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What Is a USB Outlet?
A USB outlet is a convenient way to charge your devices with just the cord
Photo: patpitchaya/iStock via Getty Images
Photo: patpitchaya/iStock via Getty Images
Highlights
USB outlets combine standard electrical outlets with built-in USB ports, so you don’t have to deal with bulky charging adapters.
USB-C outlets offer ultra-fast charging speeds and reversible connections, while USB-A ports are the original rectangular design still commonly found in outlets.
Devices charge up to 40% faster when plugged directly into a USB outlet compared to using an adapter with a normal outlet.
Installing a USB outlet costs between $130 and $300 on average, the same as a standard outlet replacement.
Most standard outlets can be replaced with USB outlets by a licensed electrician, though DIY replacement is possible only with electrical experience.
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Most modern phone charger cords end with a USB plug, meaning you’ll need a USB outlet to charge your essential devices. Switching out your standard wall outlet for a USB outlet can allow you to conveniently charge all your devices without having to dig for an adapter. Let’s review the ins and outs of this type of outlet to determine whether it’s right for your home.
What is a USB Outlet?
A USB Outlet is exactly what it sounds like, a wall socket that has a USB Port built in. Usually the outlet comes with two usual electrical outlets and two USB ports.
Since installing the outlet means dealing with electrical wiring, you want to hire a licensed electrician to handle the work.
Types of USB Outlets
USB cables come in many different sizes and shapes; the same is true for USB outlets. Here are the major designs you will likely encounter as you shop for new outlets. Keep in mind that there are many other types of USB cables, like USB-B and USB-B Micro, but these designs aren’t integrated within power outlets.
USB-A: This is the original USB connector and is still commonly found integrated within power outlets. These ports are flat and rectangular. USB-A cables connect to various devices, such as laptops, desktops, televisions, gaming consoles, and much more.
USB-C: Since arriving on the scene several years back, USB-C connections have blown up, thanks to ultra-fast charging speeds compared to USB-A. You can find these ports in smartphones, smartwatches, headphones, and other new gadgets. One nifty thing about USB-C is that the cables are reversible, so there is no wrong way to make a connection.
Lightning: This is Apple’s proprietary take on the whole endeavor, so you find these ports within iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices. Certain outlets are equipped with Lightning ports to accommodate Apple products.
Uses for a USB Outlet
Installing a USB outlet lets you charge a device, like a tablet or a smartphone, using the USB charging cord it comes with, without a power adapter or computer. These types of outlets are convenient to have in a place you frequently charge your devices like a bedroom or kitchen. Since not every electronic device is compatible with a USB outlet, it frees up your other outlets so you can plug in other things, like a lamp on your bedside table.
Plus, you can toss your USB charge adapters once you have USB-c outlets in your home. A bonus perk is that devices plugged into a USB outlet charge it up to 40 percent faster than using an adapter and a typical outlet.
Cost to Install a USB Outlet
Photo: Francescomoufotografo/iStock via Getty Images
Typically installing an outlet will cost you an average of $210, and range from $130 to $300. Because the outlet has the same amount of power as the typical outlet, installing a USB outlet will run you the same cost as a typical outlet.
If you are replacing more than one outlet at a time, the cost will be more. However, bundling electrical work can help you save on the labor cost of installing outlets and switches. Keep in mind that hiring an electrician costs about $50 to $100 per hour, depending on factors like job size, location, and number of tasks. Consult multiple electricians to get an accurate estimate of your electrical project cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
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