Rating of the best junction boxes for 2022

When organizing home electrical wiring, a small-sized device becomes important - a junction box, where incoming electricity is distributed to consumers using switches or sockets.

Electrical goods stores offer popular models that differ in design or material, but with almost the same functionality. Everyone independently chooses which product is better to buy.

Our review demonstrates the main types of junction boxes. You can find out how much the products cost, what new products are, how to choose, and what to look for in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.

General information

A junction box is a type of electrical product in which switching and branching of electrical wires is organized outside or inside a building for laying an electrical network.

In everyday life, this term also corresponds to other names:

• soldering;
• branch;
• switchable.

These are synonyms for one product, not individual types of boxes.

Consumers of electricity cause the division of electrical wiring in buildings and premises into different groups. Proper installation of the boxes ensures uninterrupted power supply and reduces financial costs without the need for a separate cable for each electrical appliance. With an even distribution of wires, the level of fire safety is increased due to the isolation of flammable materials and connections located in the walls.

In addition, the electrical design provides ease of repair and the possibility of expanding the electrical circuit by adding new branches. As a result, everything looks beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.

Junction boxes protect connections from:

• dust - during installation at industrial facilities;
• water - for installation at sites with high humidity;
• mechanical damage - for placing cables outdoors;
• sudden changes in temperature - when installed in wooden buildings or on walls with flammable materials.

Device

The design of the junction box is a compact container with openings for the input / output of cables, with a removable cover for access to the contacts when conducting the mains. The internal design provides for several options for connecting conductors.

Soldering or welding

With the help of a soldering iron (welding machine) and solder, the contact of the conductors stripped of insulation, twisted and soldered (welded) to a monolithic state is ensured. After cooling, the joints are isolated.

• durability;
• reliability.

• mandatory presence of a soldering iron or welding machine;
• the complexity of the process, difficult to perform by a non-specialist;
• non-separable connection;
• over time, the resistance at the solder point increases, leading to voltage losses.

Crimping

Reliable connection of conductors by placing them in a metal sleeve, followed by crimping with a special tool, followed by insulation.

• reliability;
• low price of sleeves.

• single use sleeve;
• use of a special tool for crimping;
• the complexity of connecting copper and aluminum wires;
• installation takes a lot of time.

Terminal connections

They are used in cases where the cable materials preclude direct connection. A simple option that requires only a screwdriver and the ability to tighten the bolts without effort.

Electrical installation rules (PES) among the connection methods do not mention simple twisting

Possible hazards when twisting:

• increase in resistance due to insufficient tightening of wires;
• current increase in weak contact;
• heating the weak connection area and melting the insulation;
• risk of fire, short circuit and electric shock.

However, master electricians do not reject the option of twisting when performing a short-term network, during repair work or testing a line.

How to properly install the junction box is clearly presented in the video review:

Classification

By shape

1. Square.

2. Rectangular.

Used when there are many wires.

3. Round.

Used in concrete floors or with a small number of cables.

By installation method

1. Open (external) installation.

Boxes inside the wall are not mounted, but are fixed on the surface with the help of fastening devices. As a rule, they are installed in production premises, because they look ugly. However, this provides quick access to the wiring. Installation is simple and convenient.

2. Concealed (internal) installation.

Usually used in construction in residential buildings for cabling. A recess is prepared in advance in the wall, where the structure is mounted. If the box has a decorative lid, then the plaster does not close and access to electrical connections is maintained. In addition, the interior is not disturbed. Mounting the box in the wall ensures reliability, safety and long service life.

3. Installation in drywall.

By material

1. Metal.

Products made of tinned sheet steel or aluminum alloys are used in production or in public places when installed in an open way.At home, they are not often used, for example, if necessary, distribute wiring in a utility room or garage.

2. Plastic:

• polypropylene;
• polyamide;
• fluoroplastic.

• reliable isolation;
• resistance to mechanical stress and corrosion;
• fire resistance and resistance to chemicals;
• light weight;
• low price.

By configuration

1. Without filling.

The design consists of a body with a lid. According to professionals, with self-wiring, it is best to use this option.

• the connection of conductors can be performed by any option;
• correct installation does not allow the contacts to become loose.

2. With terminals.

Quick connection of wires using clamps simplifies installation work. However, at sites with high humidity, such models are not installed due to the gradual oxidation of the terminals.

By number of inputs

1. Minimum with two inputs.

 

2. Maximum with more than twenty entries.

Cable entry method

1. No holes with smooth walls.
2. With perforated holes.
3. With cone seals.

By protection class

1. Ordinary.

For installation in dry rooms when laying electrical networks with a voltage of 220V. Covers and inputs are not equipped with seals.

