5A Unswitched Round Pin Socket - Brushed Chrome (Grey Insert)

This Knightsbridge 5A round pin socket is an unswitched outlet in brushed chrome with a grey insert, designed for lighting circuits and low-current applications where 13A standard sockets would be over-specified. The socket accepts 5A round pin plugs to BS 546, commonly used in vintage lighting installations, rewired period properties, and custom lighting control systems.

The rounded edge steel faceplate provides a softer profile than traditional flat plates, with bevelled edges that sit closer to the wall and a built-in gasket behind the plate to prevent light leakage around the edges once fitted. The unswitched design means the socket remains permanently live when the circuit breaker is on, making it suitable for lighting circuits controlled by wall switches elsewhere in the room or for always-on equipment.

The brushed chrome finish has a directional grain that diffuses reflections and sits comfortably in both period and contemporary interiors. The grey insert behind the faceplate hides the back of the cover plate and provides contrast around the round pin aperture. The socket requires a 25mm minimum back box depth and uses screw terminals for wiring, with an earth terminal included for Class I installations.

Product Specification Sheet

Product Manual

What is a 5A round pin socket used for?

5A round pin sockets to BS 546 are primarily used in lighting circuits, particularly in period properties, vintage lighting installations, and custom lighting control systems where the outlet needs to be permanently live and switched elsewhere in the room. They are not compatible with standard 13A rectangular pin plugs.

Why is this socket unswitched?

Unswitched sockets remain permanently live when the circuit breaker is on, which is typical for lighting circuits controlled by wall switches in another location or for equipment that needs constant power. If you need local control at the socket itself, look for a switched version of this model.

What back box depth is required?

A 25mm minimum back box depth is needed for installation. The faceplate adds 7.5mm of projection from the wall once fitted, giving a total depth of approximately 32.5mm from the wall surface to the front of the plate.

What does the rounded edge design mean?

Rounded edge plates have bevelled edges that curve gently into the wall rather than sitting flat against it. The built-in gasket behind the plate prevents light leakage around the edges and gives a more finished appearance than traditional flat plates, particularly on textured or slightly uneven wall surfaces.