Currently, store shelves offer a huge selection of electrical installation devices, thanks to which you can complement the most original and unusual design solution on the arrangement of any room, and ensure comfort when controlling the light in it.
When choosing any device, you need to pay attention not only to appearance(shape, color, material for manufacturing), but also on the quality of production, the safety of the selected model during further operation.
Each of us is bound to come across the purchase of a switch or socket at some point, and we want to do it right choice so as not to be disappointed in the purchase and not to jeopardize your budget unnecessary costs. How to choose switches and sockets, what types they are, and what to look for when purchasing, you can learn from this article.
A switch is a device designed to influence an electrical network by closing or opening contacts.
Types of switches
According to the method of influencing the mechanism, switches are divided into: keypad, push-button, lever, cord and touch.
Schematically, the main design of the key switch is shown in the figure, where: 1 – key for influencing the device, 2 – frame (housing), 3 – electrical installation mechanism.
For other switches, the element of pressure changes accordingly: instead of a key, there is a button, a lever, a cord.
By functionality, switches are:
- conventional - switches that open the electrical network in one position and close it in another;
- impulse - switches that provide influence on the network only when directly pressed, without remaining in this position (for example, a bell);
- pass-through, cross-type – characterized by a large number of connectors and contacts. Such switches close the electrical network in each position and if, for example, two light bulbs are connected, then in one position of the switch one works, and in another - the second;
- dimmers and dimmers - their peculiarity is in regulating the brightness of lighting with incandescent lamps, LEDs, halogen lamps;
- sensory, “smart” – these are high-tech modern devices, which have a number of special features: they can turn on/off at certain intervals, control light flows without even seeing the switch, and are perfectly integrated into the “smart home” system.
How to choose the right switch
The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing a switch is the type of wiring, whether it is open or hidden. If you have open wiring, then you need to take a delivery note for the switch (such wiring was in “Stalinist” houses, in villages). If the wiring is hidden, then switches are suitable, in which the box is “recessed”, and the body is attached with screws.
Before purchasing please note:
- mobility of structural elements (in a high-quality device they can move freely, but in no case dangle);
- manufacturer and the presence of a quality mark of this manufacturer;
- warranty from the manufacturer (may be on the packaging, or maybe on the passport). A manufacturer who cares about consumer satisfaction always provides a guarantee for its product and accompanies the product with a passport and instructions for installation and operation;
- aesthetic appearance ( Smooth surface, smooth corners, neat lines);
- the quality of the material from which the switch is made: if soft plastic is used for the body, then your switch will be scratched very quickly and its appearance will no longer be attractive; if plastic emits unpleasant specific odors, this means that it is made of components harmful to health;
- circuit breaker weight (in good device the material for its manufacture must be certain thickness, on which you cannot “save”);
- spare parts for the device (a good product will include mounting hardware, latches, removable frames, and other spare parts).
There are so many modern models, and they all have various additional features and elements. For example, models of switches with a built-in light beacon are in great demand (it unobtrusively illuminates the switch at night, which is very convenient). And, of course, all models are different interesting design, A decorative panels they are produced from high-strength plastic of different color shades, and not only made of plastic, but also wood, metal, porcelain and artificial stone.
A socket is an integral part of any electrical wiring. A socket is a device designed to connect electrical appliances and electrical network(using a plug and socket). The socket consists of:
- body base;
- core (it is a support from insulating material for fastening the contact clamps with the petals of the socket (the pins of the plug are included in the petals of the socket));
- directly the petals of the rosette (they should be pulled together by a spring at the base);
- as well as the terminals necessary for connecting to the wire.
Types of sockets
According to the method of fastening, sockets are divided into:
- overhead (these sockets are suitable in cases where the wiring in the room is open);
- built-in (such sockets are used when the wiring in the room is hidden).
Sockets are also divided according to their functional purpose:
- power sockets;
- signal sockets;
- sockets for radio points;
- sockets for connecting telephone lines;
- sockets for sound signals.
Sockets can be either single-phase or three-phase and vary in maximum permissible voltage, maximum current and strength.
How to choose the right outlet
As when choosing a switch, when choosing a socket, you need to pay attention to the wiring (open or hidden) and based on this indicator, determine whether you need a socket or a built-in one.