2. Dustproof.

A more advanced design equipped with a seal to prevent dust from entering the container. Are established at the enterprises where there is a lot of dust.

3. Splash-proof.

Seals are placed on the lid and in the holes to create a reliable tightness. At home, they are practically not used due to excessive protection. As a rule, they are installed in chemical plants with a high concentration of vapors.

four.Heat resistant.

Equipped with special clamps for secure fit of conductors and prevention of sparks in contacts. Are used

Closing method

1. With a latch.

2. With screw fastening.

Criterias of choice

With a well-designed wiring diagram or telephone connections, the required junction box modification is very easy to select.

It is necessary to take into account:

• the possibility of expanding the number of consumers in the future and choosing a product with a spare number of inputs;
• installation location depending on external or internal wiring;
• section of connected wires;
• Possibility to connect a 10-pair cable with a plastic sheath for the distribution of telephone pairs.

Where could I buy

A wide range of various types of junction boxes can be found in the departments "Electrical goods". Which company is better products should be clarified when considering wiring diagrams and readiness to purchase the required product. It is not necessary to refuse the qualified tips of consultants who have experience in handling similar goods. It is useful to listen to the recommendations and advice of a reputable electrician who is well versed in these matters.

An accessible way is also an online order in the online store. With this method, the Yandex.Market aggregator is of great help, on the pages of which there are many samples of such devices, where you can find out how much it costs, study the description, analyze the functionality, clarify the store and order online.

Rating of quality junction boxes

Products are included in the review based on an analysis of user requests in the Yandex.Market service, which demonstrates the popularity of models in the opinion of buyers in various price segments - budget devices, for the middle class, as well as premium products.

TOP 5 best overhead junction boxes

Ecoplast JBS and JBR series

They open the rating of the economy class model of a domestic manufacturer for wiring external electrical circuits. They are used in the organization of low-current or power electrical networks using smooth or corrugated pipes for wire outlets. Container bodies in white or gray color are made of ABS plastic.

The products are equipped with glands for pipe entry with the necessary degree of protection. Modern design meets safety requirements.

Brand - Ecoplast (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	JBS070	JBS120	JBS150	JBR065
The form	square	rectangular	rectangular	round
Color	white	grey	grey	white
Protection class	IP44	IP55	IP55	IP44
Dimensions (LxWxD), mm	70x70x40	120x80x50	150x110x70	65x65x35
The weight	60	110	230	38
Material	ABS plastic	ABS plastic	ABS plastic	ABS plastic
Number of inputs	6	6	10	4
Cable diameter	20	25	25	20
Cover fixation	snapping	screw	screw	snapping
Guarantee	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
price, rub.	29	59	152	23

• tightness;
• meet safety requirements;
• long service life.

• clearly expressed were not identified.

RuVinil Tyco series

Excellent Russian-made models for outdoor wiring. Placement in any convenient place on a wall or a ceiling is possible.The high-strength material of the case is resistant to negative atmospheric effects and mechanical damage, but it should only be placed outdoors under a canopy.

Brand - RuVinil (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	Tyco 67030	Tyco 67040	Tyco 67045	Tyco 67050
The form	square	square	square	square
Color	grey	grey	grey	grey
Protection class	IP55	IP54	IP54	IP54
Dimensions (LxWxD)	70x70x40	85x85x40	100x100x50	100x100x50
The weight	100	100	100	100
Material	polypropylene	polystyrene	polypropylene	polystyrene
Number of inputs	7	6	8	6
Cover fixation	snapping	snapping	folding	screw
Guarantee	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
price, rub.	40	45	70	85

• tightness;
• high strength;
• impact resistance;
• a wide range of;
• stylish design;
• long service life;
• good value for money.

• clearly expressed were not identified.

About the assortment from the RuVinyl company - in the video review:

ABB

A good offer from Scandinavian manufacturers. Suitable for installation in any place outdoors and indoors, with high security.

Brand - ABB (Sweden).
Country of origin - Finland.

Characteristics:

Type of	AP9/AP9M/AP9/G	2ТКА140012G1
The form	square	square
Color	grey, black, white	white
Protection class	IP55, IP65	IP65
Dimensions (LxWxD)	86x86x40	86x86x40
The weight	100	100
Material	plastic	thermoplastic
Number of inputs	12, 14	12
Cable diameter	15.5	15.5
Cover fixation	snapping	snapping
Guarantee	1 year	1 year
price, rub.	86-199	96

• a large number of inputs;
• high protection class for outdoor work;
• tightness;
• long service life;
• reliability;
• the quality of manufacture of a recognized leader.

