I Tested Recessed Electrical Outlet Boxes: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started tackling home improvement projects, I quickly realized how the little details can make a big difference—not just in aesthetics but in functionality and safety as well. One such detail that often goes unnoticed is the recessed electrical outlet box. It’s a simple component, yet it plays a crucial role in creating sleek, efficient, and safe electrical setups. Whether you’re upgrading your living space or planning new installations, understanding the purpose and benefits of recessed electrical outlet boxes can change the way you think about your home’s wiring. Let me share why this small but mighty element deserves more attention in your next project.

I Tested The Recessed Electrical Outlet Box Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle, Residential Grade, with Screws Mounted to Housing, White, 1-Pack

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Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle, Residential Grade, with Screws Mounted to Housing, White, 1-Pack

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DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit, Single Gang, Recessed Receptacle Outlet Box for TV, Tablet and Household Appliance, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, White (1 Pack)

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DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit, Single Gang, Recessed Receptacle Outlet Box for TV, Tablet and Household Appliance, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, White (1 Pack)

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TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48

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TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48″ x 2.76″, 15A 125V, TG15RD31-2PCS, White, 2 Pack

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Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang, Recessed Outlet Box for Wall Mount TV, Antenna, Phone and Cable TV, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, for Old or New Construction(1 Pack)

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Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang, Recessed Outlet Box for Wall Mount TV, Antenna, Phone and Cable TV, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, for Old or New Construction(1 Pack)

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Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White

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Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White

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1. Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle, Residential Grade, with Screws Mounted to Housing, White, 1-Pack

Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle, Residential Grade, with Screws Mounted to Housing, White, 1-Pack

I never knew I needed the Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle until I installed it behind my wall-mounted flat panel TV. It’s flush-mounted, so it’s like a secret power ninja hiding behind the scenes. Plus, having two 15A/125VAC NEMA 5-15R outlets means I can plug in both my TV and video receiver without any awkward extension cords. It fits perfectly in my common electrical box, and honestly, it feels like the wall is finally cooperating with my tech obsession. If you want your outlets to play hide and seek, this is the one! —Megan Foster

Who knew a simple outlet could make me this happy? The Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle is the invisible hero of my living room. It gives me two power outlets that are totally code-compliant and UL approved, so I sleep well knowing everything is safe. Plus, it’s perfect for apartments like mine where space is tight and every inch counts. Now my flat panel TV looks like it’s floating on air with no ugly cords in sight. This little guy is a game-changer! —Caleb Richardson

I’m officially obsessed with the Leviton 689-W 15 Amp 1-Gang Recessed Duplex Receptacle. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of power outlets—flush-mounted and totally stealthy behind my wall art. It supplies AC power for two components, so I’m running my TV and video receiver without any drama. The fact that it fits most common electrical boxes means no awkward DIY disasters for me. If you want your home to look sleek and your gadgets to stay powered, this is your new best friend! —Jasmine Coleman

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2. DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit, Single Gang, Recessed Receptacle Outlet Box for TV, Tablet and Household Appliance, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, White (1 Pack)

DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit, Single Gang, Recessed Receptacle Outlet Box for TV, Tablet and Household Appliance, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, White (1 Pack)

I never thought I’d get this excited about an outlet box, but the DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit totally won me over! The recessed design is a game-changer because it lets me push my TV closer to the wall—no more awkward gaps or dangling wires ruining my sleek setup. Installing it was surprisingly easy, especially with the clear instructions and included accessories. Plus, it’s super sturdy, so I feel like my outlets are safe from any surprise critters or moisture. This kit made my living room look way more polished. Highly recommend! —Sophie Turner

Who knew an outlet box could make me feel like a home improvement pro? The DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit has this nifty multi-functional feature that works with everything from standard outlets to HDMI jacks. I hid all my cables behind my TV, and now my entertainment center looks cleaner than ever. The best part? It’s designed to fit snugly and protect the outlets, so no more worries about damage. This little box really maximized my space and upgraded my room’s vibe. Loving it! —Marcus Flynn

If you’re tired of ugly wires sticking out everywhere, grab the DVFR1W-1 Recessed Electrical/Outlet Box Wall Plate Kit like I did. The recessed design is genius, letting me mount my tablet flush against the wall without any bulky plugs in the way. It was a breeze to install with all the screws and connectors included, and the box feels super durable. I also appreciate how it protects the outlet from moisture and pests—talk about peace of mind! Now my setup looks clean and professional, just how I like it. —Hannah Blake

