Short answer
An electrical conductor lets charge move relatively easily; metals are common examples. An electrical insulator resists charge movement; many plastics and dry rubber materials are examples. The difference is relative and depends on material and conditions. 1 2
Both are materials classified by how readily they allow electric charge to move.
On this page
At a glance
Scroll to compare all columns →
| Question | Electrical conductor | Electrical insulator |
|---|---|---|
| Charge movement | Relatively easy | Strongly resisted |
| Common example | Copper wire | Plastic wire covering |
| Perfect category? | No | No |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2
What each thing is
Electrical conductor. A material in which electric charge can move relatively easily under suitable conditions. 1
Electrical insulator. A material that strongly resists movement of electric charge under ordinary conditions. 2
Key differences
Mobile charges in a conductor can respond to an electric field and carry current. In an insulator, charge is more tightly bound or transport is otherwise difficult. The same electric circuit often deliberately uses both kinds. 1 2
How to tell them apart
Look at the component’s role and the material’s electrical properties, not merely whether it feels metallic. A wire’s metal core conducts; its intact plastic jacket insulates. Never test household wiring by touching it. 1 2
Where they overlap
Neither category is absolute. Insulators can leak current or break down at high voltage, while conductors have nonzero resistance. Water conductivity depends strongly on dissolved ions. 1 2
Edge cases
Semiconductors sit between simple categories and can be engineered to change conductivity. A material can be a good heat conductor but a poor electrical conductor, or vice versa; this page concerns electricity. 1 2
Why the distinction exists
The distinction explains how circuits guide current along chosen paths and keep charge away from users or other components. 1 2
Common misconceptions
An insulator does not mean “electricity can never pass through it.” A conductor is not necessarily lossless. 1 2
Examples
Copper carries current inside a power cable. The surrounding polymer layer is chosen to resist current flow toward a person touching the cable. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- OpenStax — Conductors and Insulators. Charge mobility.
- OpenStax — Current. Electric current.