The Ultimate Guide to 12 Volt USB Outlet

In this age of technology, staying connected to our devices has become a necessity. Whether it’s our smartphones, tablets, or laptops, we rely on them for work, entertainment, and communication. And while most devices come with a charging adapter, finding a power source when you’re on the go can be challenging. That’s where 12-volt USB outlets come in. These outlets allow you to charge your devices on the go, using your car’s 12-volt socket. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at 12-volt USB outlets, how they work, and reviews of popular 12 volt USB outlets.

What is a 12 Volt USB Outlet?

Definition and Purpose of 12 Volt USB Outlets

A 12-volt USB outlet, also known as a car charger, is an electrical device that converts the 12-volt DC (direct current) power from a car’s cigarette lighter or accessory socket into usable power to charge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, and more.

These outlets are specifically designed for use in cars, RVs, and boats and provide a convenient and portable way to keep your devices charged on the go. They are typically small, compact, and easy to use, making them an essential accessory for travelers who need to stay connected to their devices while on the road.

Types of 12 Volt USB Outlets Available in the Market

There are two main types of 12-volt USB outlets available in the market – standalone units and integrated units.

Standalone units are separate devices that plug into a car’s 12-volt socket, while integrated units are built into the car’s dashboard or center console. Standalone units are more versatile and can be moved from one car to another, while integrated units are more aesthetically pleasing and convenient as they do not require a cable to be plugged into the car’s socket.

There are also variations in the number of USB ports available on 12-volt USB outlets, with some models featuring one or two ports, and others featuring up to six or more ports.

Advantages of Using 12 Volt USB Outlets

There are several advantages to using a 12-volt USB outlet. Firstly, they are convenient and easy to use, and they allow you to charge your devices while driving or while in a car, RV, or boat. This means you can stay connected to your devices even when you’re on the go and do not have access to a traditional power source.

Secondly, 12-volt USB outlets are portable and can be easily moved from one car to another. This makes them a versatile accessory for people who travel frequently or who need to use different cars on a regular basis.

Thirdly, 12-volt USB outlets are relatively inexpensive and offer an affordable way to keep your devices charged on the go. With the increasing use of electronic devices, having a 12-volt USB outlet in your car has become an essential accessory for many people.

Installing a 12 Volt USB Outlet in Your Car

Tools and Materials Required for Installing a 12 Volt USB Outlet

Before starting the installation process, you will need to gather the necessary tools and materials. The tools required for this installation include:

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Wire stripper
• Wire crimpers
• Heat gun or lighter
• Drill with a 3/4″ or 7/8″ drill bit
• Pliers

The materials required for this installation include:

• 12-volt USB outlet
• Wiring harness or wires
• Electrical tape
• Fuse tap or fuse holder
• Butt connectors or wire nuts
• Cable ties

Locating and Preparing the Installation Site

The first step in installing a 12-volt USB outlet is to locate and prepare the installation site. This will typically be the car’s dashboard or center console. Look for a location that is easily accessible and allows for the outlet to be securely mounted.

Once you have found the location, use a drill with a 3/4″ or 7/8″ drill bit to create a hole in the dashboard or center console. Be sure to check for any wires or cables behind the area before drilling to avoid any damage.

Next, insert the 12-volt USB outlet into the hole and secure it in place using screws or the mounting bracket that came with the outlet.

Connecting the Wires

The next step is to connect the wires. Start by connecting the wiring harness or wires to the 12-volt USB outlet. You can either use the pre-attached wiring harness that came with the outlet or attach the wires manually.

To attach the wires manually, strip the ends of the wires using a wire stripper, and connect them to the corresponding terminals on the outlet using butt connectors or wire nuts. Use a heat gun or lighter to shrink the heat-shrink tubing over the connectors to secure the connections.

Next, locate the car’s fuse box and select a fuse that is not in use, but is connected to a power source that is only active when the car is running. This will prevent the outlet from drawing power when the car is turned off, which could drain the car’s battery.

Using a fuse tap or fuse holder, connect the positive wire from the outlet to the selected fuse. Use a butt connector or wire nut to attach the wire to the fuse tap or holder and use electrical tape to secure the connection.

Connect the negative wire from the outlet to a ground point on the car’s chassis. Use pliers to remove any paint or rust from the grounding point, and use a screw or cable tie to secure the wire.