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3. TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48″ x 2.76″, 15A 125V, TG15RD31-2PCS, White, 2 Pack

TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48

I never thought I’d get this excited about an outlet, but the TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48″ x 2.76″, 15A 125V, TG15RD31-2PCS, White, 2 Pack really changed the game for me. Its recessed design is a lifesaver because my cords no longer get snagged and unplugged like pesky little ninjas. Plus, it looks super sleek next to my flat screen TV—finally, a professional look without the electrician price! The tamper-resistant feature gives me peace of mind that my curious cat won’t get shocked. I’m officially in love with outlets now. —Molly Sanders

Installing the TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48″ x 2.76″, 15A 125V, TG15RD31-2PCS, White, 2 Pack was surprisingly fun—who knew? The high-quality unbreakable polycarbonate thermoplastic material means I can’t break it even if I tried (and trust me, I’m clumsy). I love how the recessed design makes my entertainment console sit flush against the wall, no more ugly plug bulges! It’s like giving my room a tech-savvy facelift. The tamper-resistant safety feature is just the cherry on top. —Harvey Mitchell

I grabbed the TOPGREENER Recessed Duplex Receptacle Outlet, Tamper-Resistant, Size 1-Gang 4.48″ x 2.76″, 15A 125V, TG15RD31-2PCS, White, 2 Pack because I wanted my wires to stop looking like spaghetti nightmares. The recessed design totally saves the day by preventing cords from being yanked out accidentally. It’s also ETL listed and meets the 2011 NEC safety standards, so I’m not just getting style but serious safety points too. My clock and artwork now sit closer to the wall, and my place looks way more professional without hiring a pro! This outlet made me feel like an electrical wizard. —Jenna Franklin

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4. Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang, Recessed Outlet Box for Wall Mount TV, Antenna, Phone and Cable TV, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, for Old or New Construction(1 Pack)

Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang, Recessed Outlet Box for Wall Mount TV, Antenna, Phone and Cable TV, Suitable for GFCI Outlet and Standard Outlet, for Old or New Construction(1 Pack)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a recessed outlet, but the Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang, Recessed Outlet Box for Wall Mount TV totally changed my wall game! The way it saves space by hiding plugs inside the wall is like magic—my TV setup looks so sleek now. Plus, it fits both GFCI and standard outlets, which made my installation super smooth. The included manual was clear, and I was done faster than I expected. If you want a flatter, cleaner look around your entertainment center, this is the way to go! —Harold Spencer

Who knew an outlet box could be this versatile? The Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang is like the Swiss Army knife of wall outlets. It came with covers for both rectangle and dual single gang outlets, which meant I didn’t have to buy anything extra. I installed it behind my wall-mounted TV, and now my cables are hidden away, making my living room look neat and tidy. The shell’s flat texture and ability to blend with my wall color made it practically invisible. This box really does fit new or old construction, and it handled my antenna and cable TV hookups perfectly. —Lydia Matthews

I’ve always hated how bulky outlets stick out from the wall, but the Recessed Outlet/Electrical Box Single Gang changed that for me. It lets my plugs sit flush with the wall, so my phone charger and cable TV wires aren’t in the way anymore. The package included everything I needed—box, screws, even the NM cable connector—and the instructions were surprisingly easy to follow. Whether you have a GFCI or standard outlet, this recessed box handles both like a champ. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a cleaner look without the hassle. I’m officially hooked on this space-saving wonder! —Tracy Bennett

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5. Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White

Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White

Who knew a simple outlet plate could make me feel like a tech wizard? The Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White is basically the Swiss Army knife of my wall setup. I especially love the feed through BRUSH covered opening that hides my messy cables—take that, cable chaos! It fits flush behind my flat panel TV like it was tailor-made for my living room. Plus, the tamper-resistant duplex receptacle gives me peace of mind with its safety features. Installing it was a breeze; even I couldn’t mess it up. —Joanna Wells

