BG Electrical 13A Nexus Metal black nickel double switched wall socket with USB-A and USB-C charging (12W) – NBN22UAC12B
Product description
The essentials
If you want a wall socket that does more than just power your plug-in devices, this BG Electrical 13A double switched wall plug socket with USB ports is designed for the everyday “one less adapter” life. It combines a traditional, double switched mains outlet with integrated USB-A and USB-C charging points, finished in a black nickel (Nexus Metal) style.
On paper, the main draw is convenience: you can charge phones, earbuds or similar small devices directly from the wall, without hunting for a separate charger. It also leans into installer-friendly details, such as angled captive screw terminals, and a plastic gasket intended to help protect metal edges from moisture. It’s the kind of upgrade that’s most noticeable around bedside tables, home office desks, or kitchen areas where you end up charging multiple devices.
That said, it’s not a universal solution for every power-hungry scenario. The USB charging is specified as 12W for this unit, so if you’re expecting tablet-fast charging or laptop-style power delivery, you may find it more limiting.
Key takeaways
The “smart” USB claim here is about variable voltage: it adjusts the voltage intelligently to match what the connected device needs. In practice, that’s aimed at reducing the mismatch that can happen with basic chargers, and it also includes a standby mode once a device is fully charged to help avoid overcharging.
You’ll also notice the design choices are aimed at both looks and install neatness. The black inserts and colour-matching fixing screws aim for a modern, clean finish, while the switches are framed with rounded corners. There are no visible plastic edges around the switches, and the integrated gasket is placed to protect metal edges from moisture.
If you like a tidy installation with fewer visible parts, this one feels fairly considered rather than “bolt-on” USB. If you’re simply replacing a standard socket and don’t really need USB charging, you could end up paying for features you won’t use.
Where it shines
A typical micro-scenario: you come in, plug your phone cable into USB-C at the wall, and you’ve still got one double switched outlet available for a lamp or a small appliance. Because the USB is integrated, you’re not leaving a separate charger brick on the side.
It can also be handy in rooms where sockets are at a premium, such as hallways or smaller home offices. With the variable-voltage USB behaviour and standby approach, the charging experience is designed to be more “set it and forget it”, at least in terms of avoiding common charging annoyances.
One more practical point: the in-line, angled captive screw terminals are intended to make wiring connections easier—especially when wiring work happens in tight spots or when you want everything to sit neatly behind the front face.
What matters most when choosing
Before you buy, it’s worth checking a few basic things for your setup:
- USB expectations: the USB power is stated as 12W. That’s usually fine for many phones and small accessories, but if you expect higher-power charging for demanding devices, you may be disappointed.
- Appearance and finish: this is black nickel (Nexus Metal) with black inserts. If you’re matching existing sockets or switches, double-check the tone against what you already have.
- Installation reality: this is a wall socket that will require proper electrical installation. The product description highlights ease of connection via captive screw terminals, but the actual job still needs to be done correctly.
Also, the information provided doesn’t mention USB total output per port beyond the overall 12W figure, so if you plan to charge two devices at once and your devices have very different requirements, it’s sensible to align expectations.
Pros
- Integrated USB-A and USB-C charging alongside a double switched 13A mains outlet
- Variable voltage “smart” USB behaviour designed to adapt to device needs
- Standby mode to help avoid the risk of overcharging when fully charged
- Angled captive screw terminals for easier wiring connections
- Integrated plastic gasket intended to protect metal edges from moisture
- 10-year guarantee against faulty materials and workmanship (as stated)
Final verdict
You should buy this BG Electrical Nexus Metal socket if you want a clean, modern-looking wall outlet with both USB-A and USB-C built in, and you’re mainly charging phones and small devices where convenience matters. It’s a good fit if you like fewer adapters, tidier charging near where you use devices, and installer-friendly wiring details.
It may not be the best choice if you need high-power charging (12W is the stated USB power), or if you’re only replacing a basic socket and won’t use the USB ports. Also, if your main goal is power for larger devices, you’ll likely be better served by a solution designed for that specific power level rather than expecting miracles from a 12W USB setup.
Mini FAQ
Is the USB charging limited to 12W?
Yes, the USB charging is described with a 12W rating for this socket, so it’s best viewed as a “small device charger” rather than a high-power option.
Does it reduce overcharging once the device is full?
The description says standby mode activates once a device is fully charged to avoid the risk of overcharging.
What makes the USB “smart” here?
It uses variable voltage that intelligently adjusts to give devices the power they need, when they need it.
Is it designed to help with moisture around metal edges?
The unit includes a fixed integrated plastic gasket intended to protect metal edges from moisture.
Does the guarantee cover materials and workmanship?
The product listing states a 10-year guarantee against faulty materials and workmanship.