Amphenol RF Cross-Reference: SMA, BNC, TNC & N-Type Connectors Compared
Time:2026-11-09
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RF connectors all carry 50-ohm coaxial signals, but they are not interchangeable — each type is tuned for a frequency band, a coupling style and an environment. Here’s how the four workhorse types line up, so you can read an RF drawing and pick the right interface the first time.
The four workhorse interfaces
| Type | Impedance | Frequency | Coupling | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SMA | 50 Ω | Up to 18 GHz | Threaded | Wi-Fi, GPS, test gear |
| BNC | 50 / 75 Ω | Up to 4 GHz | Bayonet | Video, instruments, CCTV |
| TNC | 50 Ω | Up to 11 GHz | Threaded | Vibration-prone RF links |
| N-Type | 50 Ω | Up to 11 GHz | Threaded | Base stations, antennas |
What each type is actually for
SMA is the small, threaded workhorse of Wi-Fi routers, GPS modules and bench equipment — it handles the highest frequency of the group but is sized for light-duty cables. BNC is the bayonet type you can connect and disconnect with a quarter turn, which is why it dominates video and test applications. TNC is essentially a threaded BNC — same performance, but the threads keep it seated under vibration, so it shows up on vehicle and mobile RF links. N-Type is the heavy-duty threaded type for base stations and outdoor antennas, where weather resistance and low loss matter more than size.
Choosing by environment, not just frequency
Frequency is the headline spec, but the coupling is the real decision: if the cable gets plugged and unplugged constantly, bayonet BNC saves time; if it vibrates, threaded TNC or SMA stays seated; if it lives outdoors, an N-Type with a weatherproof boot is the safe call. Match the interface to the environment and you avoid the two classic failures — a connector that works loose under vibration, or one that lets moisture into the cable.
We manufacture all four families — SMA, BNC, TNC and N-Type, in plug and jack, straight and right-angle, crimp and PCB-mount — in our Shenzhen factory. Standard 50-ohm impedance and the full cable-entry range, at factory-direct pricing instead of a branded premium, with lower MOQs and shorter lead times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are SMA and BNC interchangeable?
No. They use different couplings (threaded vs bayonet) and are tuned for different frequency bands. They do not mate.
What is the difference between BNC and TNC?
TNC is a threaded version of BNC with the same electrical performance; the threads keep it seated under vibration where a bayonet might loosen.
Which RF connector for outdoor antennas?
N-Type is the usual choice — threaded for a secure connection and built for weather resistance and low loss at the antenna.
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