What Width Cuban Link Chain Should I Get? Size Guide

Last updated: February 2026

Choosing the right width for your Cuban link chain is one of the most important decisions you will make when buying gold jewelry. Too thin and it might not deliver the look you want. Too thick and it might feel uncomfortable or overwhelm your frame. The width you choose affects everything — from how the chain looks around your neck, to how much it weighs, to how much it costs.

At GOLDZENN, we handcraft solid gold Cuban link chains in Miami across every popular width. After helping thousands of customers find their perfect chain, we have put together this complete Cuban link chain width guide so you can make the right choice before you buy.

Whether you are shopping for your first chain or adding to a growing collection, this guide covers every width from slim 2mm links all the way up to the heaviest 15mm+ showstoppers — with weight ranges, styling advice, and honest recommendations based on body type and budget.

Quick Width Reference Table

Before we dive deep into each category, here is a fast overview of every Cuban link width range. Bookmark this table — it is the quickest way to narrow down your options.

Note: Weights are approximate and vary by chain length, link tightness, and karat. Browse our full Cuban link collection for exact weights on every piece.

Thin Cuban Links (2-4mm)

Thin Cuban link chains are the most understated option in the Cuban link family. At 2mm to 4mm wide, these chains keep the signature interlocking flat link pattern but in a refined, low-profile size. They are lightweight, comfortable for all-day wear, and easy to layer with other pieces.

Do not let the word "thin" fool you — a well-crafted 4mm solid gold Cuban link still has unmistakable presence. The links catch light beautifully, and the chain sits flat against the chest in a way that looks intentional and clean.

Who They're Best For

• First-time gold chain buyers who want to start with something manageable in both size and price
• Women looking for a Cuban link — the 3mm and 4mm widths are extremely popular for women's necklaces
• Pendant wearers — thin Cubans make excellent pendant chains because they do not compete with the pendant for attention
• Professionals who want to wear gold to the office without drawing too much attention
• Layering enthusiasts — a thin Cuban is the perfect foundation chain in a multi-chain stack

Styling Tips for Thin Chains

Thin Cuban links look best when you lean into their versatility. Wear a 3mm chain at 18-20 inches for a tight, clean look with a crew neck or polo shirt. Stack two or three thin Cubans at different lengths (18", 20", 22") for a layered look that adds dimension without bulk.

If you are wearing a pendant, a 3mm or 4mm Cuban is ideal — the chain supports the pendant without overshadowing it. For more advice on pendant pairing, check out our complete styling guide.

One more tip: thin Cuban links pair beautifully with a matching Cuban link bracelet in the same width. The coordinated set looks polished and intentional.

Shop Thin Cuban Link Chains (2-4mm) →

Medium Cuban Links (5-8mm)

The 5mm to 8mm range is where the vast majority of Cuban link chain buyers end up — and for good reason. These widths hit the sweet spot between visibility and wearability. They are thick enough to be noticed, light enough to wear all day, and versatile enough to work with almost any outfit or occasion.

If someone asks us what size Cuban link chain they should start with, nine times out of ten we point them to this range.

The Most Popular Range

When customers ask about the most popular Cuban link chain width, the answer is consistently the 6mm to 8mm range. Here is why each width in this category stands out:

5mm: The entry point into medium territory. A 5mm Cuban link is visible but not loud. It works in every setting — boardrooms, barbecues, black-tie events. This width is popular with buyers who want a chain they never have to take off.

6mm: Arguably the single most popular width across all demographics. A 6mm Cuban link is the "Goldilocks" width — substantial enough to see from across a room, comfortable enough to sleep in. If you are buying one Cuban link chain and want maximum versatility, 6mm is the safest bet.

7mm: A step up in presence without a dramatic jump in weight. The 7mm width is popular with men who tried a 5mm or 6mm and wanted just a little more impact. It is also a favorite for matching chain-and-bracelet sets.

