When there are so many GFCI outlets to choose from, it can be hard to find the right one. If you don’t know much about electrical systems, it’s even scary. But don’t worry! I’m here to help you get through the confusion about GFCI outlets and find the right one for you.
The most important thing about a good GFCI outlet is that it can quickly find ground faults and cut off the current. But some outlets go above and beyond by adding extra features that make them stand out.
In this blog post, I’ll review 9 different models and talk about their unique features, how easy they are to install, and how reliable they are overall. Get ready to find the perfect outlet that will meet all of your electrical needs like a pro!
Top 3 GFCI Comparison & Our Top Picks
| Product Title | Leviton GFNT1-3W | GREEN CYCLE 20 Amp | Faith 15 Amp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Image | |  |  |
| Our Pick | Top Pick | Best Overall | Consider |
| Dimension | 1.69 x 1.32 x 4.21 inches | 5.91 x 2.83 x 1.06 inches | 1.68 x 1.55 x 4.13 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces | 1.17 Pounds | 13.6 Ounces |
| Style | Receptacle | Receptacle | Receptacle |
| Rating | 15 amp, 120 volt | 125V/20A/60Hz/2500W | 15A/125V/1875W |
| Tamper resistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weather resistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ETL certified | No | Yes | Yes |
| Power outlets | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| LED indicator | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Self-testing | Yes | N/A | Yes |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
What Is a GFCI Outlet, and Why Do You Need One?
A GFCI outlet is a special type of electrical outlet that provides extra protection against electrical shock.
It can sense when there is a ground fault (i.e., an imbalance in the electrical current between the hot wire and the neutral wire) and quickly cut off power to prevent serious injury or death.
You can use a GFCI outlet in any area of your home or business that may be exposed to moisture (such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor locations).
You can also use it where electrical devices may come into contact with water (such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas).
Moreover, these types of outlets are required by law in many jurisdictions and are recommended by safety experts everywhere.
You can read my other guide about what GFCI with an AMP rating you should use in bathrooms.
A Buyer’s Guide to GFCI Outlets
To get maximum benefits, you should consider the following features when buying one:
Amperage
Electrical outlets can handle different amounts of electrical current, measured in amps. So try to choose an outlet with a high enough amperage rating to safely handle your needs.
If you’re not sure, choose an outlet with a higher rating to be on the safe side.
Type of outlet
There are two main types of outlets:
- Standard and
- Decorative
Decorative outlets have a smooth surface, while standard outlets have holes that you can use if you need to plug something in that needs to fit flush against the outlet’s back.
Installation
For outdoor or water-resistant use, choose a GFCI outlet that’s compatible with a GFCI breaker. Also, it would be best if you chose an outlet that’s easy to install.
Self-testing
When GFCI outlets are switched on, most well-known brands automatically self-test on a frequency basis to ensure safety.
If it doesn’t function properly, you won’t have electricity. So look for outlets that have a self-testing feature.
Trip-off capacity
If you need an outlet for a lawnmower or other sensitive appliance, choose one with a high trip-off capacity. This means it can handle a higher amount of electricity and still protect you from shock.
Tamper-resistant
Another consideration factor is tamper resistance. You should select outlets with tamper-resistant shutters that prevent children from sticking objects into the slots.
Accessibility
Install your GFCI outlet in an accessible location, and choose outlets that fit the standard receptacle size.
Avoid outlets that are too large or bulky. Keep in mind that a standard GFCI outlet can protect you from shocks but not from fire.
Additional Factors:
- Safety certifications
- High trip rating
- Weather resistant
1. ANKO 20 Amp GFCI Outlet
The ANKO 20 Amp GFCI outlet is made with premium, high-quality resilient thermoplastic materials, which provide excellent strength and sturdiness despite being lightweight.
I like its clean white finish which seamlessly blends with walls. It doesn’t look odd on it.
This outlet is equipped with a duplex receptacle that features green and red LED indicators to display the outlet’s state, ensuring that the GFCI is functioning correctly.
Every 40 seconds, the red light flashes as a self-test to confirm that the GFCI is working correctly. If the GFCI outlet can no longer offer permanent ground fault safety, the red light also lights up to alert you.
This device has an additional layer of safety features, frequently conducting an automatic internal test to ensure it can react to a ground fault.
This device has tamper-resistant receptacle feature which is also crucial for the safety of your kids, as it prevents them from inserting foreign objects into the GFCI outlet.
You can easily perform a manual test on the outlet by pressing the TEST button located on its surface. Moreover, if the GFCI stops working, you can reset it using the RESET button.
Mark my words, the ANKO 20 GFCI outlet is an excellent investment for your home’s safety, as it offers superior quality, reliable performance, and essential safety features.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Inserting stripped wire into a hole is better than traditional wrapping.
- LED light helps detect tripping.
- Solid construction, easy wire installation.
CONS
- Screws can come out if unscrewed too much.
- Wire hook is difficult to insert.
