MK Essentials vs MK Logic Plus

Comparing MK Logic Plus white accessories to MK Essentials white accessories.
Essentials is described as being a lower cost option. They are made from polycarbonate rather than UF, have a 'screwless' appearance, have completely different terminal arrangements and are made in China rather than the UK.
The light switch will not fit into a 16mm box, and will only just fit into a 25mm one.
The socket has a single pole switch and the cheaper shutter mechanism operated by the earth pin only.
The FCU has a front flex outlet rather than on the edge, and in this example the fuse holder was rather difficult to open. The FCU requires a minimum box depth of 35mm.
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[@dylandavies8106]

I'd buy any that's made in the UK 🇬🇧. It's time we supported UK businesses. Great video John as always.

[@StreuB1]

Absolutely!!! Enough of this globalism BS!!

[@PeterEdin]

I agree. If rather pay more for a quality UK product instead of relying on China for cheap and often dangerous products. I hope this Covid situation is a wake up call against China in any case.

[@ursusmaritimus7159]

Hmm. I'd take Merlin Gerin over any "UK" carp any day. Oh, they are now owned by Schieder UK. It's all gone to shit, much like tools have.

[@AMD1]

@@PeterEdin Unfortunately it won't. People will always choose cheep crap, because they want the lowest price. Why buy an HD television made in the UK for £999 when you could buy a Chinese TCL brand for £280?

[@kevvywevvywoo]

I try to buy the best, wherever they're made.We make some good stuff, Japan makes good stuff, let the market decide. In the past this has usually meant buying british. We made the best accessories at one time. MK & Crabtree were the best at one time. MK uk made stuff is still good and as JW has demonstrated, needn't be uncompetitive.

[@richardpaulhill]

The MK essentials look like cheap compromised crap to me... Amazed that MK would produce such rubbish.

[@echothehusky]

MKs quality has plummeted since they became part of Honeywell.

[@Graham_Langley]

Looks very much as if they've put their name on a pre-existing range. The inapplicable CE mark on the socket would seem to back this up.

[@n4thb4dc0]

@@Graham_Langley just what i was thinking, they have found a generic chinese manufactured range which is probably also sold by other manufacturers as well, ill stick to the loig plus, always used them and will continue to do so

[@millomweb]

Judging by the looks of the things, MK only makes the frame that covers the screws ;)

[@calmeilles]

@@Graham_Langley "China Export" quite applicable. :)

[@wulliest]

Who'd have guessed Honeywell would take a well known quality brand and stick it on some crap...

[@danielbradley1022]

They also have cut a fair amount of the finishes from the higher end products (edge, aspect etc).

[@tncorgi92]

They've done that with consumer appliances for a while. I bought a "Honeywell" electric fan some time back, it barely lasted a year, just long enough to be out of warranty.

[@raychambers3646]

@@tncorgi92 argh probably got a timer circuit in there somewhere Lol. Incidently I bought a Dualit kettle (£70) lasted 2 years ,got a slight discount on new one that played up to ! For work I bought a cheap travel kettle used to get chucked into van never let me down in 10 years .

[@SproutyPottedPlant]

Paul Drake yes Honeywell electric fans with remote control promise whisper quiet operation and then rattle after a year of use!

[@tncorgi92]

@@SproutyPottedPlant mine became whisper quiet because the motor was dead.

[@chrislaf2011]

The other aspect to note is that the Logic Plus range appears to have been conceived with major input from a product design specialist, who took care of the look, feel, and aesthetics. They have elegant curves and soft corners, especially to the switch itself, for example. And the material has a "weight" and "solidity" to it that says "quality". By contrast, the Essentials range products say "cheap" and "utilitarian". Given, as John says, the overall price difference is not even that huge, it seems obvious to me to choose quality, and at the same time protect British jobs!

[@petermichaelgreen]

I don't think i'd describe it as "utilitarian" when it has crap like the unnecessary two-peice design, the design that looks symmetric but isn't, and the impractically deep mechanism on the lightswitch. It's simply cheap crap that tries to by stylish but fails at both style and function.

