Surfix vs Cabtyre Cable – What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use?

When it comes to electrical installations, choosing the right cable is essential for safety, performance, and long-term reliability. In the South African market, two of the most commonly used low-voltage cables are Surfix (also known as Norsk cable) and Cabtyre. While they may look similar at a glance, these cables are designed for completely different purposes.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between Surfix and Cabtyre cables, their typical use cases, and offer guidance on when each type is most suitable — especially for trade professionals, contractors, and DIY customers placing orders online.

What is Surfix Cable?

Surfix cable, often called Norsk cable in the South African market, is a flat, rigid cable made for fixed installations in residential, commercial, and light industrial environments.

Construction:

Solid (non-stranded) copper cores
PVC insulation around each core
Flat PVC outer sheath
Typically includes:
- Live (brown or red),
- Neutral (blue or black),
- and Bare copper earth wire (no insulation)

Surfix is designed to be run inside walls, ceilings, conduits, or clipped to fixed structures.

Typical Applications:

Fixed internal wiring (e.g. plug circuits, lighting)
DB board wiring to final circuits
Internal electrical reticulation in buildings
Outdoor use in conduit or sleeving where mechanical and UV protection is provided

⚠️ Can Surfix Be Used Outdoors?

Yes — with limitations.

Surfix/Norsk cable is not UV-resistant on its own and should not be exposed to direct sunlight or physical damage. However, it is often used in outdoor applications if properly installed inside UV-resistant conduit, trunking, or piping.

✅ Safe practice tip: When using Surfix outdoors, always run it inside black UV-rated PVC conduit or sleeving. Avoid leaving the cable exposed, even in shaded areas.

What is Cabtyre Cable?

Cabtyre cable is a flexible, multi-core cable designed for portable and movable electrical applications. It’s commonly used wherever flexibility, durability, and repeated handling are required.

Construction:

Stranded copper conductors (increases flexibility)
Individual PVC-insulated cores
Robust outer sheath
Round cable shape

Cabtyre is ideal for temporary setups and equipment that require movement, unplugging, or re-routing.

Typical Applications:

Power tools and portable machinery
Extension cords
Appliances and equipment
Temporary lighting installations (e.g. construction sites)
Workbenches or mobile setups

🛠️ Trade tip: Cabtyre cable is often chosen for its resistance to vibration and movement, making it ideal in workshops or mobile settings.

Surfix vs Cabtyre: Key Differences

Feature	Surfix Cable	Cabtyre Cable
Flexibility	Rigid (solid core)	Flexible (stranded core)
Form	Flat	Round
Durability	Moderate – fixed positions only	High – resistant to movement and impact
Installation Type	Fixed/permanent wiring	Temporary or portable connections
Typical Use	Internal wiring in buildings	Tools, appliances, extension cords
Outdoor Suitability	Only with conduit or protection	Suitable for outdoors depending on sheath quality
Handling	Can kink or snap if bent sharply	Easy to coil, route, and re-use

Which One Should You Use?

Here’s a quick breakdown based on your intended application:

Use Case	Recommended Cable
Wiring a new home	Surfix
Running cable through conduit in a wall	Surfix
Building a portable extension lead	Cabtyre
Connecting a power tool	Cabtyre
Wiring outdoor lights	Surfix (in conduit)
Supplying a geyser or stove	Surfix
Temporary site lighting	Cabtyre

Liteglo’s Cable Range – Available Online

We stock a full range of Surfix and Cabtyre cable in various:

Core configurations (e.g. 2-core, 3-core + earth)
Thicknesses (e.g. 1.5mm², 2.5mm², 4mm² and more)
Lengths (pre-cut or full rolls)

Order smarter. Order online.
Choose the right cable for your project with Liteglo — South Africa’s trusted online supplier for electrical professionals.

Shop Surfix Cable – Per Meter