Testing the Outlet

Once you have connected the wires, test the outlet to ensure it is working correctly. Start the car and plug in a device to the outlet to see if it charges.

If the device charges successfully, use a cable tie to secure the wires and replace the car’s fuse box cover. If the device does not charge, double-check the connections and ensure that the fuse is properly connected.

Choosing the Right 12 Volt USB Outlet

Power Output

The power output of a 12-volt USB outlet is one of the most important features to consider when choosing the right one for your needs. The power output is measured in amperes (A) and determines how quickly a device will charge when connected to the outlet.

When selecting a 12-volt USB outlet, look for one with a high amperage rating, typically 2.4A or higher. This will ensure that your device charges quickly, even while in use.

Keep in mind that some devices may require a higher amperage rating, such as tablets or laptops. In these cases, look for a USB outlet with a higher amperage rating, typically 3.0A or higher.

Compatibility with Devices

Another important factor to consider when choosing a 12-volt USB outlet is compatibility with your devices. Look for an outlet that supports the USB standard, which is the most widely used method for charging electronic devices.

In addition, consider the number and types of USB ports the outlet has. Some outlets may have multiple ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices at the same time. Other outlets may include a mix of USB-A and USB-C ports, which are designed to charge different types of devices.

Durability

When choosing a 12-volt USB outlet, consider the durability of the product. Look for an outlet that is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

In addition, consider whether the outlet is waterproof or dustproof, which can help protect it from damage if you are using it in a harsh environment, such as a construction site or outdoor camping trip.

Design

Finally, consider the design of the 12-volt USB outlet. Look for an outlet that fits the aesthetic of your car’s interior and is easy to install. Some outlets may include a mounting bracket or adhesive pad, while others may be designed to fit into a specific location, such as the center console or dashboard.

In addition, consider the size of the outlet and whether it will fit in the space you have available. Some outlets may be larger or smaller than others, so be sure to measure the space before making your purchase.

Reviews of Popular 12-Volt USB Outlets

Anker PowerDrive 2 Elite

The Anker PowerDrive 2 Elite is a popular 12-volt USB outlet that is known for its fast charging capabilities. It features two USB-A ports, each with a maximum output of 2.4A, which allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• Fast charging with a maximum output of 4.8A.
• Compact design that fits in most car cigarette lighter sockets.
• Built-in safety features protect your devices from overcharging.

Cons:

• Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology.
• Can be difficult to remove from the socket.

Scosche ReVolt Dual USB Car Charger

The Scosche ReVolt Dual USB Car Charger is a popular 12-volt USB outlet that is known for its compact design and fast charging capabilities. It features two USB-A ports, each with a maximum output of 2.4A, which allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design that is easy to store in a glove box or center console.
• LED light that makes it easy to locate in the dark.
• Built-in safety features to protect your devices from overcharging.

Cons:

• May not fit snugly in some car cigarette lighter sockets.
• Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology.

Belkin Boost Up 2-Port Car Charger

The Belkin Boost Up 2-Port Car Charger is a popular 12-volt USB outlet that is known for its high power output and sleek design. It features two USB-A ports, each with a maximum output of 2.4A, which allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• High power output with a maximum output of 4.8A.
• Sleek and compact design that fits in most car cigarette lighter sockets.
• LED light that indicates when the outlet is in use.

Cons:

• May not fit snugly in some car cigarette lighter sockets.
• Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology.

Aukey 24W/4.8A Dual-Port USB Car Charger

The Aukey 24W/4.8A Dual-Port USB Car Charger is a popular 12-volt USB outlet that is known for its high power output and compatibility with a wide range of devices. It features two USB-A ports, each with a maximum output of 2.4A, which allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• High power output with a maximum output of 4.8A.
• Compact design that fits in most car cigarette lighter sockets.
• Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and GPS units.

Cons:

• Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology.
• May not fit snugly in some car cigarette lighter sockets.

Nekteck 5.4A USB-C Car Charger

The Nekteck 5.4A USB-C Car Charger is a popular 12-volt USB outlet that is known for its compatibility with the latest USB-C devices. It features one USB-A port and one USB-C port, each with a maximum output of 2.4A, which allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.

Pros:

• Compatible with the latest USB-C devices.
• High power output with a maximum output of 5.4A.
• Built-in safety features to protect your devices from overcharging.

Cons:

• May not fit snugly in some car cigarette lighter sockets