Nowadays, it seems like every device we use has to be charged via a USB cable. The problem is, there are only so many open USB ports on a given computer or open outlets in your wall sockets. If you’re thinking about installing USB wall sockets to accommodate more chargers, here’s what you need to know.
Safety & Reliability
One critical thing to keep in mind if you’re considering investing in a USB wall socket is that quality matters. While it might seem tempting to buy with a cheap wall socket to save a little bit of money, cutting costs can put you in danger and compromise the reliability of your USB wall ports.
Make sure you get a quality USB wall socket from a well-known brand. If you’re not sure which brands are good or which products are the best, take some time to look around at different reviews to find something good. Ideally, you want a certified product that gets good scores for reliability and safety.
Added Features
Another thing you have to consider if you’re looking for the best USB wall socket is that there are many different features available. While some people may opt for a simple USB socket to save money, others may want something a little more complex with features that add convenience and safety.
Some of the best features you can find in USB wall sockets include sliding shutters, on-off switches, and the inclusion of regular outlets. Sliding shutters make it easy to keep hair and dirt out of USB sockets while on-off switches allow you to keep your sockets turned off if you’re not using them.
In some cases, you may be better off with a simple USB charging device that can be plugged into the wall. For example, there are USB charging stations and desk organizers that include several USB chargers, some of which offer fast charging.
Amperage & Charging
When you’re shopping for a USB wall socket, one of the most important things to consider is the wall socket’s amperage. Amperage is the biggest factor in how fast a USB port can charge your devices; the higher the amperage of a USB outlet, the faster your phone or tablet is going to charge.
There are generally two types of USB wall sockets on the market; 2.4A or 2.1A chargers are designed for fast charging while 1A chargers are the standard. If you want to charge your devices as quickly as possible (and they support fast charging), you want a higher amperage.
Another thing you need to remember is that USB-C is becoming increasingly popular with newer devices. Because of this, it’s also worth looking for a USB wall socket that has USB-C ports in addition to USB ports, or simply USB-C ports instead.
Finding the USB Socket
If you want to make it simpler to charge more devices at once, there’s nothing quite like a good USB wall socket. However, you need to ascertain you’re getting a quality product if you want the best charging capabilities and features.
Not sure what kind of USB wall sockets are best for your home? The good news is that an electrician can help you make the right call. Not only do they know which USB outlets are certified and safe, but an expert can also help you find the amperage and additional features you need to make sure you’re getting a quality charge.
