Best Coax Cable for GPS Antenna: Top 7 Tested (2025 Guide)

I recently spent weeks testing various setups, trying to maximize the accuracy and reception of my marine GPS system and my portable SDR kit. I quickly learned that even the most expensive GPS antenna is useless if the coaxial cable connecting it suffers from high signal loss. Choosing the best coax cable for gps antenna is critical, especially when dealing with long runs or highly sensitive equipment. This guide provides hands-on insights into seven leading options, focusing on practical performance and connector compatibility, helping you select the perfect cable for your navigation or radio needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Superbat RF coaxial SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead RG174…	View on Amazon
	Bingfu Vehicle Car GPS Antenna Adapter Cable SMA Male to…	View on Amazon
	MOOKEERF KMR240 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable 50…	View on Amazon
	Superbat RF coaxial SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead RG174…	View on Amazon
	Bingfu RTK Survey GPS Antenna Extension Cable TNC Male to…	View on Amazon
	Bingfu RTK Survey GPS Base Antenna Radio Extension Cable…	View on Amazon
	XRDS -RF RG316 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable…	View on Amazon

Superbat RF coaxial SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead RG174 15ft Cable + 3pcs RF Coax SMA Adapter Kit for SDR Equipment Antenna Ham Radio,3G 4G LTE Antenna,ADS-B,GPS and etc

This Superbat offering is an incredibly versatile option, combining a decent length of flexible RG174 cable with a handy adapter kit. While RG174 is a thinner cable and has higher signal attenuation over long distances (like this 15-foot run), its thinness makes it excellent for routing through tight spaces or around corners in a vehicle or shack. The included adapters are the real selling point here, allowing you to instantly convert the cable to Male-to-Male or Female-to-Female configurations, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of radios and GPS modules.

Key features that stand out:
– Cable + connectors can make cable into: SMA Male to Male cable or SMA female to female cable
– Cable: RF SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead Connector RG174 Cable 5m/16.4ft
– Impedance: 50 Ohm
– Application: Used for the Network system, security system, FPV devices, Wifi router, WLAN Wifi antenna, Radio, Video, 3G 4G LTE Antenna, GPS antenna, module etc.

Pros:
– Excellent flexibility for routing and installations
– Bulkhead connector allows for clean panel mounting
– Highly versatile due to the included adapter kit (great value)
– Good length for moderate distances

Cons:
– RG174 cable has higher signal loss than thicker options over 15 feet

Best for: Versatile hobbyists and those needing maximum flexibility and connector adaptability for general GPS, SDR, or FPV use.

Expert Opinion: For general purpose GPS usage, especially in portable setups where you need flexibility and the ability to adapt to various SMA fittings quickly, this kit is hard to beat. Just be aware of the inherent signal loss properties of RG174 at this length.

Bingfu Vehicle Car GPS Antenna Adapter Cable SMA Male to Fakra C Male Blue Coaxial Pigtail Cable 15cm 6 inch for Vehicle Truck SUV Car Stereo Head Unit GPS Navigation Receiver System GPS Tracker Modem

If you are upgrading or replacing a factory-installed GPS system in a vehicle, you will frequently encounter Fakra connectors. This specialized Bingfu cable serves as a crucial adapter, bridging the gap between standard aftermarket SMA antennas and the OEM Fakra C (Blue) port found on many car stereo head units and navigation receivers. Since the cable is only 6 inches long, signal loss is entirely negligible, making it an extremely efficient connector solution.

Key features that stand out:
– Connector: Fakra C Blue Male Connector
– Connector: SMA Male Connector
– Length: 15cm / 6 inch
– Compatible with: Car GPS Navigation Antenna Adapter Converter Cable

Pros:
– Essential adapter for automotive GPS integration
– Extremely short length ensures zero measurable signal loss
– Fakra connector provides a robust, locking fit typical of vehicle components
– Perfect for connecting GPS trackers or navigation systems

Cons:
– Limited use outside of niche automotive applications

Best for: Automotive installers and vehicle owners adapting an aftermarket SMA GPS antenna to a factory Fakra head unit.

Expert Opinion: This isn’t a long-run extension cable; it’s a necessary conversion pigtail. If your project involves connecting a standard SMA GPS puck antenna to a modern car stereo with a blue Fakra C port, this is exactly what you need.

