Best White Surface Mount Electrical Boxes for Easy Installations
If you need a simple, surface-mounted solution for outlets, switches, or low-voltage runs, white surface mount electrical boxes offer fast installation without embedding a wall box. These options suit apartments, offices, or DIY projects where wall boxes aren’t practical. The top picks below are selected for ease of use, compatibility with common raceways, and reliable material. The brief product summary table helps you compare at a glance.
| Product | Use Case | Depth | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leviton 42777-1WA | Single gang | 1.89″ | Areas with limited wall box options |
| Leviton 42777-2WA | Dual gang | 1.89″ | Dual outlets or two keystone panels |
| Leviton 42777-1WB | Single gang | 1.45″ | Compact spaces |
| Cable Matters 5-Pack | Low-voltage | 1.85″ | Ethernet, coax, speaker cabling |
| Homoyoyo 5-Pack | Single gang | 1.2″ | Budget, quick installs |
Leviton Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang
Best for spaces where a traditional wall box isn’t practical, this 1.89-inch deep backbox supports quick surface mounting. It includes breakouts to match common surface mount raceway systems, enabling neat cable routing and a cleaner finish. Ideal for retrofit projects or temporary installations where speed matters. Best for one-gang needs, especially with lightweight devices or low-power outlets.
Who this is for: contractors and DIYers needing a reliable single-gang option that installs flush with minimal framing. Why selected: strong compatibility with surface raceways and straightforward mounting. Caution: ensure wall surface is compatible with the raceway breakouts to avoid gaps.
Leviton Surface Mount Backbox, Dual Gang
This dual-gang white backbox provides the same surface-mount versatility with space for two standard outlets or switches. It shares breakouts for raceway systems and is compatible with Leviton multimedia wallplates, enabling a clean, integrated look. Best for multi-device configurations in kitchens, workshops, or outdoor-rated installations where wall boxes aren’t feasible.
Who this is for: settings requiring two devices in a single enclosure. Why selected: simplified wiring paths and compatibility with Leviton wallplates. Caution: deeper backbox may protrude more if walls are thin or finish materials are thick.
Leviton Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang 1.45″ Deep
Compact at 1.45 inches deep, this single-gang backbox is ideal where wall depth is limited. It mirrors the same surface-mount approach with raceway breakouts, making it suitable for shallow wall surfaces or cabinetry installations. Best for light-duty outlets and switches in tight spaces.
Who this is for: projects with shallow installation depth required. Why selected: compact footprint without sacrificing raceway compatibility. Caution: may not accommodate larger devices or bulky wiring in some configurations.
Cable Matters 5-Pack 1-Gang Low Voltage Backbox
These low-voltage backboxes are designed for network, Ethernet, coaxial, or speaker cable installations. Each 1-gang box measures 4.5 x 2.76 x 1.85 inches, with multiple cable cutouts to route cables cleanly. Best for telecom rooms, data closets, or under-desk setups where you want a tidy surface point without a full electrical box.
Who this is for: technicians needing a robust, low-voltage mounting option. Why selected: dedicated low-voltage routing with flexible cutouts. Caution: not suited for high-power outlets or switches; designed for low-voltage terminations.
Homoyoyo Surface Mount Outlet Box Set
This set includes five single-gang plastic boxes compatible with standard American outlets and switches. It features a low-profile design that sits flush with surfaces like kitchen cabinets and workbenches. Best for budget-conscious projects or quick remodels where a neat, space-saving finish is important.
Who this is for: homeowners and builders needing a cost-effective, ready-to-use surface mount option. Why selected: includes mounting screws for secure installation and a slim silhouette. Caution: ensure screws do not protrude beyond the box depth in closely finished areas.
Buying Guide
What matters most when choosing a white surface mount box?
- Depth and footprint: Match the box depth to available space behind the surface to avoid protrusion or crowding.
- Device compatibility: Confirm the box supports the intended device type (outlet, switch, or low-voltage keystones).
- Raceway compatibility: Look for breakouts or knockouts that align with your raceway system for clean cable management.
- Material and finish: White plastic housings resist impact and blend with common wall finishes; consider UV resistance for exposed locations.
- Low-voltage suitability: For network or audio installs, choose boxes with multiple cable routing options and adequate depth.
How to install safely and effectively?
- Plan routing paths before mounting; map out where every cable will enter and exit.
- Use appropriate screws and anchors for the mounting surface to ensure stability.
- Avoid overfilling the box to maintain a flush surface with the wall or cabinet.
- Keep high-voltage and low-voltage installations separate where possible to minimize interference and meet code requirements.
What configurations should you consider?
- Single gang vs dual gang: Choose based on the number of devices you need to mount in one location.
- Shallow depth: For tight spaces, prefer boxes around 1.2–1.45 inches deep.
- Low-voltage vs general-purpose: Low-voltage boxes are better for data and audio connections, while general-purpose boxes handle outlets and switches.
Checklist for buyers
- Accurate wall or cabinet thickness to ensure flush mounting.
- Required wall plate compatibility to avoid mismatched faceplates.
- Number of cable entries and their arrangement to fit your cables.
- Ease of future upgrades or changes to the installed devices.
FAQ
- Q: Are these boxes suitable for outdoor use? A: Some boxes are designed for indoor use. Check product specifications for weather resistance before outdoor installation.
- Q: Do these backboxes require specific wall plates? A: Many are compatible with standard wallplates; verify with the manufacturer for exact plate compatibility.
- Q: Can I install multiple devices in a single box? A: Dual-gang boxes exist for two devices; ensure the box depth and knockouts accommodate the wiring.
- Q: Do these include mounting screws? A: Several sets include screws; verify product features to confirm included hardware.
- Q: Is low-voltage mounting safer near data cables? A: Yes, using dedicated low-voltage boxes can improve organization and reduce interference when properly installed.
- Q: How do I determine the correct box depth? A: Measure the longest device plus connectors; choose a depth that leaves room for cable management without protruding.