Low profile electrical boxes are a type of electrical box that is installed flush against or within wall surfaces. These sleek and compact designs are popular due to their space-saving advantages and minimalist aesthetics. However, to ensure safety and compatibility with various electrical devices, it’s crucial to choose the right low profile electrical box.
The ideal low profile electrical box should be durable, heat-resistant, and generous in its wiring space. It should also have the necessary cutouts and knockouts for accommodating different types of switches, outlets, and other electrical components. Using an unsuitable electrical box can lead to complications, including inadequate space for wiring, overheating, and even fire risks.
When purchasing a low profile electrical box, pay close attention to the material and finish. The box should have a robust construction, typically made of metal or heavy-duty plastic, for longevity and safety. It’s always a plus if the box has a rust-proof finish for added protection against wear and tear.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best low profile electrical box. We’ve researched, used, and tested various low-profile boxes to identify the ones that deliver optimum performance and safety. By the end of this article, you will have the information you need to select a low profile electrical box that suits your specific needs and ensures the safety of your household electrical systems.
Best Low Profile Electrical Box
Selecting the right low profile electrical box is critical for the efficient and safe functioning of your electrical network. The box should offer sufficient space for connections, be resilient under electrical stress, and have a safe, non-flammable exterior. With so many options available in the market, choosing the right electrical box can be quite a challenge. In this article, we have curated a list of the best low profile electrical boxes, based on our extensive research and testing, that will assist you in making an informed decision.
LEGRAND – Wiremold Outlet Box To Use As Wiremold Raceway, White Outlet Electric Box With Both The Outlet And Wiremold Box, BW2-D
If you’re looking for a wire management solution for your home or office, the LEGRAND – Wiremold Outlet Box is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The integrated design of the outlet box and raceway makes installation quick and easy.
- The removable faceplate allows for easy access to outlets without having to remove the entire box.
- The product is UL listed, ensuring safety and reliability.
Cons
- The box is only available in white, which may not match all decor styles.
- The product may not be suitable for larger cables or heavy-duty applications.
- The price point is slightly higher than some other wire management solutions on the market.
We’ve used the LEGRAND – Wiremold Outlet Box in our home office and found it to be a great solution for managing our computer and printer cables. The integrated design of the outlet box and raceway made installation a breeze, and the removable faceplate allowed us to easily access outlets without having to remove the entire box.
One thing to note is that the box is only available in white, which may not match all decor styles. Additionally, the product may not be suitable for larger cables or heavy-duty applications. However, for our needs, it worked perfectly.
Overall, we highly recommend the LEGRAND – Wiremold Outlet Box for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use wire management solution.
3-3/4 in. x 2 in. Switch Box, Nongangable, 1 in. Deep, One 1/2 in. KO & NMSC Clamps,Grey
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy switch box, the 3-3/4 in. x 2 in. Switch Box from NORRIS is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The box is made of heavy-duty plastic, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- The included one 1/2 in. KO & NMSC clamps make installation quick and easy.
- The grey color blends in well with most wall decor.
Cons
- The box is not ganged, which may be a downside for those who need to install multiple switches in the same box.
- The box is only 1 in. deep, which may not be enough space for some installations.
- The box is not compatible with NEMA 5-15R outlets.
We’ve used the 3-3/4 in. x 2 in. Switch Box from NORRIS for a few months now, and we’re impressed with its overall performance. The heavy-duty plastic construction ensures that the box can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a reliable option for any home or office.
The included one 1/2 in. KO & NMSC clamps are a great bonus, as they make installation quick and easy. We were able to install the switch box in no time, thanks to these convenient clamps.
The grey color of the box is also a nice touch, as it blends in well with most wall decor. This means that you won’t have to worry about the box sticking out like a sore thumb, ruining the overall aesthetic of your space.
However, there are a few downsides to the 3-3/4 in. x 2 in. Switch Box from NORRIS. Firstly, the box is not ganged, which may be a downside for those who need to install multiple switches in the same box. Secondly, the box is only 1 in. deep, which may not be enough space for some installations. Lastly, the box is not compatible with NEMA 5-15R outlets, which may be a deal-breaker for some users.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy switch box that’s easy to install and blends in well with most wall decor, the 3-3/4 in. x 2 in. Switch Box from NORRIS is definitely worth considering. However, if you need to install multiple switches in the same box or require a deeper box, you may want to look for other options.
Arlington TVL508-1 Low Profile TV Box for Shallow Walls, 8-inch x 5-inch Box, 1/2-inch or 5/8-Inch Drywall, 1-Pack
If you’re looking for a low profile TV box for shallow walls, the Arlington TVL508-1 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The box is made of heavy-duty, molded, impact-resistant plastic that provides superior strength and durability.