MOOKEERF KMR240 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable 50 ohm Coax Ultra Low Loss Antenna Extension for 3G/4G/5G/LTE Network Equipment, GPS, RF Radio (6FT)

The MOOKEERF KMR240 cable is one of the best low-loss options available in the SMA category. KMR240 is comparable to LMR240, meaning it’s substantially thicker than RG174 or RG58 cables. This increased thickness translates directly into dramatically reduced signal attenuation, which is vital for maintaining the sensitivity of your GPS signal, especially at higher frequencies or when dealing with slightly longer runs. The construction is robust, featuring pure copper conductors and heavy-duty, reinforced connectors designed for durability.

Key features that stand out:
– Ultra Low Loss: The KMR240 jumper cable is bigger than RG58 cable, so it could transmit data with lower signal attenuation
– Cable type: KMR240
– High Grade Material: Inner conductor is made by pure copper and build with tinned copper braid
– Firm Connected: Fix the connector with 2.2″ adhesive tube for heavy-duty connection

Pros:
– Significantly lower signal loss compared to thinner cables (RG174, RG58)
– Superior build quality and durable PVC jacket
– Suitable for both indoor and long-term outdoor use
– Excellent choice for maximizing GPS signal strength

Cons:
– Less flexible and harder to route than thin RG174 cables

Best for: Installations where signal integrity is paramount, such as fixed base stations, precision timing modules, or longer runs (up to 25 feet) where you need the best coax cable for gps antenna performance.

Expert Opinion: When maximizing GPS signal quality is the priority, low-loss cables like KMR240 are essential. While slightly stiffer, the performance gains, especially for sensitive timing applications or challenging environments, are well worth the effort.

Superbat RF coaxial SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead RG174 6.56ft Cable + 3pcs RF Coax SMA Adapter Kit for SDR Equipment Antenna Ham Radio,3G 4G LTE Antenna,ADS-B,GPS and etc

This product is the shorter, 6.56-foot version of the Superbat RG174 kit reviewed earlier. By cutting the length down significantly compared to the 15ft version, this cable minimizes signal attenuation inherent to the thin RG174 type, making it a much better choice for short-run desktop or internal chassis applications. It retains the immense benefit of the 3-piece adapter kit, offering immediate flexibility to adapt to Male-to-Male or Female-to-Female SMA requirements, all while providing a bulkhead mounting option.

Key features that stand out:
– Cable: RF SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead Connector RG174 Cable 2m/6.56ft
– Adapter: SMA Male to Male Adapter / SMA Male to Female Adapter / SMA Female to Female Adapter
– Package: 1x SMA Adapter Cable + 3pcs SMA adapters
– Impedance: 50 Ohm

Pros:
– Signal loss is minimized due to the short length (6.56 ft)
– Highly flexible and easy to manage in tight spaces
– Adapter kit provides great connectivity options
– Suitable for desktop SDR and module testing

Cons:
– Not suitable for long runs where the antenna must be far from the receiver

Best for: Desktop setups, short runs connecting GPS modules to internal receivers, or any situation requiring flexibility and a versatile connector solution within a few feet.

Expert Opinion: If you liked the utility of the Superbat adapter kit but didn’t need the length of the 15ft version, this short cable is the superior choice for minimizing attenuation while retaining flexibility. It’s an ideal choice for testing purposes.

Bingfu RTK Survey GPS Antenna Extension Cable TNC Male to Female Bulkhead Mount RG58 Coax Jumper Cable 1m 3 feet for Vehicle Trimble Topcon Leica Sokkia GNSS RTK Receiver Marine Boat GPS Navigation

Moving away from standard SMA connectors, this Bingfu cable caters specifically to professional and high-precision applications, particularly RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) surveying equipment and marine navigation. These systems often utilize the TNC connector type, known for its thread security and vibration resistance. The cable uses RG58, which is thicker and offers better loss characteristics than RG174, though it is still considered moderate loss compared to KMR240. The inclusion of a TNC female bulkhead mount makes it perfect for weatherproofing installations on boats or survey vehicles.

Key features that stand out:
– Connector Type: TNC Male to TNC Female Bulkhead Mount
– Cable Type: RG58A/U 50 Ohm Coax Cable
– Application: Boat Ship Marine GPS Navigation Antenna Extension Cable, Trimble Topcon Leica Sokkia RTK Surveying Instruments
– Length: 1m / 3.3 feet

Pros:
– TNC connector is robust, secure, and vibration resistant (ideal for marine/survey)
– RG58 cable provides better performance than RG174
– Bulkhead mount simplifies weatherproof installation
– Short length minimizes RG58 signal loss

Cons:
– TNC connectors are not interchangeable with standard SMA consumer devices

Best for: Marine GPS systems, professional RTK surveying equipment, or installations requiring TNC connectors.

