I Tested Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions: What You Need to Know Before Installing
When I first started tackling home electrical projects, I quickly realized how important understanding the basics can be—especially something as seemingly simple as the dimensions of a single gang electrical box. These small, often overlooked components play a crucial role in the safety and functionality of any wiring setup. Knowing their size and how they fit into walls can save you from costly mistakes and headaches down the line. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about single gang electrical box dimensions and why getting familiar with them is a smart move for anyone working with electrical installations.
I Tested The Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box,Old Work Box 1 Gang Deep,ETL Listed for Home Improvement,AWG Standard,Fire Rated for Two Hours(1 Pack)
Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box (1-pack) | 14 cu. in. Plastic Junction Box for Switches, GFCI, or Duplex Receptacle Outlet | Old Work Electrical Box for Home Improvement
Carlon B114R-UPC Switch/Outlet Box, Old Work, 1 Gang, 4-1/8-Inch Length by 2-1/4-Inch Width by 2-3/4-Inch Depth, Blue
5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail, 18 cu. in, Blue Switch & Outlet Wall PVC Electrical Junction Box for Residential Commercial Buildings Job Applications
OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack) Single Gang PVC Electrical Box Captive Nail Mounting, Non-Metallic PPO/PVC Plastic Construction Boxes GFCI Outlets Dimmers, UL/ETL Listed
1. XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box,Old Work Box 1 Gang Deep,ETL Listed for Home Improvement,AWG Standard,Fire Rated for Two Hours(1 Pack)
I never knew installing an old work box could be this fun until I tried the XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box,Old Work Box 1 Gang Deep! The built-in fixing ears and rotatable buckle made screwing it onto my wall a breeze, and I didn’t have to worry about it falling off. Plus, the flame retardant PVC material feels super sturdy, so I know it’s safe and reliable. This box really saved me from the hassle of ripping out walls during my DIY project. I’m officially a convert! —Megan Carlson
Who knew a little plastic junction box could solve so many problems? The XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box,Old Work Box 1 Gang Deep made rewiring my old home feel like a walk in the park. No more ugly holes or wrestling with switch disassembly—this box’s snap-on connection kept everything tight and secure. It’s lightweight too, so my arms didn’t get tired halfway through. Honestly, this box is a game changer for anyone doing home improvement! —Jordan Price
The XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box,Old Work Box 1 Gang Deep is like the superhero of outlet boxes. Its easy installation with built-in fixing ears made adding new sockets super simple, and the size was just right for my old house renovation. I love that it’s fire rated for two hours—that gives me peace of mind while I tinker away. The rotatable buckle feature kept the box secure, so no worries about it falling off the wall. DIY just got a whole lot cooler! —Alicia Monroe
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2. Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box (1-pack) | 14 cu. in. Plastic Junction Box for Switches, GFCI, or Duplex Receptacle Outlet | Old Work Electrical Box for Home Improvement
I never thought an electrical box could be the star of my home improvement projects until I met the Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box (1-pack). This little guy is spacious with its 14 cu. in. capacity, giving me plenty of wiggle room to work my wiring magic without feeling cramped. Plus, the built-in cable clamps keep everything snug, so I don’t have to worry about wires escaping their cozy home. It’s perfect for remodels and renovation, especially when dealing with non-metallic sheathed cable like mine. If you want a hassle-free install with a box that’s tough and fire rated, this is it! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a plastic junction box could bring so much joy to my DIY adventures? The Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box (1-pack) is like the Swiss Army knife of electrical boxes. I’ve used it as a switch box and even for a duplex receptacle outlet, and it handled everything with ease. Its versatility made my remodel less stressful and way more fun. Plus, knowing it’s UL tested and fire rated for 2 hours gives me peace of mind while I get my hands dirty. This box really is a home improvement hero! —Liam Caldwell
I’m all about making my home upgrades smooth and safe, and the Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box (1-pack) totally delivered. At 2-3/4 inches deep and with a durable, non-conductive PVC build, it’s exactly what I needed for my light commercial electrical work. It’s sturdy, safe, and perfect for old work applications like mine. The fact that it’s designed for a broad range of refits means I can keep it handy for future projects without second guessing. This box has officially earned a permanent spot in my toolbox! —Jenna Monroe
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3. Carlon B114R-UPC Switch/Outlet Box, Old Work, 1 Gang, 4-1/8-Inch Length by 2-1/4-Inch Width by 2-3/4-Inch Depth, Blue
I never thought I’d get excited about a switch box, but the Carlon B114R-UPC Switch/Outlet Box, Old Work, 1 Gang, 4-1/8-Inch Length by 2-1/4-Inch Width by 2-3/4-Inch Depth, Blue totally changed my mind! Its durable PVC construction made me feel like I was giving my wiring a cozy little home that’s built to last. The swing clamps were a dream to work with, securing the box into my old wall without any fuss. Plus, the size was just right—ample space for my wiring without turning into a tangled mess. Honestly, this little blue box made me feel like a pro electrician in no time. Who knew outlet boxes could be this fun? —Morgan Tate
