The 6 Best 50 Amp Inlet Boxes
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in October of 2018. When the power goes out, an inlet box serves as a convenient receptacle for plugging in your portable generator to restore electricity to your home’s appliances. It’s wired to your transfer switch and breaker panel, so you can pick which devices you want to run. Here we rank 50-amp models for reliability, setup, and price. For safety, these should only be installed by a licensed electrician. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Rophor 3 Prong
2. Conntek GIB1450-025
3. LeisureRV Trailer Kit
Editor's Notes
February 16, 2021:
We replaced the Conntek 80SS2-CPBX with the Conntek GIB1450-025 – which comes conveniently bundled with a connection cable to hook up to your backup generator – and removed two models from Generac due to availability issues — namely the 6338 and 6344.
Our other new additions this time around were the LeisureRV Trailer Kit — which includes a twist-lock female connecter and an accompanying weatherproof boot, but oddly doesn’t include a male counterpart to plug into your RV generator or campsite supply; and the Rophor 3 Prong — which shot to the top of our list with its generous sizing and handy indicator LED.
Although this has already been stressed by this page’s last editor, I’ll reiterate: for your safety’s sake, make sure this device is installed by a reputable, licensed electrician. And, for your electrician’s sake, make sure you’re purchasing properly sized parts for your project. For smaller applications, we also maintain a separate list of 30-amp inlet boxes.
March 26, 2019:
When selecting the right 50 amp inlet box, first and foremost, make sure it’s compatible with your generator. In addition, you want one that offers a straightforward setup, with multiple well-placed and large enough knockouts for the wires. (Be sure to have this electrical device installed by a licensed, professional electrician.) Since they’re usually placed outside, look for one that will withstand the elements. The Reliance Products PBN50 received top marks here as a safe model with a well-thought-out design to help protect it from rough weather. And it’s from a leading electrical device manufacturer, to boot. For a versatile choice that’s easy to install (and uninstall when the need arises), look to the ABN Marine Power Socket, which is made from heavy-duty materials, and as an added bonus, it's quite affordable. No matter which you go with, be sure to hook it up directly to a transfer switch, for safety’s sake. This will 1.) safeguard your appliances and electronics against harmful electrical overloads, and 2.) prevent back-filling of power lines, which could injure utility workers who are on nearby poles attempting to restore power to your area.
4. Reliance Products PBN50
5. ABN Marine Power Socket
6. Reliance Products PB50
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.