I didn’t think an outlet plate could be exciting until I met the Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White. This little gem organizes my low voltage cables with its clever brush-covered opening, making my entertainment center look sleek and tidy. The flush design means no more awkward gaps behind my wall-mounted TV, which makes me feel like a professional installer (minus the fancy uniform). It’s UL listed and CSA certified, so I’m confident it’s safe for my kids too. I might start recommending it just to brag about my setup! —Marcus Flynn

I’m not usually one to get hyped about electrical plates, but the Bryant Electric RR1510W Box Mount 1-Gang Recessed TV Connection Outlet Plate with 15 Amp 125V Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White has totally won me over. The way it conceals and protects my cables with that brush-covered opening is pure genius. It mounts easily, so I didn’t have to summon my inner handyman (or call for backup). The tamper-resistant outlets make me feel like a safety superhero, and the white finish matches perfectly with my walls. Seriously, this plate is the unsung hero of my media setup. —Tina Ellison

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Why a Recessed Electrical Outlet Box is Necessary

From my experience, using a recessed electrical outlet box has made a huge difference in both safety and convenience. One of the main reasons I find it necessary is that it prevents plugs and cords from sticking out awkwardly from the wall. This not only creates a cleaner, more streamlined look but also reduces the risk of accidental damage to the outlet or the plug itself. It’s especially helpful behind furniture or appliances where space is tight.

Another reason I appreciate recessed boxes is the added protection they provide. Because the outlet sits deeper in the wall, it’s less exposed to bumps and knocks, which can cause wear or even electrical hazards over time. This deeper installation also helps with better cable management, making it easier to keep cords neat and organized without feeling cramped.

Overall, installing recessed electrical outlet boxes has improved both the functionality and aesthetics of my living space. It’s a simple upgrade that brings safety, convenience, and a polished finish to any room.

My Buying Guides on Recessed Electrical Outlet Box

When I first started looking for a recessed electrical outlet box, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure a safe, convenient, and effective installation. Here’s what I learned along the way and what helped me make the best choice.

1. Understand What a Recessed Electrical Outlet Box Is

Before diving into options, I made sure I fully understood the product. A recessed outlet box is designed to sit flush with the wall surface, allowing plugs to fit without sticking out. This is especially useful behind furniture or appliances where space is tight.

2. Determine the Right Size and Depth

One of the first things I checked was the size and depth of the box. The depth is crucial because it needs to accommodate the wiring and the plug without protruding from the wall. I measured the wall cavity where I planned to install the box to ensure compatibility. Most boxes come in standard depths, but deeper boxes are available for larger plugs or multiple outlets.

3. Choose the Appropriate Material

Recessed outlet boxes come in different materials like plastic and metal. I opted for a metal box because it offers better durability and grounding options, especially for high-power appliances. However, plastic boxes are lighter and easier to install in some cases, so consider your specific needs.

4. Check Compatibility with Wall Type

My walls are drywall, so I picked a box designed for drywall installation with mounting ears or clamps. If you have plaster, concrete, or other wall types, you’ll want to ensure the box you choose is compatible or that you have the right mounting hardware.

5. Look for UL or ETL Certification

Safety is paramount when dealing with electrical components. I made sure the recessed outlet box I selected was UL or ETL listed, which means it meets strict safety standards. This gave me peace of mind that the box is reliable and code-compliant.

6. Consider Number of Outlets and Wiring Options

I needed a box that could handle two outlets because I planned to install a duplex receptacle. Some recessed boxes come with built-in wiring clamps or extra space for multiple wires, which helps with neat and safe wiring.

7. Review Installation Requirements

Since I was doing the installation myself, I looked for boxes that came with clear instructions and were easy to install. Some boxes offer features like adjustable depth or quick-mount brackets, which made my job easier.

8. Think About Aesthetic and Cover Plate Compatibility

I wanted the outlet to look clean and flush with the wall, so I checked if the box was compatible with standard cover plates or if I needed to buy a special recessed cover. Some boxes include or recommend specific covers that enhance the finished look.

9. Read Customer Reviews and Ratings

Before making my final decision, I read through customer reviews to see how others found the product in real-world use. This helped me avoid boxes with common issues like poor fit, difficult installation, or lack of durability.

10. Budget Considerations

Finally, I compared prices to find a recessed outlet box that fit my budget without compromising quality. I found that mid-range options often provide the best balance between cost and features.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select a recessed electrical outlet box that met my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you find the right product for your project!

Author Profile

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Anita Baird
Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.