Are USB power points worth it

What a USB power point is

A USB power point is a standard wall outlet with one or more USB charging ports built into the plate. You can plug in a lamp or appliance as normal and charge a phone or tablet straight from the wall with just a cable, no charger brick needed.

They're installed in the same position as a regular power point, and in most cases an existing point can simply be swapped for a USB version.

Where they shine

• Bedsides: charge phones overnight while leaving the outlets free for lamps.
• Kitchen benches: a common spot where phones and tablets end up while cooking.
• Home offices: handy for phones, headphones and accessories.
• Kids' rooms: fewer charger bricks lying around.
• Living rooms: next to the couch where everyone plugs in at night.

The main benefits are tidiness and convenience. Fewer bricks and adaptors, and outlets kept free for things that need them.

USB-A and USB-C

Older USB power points mostly had USB-A ports, the familiar rectangular plug. Most new phones, tablets and many laptops now use USB-C. Many modern USB power points include both. If you're buying today, choose one with at least one USB-C port so it stays useful as your devices change.

Charging speed

This is where USB power points can disappoint. Cheaper models often deliver modest power, enough to charge a phone overnight but slower than a good fast charger. Some newer models support higher output USB-C charging that can quickly charge phones and even some laptops. Check the specifications on the packaging. If fast charging matters to you, choose accordingly.

Also note that output is often shared between ports. Two devices charging at once may each get less.

The downsides

• Ports can wear out over time. Unlike a charger brick, you can't just throw it away and buy a new one. The whole outlet would need replacing.
• Charging technology moves on. A USB point installed today may not match the fastest standard in five years.
• They cost a bit more than a standard double power point.

For most households, these are minor trade-offs, but they're worth knowing.

Safety

Buy USB power points from established electrical brands that meet Australian standards. Cheap unbranded imports are best avoided, because poorly made electronics in the wall are a genuine fire risk. Like any power point, they must be installed by a licensed electrician.

So, are they worth it

In a few well-chosen spots, yes. Most people find two or three USB points, beside the beds and in the kitchen, cover nearly all their charging. It's not necessary to make every outlet in the house a USB version.

If you're already adding or replacing power points, swapping a few to USB adds very little to the job. It's also worth thinking about who uses each room. A teenager's bedroom with a phone, headphones, a watch and a games controller will get far more use from USB ports than a guest room that sits empty most of the year.

Related jobs worth doing at the same time

If your power points are loose, cracked or discoloured, they should be replaced regardless. A power point that's warm or smells of burning needs attention straight away, and our emergency electrician service is available 24 hours. Planning a renovation? Our renovation electrical work covers power planning from the start.

Let's add some USB points

See our power point installs page for more on what we do.

Call or text Kalani on 0424 400 346. Let us know which rooms you're thinking about, and send a photo of the existing points if you like.