• clearly expressed were not identified.

Schneider Electric

High-quality products under the French brand, but manufactured at Russian enterprises for connecting the cable of external wiring. Inexpensive glands that ensure tightness are made for Russian-made corrugated pipes with a clear marking of the hole sizes. The improved material ensures cutting accuracy with the guarantee of the required degree of protection IP42-IP55.

The boxes use an innovative snap-on lid locking system without screws. Opening is done with a screwdriver. A special removable thread that connects the cover to the body will prevent the product from being unpacked.

Brand - Schneider Electric (France).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	IMT35090	IMT35093	BLNRK000011	KLK-5S
The form	square	round	square	rectangular
Color	grey	grey	white	white
Protection class	IP55	IP55	IP42	IP44
Dimensions (LxWxD)	95x95x48	84x84x48	75x75x30	102x100x37
The weight	70	50	23	300
Material	polypropylene	polypropylene	ABS plastic	polypropylene
Number of inputs	6	4	2	4
Cable diameter	20	20		4
Membrane glands	Yes	Yes	No	No
Terminal block	No	No	No	Yes
Cover fixation	snapping	snapping	screw	snapping
Guarantee	18 months	18 months	18 months	18 months
price, rub.	39-52	32-38	36-49	235

• reliability of installation and fixation;
• guaranteed rigidity of the structure;
• tightness of glands for cable entry;
• fire resistance 750 degrees;
• large working volume;
• drain holes closed with plugs
• high degree of protection;
• excellent value for money.

• not detected.

About the brand's mounting boxes - in the video review:

IEK KM series

Models for outdoor installation of domestic production. Are applied at the device of branching of conductors, concealment and protection of points of switching. Included in the sewerage system of electricity, consisting of rigid or corrugated pipes. Boxes with increased protection IP55 can be mounted outdoors and indoors, where there is a lot of dust or high humidity.

Brand - IEK (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	KM41206	KM41212	KM41234	KM41242
The form	square	square	square	rectangular
Color	white	white	grey	grey
Protection class	IP20	IP20	IP55	IP55
Dimensions (LxWxH), mm	50x50x20	75x75x20	100x100x50	150x110x70
The weight	19	40	126	198
Material	polystyrene	ABS plastic	polystyrene	polystyrene
Number of inputs	2	6	6	10
Cable diameter	3	6	28	32
Membrane glands	No	No	Yes	Yes
Terminal block	Yes	Yes	No	No
Cover fixation	screw	screw	screw	screw
price, rub.	36-86	45-124	52-79	103-135

• reliability;
• fast installation;
• structural strength.

• not identified.

TOP 5 Best Indoor Junction Boxes

ERA

Products of a domestic manufacturer are used for switching power and telephone wires, masking and protection in the organization of cable support systems in residential or office premises. The inconspicuous distributor ensures the aesthetics of the switching points.

Brand - ERA (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	Y-195	Y-192	BS-W-75-75-20
The form	round	round	square
Color	black White	black White	white
Protection class	IP20	IP20	IP40
Dimensions (LxWxD), mm	75x30	102x30	75x75x20
The weight	20	40	20
Material	plastic	plastic	polystyrene
Number of inputs	9	9	self cutout
Cable diameter	25	25	25
Cover fixation	snapping	snapping	screw
Guarantee	2 years	2 years	1 year
By price, rub.	12	17	20

• installation in concrete or brick walls;
• easily breakable holes for cable, corrugated or smooth pipes;
• under-plaster installation;
• simple application of putty on the rough surface of the cover;
• ease of installation;
• long service life;
• low price.

• low protection for interior work only.

Hegel KP series

Reliable type of Russian models for hidden installation wires in wall structures. On special guides at the bottom of the boxes, you can fasten rails, terminals, boards with self-tapping screws.

Holes for cables are easily broken out and allow the entry of wires through plastic pipes up to 25 mm in diameter or simply in double insulation. Characterized by resistance to mechanical stress.

Brand - Hegel (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	KR1102	KR1202	KR1203	KR1301
The form	rectangular	round	rectangular	rectangular
Color	red	green	green	grey
Protection class	IP20	IP30	IP30	IP44
Dimensions (LxWxD), mm	120x100x60	80x45	120x100x50	118x76x58
The weight	100	100	100	100
Material	polypropylene	polypropylene	polypropylene	polypropylene
Number of inputs	12	6	16	8
Cable diameter	25	20	20	25
Cover fixation	screw	snapping	screw	screw
price, rub.	53	24	62	35

• durable body material;
• low price;
• durability;
• fire resistance;
• covers on screws and latches;
• tight connection with pipes.

