Power Outlets & Sockets

Best Power Outlets & Sockets in the UK: Your Complete Guide to Brands, Stores and Smart Choices

Why upgrading your power outlets matters

Think of power outlets as the unsung workhorses of your home — they quietly feed every gadget, lamp and appliance you rely on. Upgrading sockets isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about safety, convenience and future-proofing. A modern outlet can add USB charging, weatherproof protection for outdoor use, or smart controls that shave pounds off your energy bill. If you’ve ever had to unplug one device to charge another, you know why a better socket layout can make daily life much easier.

Where to buy quality sockets in the UK

If you’re shopping for sockets, start with specialist electrical suppliers and big-box DIY stores. Expert Electrical, for example, stocks a wide range of modules from established manufacturers and is a go-to for trade and DIY buyers alike. Other reliable UK retailers include Screwfix, B&Q, Wickes, Toolstation and RS Components — each offers different strengths, from trade-only products and bulk discounts to consumer-friendly displays and quick click-and-collect. Online marketplaces like Amazon UK also carry many brands, but buying from a specialist often gives you clearer product specs and expert support.

Popular brands and modules to look for

Brands matter when you want reliability and replacement parts down the line. In the UK market you’ll frequently see Click (including Click Deco and Click Aquip ranges), Varilight, Hamilton, Aurora, Rolec and Timeguard. These manufacturers offer everything from decorative socket plates to weatherproof units and EV charging pedestals. Choosing a well-known brand generally means better build quality, longer product ranges and easier compatibility if you decide to expand or replace modules later.

Click family: Deco, Aqua and Plus

Click’s Deco and Deco Plus lines are known for their wide choice of finishes — satin chrome, black nickel, brushed stainless — and for practical modules like fused spurs, USB outlets and coax/media plates. Click Aquip focuses on outdoor-rated, IP66 weatherproof sockets ideal for gardens or driveways. If you want a coordinated plate set across a room, Click offers modular inserts so you can mix and match switches, sockets and media ports.

Rolec and EV charging solutions

Rolec is a leading name in EV charging hardware in the UK. Their AUTOCHARGE pedestals and sockets are built to withstand heavy use and often include three-phase options for faster charging. If you’re installing a driveway charger or a commercial parking point, look for Rolec’s robust pedestals and matching tethered or socketed chargers — they’re designed specifically for EV environments.

Varilight, Hamilton and lighting compatibility

Varilight and Hamilton are popular for stylish dimmer switches and media inserts. If you’re pairing Downlights with GU10 fittings, or want integrated media sockets for TV and satellite, these brands give you options that balance design and function. For example, Hamilton’s G2 inserts and Varilight dimmers are common choices for modern lounges and home cinemas.

Types of sockets and when to use them

Not all sockets are created equal. When planning a room, consider what each outlet will power and where convenience or safety is key. Standard switched 13A sockets remain the backbone of UK homes, but specialized outlets — weatherproof, fused spurs, USB-integrated sockets and EV pedestals — fill specific needs. Match the outlet type to its role and you’ll avoid awkward extension leads and overloaded plugs.

Standard 13A switched sockets and fused spurs

A typical 13 amp switched socket is perfect for freestanding appliances and chargers. For fixed appliances like cookers or some heating circuits you’ll use fused connection units or fused spurs — these protect the appliance and the circuit with a dedicated fuse. Brands such as Click produce 13A fused units that are lockable or tamper-resistant, which is handy in family homes or rented properties.

Weatherproof outdoor sockets (IP66 and above)

For gardens, garages or exterior lighting, an IP66-rated socket keeps water and dust out. These enclosures seal tightly and are designed to be safe in wet conditions; manufacturers like Click Aquip and Forum Lighting produce twin boxes that protect the connections while allowing you to plug in power tools or lawn equipment easily. Always ensure the socket is installed with a proper outdoor-rated cable and a protected RCD circuit.

USB sockets, media modules and coax outlets

USB A and USB-C outlets are a late-night lifeline for phones and tablets; installing a couple avoids fighting over the kitchen socket. Media plates for TV, satellite and FM allow tidy single-point connections in living rooms. Products such as Click’s Diplexed TV and satellite modules, and Hamilton’s non-isolated TV/FM/SAT inserts, are designed to reduce signal loss and keep cables neat behind your entertainment unit.

EV charging pedestals and dedicated sockets

If you’re thinking about an electric car, an EV pedestal or a dedicated three-phase socket changes the game. Rolec’s Autocharge line offers EV-ready pedestals with three-phase capability for faster charging rates. For on-street or driveway installations, a proper pedestal provides protection from the weather and simplifies the charging process — think of it as a petrol pump for your EV, but kinder to the planet.

