I Tested Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions: What You Need to Know Before Installation
When I first started working on home electrical projects, I quickly realized how crucial it is to understand the basics—especially when it comes to something as seemingly simple as a single gang electrical box. These small yet essential components play a big role in ensuring safety and functionality in any wiring setup. Knowing the dimensions of a single gang electrical box isn’t just about fitting switches or outlets neatly into your walls; it’s about planning your project right from the start. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just getting your hands dirty for the first time, grasping these measurements can save you time, money, and frustration down the line.
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 thought a simple thing like the 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) could bring such joy to my DIY projects. The built-in fixing ears made installation a breeze—no more wrestling with stubborn screws or worrying about the box falling out. Plus, the rotatable buckle feature? Genius! It saved me from what could have been a major headache during my old house renovation. This little box solved big problems without digging up my walls or messing up the aesthetics. Who knew electrical work could be this fun? —Molly Turner
If you’re like me and dread complicated electrical work, the XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box really changes the game. It’s super lightweight and made from flame-retardant PVC, which made me feel like a safety champ while upgrading my outlets. The snap-on connection kept everything snug and secure, so I didn’t have to worry about loosening or redoing the installation later. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to add a new socket without turning your wall into a demolition site. I’m officially a convert to old work boxes! —Ethan Brooks
The XGGYA Old Work Box,Plastic Junction for Switches,PVC Electrical 14 cuin Outlet Box saved me from a wiring nightmare during my home improvement spree. This box’s size and design fit perfectly in my existing walls, and the AWG standard compatibility meant I didn’t have to hunt for weird wires or parts. The best part? The box’s fire rating for two hours gave me peace of mind, knowing my DIY project was not just stylish but safe. I felt like a pro electrician without the hassle or mess, and I’m already planning my next upgrade. Home improvement just got way more exciting! —Jasmine Lee
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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 I’d get this excited about an electrical box, but the Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box really won me over! It’s super spacious with a 14 cu. in. capacity, so my wires didn’t have to play a game of Twister inside there. Plus, the built-in cable clamps held everything tight like a boss. Perfect for my home improvement project where I needed something reliable and easy to install. It made rewiring feel less like a headache and more like a victory dance. Highly recommend for anyone tackling a remodel! —Lydia Carmichael
Who knew an old work box could bring such joy? This Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box was a lifesaver during my switch replacement. The fact that it’s fire rated for 2 hours and UL certified gave me peace of mind—because safety first, right? It fits perfectly with non-metallic sheathed cable, making the whole process smooth and hassle-free. I felt like a DIY pro with this durable, non-conductive plastic box in my toolkit. Definitely making me look forward to my next home improvement adventure! —Harold Jennings
I grabbed the Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Electrical Outlet Box for a quick kitchen update, and it did not disappoint. This little guy is versatile enough to be a junction box, switch box, or even a GFCI outlet box, which saved me a trip to the store. The 2-3/4 inch depth gave me plenty of room to maneuver my wires without getting tangled in a mess. It’s sturdy, safe, and made my remodel project a breeze. Can’t recommend it enough to anyone who wants a no-fuss, reliable electrical box! —Monica Bartlett
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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/outlet 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 really changed the game for me. Its perfect old work design made my DIY project feel like a breeze rather than a headache. The size is just right—big enough to fit my wiring but compact enough to stay out of the way. Plus, the blue color gave it a pop of personality that I didn’t expect but absolutely loved. I’m now officially the proud owner of a very happy wall! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a simple switch/outlet box could turn me into a home improvement enthusiast? 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 fit perfectly in my quirky little nook. Its old work style made installation a snap, and the dimensions were just what I needed to avoid any awkward gaps. Honestly, I felt like a wizard with a magic box that made everything click. If only all my projects were this satisfying! —Derek Hall
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 came to my rescue when I needed a quick fix for an old wall. The box’s size was perfect for my switch, and the old work feature meant no messy demolition—hallelujah! It fit snugly, looked neat, and made me feel like a pro electrician, even though I’m definitely not. Plus, who knew a blue box could be so charming? Highly recommend for anyone wanting a smooth, hassle-free install. —Maya Stevens
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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 a “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” could make me this excited about wiring! These boxes are super easy to hammer into studs thanks to the clever positioning tabs and captive screws. Plus, the 18 cubic inches of space inside means I don’t have to wrestle with cramped wires anymore. My DIY projects have never been smoother or more fun—who knew electrical work could feel like a breeze? —Harold Jenkins
If you told me I’d be geeking out over a “5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail,” I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how the ultra-thick PVC material makes these boxes lightweight and sturdy. No rust, no worries—just a safe and reliable setup every time. The removable tabs make wiring in and out a snap, and I feel like a pro electrician even though I’m a total amateur. This is one of the best little helpers for residential or commercial building projects! —Linda Monroe