There is always a special marking on the socket housing (IP AB), which shows the degree of protection of the housing. For example, the letter “B” indicates that the case is protected from moisture, in combination with the number “0” it means that the case is not protected from moisture, and in combination with the number “4” it shows that the case is protected from splashing water from any angle. The letter “A” indicates the degree of protection of the housing from mechanical influences.
Be sure to consider in which room the outlet will be installed (in the bedroom or in the bathroom). For children's rooms, it is better to choose an outlet in which special curtains are mounted; they will close the holes inside the outlet as soon as you remove the plug.
Please pay attention to the following points before purchasing:
- the presence of a warranty from the manufacturer (usually this is noted in the passport, but it also happens on the packaging), some manufacturers provide a warranty of 2 years (very little), some - 5 years, and there are also those that do not provide a warranty at all;
- manufacturer (how well this manufacturer has proven itself in the market);
- accompanying documents (product passport, instructions and recommendations for installation and operation);
- aesthetic and neat appearance (flat surface, smooth corners, lines), quality plastic and the absence of an unpleasant specific odor;
- whether there is a grounding conductor in the wiring of the house - based on this indicator, a socket with or without an additional contact for grounding is selected;
- inlet for the wire (how convenient is the outlet for the wires for installing the socket);
- for the presence of additional springs (sockets with additional springs in the connectors will last much longer);
- number of spare parts, lightness of the device (for example, a socket can consist of two parts that are inserted into each other, snap into place, then easily inserted into the socket opening and connected).
Modern sockets differ in the number different shades, original forms, which are capable of not only performing their functions, but also serving as an excellent decorative element.
Video - how to choose switches and sockets
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Sockets and switches are one of the main elements necessary for convenient and safe electrical distribution in a room. In order for this equipment to serve for a long time and reliably, you should know the basic selection criteria and characteristics products of certain manufacturers.
Criterias of choice
Sockets and switches must equally meet aesthetic and functional requirements. One of the fundamental factors is equipment safety. Fortunately, today you are unlikely to find electrical installations in a store that will expose you to the risk of electric shock. Such equipment simply will not pass standardization.
Most buyers of electrical accessories, when choosing specific devices, follow the principle of “cheap, but beautiful,” which is basically unacceptable. The fact is that the quality of the product and its convenience play a major role in ensuring long-term and safe operation. Below, the article discusses the main criteria for choosing an electrical installation, as well as the conditional rating of manufacturers.
Base material
There is a widespread belief that switches and sockets with a ceramic base are more preferable to purchase than their plastic counterparts. Its supporters say that, despite the higher price, electrical installations with a ceramic base are more durable and reliable, which evens out the difference in cost.
In reality this is not entirely true. Yes, ceramics are stronger than other materials, but most modern manufacturers produce sockets and switches from impact-resistant plastic, which is not inferior in mechanical properties to ceramic analogues. In addition, this material also benefits in price.
Rated current
Maximum permissible current– an important functional parameter for safe work electrical fittings. Sockets and switches must be designed for the strength and voltage of the electrical network to which they will be connected for safe and long-term operation.
For example, an outlet with a rated current of 16 amperes and a voltage of 220 volts is designed for a load of up to 3500 watts. This is more than enough for most household appliances. For high power consumption devices such as electric stove or water heater, you must purchase and install a separate outlet that corresponds to the operating parameters of the device.
It should be noted that when purchasing cheap accessories from little-known manufacturers, you may encounter a discrepancy between the actual rated current and the declared value. To avoid this, you should choose sockets and switches from well-known brands, and if you don’t want to spend a lot, you can turn to the line of economy-class products that every famous manufacturer has.
Degree of protection
The degree of protection of the housing and the design of the fittings are no less important criteria when choosing an electrical installation. Safety is determined in accordance with an international standard and a numerical designation indicating the level of protection against solid particles and moisture. Below is an explanation of these designations. In cases where the degree of protection for one of the parameters does not matter and is not indicated by the manufacturer, an “x” is placed in the marking. For example, IPx8.
The required degree of protection depends on the installation conditions of the switch or socket. So, for example, switches in bathrooms and toilets must have a protection level of at least 4 for both parameters. In addition, they must be equipped with a plug.