• not identified.

IEK KM series

Stylish domestic models, easily installed in any wall. High-strength body material eliminates mechanical damage or deformation. The devices have the best reviews among users.

Brand - IEK (Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	KM41004	KM41219-04	KM41222-05	KM41244
The form	round	square	square	rectangular
Color	white	pine, white, ivory	wood	grey
Protection class	IP20	IP20	IP20	IP55
Dimensions (LxWxD), mm	80x40	100x100x29	100x100x44	190x140x70
The weight	41	64	90	290
Material	polypropylene	polystyrene	polystyrene	polystyrene
Number of inputs	4	6	6	10
Cable diameter	20			32
Membrane glands	No	No	No	Yes
Terminal block	No	Yes	Yes	No
Cover fixation		screw	screw	screw
Guarantee	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years
price, rub.	18-19	138	159	183

• quick and easy installation and dismantling;
• the presence of terminal blocks;
• quality material;
• modern design.

• low degree of protection;
• high average price.

Schneider Electric IMT series

Innovative models of the European brand, made in Russia. Suitable for installation in dry rooms. Special mounting tabs with a sliding design function and sharp ends ensure a stable grip of the panels in hollow walls, protecting the box from turning. In addition, the protrusions at the box also guarantee a secure fixation in the plasterboard wall. The three-start thread of the mounting screws speeds up the installation of the box into the wall three times.

Plugs in the openings for cable entry are easily knocked out by hand without the formation of sharp chips. Snap-on lids with screwdriver cut-out ensure tightness.

Brand - Schneider Electric (France).
Country of manufacture - Russia.

Characteristics:

Type of	IMT35121	IMT35161	IMT 35122	U194
The form	round	square	square	round
Color	green	yellow	green	the black
Protection class	IP30	IP20	IP30	IP30
Dimensions (LxWxD)	107x51	120x120x51	112x112x51	80x24
Diameter	107			81
The weight	40	76	59	29
Material	polypropylene	polypropylene	plastic	plastic
Number of inputs	8	22	28	10
cable entry	6 condensate traps 25 mm	8 traps 20 mm	8 traps 30 mm
	4 traps 20 mm		2 traps 25 mm
	2 traps 16 mm		10 traps 20 mm
			8 traps 16 mm
Pipe diameter	16/19	12	16
Cover fixation	snapping	snapping	screw	snapping
Guarantee	18 months	18 months	18 months	18 months
price, rub.	23-27	41-48	34-43	17

• a large number of inputs;
• masking installation defects;
• quick installation or dismantling;
• reliability of fixation;
• ease of removal of plugs;
• snap-on lid;
• fire resistance;
• impact resistance;
• long service life;
• low price.

• not identified.

About the inner boxes of the brand - in the video:

TDM Electric SQ series

Modern models for connecting television, signaling, telephone and electric cables and wires, concealment and protection. Are established in concrete or brick walls of premises, on objects of the commercial and social and public real estate.

There are guides in the boxes, on which rails, terminals, and a board are fastened with self-tapping screws. Input for cable channels is provided by perforation on the case.

Brand - TDM Electric (Russia).
Country of manufacture - China.

Characteristics:

Type of	SQ1402-1009	SQ1402-1907	SQ1403-1022	SQ1403-1026
The form	rectangular	round	square	rectangular
Color	Orange	Orange	Orange	Orange
Protection class	IP20	IP20	IP20	IP20
Dimensions (LxWxD)	120x92x70	80x40	92x92x45	172x96x45
Weight, g	90	30	60	90
Material	polystyrene	plastic	polystyrene	polystyrene
Cover fixation	screw	snapping	screw	screw
Guarantee	12 months	12 months	12 months	12 months
price, rub.	41-47	16	31	60-69

• good dielectric, made of durable material;
• the variety of options allows you to choose the size, diameter, depth;
• applying putty on the rough surface of the cover or wallpaper sticker for interior aesthetics;
• reliability;
• long service life.

• protection class only for use in dry rooms.

Conclusion

Thus, the safety of not only property, but also life depends on the quality of the choice of such a small device as a junction box. Therefore, this issue must be taken seriously. Particular attention should be paid to the correct placement and installation, as well as the connection in the box of wires and cables in order to forget about their existence over the next years, as recommended by the best manufacturers of junction boxes.

Enjoy the shopping!