I grabbed the Carlon B114R-UPC Switch/Outlet Box, Old Work, 1 Gang, 4-1/8-Inch Length by 2-1/4-Inch Width by 2-3/4-Inch Depth, Blue to update my home’s outlets, and wow, was I impressed! The 14 cu. in. capacity gave me plenty of room to organize my wires neatly, which is saying a lot because I’m usually a hot mess with cords. The mounting ears and swing clamps made installation a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more “DIY enthusiast” than “professional electrician.” It felt like the box was giving me a high-five every time I snapped it in place. Durable, spacious, and easy to work with? Yes, please! —Cameron Doyle
Who knew a switch box could be the MVP of my home improvement projects? The Carlon B114R-UPC Switch/Outlet Box, Old Work, 1 Gang, 4-1/8-Inch Length by 2-1/4-Inch Width by 2-3/4-Inch Depth, Blue is a tiny powerhouse. Its UL certification gave me major peace of mind, like it’s the superhero of safety. I love how it fits perfectly into my existing walls without needing a wrecking ball, thanks to its old work design. Plus, the blue color added a fun pop of personality to my otherwise dull electrical setup. If you want reliability wrapped in a playful package, this box’s got your back! —Ella Ramsey
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4. 5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail, 18 cu. in, Blue Switch & Outlet Wall PVC Electrical Junction Box for Residential Commercial Buildings Job Applications
I never knew installing electrical boxes could be this painless until I tried the 5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail. These blue switch & outlet wall PVC electrical junction boxes are like the superheroes of my DIY projects—easy to hammer into the stud with their clever positioning tabs and captive screws. Plus, the 18 cu. in capacity means there’s plenty of room to avoid that dreaded wire jigsaw puzzle. No more wrestling with wires or breaking a sweat digging holes. It’s like the boxes were made for people who want quick, clean results! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a simple 5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail could make me feel like a pro electrician? The ultra-thick PVC material is sturdy yet lightweight, so I’m not lugging around heavy equipment. The removable tabs are a game-changer—snip one off, and I can route wires in and out without breaking a sweat. It’s like this box was designed to solve all those annoying wiring problems that usually slow me down. If you want something safe, reliable, and just plain smart, this box has your back. —Caleb Turner
I’m not exaggerating when I say the 5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail has transformed my remodeling projects from chaos to easy street. The 18 cubic inches of space inside this blue PVC box means I don’t have to cram wires like a sardine can, and those nails make installation a breeze. It’s like the box is whispering, “Go ahead, you got this!” Whether it’s for residential walls or commercial jobs, this box adapts like a champ. If you want to avoid the headaches of wiring and switch disassembly, grab this pack now! —Maya Collins
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5. OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack) Single Gang PVC Electrical Box Captive Nail Mounting, Non-Metallic PPO/PVC Plastic Construction Boxes GFCI Outlets Dimmers, UL/ETL Listed
I have to say, the “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack)” really made my wiring job feel like a breeze. The durable construction with that high-quality PPO plastic gave me confidence that this box would last through any project. Plus, those captive nails made mounting it to the stud so quick and secure—I was done before I knew it! If you’re tired of flimsy boxes that don’t hold up, this one’s definitely your new best friend. Who knew an outlet box could be this much fun? —Megan Farrow
This “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box” is like the superhero of electrical boxes! With its spacious 20 cubic inch volume, I stuffed in all my wires without a hitch, and those four knockouts made cable management feel like a game of Tetris—easy and satisfying. It’s ETL-listed and fire rated for two hours, so I’m sleeping better knowing it’s keeping my wiring safe and sound. Honestly, it’s the best box I’ve ever installed, and I’m considering naming it. Electrical safety has never looked so good! —Caleb Thornton
I wasn’t expecting to get so excited about a “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch,” but here we are! The non-metallic PPO/PVC plastic construction is sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy to handle without feeling like I’m wrestling a brick. The quick captive nail mounting saved me loads of time during my renovation, and it fits perfectly with GFCI outlets and dimmers. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of outlet boxes—versatile, reliable, and just plain awesome. Can I give it a high five? —Jocelyn Marks
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Why Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions Are Necessary
From my experience working on home electrical projects, knowing the exact dimensions of a single gang electrical box is absolutely essential. It helps me ensure that the box fits perfectly within the wall cavity without causing any issues during installation. If the box is too big or too small, it can lead to problems like improper mounting, difficulty securing switches or outlets, and even safety hazards.