Manufacturers rating
On domestic market electrical goods exist a large number of manufacturers, many of which can be confidently called well-known brands. On average, switches and sockets cost no more than 300 rubles apiece, however, there are series of premium equipment in which the price of one element of fittings can reach up to 1,500 rubles. However, the economy class product lines of reputable companies prove that a low price is not a sign of poor quality.
Schneider Electric
This company is a world leader in the production of energy management devices and quite rightly leads this TOP of manufacturers. Some time ago, the quality of materials and thoughtful design firmly held Schneider Electric switches and sockets among the most popular in the middle and high price range. Today, the company, unfortunately, is not promoting its products in Russia. There is a widespread opinion among professionals that the products of this company are the standard for the combination of quality and price. Schneider Electric offers a wide variety of serial products, lighting options, design solutions, but maintains ease of installation and ease of use.
Legrand
This company is also included in the rating due to its very high quality and reliability. In addition, Legrand, according to experts, maintains a more flexible pricing policy than other brands in this class. Sockets and switches from this company are very convenient. Comfort is maintained here in everything: from installation to operation and dismantling. Legrand products are characterized by the strength of their parts and the presence additional accessories, extending the service life of the fittings.
A minor disadvantage of this manufacturer’s products is the need for precise preparation of installation pockets and cups. If they don't match, difficulties may arise.
VIKO
This Turkish manufacturer appeared on the electrical accessories market back in 1990 and has since won the trust of many specialists and home craftsmen. VIKO switches and sockets are characterized by stable design quality combined with a large variety of colors, shapes and functionality. Durable plastic with a high degree of fire safety, designed for a large number of operating cycles, is used for production. Devices manufactured by VIKO comply with European electrical safety standards and quality standards.
Bticino
Bticino is another well-known manufacturer of electrical accessories that belongs to the premium category. The cost of sockets and switches of this brand can reach several thousand rubles apiece (depending on the materials and complexity of the design). The company's policy provides for the presence of several basic product lines that meet the needs of different customers: from simple and functional equipment to sophisticated designer models.
The cost of Bticino products can be considered a disadvantage, but it is more a question of who is willing to spend how much on repairs. And sockets with a marble body will most likely be used in an interior of the appropriate price and will not seem too expensive. In addition, the cost is justified by the excellent quality and durability of the devices.
ANAM
The South Korean company ANAM has been producing switches and sockets since 1977 and has been present on a wide market since 1994. It is worth saying that in 1999 this brand was bought by the giant Legrand, which made ANAM part of its production workshop. Of course, this had only a positive effect on the quality and reliability of the products.
In fact, ANAM, along with the Chinese Lezard, is a representative in the economy class electrical installation sector. At the same time, the reliability of the components, thoughtful design and construction are preserved, which makes ANAM one of the leaders in this market. The cost of sockets and switches (depending on the number of keys or consumers) is within 300 rubles.
Lezard
It’s worth mentioning ANAM’s Chinese counterpart, Lezard. This brand is also part of Legrand, but reviews from consumers and experts say that the Chinese manufacturer only inherited from its giant parent stylish design, but the quality of the products lets down at times. Of particular concern is the strength of the clamps. However, the lower cost may compensate for this disadvantage.
Wessen
This company is one of the leaders in the Russian electrical goods market. Like previous economy brands, Wessen is also owned by a larger manufacturer - Schneider Electric. Thanks to this, Wessen products undergo strict quality certification and are equipped with the latest technologies and developments in the field of electrical installations.
The brand's sockets and switches are produced in various series that satisfy the requirements of all customers. One of the most popular in Russia is the Rondo line. The devices included in it have a universal design that allows them to be used in almost any interior. All devices in this series are designed for hidden installation and are equipped with the necessary safety features (grounding contacts, protective curtains, plugs, etc.). In addition, the frames of switches and sockets provide the possibility of easy replacement, allowing the user to implement independent design solutions.
DKC
DKC is better known as a manufacturer of cable management systems, but its product range also includes a number of electrical installations. Sockets and switches of this brand are characterized by excellent quality of materials and components. According to this indicator, they could possibly take first place in the ranking of economy class devices. In addition, they include reliable modular designs. Since the manufacturer is engaged in the production of cable systems, the fittings have the ability to be built into cable channels.
