What size drain snake do I need for a household clog?

Specialist plumbing community consensus (r/askaplumber, r/Plumbing) is that a 1/4-inch cable is sufficient for kitchen sinks, tubs, and showers, while 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch cables are needed for main lines or anything involving roots. For most DIY hair and soft clogs, a 25-foot hand auger or a small powered drum like the Ridgid PowerClear is more than enough.