2. PROCURU 20 Amp 2-Pack GFCI Outlet
PROCURU 20 Amp 2-Pack GFCI Outlet is compliant with the National Electric Code requirements, which makes it a reliable choice. It also has a tamper-resistant feature that only allows a two-pin plug to connect with it, ensuring your child’s safety.
In addition to providing safety, the PROCURU GFCI outlet can also function as a standard outlet. You should be careful during installation, as the screws may require pliers or stiffening to secure properly.
I like the status indicator light that comes with this GFCI outlet, which helps you keep track of its protection measures. While many GFCI outlets can tolerate some moisture, this outlet has an extra weather resistance feature.
You will have a tamper resistance shutter safety mechanism that will block your children’s access to power until you insert a two-prong plug.
You will find it is working reliably in most settings without malfunctioning. With this GFCI outlet, you can be sure about the safety of your family.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Visual consistency with other purchased GFCIs.
- Green light turns off when a manual test is initiated.
- Meets tamper-resistant requirements.
CONS
- Cable holding hole size is too small for 12 g size cable.
- Design flaw with wire mounting screw.
3. Faith 15 Amp 3-Pack
The outlet is compliant with National Electric Code requirements and has quality engineering that can protect you from harm. It can identify and prevent ground faults within 1/40 of a second. It is one of the fastest-acting outlets on the market.
Each unit of this GFCI undergoes double testing to ensure dependable performance. And with its green LED light, you’ll always know when the outlet is working correctly.
You will see the LED light will flash red and start to get dim if the outlet needs to be changed or if a ground fault safety has occurred. Just press the RESET button to get the outlet back to normal.
I like the outlet’s slim, stylish design, which allows you easy installation in shallow electrical boxes. And the best part? You can install it on your own.
For continuous protection, the outlet performs automatic self-tests at consistent intervals. Invest in the Faith 15 Amp 3-Pack GFCI outlet today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are protected by one of the most reliable outlets on the market.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- The green light indicator feature helps identify tripped outlets.
- Can help detect incorrect wiring.
- Screw terminals are preferred by some electricians.
CONS
- Screw heads may strip easily.
4. Leviton GFNT1-3W 15 Amp 3-Pack GFCI Receptacle
Leviton GFNT1-3W 15 Amp 3-Pack GFCI Receptacle has a patented lockout action feature. This feature ensures that it stops the flow of electricity to your GFCI.
I personally like the reset function that enables the outlet to react to a ground fault, in case it gets damaged or becomes loose.
The exciting thing about this GFCI is its enhanced protection against high-frequency noise, which can come from nearby multimedia systems.
It also helps to decrease inconvenience tripping by ensuring that frequencies connected to the wall outlet stay unchanged.
Your devices will go through an auto-test when this GCI checks the power status of an electronic. You can be confident about the power and safety conditions of your receptacles with its status indicator light that shows you the power and safety conditions.
It has a slim design that takes up to 25% less area in the wall box. You can simply and easily install it in any electrical box.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Easy retrofit with installation in either direction.
- Can daisy chain multiple outlets together on one GFIC.
CONS
- The always-on green LED indicating it’s working may be too bright for some users.
5. GREEN CYCLE 3 PK 20 Amp
The GREEN CYCLE 3 PK 20 Amp GFCI outlet can keep you and your family safe. This outlet has fireproof polycarbonate housing that helps reduce the risk of fire.
One of the best things about this outlet is its automatic self-testing function. It checks the GFCI receptacle regularly to make sure it’s working properly.
You will also have an indicator status button that tells you everything you need to know. When the button is green, it means the GFCI is installed correctly and delivering power. It’s simple to understand.
And if you have kids, you’ll be glad to know that this outlet has a tamper-resistant safety system. It’s designed to keep your kids safe by preventing them from sticking anything into the receptacle.
I love the internal shutter system. It ensures that nothing can enter the outlet unless both plug pins are inserted at the same time.
GREEN CYCLE 3 PK 20 Amp GFCI Outlet comes with all the necessary parts and an easy-to-follow installation manual. So why wait? Get your GREEN CYCLE 3 outlet today and start enjoying worry-free electrical power!
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Moisture-proof resistant.
- Suitable for humid and outdoor conditions.
- It can be installed in just ten minutes.
CONS
- Not suitable to use with aluminum wire.
6. Leviton GFNL1-W 15-Amp
If you are looking for a top-quality GFCI outlet, the Leviton GFNL1 is definitely worth considering. It’s UL-certified and comes with self-test and tamper-resistant features, making it a reliable choice even after several months of use.
One of the standout features of the Leviton GFNL1 is its unique sensor function. It’s able to turn on or off automatically depending on the surrounding lighting, which can be really convenient.
In addition, this outlet boasts two strategically placed LED lights for enhanced visibility, even when multiple plugs are in use. The guide light feature provides an added layer of safety and protection.
You don’t need to use an outlet for plug-in night light. That’s how you can save some spaces as well.
You will love the Leviton GFNL1 as it’s slim and shallow which makes installation and connection to electrical boxes so easy.
