2×4 electrical boxes, often referred to as low-profile or ‘old work’ boxes, are a staple in numerous electrical installations, especially for remodeling projects. These boxes are fitted between wall studs, offering a clean, flush-mounted electrical outlet or switch installation solution. Despite their seemingly straightforward purpose, choosing the right 2×4 electrical box requires thoughtful consideration to guarantee the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.
The ideal 2×4 electrical box should be durable and fire-resistant. It should be able to easily and securely hold wiring connections and switches or outlets, and not break or deteriorate over time. An electrical box that fails to meet these criteria can pose potential fire hazards or lead to electrical shocks. Hence, it’s critical to select the right-sized box that’s capable of handling the specifications of your electrical components.
When purchasing a 2×4 electrical box, pay close attention to the material. The box should be constructed from a non-conductive material such as PVC or thermoplastic that won’t interfere with the electrical flow. It should also have various knockouts for cable entries and be easy to handle and install.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best 2×4 electrical box. We have researched, tested, and analyzed various electrical boxes to identify the ones that meet all safety and performance standards. By considering our recommendations, you can make an informed choice and secure electrical wiring in your establishment effectively.
Best 2×4 Electrical Box
Selecting the right 2×4 electrical box is critical for the safety, reliability, and aesthetics of your electrical installation. The box should offer secure support, effective protection, and user-friendly features. With numerous options available in the market, it can be daunting to choose the best one for your needs. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top-rated 2×4 electrical boxes that cater to various installation scenarios, based on our extensive testing and analysis, to ease your decision-making process.
Qlvily 4 Packs 4×2 Inch Metal Electrical Box, Single Gang Electrical Box, Ten 1/2 Inch Knockouts, Raised Ground, 13 Cu. in. Capacity, 1-7/8″ Deep, Junction Box Metal, Galvanized
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy electrical box, the Qlvily 4 Packs 4×2 Inch Metal Electrical Box is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The raised ground plate and cover provide a better sealing effect to protect against dust, splashing water, and other harmful factors.
- The metal material ensures better heat dissipation, and the 13 cubic inch capacity is enough to meet most of your wiring needs.
- The installation process is simple and easy, and the included screws make it even more convenient.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the knockouts are a bit small, which can make it difficult to fit larger cables.
- The screws that are included may not be long enough for some installations, so you may need to provide your own.
- While the metal material is sturdy, it also means that the box is a bit heavier than some other options on the market.
Overall, we’ve found the Qlvily 4 Packs 4×2 Inch Metal Electrical Box to be a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and sturdy electrical box. The raised ground plate and cover provide excellent protection against dust and water, and the 13 cubic inch capacity is more than enough to meet most wiring needs. While the knockouts may be a bit small for some users, and the included screws may not be long enough for all installations, these are minor drawbacks that shouldn’t deter you from considering this product.
Newhouse 1-Gang PVC Electrical Outlet Box – 14 cu. in., for Switches, GFCI and Duplex Receptacles
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy electrical outlet box, the Newhouse 1-Gang PVC Electrical Outlet Box is a great option.
Pros
- The box is made of high-quality PVC material, which is durable and long-lasting.
- It is compatible with various types of electrical devices, including switches, GFCI, and duplex receptacles.
- The box is easy to install and can be installed without any additional hardware.
Cons
- The box may not fit larger outlets or switches.
- The box is only available in white color.
- The box may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.
We have used and tested the Newhouse 1-Gang PVC Electrical Outlet Box, and we are impressed with its performance. The box is made of high-quality PVC material, which is durable and long-lasting. It is also easy to install and can be installed without any additional hardware. The box is compatible with various types of electrical devices, including switches, GFCI, and duplex receptacles, making it a versatile option for any electrical project.
One of the downsides of the box is that it may not fit larger outlets or switches. Additionally, the box is only available in white color, which may not be suitable for all electrical projects. Finally, the box may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications, so it is important to consider the intended use before purchasing.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy electrical outlet box, the Newhouse 1-Gang PVC Electrical Outlet Box is a great option to consider.
Sigma Engineered Solutions, Gray Sigma Electric 14250 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable electrical box, the Sigma Engineered Solutions, Gray Sigma Electric 14250 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box is a great option.
Pros
- The box is made of high-quality, impact-resistant plastic that is resistant to rust, corrosion, and other environmental hazards.
- It features a snap-together design that makes installation quick and easy, and the box can be easily cut with a utility knife or scissors for a custom fit.
