Are USB-C outlets in the kitchen worth it?
In our kitchen we're constantly charging our phones, tablets and headphones. I'm thinking about replacing normal outlets with ones that have USB-C ports. Does anyone know of good models for that?
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Because in the kitchen it's really annoying when cables are constantly lying around everywhere. I thought about it for myself too and ended up going a pragmatic route: instead of replacing all the outlets I just installed one or two outlets with USB-C ports in the places where you'll charge stuff the most. That saves you the cost of a complete replacement and you still get the benefits. Good models are available from Gira, Busch-Jaeger or Emos - they're solid in terms of build quality and last a long time. Installation is relatively straightforward if you can get the old outlet out, but you might need an electrician if you're not sure about it.
The important thing is just that you pay attention to the wattage - make sure they can do at least 30W per port, otherwise you'll be charging your devices at a snail's pace. And honestly, some USB-C ports in these outlets get a bit wobbly after a while if you're constantly plugging and unplugging cables. That's why I'd honestly recommend getting a good external USB charging station with multiple ports in addition - they're cheap nowadays and you get more flexibility with them. That way you can still charge all your devices at the gym or on the go without an outlet being constantly blocked.
I wouldn't completely ditch regular outlets - you still need them for things like blenders, kettles and stuff!
My tip: get a combination outlet with USB-C and keep some classic sockets next to it, that's way more flexible than just USB. Even better: put a quality power strip with USB-C right in the kitchen, then you can charge all your devices in one place without having cables everywhere, and you'll save yourself a renovation too!
Combination outlets with USB-C are practical, but whether they're worth it really depends on how often you actually need the regular outlets. In my own place, I realized that in the kitchen I still regularly plug in stuff like the mixer, coffee maker, and other appliances - so USB-C outlets would just get in the way there. Probably better if you keep two or three regular outlets and add a dedicated USB-C outlet instead. That gives you flexibility without regretting later that you don't have enough regular sockets.
As for the models: There are combo systems from manufacturers like Eltako, Gira, or cheaper ones from hardware store brands. Check if your local electrical supplier has them on display so you can see how they feel. Important thing is to get a qualified electrician to do the installation - it's not a DIY job. Retrofitting a single USB-C outlet is way more involved than you'd think and pretty expensive, so think it through carefully beforehand about where it actually makes sense.
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