Overall, it may be a bit pricier than other GFCI outlets on the market, but its superior features and convenient design make it a smart choice for any homeowner looking for a reliable and convenient outlet.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Easy to install.
- GFCI function works well.
CONS
- No indication light for tripped GFCI.
- Little expensive.
7. Ever Electrix 10 Pack GFCI Duplex Outlet Receptacle
Ever Electrix 10 Pack GFCI Duplex Outlet Receptacle is a reliable and safe GFCI outlet. I found it sturdy and durable as well as convenient.
This outlet has user-friendly LED indicators that show its working status through easy-to-detect green and red lights. It’s UL certified for high-quality standards and secure operation, so you can trust it to keep you safe.
With the automatic, regular test of the GFCI’s performance, you can rest easy knowing that the electrocution and shortage prevention functions are functioning as expected.
You will also get a tamper-resistant shutter mechanism. So, unwanted items won’t be able to transmit power through this outlet.
Installing the GFCI outlet is pretty easy too. The Ever Electrix 10 comes in a complete set with white wall plates and matching screws, so you can easily do it yourself without calling in any experts.
Upgrade to the Ever Electrix GFCI outlet for reliable and easy-to-use features that keep you safe and provide peace of mind.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Affordable GFCI units.
- Effective in preventing electrical shocks and accidents.
- Good customer service from the vendor.
CONS
- Not suitable for older electrical systems.
- Not waterproof or designed for outdoor use.
8. EVER ELECTRIX GFCI Duplex
Ever Electrix GFCI outlet has an automatic protection feature that you’ll love. Plus, it’s flame retardant with a UL94-V2 grade. That means, it slows down fires and gives you enough time to stop sparks and dangerous explosions.
Your electronics are safe with this outlet. It is weather-resistant and has 15-Amp/125-volt power. Your home is in good hands with this outlet, and it’s UL listed for your peace of mind.
You can use this outlet anywhere. It’s great for indoor or outdoor use in places like kitchens, patios, laundry rooms, pool houses, and bathrooms.
These outlets from Ever Electrix are durable. The high-quality materials used in this outlet ensure a long-lasting experience.
The installation process is easy, as all the necessary parts are included in the package. Enjoy the convenience and safety of this GFCI outlet without any hassle.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Suitable for use in any damp or moist place.
- Easy to install
- Heat and fade resistance
CONS
- The plastic layer of this GFCI outlet can be slightly brittle.
9. Leviton GFNT1-W 15 Amp
It’s another brand of GFCI outlet which automatically performs internal tests frequently. One of our tests ensures that it can detect a ground fault.
The receptacle also has a helpful LED status indicator. A green LED light means that the GFCI has completed its self-test and is ready to provide power.
The primary self-test will occur during the first power-up if you see a red flashing light. If the light is a steady red, you’ll need to press the test and reset buttons to reset the device.
Thankfully, you are unlikely to encounter this last scenario because the GFCI receptacle is designed for durability. So, you can trust that it will keep your home safe from electrical hazards.
It has a slim and shallow design with a reduced depth. All these features make it easier for you to install it in tight space and obviously you can install them on your own.
PROS & CONS
PROS
- Very slim design
- Easy to install
CONS
- Reset button is difficult to press.
Final Thoughts
It’s always beneficial to invest in GFCI outlets to protect your home from fire and accidents. You should ensure it’s weatherproof, self-testing, and trip-off capable when buying one. Consider the size of the outlet as well.
If you want to protect your home from any electrical hazards and prevent fires, the GFCI outlets I recommend are a great option. They are easy to install, and most of them have been tested by UL (Underwriters Laboratories).
Best of all, you don’t have to replace any existing outlets! These outlets come in two different styles: wall-mounted or recessed flush mount models.
Therefore, if you need advice on what style will work best with your house or needs, you can consult a professional who can give you advice.
Top 7 FAQs about GFCI Outlets
Here are some answers to common questions about GFCI Outlets, along with some recommendations based on factual data.
Price, amp, and type are all factors to consider. We recommend Leviton’s line for reasons of durability and design.
Duplex outlets are the most common, and this one has both a standard Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet.
No, GFCI outlets are up to code and allow appliances to be plugged in. However, Ground-fault-interrupt (GFI) outlets usually have a reset button for the circuit but may not be code compliant.
You should measure your outlets before purchasing GFCI ones since many appliances are large. In addition, you can consider where you’ll install it if you don’t want to redo any wiring. That’s why dimension is essential.
Yes, suppose your home isn’t already wired with GFCI outlets. In that case, you should consult with an electrician to determine the proper location and installation. Also, before purchasing one, make sure your home is properly grounded.
Yes, You should consider at least 15 amp waterproof GFCI outlets in a bathroom with properly installed. Some places recommend not installing GFCI-type outlets near water sources, but this is only one school of thought.
No, a GFCI is not faster than a breaker. Both a GFCI and a breaker serve different purposes and operate differently. A breaker is designed to protect the wiring and prevent overloading, while a GFCI is designed to detect ground faults and quickly shut off power to prevent electrical shock. Speed is not a significant factor in their operation.