Among the shortcomings we can note a very modest the lineup, which may not satisfy the buyer's design needs, as well as the relatively high price. Switches here cost from 400 to 600 rubles, and sockets - from 500 to 600.
GUSI
The Ukrainian company GUSI Electric, founded in 1999, is represented on the Russian electrical installation market with some of the most affordable sockets and switches. The company's products are distinguished by a wide variety of designs, support the ability to replace frames and install instead of standard sockets. Among the disadvantages are the low quality of contacts and not always convenient contacts for connecting wires.
Makel
This is another Turkish brand that is widespread in the Russian electrical appliances market. In fact, Makel sockets and switches are so popular that you may not even know about the existence of such a manufacturer, but still find one or two devices in your home or work.
Makel products focus on functional reliability and safety. Therefore, these devices are characterized by a simple design. However, it is executed so well that it intuitively attracts attention, for no apparent reason. In addition to its attractive appearance, Makel fittings have convenient contact sealing, a universal support and a ceramic core.
Makel switches support the ability to connect via a daisy chain, without using distribution boxes and are equipped with a special hole for this purpose. In general, one of the main advantages of this product is the ease of installation and use.
Disadvantages include the fragility of models with a ceramic base and the difficulty of installing two wires, since there may not be enough space for the second clamp.
The cost of sockets and switches of this brand ranges around 150-200 rubles, depending on the design.
Belarusian sockets
There is no manufacturer with the name “Belarusian sockets”; in this category we include the products of Belarusian electrical plants, which are distinguished by their simplicity and low cost. Despite the fact that the material and design of these devices are often inferior to the brands described above, Belarusian sockets retain their high popularity in the Russian market. The fact is that they are the cheapest (two-key switch - 70-80 rubles, socket for two consumers - up to 100 rubles), and are also closest to the good old Soviet fittings.
Despite the low price, the switches and sockets are of sufficient quality. Roughly speaking, those who use this electrical installation are well aware of its shortcomings and are prepared for them.
Among the advantages of Belarusian sockets are, of course, their price, the strength of the materials (although it is most often plastic), reliable screw fastening of the contacts and full compatibility with electrical and renovation of old houses.
Omissions include very poor design options (most often you will not be able to replace the switch frame), outdated appearance and not very convenient location of contacts for sealing.
Thus, this is a good budget solution without unnecessary frills.
When repairing or replacing electrical wiring in your home, always try to choose modern solutions. As a rule, they already take into account all the identified shortcomings of previous series of electrical installation products.
Therefore, when buying new sockets and switches, you can and should choose those that already have several characteristic differences from previous traditional ones.
This, of course, does not mean that old sockets are bad, however, the engineering thought of manufacturers does not stand still and you need to use all the advantages of innovation in your apartment. Let's compare how modern sockets and switches differ from previous budget models.
The new sockets are made of two layers:
- cover - polycarbonate
What benefits does this provide? Polycarbonate provides additional electrical safety.
Even if somehow a phase from the wiring breaks through to the socket body, the front part of the caliper will be reliably insulated. And touching it with your fingers will not give you an electric shock. 
But often, many electricians unscrew and disassemble sockets to find a fault, without even removing the voltage from it. This function will greatly protect against accidental electric shock.
And the presence of two layers allows you to increase the strength of the entire structure by about 50% compared to a traditional galvanized steel caliper.
The front panel is secured with latches. To dismantle and install it back, it takes no more than 3 seconds.
Just pry it from the side with a screwdriver and pull it out with your fingers. 
There is even a marking in which places you need to pry with a screwdriver. 
Put it in place in the same way, pressing and snapping it into place at the fastening points.
However, if you come across a fake whose plastic elasticity deteriorates over time, these latches can turn from a plus into a minus.
After a couple of years, when dismantling, you may forget how they initially snapped into place and accidentally break them.
Traditional bezel mounting requires longer dismantling. You will have to unscrew the mounting screw, and maybe even more than one. 
And if you perform such an operation quite often, then it is quite possible to ruin the thread. After which, you will have to replace not the socket, but the entire socket.
