What used to be a nice add-on, has become an industry standard. USB outlets are now commonplace and are requested in most installations for both new and retrofit builds. Instead of just being something nice to have, now the question is “How many we are installing?”

Today homes are charging devices that are much different than when USB outlets were the new shiny object in the market. Typically, homes now must be able to power smartphones, laptops, tablets, and much more. These devices have higher power needs and instead of asking if the outlet has any USB, it is imperative that each has enough power to do the job.

Leviton has recently refreshed our USB outlet lineup in keeping with market trends. The market has grown exponentially, and our lineup meets the new demand with more, clearly spelled out product options that distributors and contractors can rely on to give their customers the right solution for each application.

USB Needs Have Evolved

Leviton has been the leader in USB charging outlets since 2012 and the only manufacturer to build these devices in North America. Recognizing that the market has evolved, we established that our USB outlet line needed a refresh. 

Charging initially centered on phones and small electronics that required only low power. As charging technology advanced, manufacturers shifted from standard plug-in chargers to USB charging because more devices could be powered directly through USB ports. This trend accelerated as devices added larger batteries, which required more power and took longer to charge with lower-power chargers. 

Over time, many manufacturers also stopped including charging blocks, further increasing demand for USB outlets. With higher power, the demand for updated products has grown. This comprehensive product refresh simplifies the buying process and strengthens the brand.

“This new refresh will help Leviton better align with current market needs and competition, and help distributors and contractors understand the products, their solutions, and address customer needs and expectations,” explained William Randall, Senior Director of Product Management.

Key Updates

Leviton’s new USB tier structure provides distributors a clear path to help contractors make informed choices for their customers. Distributors can stock everyday, good, better, and best devices to offer options based on each project’s needs. Each tier adds features that make decision-making easier and more straightforward. As the tiers increase, they support charging larger devices with larger batteries that require higher power. 

USB power delivery (PD) wall outlets deliver high power faster and more efficiently and are suitable for home offices. These outlets keep smartphones, tablets, and laptops ready for business and the high-power delivery reduces charging time. Not all devices need power delivery, and Leviton offers options with and without it. For example, moving from the good tier to the better tier upgrades devices from non-power delivery to power delivery and the best tier increases power delivery from 30 watts to 60 watts.

The best tier is the flagship of the line, and these products are designed to charge devices such as laptops, tablets, large cameras and other items that charge using a USB.

Leviton works directly with companies like Apple and Samsung to keep abreast of advancing charging needs. For example, evolving large capacity, faster device chargers that can handle the latest 60W charging supported phones, which helps distributors confidently recommend higher tiers. These recommendations reassure contractors and their customers that the chosen devices are more future proof.

As USB technology evolved and the product line expanded, confusion grew. The numbering system grew sequentially, and customers struggled when trying to identify the correct product for a project quickly.

Leviton understood that confusion and completely revamped the product numbers, so they are more intuitive and logical, quickly identifying port type, wattage, power delivery status, and amperage. These numbers read right to left, and part numbers convey exactly what the product is and what it does immediately. 

Help Contractors Choose

Leviton has several helpful ways distributors can help contractors choose the correct USBs. One is by asking pointed questions about how each device will be used and where in the home the USBs will be. Knowing exactly what they need to power will go a long way toward determining what tier product is needed. 

Leviton’s Online USB Selector Tool simplifies selection without requiring contractors to memorize the new numbering or tier system.

The USB market has grown and changed substantially in the last decade, and Leviton has grown and changed with it by offering industry-leading products and solutions. Leviton has clarified and refreshed this product line, making it straightforward and easy to navigate. Now, when a customer needs a specific product, the contractor can reach out to distributors and be confident they are making the right choice for that project. 

For more information, contact your Leviton representative and visit USB Wall Outlets with Charging Ports.

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