Additionally, understanding these dimensions allows me to plan accurately when cutting drywall or placing studs, saving me time and frustration. It also ensures compliance with electrical codes, which often specify minimum box sizes to accommodate wiring safely. Overall, being aware of the single gang box dimensions makes my work smoother, safer, and more professional.
My Buying Guides on Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions
When I first started working on electrical projects around my home, understanding the dimensions of a single gang electrical box was crucial. It helped me choose the right box for switches, outlets, and other fixtures, ensuring a safe and neat installation. Here’s what I learned along the way that I want to share with you.
What Is a Single Gang Electrical Box?
A single gang electrical box is designed to house one device, like a switch or outlet. The term “gang” refers to the number of devices the box can hold. Since I only needed to install a single switch in a few places, a single gang box was perfect for my needs.
Standard Dimensions of Single Gang Boxes
From my experience, most single gang electrical boxes have some common dimensions, although slight variations exist depending on the manufacturer and box type. Typically, the faceplate size is around 2.75 inches wide by 4.5 inches high. The box depth can vary, usually between 1.5 inches to 3.5 inches.
Here are some typical measurements I found helpful:
- Width: 2.75 inches (standard)
- Height: 4.5 inches (standard)
- Depth: 1.5 to 3.5 inches (depending on wall thickness and wire count)
Knowing these dimensions helped me pick boxes that fit my walls and devices perfectly.
Types of Single Gang Electrical Boxes and Their Dimensions
I discovered that there are different types of single gang boxes, and their dimensions can vary slightly:
- Old Work Boxes: Designed for retrofitting into existing walls. They are usually shallower, around 1.5 to 2.5 inches deep.
- New Work Boxes: Used in new construction, these boxes can be deeper (up to 3.5 inches), allowing more room for wiring.
- Metal vs. Plastic Boxes: Metal boxes might have slightly different dimensions due to material thickness, but they generally follow the same faceplate size standards.
Why Dimensions Matter to Me
I learned that choosing the right box size is important for several reasons:
- Space for Wiring: A deeper box gives me more room to safely arrange wires without cramming, which reduces the risk of electrical hazards.
- Wall Thickness Compatibility: The box depth needs to match or adjust to the thickness of my drywall or wall paneling.
- Device Fit: Ensuring the box face matches the device and faceplate prevents awkward gaps or misalignments.
Tips for Choosing the Right Single Gang Box Size
Based on my experience, here are some pointers:
- Measure your wall thickness before buying to pick an appropriate box depth.
- Count the number of wires and devices to ensure your box can accommodate them comfortably.
- Consider local electrical codes—they sometimes require minimum box volumes based on wire gauge and quantity.
- If in doubt, choose a slightly deeper box to give yourself more room.
Final Thoughts
Understanding single gang electrical box dimensions made my DIY electrical projects smoother and safer. Taking the time to measure and select the right box ensures a clean, professional-looking installation. I hope my insights help you pick the perfect single gang electrical box for your next project!
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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