If you plan to use sockets and switches even at the stage finishing works, then it is better to choose mechanisms with protective covers. 
Firstly, they protect the products during transportation. And secondly, they allow you to paint walls and hang wallpaper even without dismantling the front panels. 
Overlay frame
Frames in good sockets are attached independently of the front panels. This allows you to freely dismantle and install them. 
In older series, the frame is secured and tightened by the front panel. Therefore, in them, replacing the frame with another of the same type, but of a different color, occurs only simultaneously with the panel.
In this case, it will be better if such products are two-layer.
- outside – ABS plastic
- reverse inner side– reliable polycarbonate
Inside the panel there are latches, due to which the fixation on the mechanism occurs. Please note that they may have several marks. 
This will make it easy to align the frames in case of slight unevenness in the walls.
Internal insulation
A high-quality socket, even with the front panel removed, ensures complete electrical safety. 
All internal current-carrying parts are securely closed and insulated. There is no access to them.
In sockets of the budget series, there are always clearly open live parts. 
And if you work with a screwdriver that does not have an insulated tip, then you may well either get energized or accidentally overlap the phase and the grounded body with the tip itself.
In accordance with safety regulations, all sockets installed in living rooms, must have protective curtains. How do good sockets differ in this regard from cheaper ones?
In budget products, the curtain mechanism is fixed directly to reverse side front panel. 
Very often, the following problem arises due to such curtains. There are forks combined type. That is, part of the fork legs are insulated with plastic, and the ends themselves are metal. 
Most often, such plugs are used in various types of chargers. Their metal ends are slightly thicker than the middle part of the contact legs.
This plug plugs into a regular outlet without any problems. But when you try to remove it and pull it out, the protective curtains bite the contacts like a guillotine. 
Biting occurs precisely at the boundary of the plastic-metal transition of materials. As a result, the plug gets stuck in the socket.
And to pull it out you have to put in extra effort. Often this all ends with a break in the protective curtains.
In a good modern socket, the shutter mechanism is recessed deep into the body, and not located on the back side. 
Accordingly, such a problem as biting the fork simply does not exist. Any fork goes in and out of it very smoothly.
Fastening
Sockets are fastened in both traditional and new models either with screws located in the socket box or with clamps. When tightened, the grips dig into the walls of the socket box.
However, the design of the improved models has its own peculiarities. The so-called “double tooth” technology is used here. 
It allows you to increase the tearing force by about one and a half times.
Another difference between a high-quality socket is the presence of a special profile, the so-called “ dovetail" It makes it very easy to install sockets and switches in blocks. 
If you need to connect two or more mechanisms under one frame, according to the Pocket Electric level, you set the very first one perfectly exactly, and mount the second and subsequent ones using a dovetail.
As a result, all mechanisms will be quickly and smoothly installed in their seats.
Screw or screwless contacts
Modern and most old models also differ in the technology for connecting conductors. Newest sockets have screwless clamps that allow you to very quickly both connect and disconnect cable or wire cores.
There are still heated debates among electricians about which contacts are more reliable. Supposedly screwless, they reduce the area of contact with the wire.
This reduces current-carrying capacity and reliability. However, such a dispute is reminiscent of the age-old question, which is better: Wago or twist? 
Here a lot depends on the quality of execution and operating conditions. There are sockets where a fairly powerful spring exerts pressure on just one point - for example, from manufacturers Gira, Legrand, Schneider. 
But ABB has a spring with less elasticity, but it presses at two points simultaneously.
Use all products according to standards and recommendations and problems will never arise. For example, in some European countries, at the legislative level, the use of screw terminals has been prohibited since the 60s. 
The main advantage of screwless terminals is that such connection does not require further maintenance. As the manufacturer assures, after installation, subject to rated loads, you will not look into such an outlet again for many decades.
All older sockets use screw technology. The stripped wire strands are clamped with traditional screws. 
Moreover, the clamping force is also normalized. Professional installers use special torque screwdrivers for this.
Such contacts are much more labor intensive during installation and disassembly. In addition, it is advisable to periodically tighten these clamps, that is, maintain them. And this entails dismantling almost half of the structure of the entire outlet.