8mm: The top end of the medium range and the gateway to bold territory. An 8mm Cuban link chain makes a clear statement. You can see the individual links and their craftsmanship from a distance. This width is popular with men who want their chain to be a focal point of their outfit without going full heavyweight.

This is the width range where the craftsmanship of a handmade chain really starts to show. At GOLDZENN, every link in our Cuban chains is hand-assembled and finished in our Miami workshop — and at 6mm and above, you can truly see and feel the difference between handmade solid gold and mass-produced alternatives. Learn more in our ultimate guide to Cuban link chains.

Styling Tips for Medium Chains

Medium Cuban links are the easiest chains in the world to style. Wear a 6mm chain at 20-22 inches with a simple white T-shirt and the chain does all the talking. Layer an 8mm over a button-down with the top two buttons open for a classic Miami look.

For layering, a medium Cuban works as either the base chain (with thinner chains layered on top at shorter lengths) or as the statement piece (worn over a thinner base chain). Just make sure your layered chains are at least 2 inches apart in length so they do not tangle.

Medium widths also pair well with medium-sized pendants. A cross, initial, or medallion pendant between 1 and 2 inches tall sits perfectly on a 5mm to 7mm Cuban link.

Shop Medium Cuban Link Chains (5-8mm) →

Thick/Bold Cuban Links (9-14mm)

Now we are entering serious jewelry territory. Cuban link chains in the 9mm to 14mm range are unmistakable. These are chains that announce themselves. They sit heavy on the chest, they catch every light in the room, and they demand attention in the best possible way.

This is the width range most people picture when they think of a classic Cuban link chain. It is the width you see on athletes, musicians, and jewelry collectors — the quintessential bold gold chain.

Making a Statement

9-10mm: The starting point for bold chains. A 10mm Cuban link is noticeably thick but still within the range of everyday wearability for most men. It is a popular width for buyers who have already owned a medium chain and are ready to upgrade. The 10mm is also the most common width for iced-out or diamond-set Cuban links, though at GOLDZENN we focus on the beauty of solid gold craftsmanship.

11-12mm: This is where the chain becomes a true centerpiece. An 11mm or 12mm Cuban link commands attention from across the room. The individual links are large enough that you can appreciate the interlocking pattern and the quality of the finish from several feet away. These widths are favorites among collectors who want a chain that looks and feels like a significant piece of jewelry.

13-14mm: The upper boundary of thick Cuban links. At 14mm, a Cuban link chain is roughly the width of your pinky finger. These chains are heavy, impressive, and not for the faint of heart. They are investment pieces as much as they are fashion pieces — the amount of gold in a 14mm chain at 22 inches is substantial.

Weight Considerations

Weight is one of the most important factors to think about in this category. A 10mm Cuban link chain at 22 inches in 14K gold can weigh between 160 and 250 grams depending on the link thickness and tightness. A 14mm chain in the same length and karat can exceed 500 grams.

That weight is not just about price — it is about comfort. If you have never worn a heavy chain before, we strongly recommend trying one on before committing. Visit us at our Miami location to feel the weight in person, or reach out to our team for guidance on what to expect.

Here are some practical weight tips for thick chains:

• A heavier chain benefits from a box clasp or a thick lobster clasp for security — you do not want a flimsy clasp on an expensive chain
• Shorter lengths (18-20") keep the weight more manageable than longer ones (24-26")
• 10K gold is denser than 14K, so a 10K chain in the same dimensions will actually weigh slightly more (but cost less per gram)
• If you are between two widths and worried about weight, go with the thinner option in a higher karat — you get more visual impact per gram with 18K gold's richer color

Shop Bold Cuban Link Chains (9-14mm) →

Extra Thick Cuban Links (15mm+)

The Heavy Hitters

Cuban link chains at 15mm and above are in a category of their own. These are the widest, heaviest, and most visually dramatic chains you can buy. At 15mm or wider, the chain dominates your entire neckline — it becomes the outfit.