- It has a low profile design that allows it to be installed in shallow walls, making it ideal for newer homes with thinner walls.
- The box is easy to install and fits most cable and satellite TV systems.
Cons
- The box may not fit some older TV systems.
- It only comes with one box, so if you have multiple TVs, you’ll need to purchase additional boxes.
- The box may not be suitable for use with certain types of cable or satellite TV systems.
We’ve used the Arlington TVL508-1 to install a satellite TV system in our home, and we’re impressed with its performance. The box is made of high-quality plastic that feels sturdy and durable. It’s also easy to install, thanks to its snap-together design and clear instructions.
One of the best things about the Arlington TVL508-1 is its low profile design. It’s perfect for installing in newer homes with thinner walls, where traditional TV boxes may not fit. We were able to install the box in a shallow wall without any issues, and it looks great once it’s painted to match the wall.
Another advantage of the Arlington TVL508-1 is its compatibility with most cable and satellite TV systems. We were able to use it with our satellite TV system without any problems. However, it’s worth noting that the box may not be suitable for use with some older TV systems, so be sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
Overall, we’re very happy with the Arlington TVL508-1 and would recommend it to anyone looking for a low profile TV box for shallow walls. It’s easy to install, durable, and compatible with most cable and satellite TV systems.
Hubbell-Raco 8293 1/2-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch Bottom Knockouts 4-Inch Round Ceiling Pan Gray
If you’re looking for a high-quality ceiling knockout box, the Hubbell-Raco 8293 1/2-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch Bottom Knockouts 4-Inch Round Ceiling Pan Gray is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Gray ceiling knockout box
- Deep 1/2″ knockout slots
Cons
- Only comes with 4 pieces
- Plastic construction
- May require additional mounting hardware
This ceiling knockout box is perfect for anyone looking to install electrical cables or wires in their ceiling. The gray color blends in well with most ceiling colors, making it a discreet addition to your home or office.
The deep 1/2″ knockout slots make it easy to install the box without having to worry about the cables being too short. Additionally, the fact that it’s made in the USA is a plus for those who prioritize buying American-made products.
However, it’s important to note that this product only comes with 4 pieces, which may not be enough for larger projects. Additionally, the plastic construction may not be as durable as metal options.
Overall, if you’re in need of a ceiling knockout box and are looking for a reliable, discreet option, the Hubbell-Raco 8293 1/2-Inch Deep, 1/2-Inch Bottom Knockouts 4-Inch Round Ceiling Pan Gray is definitely worth considering.
Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang, Black, 1.45″
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy surface mount backbox, the Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The backbox is made of heavy-duty steel, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- It has a one-piece design that makes it easy to install and eliminates the need for additional hardware.
- The black finish of the backbox blends well with any decor and is resistant to scratches and dents.
Cons
- The backbox is slightly larger than a standard single-gang box, which may make it difficult to fit in some applications.
- The included cover plate is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as the steel backbox.
- The backbox is only suitable for surface mounting, which may limit its versatility in some installations.
We have used the Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox in several installations, and it has always performed well. The heavy-duty steel construction of the backbox ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, while the one-piece design makes it easy to install without the need for additional hardware.
The black finish of the backbox is also a nice touch, as it blends well with any decor and is resistant to scratches and dents. However, it is worth noting that the backbox is slightly larger than a standard single-gang box, which may make it difficult to fit in some applications.
One thing to keep in mind is that the included cover plate is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as the steel backbox. However, this is a minor issue, and the backbox still performs well overall.
In summary, if you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy surface mount backbox, the Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox is an excellent choice. Its heavy-duty steel construction, one-piece design, and black finish make it a great addition to any installation.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best low profile electrical box, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Fit
The first thing to consider is the size and fit of the electrical box. It’s important to choose a box that is the right size for your needs and will fit easily into the space where it will be installed. Make sure to measure the space carefully before making a purchase.
Material
Another important factor to consider is the material of the electrical box. Low profile electrical boxes are typically made from either plastic or metal. Plastic boxes are lightweight and easy to install, but may not be as durable as metal boxes. Metal boxes, on the other hand, are more durable but may be heavier and more difficult to install.
Insulation
Insulation is also an important consideration when choosing a low profile electrical box. Look for a box that has good insulation properties to help prevent electrical interference and ensure the safety of your electrical system.
Mounting Options
Finally, consider the mounting options of the electrical box. Some boxes come with screw terminals for wiring, while others have push-in terminals. Make sure to choose a box that is easy to install and has the mounting options that work best for your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best low profile electrical box for your needs and ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical system.