Wires pressed with a screw during temperature fluctuations - heating at maximum load and cooling when it is turned off - can shrink. And accordingly, the contact will weaken over time. 
In high-quality sockets, the conductors in screwless contacts are in a constant state of tension, no matter how hot or cold.
In addition, they have a limiter template on the reverse side, which shows how accurately in millimeters the insulation needs to be removed from the core. 
The use of electricity in apartments and private houses will not surprise anyone for a long time - one of the blessings of the modern world has become closely integrated into the way of human life. Boil Electric kettle, charging a phone or simply supplying voltage to a lighting lamp does not seem like a difficult undertaking, but without intermediary devices it would be much more difficult to carry out such operations. These include sockets and switches - seemingly simple, but very important elements of the power circuit.
However, the energy supply to lighting And household appliances- not the only function performed by sockets and switches. With the development of production methods and various design trends, they acquired the status of decorative elements, the unsuccessful choice of which could have a negative impact on general view living space.
The range of such liquid goods today is represented by a huge number of foreign and domestic companies, which is why it can be incredibly difficult to settle on one single option. Even with the proper attitude towards the purchasing process, there is always the possibility of choosing a low-quality model, the degree of safety of which is obviously lower than the requirements of international quality standards. Due to such a high importance of the topic, we have created a rating of the most the best manufacturers sockets and switches, the products of which meet the highest requirements of industry standards and guarantee proper preservation of appearance during long term use. The main criteria for selecting nominees for the top were the following parameters:
- the level of fame and popularity of the company among domestic users;
- expert assessment of product series of each company;
- average service life of sockets and switches within the range of one manufacturer;
- nominal workmanship, absence of counterfeits on the market;
- cost characteristics.
The best manufacturers of sockets and switches in the budget segment
3 WESSEN
The best price for a range of products. Availability of models stylized as wood in the line
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.6
The next place in the ranking goes to one of several representatives of the Schnider Electric corporation, which is developing budget versions of sockets and switches on the production base of the well-known cartridge. It differs from its competitors in its commitment to originality (even at the expense of common design sense) and the low cost of its entire product range.
As experts note, the main trend of products from Wessen is leaning towards the classics, however, some representatives of the company are externally stylized wood coverings. The clearest representative of this trend is the Wessen 59 series, designed with precise wood texture on solid and segmented socket (and switch) models. The reverse (standard) side of the representation is expressed by the typical “Prima” series, manufactured at the company’s Russian plant. This sample is characterized by its overall sparseness and nondescript (but informative) dot indicator.
2 MAKEL
High quality standards. Commitment to classic style
Country: Türkiye
Rating (2018): 4.8
A Turkish manufacturing company with almost half a century of experience, widely known in the territory Russian Federation. Her characteristic feature is to base production on German high-precision equipment, which makes it possible to compete even with the recognized pillars of the world market.
Sockets and switches from Makel do not have any innovations in terms of appearance, remaining true to classic standards. However, one peculiarity can be seen in this component: the predominance of rounded lines can be seen in the shapes, which will definitely fit into any design plan for a house or apartment. The main color that predominates in the assortment is white, diluted with bright (usually golden) inserts and additional structural elements(indicators, motion sensors, brightness controls or connectors). Some of the most popular representatives of the company include:
- Makel Cellia;
- Makel Lunis.
1 Berker
The best range of choice. About 100 years on the lighting market
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.9
A German manufacturing company whose activities began to actively develop almost a century ago. It is a striking example of a company producing unpretentious products in various fields of electrical engineering with low selling prices and satisfactory quality indicators. To call the range of Berker sockets and switches classic is probably what it is possible to do. But by no means meager - over such an impressive history of concepts, quite a lot have accumulated.
The striking difference between the German concern and its main competitors in the category is the absence of a single design solution as such: in the Berker assortment you can find both angular rosettes and streamlined, smoothly curved contours. A striking representative of the first group can be the basic line of Berker B.3, sharpened by the angularity of the contour and button segment. The second line, Berker R.1, provides consumers with calmer and more pleasing to the eye sockets and switches, made with a circular central segment for a button or connectors.
