Under Cabinet Outlets vs Pop-Up Outlets
If you’re researching under cabinet outlets, cabinet outlets, or a cabinet power strip, you’re probably trying to add power to a kitchen without cluttering up your splashback or benchtop. That makes sense. However, once you live with under cabinet power for a while, the downsides become pretty obvious.
For many kitchens, a pop-up outlet in the countertop ends up being the cleaner, more practical option. It puts power where you actually use it, including right on an island bench, and it can hide away when it’s not needed.
What People Mean by “Under Cabinet Outlets”
Under cabinet outlets are power units mounted beneath overhead cabinets. Depending on the brand, they may be marketed as:
- Under cabinet power
- Under cabinet power strip
- Cabinet power strip
- Cabinet strip outlet
- Low profile power strip for cabinets
- Cabinet power strip with light
Many of these products are essentially power strips designed to be mounted under a cabinet, sometimes with USB charging and sometimes with lighting. Some well-known examples in this category include Wiremold / Wiremould and Plugmold-style systems. If you want to see a representative example of that style, Legrand’s Wiremold Plugmold systems are a good reference point: Legrand Wiremold Plugmold Systems.
Why Pop-Up Outlets Make More Sense in Kitchens
1. Power is where you need it, not where it’s convenient to mount
Under cabinet outlets sit at the back of the bench, usually under the upper cabinets. In real kitchens, that often means cords drape behind appliances, plugs are hard to reach, and you end up unplugging things by feel. A pop-up outlet lets you put power on the benchtop exactly where you use small appliances, charge devices, or plug in a laptop.
This is especially useful on islands. Instead of trying to run power to a wall that isn’t there, you can place an outlet right in the middle of the island, close to where people cook, prep, and gather.
2. Cleaner look when it’s not in use
Even a low profile cabinet outlet still lives on display under the cabinets, and cords still have to run somewhere. A countertop pop-up outlet can sit flush when closed, so the kitchen looks tidy day-to-day. When you need power, it pops up. When you’re done, it disappears.
3. Modern charging is built in
A lot of people searching for under cabinet power are also looking for “USB outlets” or “USB power strips” because phones, tablets, and laptops live in the kitchen now. Pop-up outlets make this easy with features like:
- USB-A and USB-C charging
- USB-C options that suit modern devices
- Wireless charging on selected models
Instead of hanging a separate charger off a cabinet outlet, everything stays compact and intentional.
4. Straightforward install for renovations and new builds
Under cabinet power strips can look simple until you factor in tidy cable routing, alignment, and the finished look. Pop-up outlets typically install through a single cut-out in the benchtop, with the connection made below the countertop. For many installs, that approach is quicker and produces a cleaner finish.
5. Better suited to kitchen layouts in the USA
Kitchen design in the United States often relies on island and peninsula spaces, which is exactly where under cabinet outlets fall short. A countertop outlet is a natural fit for those layouts, because it can be placed right where the workspace is.
For general background on island receptacle topics and the NEC, this NFPA overview is a helpful reference: Kitchen Island and Peninsula Receptacle Outlets and the NEC (NFPA).
Modern Power Solutions pop-up outlets are designed for countertop use and are certified to USA electrical code standards for kitchen countertops when installed correctly.
A Simple Alternative to Under Cabinet Outlets: Point Pod
If you like the idea of a compact, minimalist solution, the Point Pod is a great option. It’s a countertop pop-up outlet that keeps power accessible without leaving a power strip hanging under the cabinets.
You can browse the range here: Point Pod Pop-Up Outlet Collection.
If you want to compare other countertop options, you can also explore our pop-up outlet range here: Pop-Up Power Outlets.
Quick Comparison: Under Cabinet Outlet vs Pop-Up Outlet
- Accessibility: Pop-up outlets can be placed on islands and prep zones, not tucked under cabinets.
- Everyday look: Pop-up outlets hide away when closed.
- Charging: USB-C and wireless charging options are easier to integrate on the countertop.
- Use cases: Better for islands, peninsulas, and modern open-plan kitchens.
- Overall value: Often a cleaner install and a more usable outcome compared with cabinet power strips.
Pop-Up Outlets vs Under Cabinet Outlets
A practical kitchen comparison for accessibility, features, and everyday use.
| Category | Pop-Up Outlets | Under Cabinet Outlets |
|---|---|---|
| Best placement | On the countertop, including island benches and prep zones, right where appliances and devices are used. | Under upper cabinets along the wall line, typically at the back of the benchtop. |
| Ease of access | Easy to reach from multiple sides of the bench, especially on islands. | Often awkward to reach behind appliances and cords, especially in corners. |
| Look when not in use | Hides away and sits flush when closed for a cleaner benchtop and splashback area. | Always visible underneath cabinetry, with cords commonly on display. |
| Charging features | Commonly includes USB-A, USB-C, and optional wireless charging on selected models. | Varies by model, many are basic power strips, some include USB, fewer include USB-C. |
| Cable management | Shorter cable runs to devices on the benchtop, less cord drape along the wall. | Cords often hang down or run across the bench, especially for mixers and kettles. |
| Installation approach | Typically a single countertop cut-out with wiring below the surface. | Requires careful mounting, alignment, and tidy routing under cabinets and along the wall. |
| Ideal use cases | Kitchen islands, open-plan kitchens, multi-use benches, and modern device charging. | Back-wall benches where you only need occasional power and can tolerate visible strips. |
| Overall experience | More functional and premium for everyday kitchen use, with modern charging built in. | Can feel like a workaround, functional but less convenient day to day. |
Note: The right choice depends on your layout, appliance locations, and local electrical requirements. For island benches, countertop pop-up outlets are often the most usable solution.
Final Thoughts
If you searched for under cabinet outlets, cabinet outlets, cabinet power strips, or even power strips for the kitchen, you’re already thinking about convenience and a clean finish. A countertop pop-up outlet usually delivers both, with fewer compromises.
If you want a simple place to start, the Point Pod range is a great step up from under cabinet power. It keeps power accessible, looks clean, and fits the way kitchens are used today.