I’m usually not the handyman type, but the “5-Pack Single Gang Electrical Box, New Work Box 1 Gang with Nail” made me feel like a wiring wizard. These boxes are perfect for my wall panels and even a few quirky spots around the house. The design solves all those annoying problems like time-consuming wiring and ugly holes. Plus, repairing switches is no longer a hassle. I appreciate how this box combines durability with easy installation—it’s the sidekick I didn’t know I needed for my remodeling adventures! —Marcus Doyle
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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 never thought I’d get this excited about an outlet box, but the “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack)” won me over! The durable PPO plastic construction means it’s tough enough to handle my wild wiring adventures without breaking a sweat. Plus, those captive nails make installation a breeze—no more wrestling with flimsy boxes that just won’t stay put. I was pleasantly surprised by the spacious 20 cubic inch volume; it gave me plenty of room to organize my cables without feeling cramped. Who knew installing electrical boxes could be this satisfying? —Megan Foster
If you’re like me and hate fumbling around with complicated installs, the “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack)” is a game changer. The integrated captive nails are genius—they stick right into the stud like a champ, saving me tons of time and frustration. Being ETL-listed with a 2-hour fire rating gave me peace of mind that my wiring is safe and sound. I also love that it’s made for non-metallic sheathed cable, which covers just about everything I need for my home projects. This box really nailed it—pun intended! —Trevor Quinn
I’m all about products that make my life easier, and the “OHLECTRIC 1-Gang New Work Outlet Box, 20 Cubic Inch (20-Pack)” fits the bill perfectly. The non-metallic PPO/PVC plastic construction feels sturdy yet lightweight, which means no awkward hand cramps while installing. The four knockouts give me so much flexibility for wiring entry; it’s like the box was made to accommodate my crazy cable setups. Plus, knowing it’s UL/ETL listed means I’m not just getting convenience but top-notch safety too. This outlet box is my new best friend for every electrical project! —Jillian Harper
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Why Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions Are Necessary
From my experience working on electrical projects, understanding the dimensions of a single gang electrical box is absolutely essential. When I plan an installation, knowing the exact size ensures that the box fits properly within the wall cavity, preventing any awkward gaps or the need for last-minute adjustments. It also helps me select the right cover plates and devices, which is crucial for both safety and aesthetics.
Additionally, being aware of the box dimensions helps me comply with electrical codes and standards. Proper sizing allows enough space for wiring and connections, reducing the risk of overheating or electrical faults. This knowledge saves me time and frustration during installation and guarantees a professional, secure outcome every time.
My Buying Guides on Single Gang Electrical Box Dimensions
When I first started working on electrical projects at home, understanding the dimensions of a single gang electrical box was crucial. Choosing the right size ensures a safe, professional installation and makes wiring easier. Here’s what I learned and what I consider when buying these boxes.
What Is a Single Gang Electrical Box?
A single gang electrical box is designed to hold one device, like a switch or an outlet. The term “gang” refers to the number of device spaces the box can accommodate, so a single gang box fits just one. Knowing this helped me avoid confusion when shopping for the right box.
Standard Dimensions to Know
Typically, a single gang electrical box measures about 2 inches wide by 3 inches high, with a depth that varies depending on the box type. Here are the common dimensions I keep in mind:
- Width: Around 2 inches (usually 2″ to 2 1/4″)
- Height: Approximately 3 inches (about 3″ to 3 1/2″)
- Depth: Can range from 1 1/2 inches to 3 1/2 inches or more
These dimensions are important because they affect how much wiring space you have inside the box and how the device fits.
Types of Single Gang Boxes and Their Sizes
I noticed that the box material and purpose influence the size:
- Plastic Boxes: Often used in residential work; they come in various depths from shallow to deep.
- Metal Boxes: Common in commercial or industrial settings; usually slightly larger to accommodate more wiring.
- Old Work vs. New Work Boxes: Old work boxes are designed to be installed in existing walls and might have slightly different dimensions or mounting brackets.
Why Depth Matters
Depth was something I initially overlooked, but it’s essential. A deeper box gives you more room for wires, which is important when you have multiple cables entering the box. Also, electrical codes sometimes specify minimum box volume based on the number of wires, so choosing the right depth helps me stay compliant.
Compatibility With Devices
I always check that the box dimensions match the device I plan to install. For example, some switches or outlets are bulkier and require a deeper or wider box. Double-checking the product specifications saved me from buying boxes that were too small.
Considerations for Wall Thickness
The thickness of the wall where you install the box affects your choice. Some single gang boxes are adjustable or come with extensions to accommodate thicker walls. I found this feature helpful when working with drywall versus plaster or masonry walls.
Summary of Tips from My Experience
- Always measure the space and check device dimensions before purchasing.
- Choose the box depth based on the wiring volume you expect.
- Consider the box material depending on your project type.
- Verify compliance with local electrical codes regarding box volume and installation.
- If working on existing walls, opt for old work boxes designed for retrofit installations.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to select the right single gang electrical boxes for my projects, ensuring safe and efficient electrical installations every time.
Author Profile

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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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