The best manufacturers of sockets and switches in the mid-price segment
4 FEDE
Original design of the entire range of products
Country: Spain
Rating (2018): 4.8
A very young Spanish company, which began operations in 2007. I chose for myself a very specific, but unloaded niche for the production of sockets and switches in a vintage style. All FEDE’s creativity is connected exclusively with the intended style, which is why the company, although not a leader in sales, is remembered by absolutely any user.
In general, prefabricated products from this company do not cost that much - the main profit comes from selling expensive frames, whose prices go into the premium segment. In fact, only true connoisseurs of design with a predominance of historical embellishments use the company’s services - such an elaborate element would be out of place in an ordinary house or apartment. It is very difficult to single out just one model here, since all of them in one way or another represent a certain visual value. The Sanremo and Toscana Palace collections look most unusual in the selection, in the author’s opinion, although taste is a subjective matter.
3 Jung
Better variability within classic design sockets Attractive price
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.8
Another representative of the middle segment (with an emphasis on budget series) is the German manufacturer Jung, whose design direction strikingly coincides with a number of other German companies. At the time of its pedantry, the company does not deviate from the canonical look of sockets and switches, making the classic square shape the standard of its style.
However, such a serious limitation in no way affected the breadth of the product range - on the contrary, the creation of artificial “barriers” allowed the company to create many variations of the same plan. Thus, by expanding the key (or space for the connector) of the standard A500 model, Jung developed the LS990 series with a thin frame that fits perfectly with the Hi-Tech design. In the same vein, other variations were created, based on the detailing of the boxes, the thickening and thinning of their free edges, as well as the variety of geometry of the keys, caps and connectors.
2 Gira
High degree of strength of the constituent elements
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.9
The Gira company, which developed its activities at the very beginning of the 20th century, was never able to move away from the canons of the shape of sockets and switches, smoothing out the corners, but still taking square boxes as a basis. Despite this fact, the assortment and variety of series certainly cannot be called boring: where the forms lose their powers, the design and design continue to retain a solid audience.
Yes, Gira’s country coverage is not as large as, for example, ABB’s (approximately 36 versus 100), but given the scale of the German company this is a very respectable figure. In their reviews, consumers often praise the strength of the design of boxes, keys and connectors, while noting the average level of cost with a smooth (serial) transition to premium. The company's most popular products include the Linoleum Multiplex and E2 lines of different price categories, not without design sophistication and high quality.
1 ABB
The best manufacturer in terms of price and quality ratio. Wide range of products
A country: Sweden/Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.9
The ABB company was formed by the merger of two famous (at the time) companies - the Swedish brand ASEA (founded in 1883) and the oldest Swiss concern Brown, Boveri & Cie, which opened a little later (in 1891). The purpose of this integration was the possibility of a massive “capture” of the market with its own products, which was naturally crowned with success and sales in more than 100 countries around the world.
Apartment renovation
The very first thing you need to start with major renovation Apartments require electrical wiring installation work. Upon completion of laying wires and cables for new communications and installing junction boxes, you need to select both.
Let's figure it out: which sockets are better to choose and what to pay attention to first when choosing sockets. In this article we will share our experience on how to choose sockets and switches and create our own rating of electrical devices.
Which sockets are best to choose for an apartment or house? Selection criteria
The main criterion when purchasing any item is to make a choice with the optimal price/quality ratio. Since the cost of one socket can easily range from 50 to 500 rubles, we can conditionally divide the entire variety of devices into two price categories: senior – 300 rubles. for a product both higher and lower - approximately 100-150 rubles.
This review will probably be quite subjective, since it only includes those devices that we have encountered, tried and compared.
The description includes sockets intended only for installation hidden in the wall. Their appearance, maintainability and user reviews are analyzed. The article includes various manufacturers that are most often found on shelves construction stores. In addition, what is important to us is the price range between brands, and not the specific cost of the outlet.
The most common products from each model range of all brands will compete for the role of the most successful outlet. Regarding the collections included in the rating, we tried to compare switches and sockets in approximately the same price range. At the same time, they must not be too sophisticated, but not primitive either. The main criterion is to choose a classic model range and something that you can install in your apartment with a light heart. Due to the great popularity of modular-type socket designs (various prefabricated bases, replaceable frames, frames, etc.), we will analyze first of all this category of product, taking into account the cost of a set of one socket.