Extra thick Cubans are not everyday chains for most people. They are special-occasion pieces, collector's items, or signature accessories for people whose personal style calls for maximum boldness. They are also significant financial investments, as the gold content at this width is enormous.

A 15mm Cuban link at 22 inches in 14K gold can weigh well over 500 grams — that is more than a pound of solid gold around your neck. At 18mm or 20mm, you are looking at weights that can exceed 800 grams or more.

Because of the size and weight involved, extra thick Cuban links almost always require custom work. The clasp system needs to be engineered for the weight, the links need to be reinforced, and the finish needs to be flawless across a large surface area. This is the kind of piece where handcrafted quality is not just a nice-to-have — it is essential. If you are considering a chain in this range, our custom projects team can work with you to design exactly what you want.

Who buys extra thick Cuban links?

• Collectors who already own chains in every other width
• Buyers who want a single "hero piece" that defines their jewelry collection
• Customers buying statement chains for special occasions — milestone birthdays, business achievements, celebrations
• Performers and public figures who need jewelry that reads on camera or from a stage

Request a Custom Extra Thick Cuban Link →

How to Choose Your Width

Now that you know what each width range looks and feels like, let us talk about how to pick the right one for you. The three biggest factors are your body type, where you plan to wear it, and your budget.

By Body Type and Neck Size

Your build plays a bigger role in how a chain looks than most people realize. The same 8mm chain can look bold on a slim frame and understated on a larger one. Here are our recommendations based on body type:

Slim/Small Build (neck 14-15"):

• Best widths: 3mm to 6mm
• These widths complement a slimmer frame without overwhelming it
• A 5mm chain on a slim neck delivers roughly the same visual impact as an 8mm chain on a larger neck
• Avoid going above 10mm unless you specifically want an oversized, fashion-forward look

Medium/Average Build (neck 15-17"):

• Best widths: 5mm to 10mm
• You have the widest range of options — almost every width works proportionally
• 6mm to 8mm is the sweet spot for a "noticeable but not overdone" look
• This is the body type where the most popular widths (6mm, 8mm) were essentially designed to shine

Large/Athletic Build (neck 17-19"+):

• Best widths: 7mm to 14mm
• A wider neck and broader shoulders can carry thicker chains with ease
• Chains under 5mm can look like they disappear on a larger frame
• 8mm to 12mm is the sweet spot — bold without being costumey

The best way to know for sure? Try it on. If you are near Miami, stop by GOLDZENN and try different widths around your neck. If you are shopping online, measure a chain you already own (or even a piece of string) to visualize the width before ordering.

By Occasion

Where you plan to wear your chain matters just as much as how it looks:

• Daily wear / work: 3mm to 6mm — comfortable, professional, easy to tuck under a collar if needed
• Casual / going out: 5mm to 10mm — visible and stylish without overdoing it
• Special occasions / events: 8mm to 14mm — statement pieces that match the energy of a big night
• Performances / on camera: 10mm+ — wider chains read better on camera and from a distance

Many of our customers at GOLDZENN own multiple chains in different widths for different occasions. A 5mm for work, an 8mm for weekends, and a 12mm for special occasions is a collection that covers every situation.

By Budget (Width Affects Gold Weight and Price)

Let us be straightforward: width is the single biggest driver of price in a Cuban link chain. A wider chain uses exponentially more gold — not just because the links are wider, but because they are also thicker and heavier to maintain structural integrity.

Here is a rough idea of how width scales with price (using 14K gold at a 22-inch length as our baseline):

• 3mm: Entry-level investment — a great starting point for buyers on a budget
• 5-6mm: Mid-range — the best value for the visual impact you get
• 8-10mm: Premium — a significant purchase, but one that holds lasting value
• 12mm+: High-end investment piece — priced accordingly for the amount of gold involved

If budget is a major factor, remember that karat also affects price. A 10K gold chain costs less per gram than 14K, and 14K costs less than 18K. You might get a wider chain in 10K for the same price as a narrower chain in 14K. Our team can help you find the best combination of width, length, and karat for your budget — just reach out through our custom projects page or visit us in person.