[@observersnt]

I agree. Like most manufacturers and even large retailers, MK and other well established British manufacturers are having to deal with the deluge of cheaper imports and they do so with specifications that are inferior. It’s also the case that installers and, or customers are more interested in lower costs than the integrity of products. Obviously a large building company building numerous houses can make significant savings which either makes it more competitive or more profitable to use cheaper, inferior products. Sadly customers often have no scruples so cheapness rules Eventually these cheaper imports will put reputable manufacturers out of business and we will have to adapt to nothing other than inferiority. I’ve often wondered if we all chose good quality products, if the mass production of quality would reduce prices. There is something very satisfying , even enjoyable using MK and Crabtree products, even down to the quality of terminal screws inside them. One of the worst practices is that of otherwise reputable manufacturers allowing their names to be used to sell inferior products, they’re almost all at it. It’s wrong to ridicule “made in China,” like we used to decades ago with, made in Hong Kong” because China will manufacture to the specifications required by there customers. The Chinese make lots of outstanding stuff, but we are learning, too late, that those British manufacturers that have sold their souls to China have seriously undermined British manufacturers and industry for short term gain, and have ignored the human costs of cheap labour. Shameless business that we’re making huge profits in Britain have abandoned the people that made them wealthy and chosen to support foreign manufacturers for bigger profits with total disregard for long term human, political and military implications that sadly are now manifesting themselves on the world scene in 2022. Long live MK, it will be a sad day if we lose it

[@kevint3845]

Really good review, I’ll be giving the essential range a miss.

[@AndyFletcherX31]

When asked I've always recommended "anything MK" now I have to say "Anything MK except if it is labelled Essentials". I'm horrified by the light switch both for the depth and exposed terminal screw, that is only asking for trouble and puts safety backwards several decades.

[@dasy2k1]

I like the logic plus range. Those essentials ones look awful... If I can't get logic plus I will most likely switch to Schnider ones which are also very good

[@jamescollins6085]

@@dasy2k1 I've heard good things about Crabtree. Do you know if they're true?

[@professionalineverything]

​@@jamescollins6085 no, just no! Feels crazy cheap and is not worth it even if your life depends on it.

[@nicholaspratt7934]

A huge backward step for MK, I'll stick with Logic Plus. How did the Essentials pass quality control etc?

[@233kosta]

The right question is "What passes for quality control in the Chinese factory they get them from?"

[@MrPDawes]

Honeywell probably got rid of the MK design team and used Engineers in India who know nothing about electrical products to design a new range. They did this for a product I designed and did a complete bollock job of it.

[@interstat2222]

It’s not an MK product. OEM from a Chinese plug maker. Cannibalising MK’s own range. Must be worried about losing the budget market. Don’t think it’s a good move.

[@islandhopperstuart]

Thanks JW. I'm a DIYer and an electrician's son for whom MK was always the first choice for quality and reliability. To see the brand being conned by the corporate bean-counters to go down this route at the expense of both installers and customers is just shocking. What are they thinking? I had the displeasure of working for an old established company which came under Honeywell ownership and I can tell you now that they don't give a damn about anything other than turnover up and headcount down. Total short term attitude to running a business and to hell with traditional values. Then there's the standard 'Honeywell Operating System'. Don't get me started.... MK are you receiving? Listen to those of us who use and value your brand. Reject those instructing you to source from the Far East as we will reject this 'Poundshop crap' masquerading as top brand goods. And when you've acknowledged your serious error, as indeed you will eventually have to, then don't try the recover the situation by 're-branding' the Logic range or some other nonsense. Leave your quality and trusted designs alone and made in the UK where they should stay.

[@JasperJanssen]

When a brand is purchased by bean counters, they don’t get to decide whether or not to follow the directives from their owners. No conning necessary at all. Most likely anyone not installed by the overlords at MK will know exactly what’s happening. Doesn’t mean they can just ignore it.

[@SME_Ste]

Looks like a so called top of the range brand making cheap rubbish to keep their sales up, appealing to the DIY market who love cheap. They look absolutley shocking!

[@classicmacintosh]

DIY'er here. I wouldn't touch these dreadful 'essentials' products with a ten foot pole. I'll stick to Logic Plus. Saving a few quid on mains electrical work is foolish and asking for trouble.

[@SeanBZA]

@@classicmacintosh Had the same, but even the top brand names are dropping the quality of the top teir stuff, making it fail soon. You know you have a problem when a 10 year old socket is better than the same range unit brand new.

[@SME_Ste]

@@classicmacintosh Good on you, like to hear it. Having been an electricain for quite a while, you'd be amazed at how many of or clients like to buy there own wiring accessories for uss to fit, usually rubbish. But you do it right from the sounds of it. Theres also a couple of other brands that piss all over even MK logic plus, better user benefits and lower costs.

[@dangruner5926]

@@classicmacintosh Someone with a brain cell. Nice to see! ;)

[@vikingofengland]

@@classicmacintosh Agree, I am one of those dreaded DIY'ers that the trades seem to hate I wouldn't go near them either. The logic stuff is OK though.

[@J0nny61]

In case you don't know, MK stands for Multi Kontact. I think this trade name was registered in the 1920's. MK and Crabtree were the best quality you could buy in the 70's and 80's. Nearly all commercial and industrial tenders required you to supply MK. Crabtree wiring accessories were a requirement for local councils and health authority tenders. Obviously times have changed since them.

