D is RG316 with a double braid shield. It has the same 50 ohm impedance, the same PTFE dielectric and center conductor, and nearly the same loss. It adds better shielding, a slightly larger outer diameter (about 2.9 mm vs 2.5 mm) and a stiffer feel.
Here are the differences side by side and a rule for choosing.
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| Parameter | RG316 | RG316D |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50 ohm | 50 ohm |
| Center conductor | 7 strands silver-plated copper-clad steel, about 0.51 mm | Same |
| Dielectric | PTFE, about 1.52 mm OD | Same |
| Shield | Single silver-plated copper braid | Double silver-plated copper braid |
| Jacket | FEP, about 2.5 mm OD | FEP, about 2.9 mm OD |
| Shielding effectiveness | Good | Better, especially above 1 GHz |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Slightly stiffer |
| Attenuation | About the same | About the same, can be marginally lower at high frequency |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Operating temperature | -55 to 200 C | -55 to 200 C |
Dimensions are typical and vary by maker. Check the datasheet of your cable.
Key idea: The D suffix refers to the double shield. Some makers also label it RG316 DS or RG316 double shielded. Always confirm the construction before ordering.
A single braid has gaps. At low frequency they do not matter, but at microwave frequency a single braid leaks and picks up interference. A second braid layer covers those gaps, which improves shielding and reduces crosstalk between cables in a harness.
This matters when RG316 runs next to a transmitter, close to other RF cables, or inside a cabinet with digital noise. It also lowers radiated emissions in EMC testing.
Specify single or double shield
Tell us the frequency and environment. We will build the assembly with the right cable and sweep every unit on a VNA for VSWR and insertion loss.
Talk to an EngineerPick RG316D when
Pick RG316 when
The larger RG316D jacket and braid change the crimp. A connector crimp ferrule sized for RG316 may not fit RG316D. Use connectors specified for RG316D (often listed as RG316 double shield) and the correct crimp die. The SMA, MMCX and TNC part numbers differ for the two cables.
Common errors
What is the difference between RG316 and RG316D?
RG316D has two braid shields where RG316 has one. Impedance, dielectric and loss are almost the same. RG316D shields better and is slightly thicker and stiffer.
Is RG316D better than RG316?
For shielding, yes. For flexibility and cost, RG316 is better. Choose by environment.
Does RG316D have lower loss than RG316?
Not significantly. Attenuation is almost identical, and any difference is small.
Can RG316 connectors be used on RG316D?
Often not. The outer diameter and braid thickness differ, so use connectors specified for RG316D.
Is RG316 double shielded?
Standard RG316 is single braid. RG316D, also called RG316 DS, is double shielded.
What frequency range does RG316D support?
The same as RG316, about 3 GHz rated and 6 GHz usable with SMA, and higher for short runs.
RG316D is a shield upgrade, not a different cable. Choose it when interference or emissions matter, and use RG316 when flexibility and cost decide.
SigmaRF builds both RG316 and RG316D assemblies in India (Vadodara) and the USA (Cleveland area), VNA-swept before shipment, with lead times as short as 2 days.
Order RG316 or RG316D assemblies
Standard or custom, built to length.
Standard AssembliesCustom AssembliesTalk to an Engineer