Downlights and integrating lighting with power

Downlights and socket choices often go hand-in-hand when renovating. GU10 downlights are a common choice for kitchens and hallways; open-back GU10 fittings and fire-protected downlights are available from lighting specialists like Bell Lighting and Forum Lighting. If you have integrated lighting that shares a circuit with switched sockets or need media plates near your TV, plan the cable runs to avoid interference and keep everything within reach.

Smart sockets and energy monitoring: are they worth it?

Smart sockets offer remote control, scheduling and energy tracking right from your phone. Install smart switches for appliances you want to automate — think kettle, lamp or a gaming console — and monitor usage to find power-hungry culprits. Smart outlets can help you trim pounds from your monthly bills by telling you what actually consumes the most electricity. Choose models compatible with your smart home platform (Google, Alexa or Apple HomeKit) to avoid compatibility headaches.

Safety features: RCDs, fused sockets and lockable modules

Safety should always come first. Residual Current Devices (RCDs) and fused sockets protect against electric shock and wiring faults. Timeguard and similar brands offer RCD-protected twin sockets and modules suited to kitchens and outdoor circuits. Lockable modules and lockable plug covers are ideal in shared spaces or commercial settings where you want to control access to power points.

Picking the right finish: aesthetics meet function

Socket finishes can change the look of a room as much as a fresh coat of paint. From satin brass to brushed stainless, black nickel to polar white, manufacturers like Click and Varilight provide plate finishes to suit any décor. Chrome and stainless finishes tend to read more modern, while brass can warm up traditional interiors. Beyond looks, consider the tactile quality — metal plates often feel more substantial and durable than plastic.

Installation tips and when to call an electrician

Basic socket swaps can be a straightforward DIY task if you have the right skills, but anything involving new circuits, consumer unit work, or outdoor/EV installations should be left to a qualified electrician. If you’re replacing a plate with the same wiring and it’s simply a like-for-like swap, switch the circuit off at the breaker, double-check with a tester and follow the manufacturer’s wiring diagram. For new fused spurs, RCD-protected circuits or three-phase EV pedestals, hiring a professional is the safest route — think of it as an investment in peace of mind.

How to compare prices and find deals

Price comparison is about more than the cheapest sticker. Consider warranty length, included accessories (like mounting frames), and whether a product needs additional inserts. Specialist suppliers and trade accounts often offer bulk savings, while high-street DIY stores may have weekend sales or click-and-collect convenience. Use comparison tools and read customer reviews to spot common faults — a well-reviewed mid-priced unit can outlast a cheap alternative and cost less over time.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Avoid mixing finishes mid-room unless you have a deliberate design plan, don’t overload sockets with adapters and be wary of cheap knockoffs that lack proper certification. Also, avoid improvising outdoor protection; a cheap cover won’t substitute for an IP-rated enclosure. Finally, plan future needs now — extra blank plates or spare modules are easy to add during a renovation and save you headaches later.

Final checklist before you buy

Before clicking “buy”, run through a quick checklist: match the module type to the appliance, confirm IP rating for outdoor use, check for RCD or fused protection if needed, choose a finish that complements your décor and verify compatibility with smart platforms if relevant. If installing an EV charger, confirm your home’s supply capacity and consult an electrician about three-phase requirements. These steps help ensure the right purchase and a smooth installation.

Sustainable choices and energy-saving tips

Opt for LED-compatible switches and smart sockets that allow scheduling to reduce phantom loads. Energy monitoring smart plugs reveal standby power hogs so you can unplug or automate them. Choose durable finishes and reputable brands to reduce the need for premature replacements — it’s better for your wallet and the environment. And if you’re installing EV infrastructure, consider solar or battery storage in the future to maximize green benefits.

Whether you’re refreshing a room, fitting out an outdoor workshop, or preparing for an electric vehicle, selecting the right sockets and outlets transforms how a home functions. Brands like Click, Rolec, Varilight, Hamilton and equipment from specialist suppliers such as Expert Electrical, Screwfix and Toolstation provide great options across budgets. Focus on matching form to function, prioritizing safety and planning for tomorrow’s needs — a small upgrade now can deliver big daily dividends.

Conclusion: Upgrading sockets is more than a cosmetic tweak — it’s an investment in convenience, safety and home value. Take your time to compare brands and retailers, prioritise safety features and choose finishes that blend with your style. When in doubt, consult a qualified electrician to ensure your upgrade is both safe and future-ready.