Browse All Cuban Link Chains by Width →

Width + Length Combinations That Work

Width and length work together to create the final look. Here are combinations our customers love:

A general rule: Thicker chains look better at moderate lengths. Going too long with a thick chain adds a lot of weight and can make the chain swing uncomfortably. Going too short with a thin chain can make it look like it does not belong. The combinations above are starting points — your ideal length depends on your height, build, and where you want the chain to sit on your chest.

If you are unsure about length, our ultimate guide to Cuban link chains has a detailed length breakdown with visual references.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular Cuban link chain width?

The most popular Cuban link chain width is 6mm to 8mm. This range is the sweet spot for most buyers because it is wide enough to be clearly visible and recognizable as a Cuban link, but not so heavy that it becomes uncomfortable for daily wear. At GOLDZENN, our 6mm and 8mm chains are consistently our best sellers across all karats. If you are buying your first Cuban link and want the most universally flattering width, start with a 6mm.

What width chain should a man wear?

The right width depends on your build and personal style. For most men, 5mm to 10mm is the ideal range. Men with slimmer builds tend to look best in 5mm to 7mm chains, while men with larger or more athletic builds can comfortably wear 8mm to 12mm or wider. There is no single answer — the best width is the one that looks proportional to your frame and matches the statement you want to make. If in doubt, 6mm to 8mm works for virtually every man.

Is 5mm too thin for a Cuban link chain?

No, 5mm is not too thin. A 5mm Cuban link chain is actually a very popular width, especially for everyday wear. At 5mm, the signature flat interlocking link pattern is clearly visible, and the chain has noticeable weight and presence. It is thinner than the bold chains you might see on social media, but in person, a solid gold 5mm Cuban link looks substantial and refined. It is an excellent width for layering, wearing with pendants, or wearing to professional settings where you want a chain that is present but not overpowering.

How much does a 10mm Cuban link chain weigh?

A 10mm Cuban link chain at 22 inches in 14K solid gold typically weighs between 160 and 250 grams, depending on the link thickness and how tightly the links are assembled. In 10K gold, the same chain may weigh slightly more due to the higher density of the alloy metals, while an 18K version may weigh slightly less. The weight can vary significantly between manufacturers — handcrafted chains like ours at GOLDZENN tend to be denser and heavier than machine-made chains because the links are tighter and more precisely assembled. For exact weights, check the product listing or contact our team.

What width Cuban link chain looks best with a pendant?

For pendants, we recommend a Cuban link chain between 3mm and 6mm wide. The chain should complement the pendant without competing with it. A good rule of thumb: the pendant should be the focal point, and the chain should frame it. For small pendants (under 1 inch), a 3mm to 4mm chain works best. For medium pendants (1 to 2 inches), a 5mm to 6mm chain provides the right balance. For large or heavy pendants, you may need a 7mm or wider chain simply for structural support — the chain needs to be strong enough to carry the pendant without bending or kinking. Learn more about pendant styling in our chain styling guide.

Find Your Perfect Width at GOLDZENN

The right Cuban link chain width is a personal decision, but it does not have to be a difficult one. Use this guide as your starting point, and remember: there is no wrong answer. Whether you go with a subtle 3mm daily wearer or a head-turning 14mm statement piece, a well-made solid gold Cuban link chain is a piece you will own and enjoy for the rest of your life.

At GOLDZENN, every chain we sell is handcrafted in solid 10K, 14K, or 18K gold right here in Miami. We have been helping customers find their perfect chain for years — with over 295 five-star Google reviews to show for it.

Ready to find your width?

• Browse our full Cuban link chain collection
• Shop matching Cuban link bracelets
• Request a custom width or length

Have questions? Contact our team anytime. We are here to help you get exactly the chain you want.