Manufacturers rating
The vast majority of the brands described below have a certain fame and you can find separate information about each of them comparative materials in the Internet. So, let’s announce our top ten contenders for the role of the best manufacturer of switches and sockets:
- GUSI
- Belarusian sockets
- Bticino
- Scneider-electric
- Anam
- Wessen
- Makel
- Legrand
- Lezard
Let's sum it up
Taking into account only the cost, as a result of competition, the contenders were distributed as follows: three eminent forwards and a large budget company. As a result, at the finish line we will evaluate the characteristics in two groups of different price categories - senior and junior.
Senior group
- Legrand
- Bticino
- Scneider-electric
In the senior community, the distribution of roles is somewhat arbitrary. Having sufficient funds and relying only on your own verbal sensations, it is not difficult to make a choice. It is important not to get lost among the variety of collections. All classic solutions from these manufacturers are almost comparable in cost. Exquisite designs are also inaccessible to the average person, as before, but this is truly a high-quality product!
Legrand ended up in first place only because of its more flexible pricing policy. SchneiderElectric is slightly more expensive, and Bticino is even higher in price. But, if you pick up Bticino products, you will be able to feel that this price is not for “air”; the products of ScneiderElectrika and Legrand are still simpler. Perhaps this is because Legrandom today no longer surprises anyone, and Italian products are not yet so widespread.
On the other hand, it’s simply impossible to find fault with German quality; everything is so beautiful and impeccable that you can feel like a child receiving a long-awaited toy as a gift. Simply put, any of these brands could become worthy decoration your apartment. If you have enough Money, feel free to buy French, Italian or German - only your personal role will play a role here subjective feeling from this product.
The above is, of course, not news; having long established themselves in Europe and widely known throughout the planet, these companies cannot afford to lose face. It is much more interesting to analyze the budget group.
Junior group
- Anam
- Makel
- Wessen
- GUSI
- Belarusian sockets
- Lezard
On the pedestal is Anam. Probably someone will think the championship is not fully deserved: the sockets are oddly shaped and switches have huge buttons and wide margins. But, this is the undisputed leader among the contenders in terms of plastic quality, while being cheaper than competitors directly in the block version. It’s not news to anyone that installing single sockets is completely irrelevant, even if the socket is intended for one device, there must be a reserve. In addition, ANAM has significantly expanded its assortment on our market and now, in addition to the standard collection decorated in ivory color, new design solutions have appeared.
Second place rightfully goes to Makel. On the one hand, Makel, Lezard, and GUSI are practically the same thing. Here the issue of availability for replacement and cost comes to the fore; Makel is already well known in Russia. Lezard is less developed, and GUSI is also not famous, despite the fact that it has become much better with the update of the collection. In addition, all brands in this group, except good plastic there is only one drawback - the contact groups are not well designed: either flimsy screws and small clamps, or soft and thin metal.
A well-deserved third place belongs to Wessen. This is probably best replacement Belarusian sockets both in design and in practical execution. In addition, Wessen has a very attractive price, which is quite comparable to the quality.
At the end of the ranking are Belarusian outlets. These products came in last place due to being too simple design and occasional negligence in execution: either a key falls out, or the screw does not hold the cable well. In addition, some switches may make strange sounds, and if installation errors are made, problems with switching on appear over time. However, despite these shortcomings, it is optimal to use Belarusian sockets during the implementation of a budget project.
Finished DKC, but not due to poor quality. Simply, these products stand apart: in terms of cost, they are comparable to the older group, but in general, in terms of quality, they do not yet reach the same level as their competitors. But don't think that DKC is bad. This brand has other widely known products - for example, cable channels. Therefore DKS perfect solution, for installation in cable ducts. Great for offices, but not the best for residential apartments. In this regard, both its special position in the ranking and its special status.
conclusions
So, when deciding which sockets are best to choose for an apartment, first of all you need to pay attention to products in the mid-price range from well-known brands. Products of “solid middle peasants” are almost never subject to counterfeiting, Russian manufacturers know how to make sockets good quality, however, to foreign brands they still need to catch up. When choosing sockets from well-known Western brands, the main thing is not to run into a fake product.