[@kevvywevvywoo]

'multy' with a 'y'

[@callumrowley2203]

I'd say mk was the rolls Royce until the logic plus came in about 20 years ago. It's just ridden on its old reputation with high prices but crap quality. I bet an mk switch in the 80s will still work now. Can't see a logic plus lasting 10 years. I use click mode and sometimes hager.

[@johnschlesinger2009]

What a shame that a company which has made quality accessories for so long is now putting its name to cheap, nasty stuff. And that a simple light switch won’t fit in a 25mm box is a bad joke.

[@m101ist]

Don't seem to bother them . Profit over quality, standard. 😳

[@SeanBZA]

Screw holes in the corner for the dodgy DIY home wiring installer, you simply save on the expensive wall box, and screw them down to the drywall at 2 corners instead.

[@Graham_Langley]

I'd go with them being standard practice in the market this range was originally meant for.

[@vikingofengland]

I do DIY wiring and I wouldn't dream of doing that...

[@millomweb]

Well, what's the back box for anyway ?

[@DrQuadrivium]

What on Earth is a back box?

[@vikingofengland]

@@DrQuadrivium A box that goes at the back...

[@jason_ball]

Thanks John for doing this thorough review. I did a simple comparison a few months back and it was clear the Essentials range is not worth considering. It felt cheap and poorly made from every angle and most annoying was the gloss finish that is easily scratched which looks terrible. I would not be surprised if this range disappeared from the market soon. The longer it remains available the more damage it's doing to their quality brand.

[@raydavison2972]

Well, MK got the timing of the introduction of their Chinese made range completely wrong I think!

[@joinedupjon]

18:01 - just occurred to me that the removable blanking part in the front of the essential FCU is probably a choke hazard for toddlers as well.

[@johndododoe1411]

Blanking parts are removed by the installer and discarded with other dangerous waste. No toddlers should be in range unless playing in the waste disposal pit.

[@JohnSmith-bv8ke]

The fact that the light switch doesn't quite fit into a 25mm back box shows how much thought has been put into the practicality of the design. But then, I suppose you can't see the screw heads so it doesn't really matter if your house burns down because you tried to squeeze this into existing wiring hardware. Is anyone is actually offended by screw heads, or is it just a problem that brands invented to keep themselves occupied? I'd always prefer them over that ugly seam around the faceplate.

[@RossMitchellsProfile]

Its probably so the load bearing plastic doesn't need to be as pretty, the front plate on these looks quite chewy compared to what you see in the like of Hager sockets where it's rock hard.

[@leonblittle226]

The point of having MK fittings at a premium cost is to fit them so they either last a 20 year life cycle in average locations or over 5 years in a hard wearing location like a HMO rental/council flat type where they won't get looked after well. Can you imagine fitting somethhing with a removable clip on front and expecting it to make over 5 years........

[@JasperJanssen]

Wait what? Wearing out in 20 years in residential use is not only considered acceptable, but even premium? Oy vey.

[@sephirothsoul999]

The words 'avoid' and 'cheap tat' spring to mind! Just hope the better MK products don't suddenly jump in price with the excuse 'if you'd like to save money, buy from our essentials range'.

[@siacadp]

Can you do a comparison between Crabtree Capital and their new line Instinct?

[@Graham_Langley]

That exposed common screw on the lightswitch is appalling. [Edit] And why the CE sticker on the socket? Anyone in the industry should know that CE marking doesn't apply to UK sockets etc.

[@jontownsend8090]

I won't be installing the Hoo Fung Yung MK specials any time soon. I have always used MK logic plus, and i like the build quality of their products. Those Essentials light switches are an appalling design.

[@JohnnyX50]

The essentials line looks like it was more suitable for that wide trunking seen in offices, especially with the fused thing having a front exit for the wire and the bigger sticky out bit for the light switch.

[@raychambers3646]

I think your right there ,mk was top quality ,might have shot themselves in foot.Another thing with mk never could understand why they in grid pattern 1way,2way 6a/20a switches.why make not make just 20a 2 way?

[@Graham_Langley]

@@raychambers3646 And why no blanking plates with a curve top and bottom to match lightswitches?

[@raychambers3646]

@@Graham_Langley they also seem to do different thicknesses in there ranges,have been caught out with that .

[@bumbles1584]

I'll just stick with the Hager Sollysta stuff

[@uiopuiop3472]

This made me appreciate Logic Plus even more

[@drcrusherdata]

the best MK wiring accessories were made in the 1960's.!

[@mikeselectricstuff]

13A sockerts are standard in Hong Kong, so maybe these were originally designed for that market.