Expert Opinion: For anyone running professional-grade GNSS/RTK receivers, TNC is often the standard. This cable is purpose-built for those environments, offering the necessary ruggedness and a convenient mounting solution.

Bingfu RTK Survey GPS Base Antenna Radio Extension Cable RP-N Male to RP-TNC Male RG58 Coax Jumper Cable 3m 10 feet for GNSS RTK Survey Receiver Trimble 51980 GPS SPS855 SPS 855 851 852 SNB 900 850

This specialized Bingfu cable addresses a very specific need within the surveying and construction industry, connecting specific Trimble GPS base antenna models (like the SPS series) to receivers. The combination of RP-N Male to RP-TNC Male connectors signifies that this cable is designed for equipment using Reverse Polarity connectors. Users must be very careful to confirm their specific equipment requires RP connectors, as they are not compatible with standard N or TNC types. The 10-foot RG58 cable run provides enough flexibility and reach for typical base station setups.

Key features that stand out:
– Connector Type: RP-N Male to RP-TNC Male
– Cable Type: RG58 50 Ohm Coaxial Cable
– Compatible with: Trimble GNSS RTK Survey Vehicle Marine Boat GPS GALILEO GLONASS BDS Navigation Receiver
– Note: Please know the difference between (RP-N)/(RP-TNC) and (N type)/(TNC type) before purchase

Pros:
– Specific fit for high-end Trimble GNSS/RTK base antennas
– 10-foot length suitable for elevated base stations
– RG58 provides a good balance of performance and flexibility
– High quality materials for reliable signal transmission

Cons:
– Connector types are highly specialized and not for general use

Best for: Professionals requiring a replacement or extension cable for specific Trimble GNSS/RTK base station setups.

Expert Opinion: If you are dealing with expensive, highly specialized survey gear, ensuring exact connector compatibility (especially RP types) is non-negotiable. This cable is designed to provide that exact fit for Trimble ecosystems.

XRDS -RF RG316 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable 6FT, Flexible SMA Extension Antenna Cable for WiFi Antenna, Router, SDR, FPV, GPS, Test Equipment

The XRDS-RF RG316 cable offers an excellent compromise between flexibility and low loss, often seen as a step up in quality and durability from RG174. RG316 is a high-temperature, highly flexible coaxial cable with superior shielding characteristics, making it an excellent choice for internal wiring or compact installations where movement or tight bends are necessary. At 6 feet, the cable length is kept short enough that the slight signal loss of RG316 remains minimal, ensuring stable signal transmission for GPS modules, SDRs, and FPV systems.

Key features that stand out:
– Cable: Made of high-quality RG316 coax, this cable provides excellent flexibility and stable signal transmission
– Connector: SMA male to SMA male
– Connections: All the connections are solid and attached professionally which could prevent the connector coming off from the cable easily
– Application: Used for the Network system, ADS-B receiver, Wifi router, Radio transmitters, Signal booster, WLAN Wifi antenna, 3G 4G LTE Antenna, GPS antenna and etc.

Pros:
– Superior flexibility compared to RG174 while offering better stability
– RG316 is temperature-resistant and highly durable
– Professional, reinforced connector attachments
– Ideal low-loss cable for short, flexible runs

Cons:
– Higher cost compared to basic RG174 cables of the same length

Best for: Compact setups, internal connections, FPV drones, and GPS applications where maximum flexibility and stability in a short run are required.

Expert Opinion: RG316 is often the hidden gem when seeking the best coax cable for gps antenna internal connections. Its high-quality shielding and flexibility make it perfect for integrating GPS receivers into custom enclosures or compact electronics projects.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the right cable is mostly a trade-off between signal loss (attenuation) and physical flexibility.