- The 1/2-inch depth of the box is suitable for most low-voltage applications, and the 3-hole knockout design allows for easy cable fish passage.
Cons
- The box may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications, as it is made of plastic and not metal.
- The depth of the box may not be sufficient for some applications, so it’s important to measure the required depth before purchasing.
- The box may not be suitable for use with certain types of wiring, so it’s important to check compatibility before installing.
The Sigma Engineered Solutions, Gray Sigma Electric 14250 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and durable electrical box. The high-quality, impact-resistant plastic material ensures that the box is resistant to rust, corrosion, and other environmental hazards, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
The snap-together design of the box makes installation quick and easy, and the box can be easily cut with a utility knife or scissors for a custom fit. The 1/2-inch depth of the box is suitable for most low-voltage applications, and the 3-hole knockout design allows for easy cable fish passage.
However, the box may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications, as it is made of plastic and not metal. Additionally, the depth of the box may not be sufficient for some applications, so it’s important to measure the required depth before purchasing. Finally, the box may not be suitable for use with certain types of wiring, so it’s important to check compatibility before installing.
Overall, the Sigma Engineered Solutions, Gray Sigma Electric 14250 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and durable electrical box for their low-voltage applications.
Zulkit Junction Box ABS Plastic Dustproof Waterproof IP65 Universal Electrical Boxes Project Enclosure with Fixed Ear Black 4.5 x 3.5 x 2.2 Inch (115 x 90 x 55mm)(Pack of 2)
If you’re looking for a durable and waterproof electrical junction box, the Zulkit Junction Box might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The box is made of high-quality ABS plastic, which is sturdy and impact-resistant.
- It has a large opening, which makes it easy to install and connect wires.
- The box is dustproof and waterproof, with an IP65 rating, which means it can withstand harsh environments.
Cons
- The box is a bit bulky, which might make it difficult to install in tight spaces.
- The gasket that seals the box might be a bit difficult to install.
- The box might be a bit expensive compared to other similar products on the market.
We’ve used the Zulkit Junction Box in a few of our projects, and we’ve found it to be a reliable and sturdy option. The box is made of high-quality ABS plastic, which is impact-resistant and can withstand harsh environments. The large opening of the box makes it easy to install and connect wires, which is a big plus.
One thing to keep in mind is that the box is a bit bulky, which might make it difficult to install in tight spaces. Additionally, the gasket that seals the box might be a bit difficult to install, but it’s worth it for the added protection it provides.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and waterproof electrical junction box, the Zulkit Junction Box is definitely worth considering.
Hubbell-Raco 8660 1-7/8-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch End Knockouts, Drawn 4-Inch by 2-Inch Handy Box
If you’re looking for a handy box with a deep profile and end knockouts, the Hubbell-Raco 8660 1-7/8-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch End Knockouts, Drawn 4-Inch by 2-Inch Handy Box is a great option.
Pros
- The deep profile of this handy box allows for easy cable organization and management.
- The end knockouts make it easy to install and connect cables.
- This handy box is UL listed, ensuring that it meets high safety standards.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the screws provided with this handy box are not the best quality.
- This handy box may not be suitable for larger cables or heavy-duty applications.
- The price point of this handy box may be higher than some other options on the market.
Overall, we have found the Hubbell-Raco 8660 1-7/8-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch End Knockouts, Drawn 4-Inch by 2-Inch Handy Box to be a reliable and efficient option for cable management. The deep profile and end knockouts make it easy to install and use, and the UL listing ensures that it meets high safety standards. However, users should be aware of the potential quality issues with the screws and consider whether this handy box is suitable for their specific application.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best 2X4 electrical box, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
The material of the electrical box is an important consideration. It should be durable, fire-resistant, and able to withstand the weight of the electrical components. Common materials for electrical boxes include plastic, metal, and composite materials.
Size
The size of the electrical box should be appropriate for the 2X4 stud spacing. It should be able to accommodate the electrical components, including wires, outlets, and switches. It is important to measure the space available and choose a box that fits comfortably.
Type
There are different types of electrical boxes, including surface mount boxes, flush mount boxes, and back box assemblies. Surface mount boxes are installed on the surface of the wall, while flush mount boxes are recessed into the wall. Back box assemblies are used to replace outdated electrical boxes.
Features
Some electrical boxes come with additional features, such as knockouts for cable entry, gasket seals for moisture protection, and adjustable mounting tabs for easy installation. These features can make the electrical box more versatile and easier to use.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best 2X4 electrical box for your needs.
