RG213 Coaxial Cable 30FT - Ultra Low Loss PL-259 Coax for CB Radio

In this review the RG213 Coaxial Cable 30FT is judged as a solid choice for anyone who needs a durable, low-loss 50-ohm feedline for fixed installations. It is aimed at ham radio operators, CB users and base station installers who prioritize signal integrity over flexibility. The single biggest reason to buy is its ultra-low loss construction which keeps more RF on the antenna compared with thinner cables, making it useful for long runs and higher-power setups.

Key Features

• RG213 construction: A thick polyethylene dielectric and 7-strand bare copper center conductor keep the cable robust for fixed installs and minimize transmission degradation.
• Ultra-low loss: Measured loss of about 4.42 dB per 100 ft at 400 MHz means less signal wasted on longer runs than with RG58 or similar thin coax.
• 50-ohm impedance: Stable 50-ohm characteristic and low capacitance support consistent matching for HF, VHF and UHF antennas.
• PL-259 male ends: Standard UHF PL-259 to PL-259 connectors fit many CB and amateur radio transceivers and base station antennas.
• Durable shielding: 96% copper braid coverage and a PVC jacket provide strong EMI protection and resistance to UV and chemical exposure for outdoor use.
• End protection: Heat-shrink tubing on both ends helps seal connectors against moisture and contaminants.

Who It's For

This cable suits amateur radio operators, CB users and anyone installing a rooftop or base station antenna who needs a long, stable run with minimal loss. The weight and reduced flexibility make it ideal for permanent or semi-permanent installations rather than mobile or frequently moved setups.

Those needing ultra-flexible jumper cables for tight bends or mobile handheld links should look elsewhere; lighter cables like RG58 are easier to route in cramped, movable installations even though they incur higher loss.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Low signal loss on long runs compared with thinner coax types, preserving transmit and receive performance.
• Robust mechanical construction with high braid coverage reduces EMI and holds up outdoors.
• Standard PL-259 male connectors make it compatible with many radios and antenna systems.
• Heat-shrink on both ends helps protect against moisture and contamination.

Cons

• Heavier and less flexible than thinner coax, which makes routing in tight spaces more difficult.
• Not the best choice for applications requiring frequent handling or mobile use due to stiffness.

Specifications

Cable Type	RG-213/U
Length	30 ft (9.2 m)
Impedance	50 ohm
Center Conductor	7-strand bare copper
Capacitance	31.7 pF/ft (104 pF/m)
VSWR	1.25 max
Connector Ends	PL-259 male to PL-259 male

Our Verdict

The RG213 Coaxial Cable 30FT is a practical choice for base stations and rooftop antennas where low loss and durability matter more than flexibility. For ham radio and CB users installing a permanent feedline, it delivers reliable transmission, strong shielding and weather resistance at a reasonable value compared with thinner, higher-loss alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for outdoor rooftop installation?
Yes. The PVC jacket has UV and chemical resistance and the 96% braid provides solid shielding for outdoor use.

Will it work with my CB radio antenna?
Yes. It uses PL-259 male connectors and a 50-ohm impedance, the standard for CB and many amateur antennas.

Can I use it for mobile applications?
It can be used, but its heavier weight and reduced flexibility make it better for fixed installations than mobile or handheld setups.