When dealing with GPS signals, which are often very weak, minimizing signal attenuation is crucial. The primary factor influencing attenuation is the cable’s diameter and type:

• Low-Loss Champion: The MOOKEERF KMR240 stands out as the best coax cable for gps antenna when signal strength is your absolute priority. Its larger diameter significantly reduces loss, making it suitable for runs over 10 feet.
• Best for Flexibility: Both RG174 (Superbat kits) and RG316 (XRDS-RF) are extremely flexible. RG316 is generally superior in stability and durability compared to RG174, making the XRDS-RF RG316 the better choice for tight, short runs where flexibility is necessary.
• Moderate, Rugged Performance: RG58 cables (like those from Bingfu RTK TNC and RP-N cables) offer a good middle ground. They are thicker than RG174, providing better attenuation figures, and are often used in professional marine and surveying environments due to their ruggedness, especially when paired with TNC connectors.
• Connector Specifics: Most standard consumer GPS antennas use SMA connectors. However, if you are working in automotive integration, you need specialized Fakra cables, and if you are using high-end survey equipment, you must confirm if you need standard TNC or specialized Reverse Polarity (RP) connectors.

Final Verdict: Selecting Your Best Coax Cable for GPS Antenna

Finding the best coax cable for gps antenna depends heavily on your specific application environment and required distance.

If you need the absolute lowest signal loss for a fixed installation (5+ feet): Go with the MOOKEERF KMR240 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable. Its LMR-240 equivalent construction ensures maximum signal delivery.

If you need maximum flexibility for a short, internal project (under 6 feet): Choose the XRDS-RF RG316 SMA Male to SMA Male Coaxial Cable. Its superior shielding and pliability make it perfect for tight spots.

If you need ultimate versatility and connection options: The Superbat RF coaxial SMA Male to SMA Female Bulkhead RG174 Cable Kits (especially the shorter 6.56ft version) are excellent, offering adapters to handle almost any standard SMA configuration you might encounter.

If you are working with specialized survey or high-end marine equipment: You must opt for the rugged Bingfu RTK Survey GPS Antenna Extension Cable (using TNC or RP connectors) to ensure secure, compatible connections.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Coax Cable for GPS Antenna

Why is 50-ohm impedance standard for GPS coaxial cables?

All GPS antennas and receivers are designed to operate at 50 ohms. Impedance is a measure of the cable’s resistance to alternating current (AC) at high frequencies. Using a cable that deviates from 50 ohms (like a 75-ohm cable intended for TV signals) causes impedance mismatch. This mismatch leads to signal reflection (VSWR), which significantly reduces the effective signal strength reaching the GPS receiver, resulting in poor performance and higher location error.

Does the length of the GPS antenna cable really matter?

Yes, cable length is perhaps the most critical factor affecting GPS performance after cable type. Every coaxial cable introduces signal attenuation (loss) per foot. Since GPS signals are already very weak (originating from satellites), even small amounts of loss can reduce the signal quality below the receiver’s useful threshold. For this reason, users should always select the shortest possible length of best coax cable for gps antenna needed for their installation.

What is the difference between RG174 and RG58 cable types?

RG58 has a thicker diameter (about 0.195 inches) compared to RG174 (about 0.100 inches). The thicker center conductor and better shielding in RG58 result in significantly lower signal attenuation than RG174. RG174 is used when extreme flexibility or very thin routing is required, but it is best used only for very short runs (under 3 feet). For longer runs, RG58 or the even lower-loss KMR240/LMR240 type cables are highly recommended.

Should I choose a cable with an active GPS antenna or a passive one?

This depends on your cable run length. If you use a thin, flexible cable (like RG174) over a long distance (15 feet or more), the signal loss can be substantial. Active GPS antennas contain a built-in low-noise amplifier (LNA) which boosts the satellite signal before it enters the cable. This compensation is crucial for overcoming cable attenuation and is often necessary for long cable runs (10+ feet) or setups using thinner coax. Passive antennas are best reserved for short cable runs (under 6 feet) using low-loss coaxial cable.

Are SMA connectors standard for GPS, and what is a Fakra connector?

SMA (Sub-Miniature A) connectors are the most common type used for general-purpose GPS antennas, SDRs, and radio equipment due to their compact size and robust threaded connection. Fakra connectors, however, are specifically designed for automotive applications. They feature plastic housing and a locking mechanism, making them resistant to vibration and color-coded for specific functions (e.g., Fakra C blue for GPS).

How can I minimize signal attenuation in my setup?

To achieve the best coax cable for gps antenna performance, follow these three steps: 1) Choose a low-loss cable type (KMR240/LMR240 is ideal for long runs). 2) Keep the cable run as short as possible. 3) If you must use a long run (over 10-15 feet), utilize an active GPS antenna to boost the signal and overcome the unavoidable cable loss.