[@jon_273]

Yes or Malaysia, they use the same sockets and they are often polycarbonate with a clip on surround just like these

[@interstat2222]

I now believe these are not even made by MK, but a Chinese OEM (and the same one BG uses, so the quality is decent enough for the MK brand and guarantee). These plastics will scratch and discolour easily.

[@michaeltb1358]

UK sockets are also used in many countries in the Middle East and the old UK colonies in West Africa. But they usually don't follow UK wiring standards. And plugs often have no fuses. Lethal.

[@syaz4380]

We have something resembling MK Essentials, it's called "Slimline Plus" series in Malaysia

[@christastic100]

Good demonstration of the two ranges of MK JW . I was very interested to see this new MK range as I haven’t fitted any for years now . Always used Crabtree for the most but it’s become less stocked by local suppliers. Changed last year to schneider lisse range and apart from the ridiculous short pins supplied for light switches it’s a nice product. I’m glad I don’t fit this rubbish, I noticed that if you used the flex outlet on the switch fuse you would need a very deep box regardless of the big lump of a cord grip .. This MK essential looks like dreadful expensive tat.

[@lewis94uk]

Somebody at MK has messed up here, looks like cheap crap I can't see that selling well at all.

[@SeanBZA]

going to sell to the cowboy builders though, where they will buy it, simply because it is 10p cheaper. Who cares if they fail after 2 years, he is long gone by then, having made a whole 2 pounds extra profit on the job.

[@jaycee1980]

@@SeanBZA Thing is theres cheaper stuff that looks better, and is probably more reliable!

[@millomweb]

Well personally, I prefer poking wires into round holes rather than square ones.

[@petermichaelgreen]

Sadly it will probably sell to people who either don't know any better or whose customers specified MK but neglected to specify which range of MK products. In the long term it won't be good for the MK brand but in the meantime they can make a quick buck :(

[@leaturk11]

I'm surprised that MK put their name to the essentials range.

[@philipbennett2183]

Difficult to explain William, why would MK pass this shite off??

[@kevvywevvywoo]

I suspect Honeywell put MK's name to it. I doubt MK had much say in the matter

[@coppice2778]

The MK Logic Plus range has had its own problems. In our home all the light switches with the big rocker option had to be replaced within 4 or 5 years. They used an unsuitable plastic for the rocker itself, which deformed and allowed the rocker to fall off. Polycarbonate is a strange material to use for a low cost product. Its super strong, but really expensive and hard to work with.

[@trf223]

The essentials range looks absolutely horrendous!

[@Gazzerdaman]

Essentials looks like a range of MK product that they sell in Asian markets that use UK style socket outlets. I suspect they've just started selling it in the UK. I definitely saw these in Singapore when I was there in 2017

[@phildxyz]

Ugh - cheap and nasty - what are they playing at?

[@frankowalker4662]

I wouldn't have anything to do with that Chinese light switch.

[@barrysmith4588]

i am so glad i subscribed! these are the small details most of us would overlook...

[@ashleygill5040]

You also need to take account of Patrice fixing screws, high risk of short with that proud screw on the essentials light switch.

[@jasejj]

A good public service there. The message I take away is either buy good quality made in UK MK products, or save your money and just buy Screwfix/LAP £1 specials as they're no worse than the cheaper "MK".

[@gutsngorrrr]

How the hell have the essentials items passed UK electrical safety standards, because they look absolute rubbish and boarderline dangerous.

[@interstat2222]

Logic Plus with the slick curve were launched in 1996. Everyone copied that look since then, but MK still have best switch action. Essentials looks like a thing for Asia and UAE. But… it’s actually good quality from a Chinese OEM (Kaifeng) which made BS1363 plugs for decades. I think they made Scolmore/Click and I can remember Scolmore plugs first appearing in the early 90s on GlenDimplex group products. Personally, you’d be better off going Crabtree which I keep finding cheaply and are just as good as MK (I really want to prefer MK but they don't make it easy these days). I always liked the Crabtree Capital series which are unchanged from late 80s and I don’t believe they look outdated. Very solid.

[@mistermartin82]

I can tell JW is a fan of the new range :)

[@StreuB1]

I'd gladly take the cheaper (cost) Logic Plus line, made in the UK by superior materials; thank you very much!! I'd rather give my brothers and sisters in England the business than the Chinese. I also like how in the UK, they mold the electrical specification into the backs of the receptacles, ie. BS 1363. That's a nice touch! The finger safe wire connection points on the Logic Plus are also far superior with the deeper wire entry tunnels that are flared to assure there is good guarding and fitting of the wire insulation. Very nice touch!

[@m101ist]

BRING BACK BRITISH MANUFACTURING STANDARD AND QUALITY. 🙄

[@plaveczm]

My question is: Why? Thank you John you did show these rubbish. I never gona buy them. I stay with the old MK quality and made in UK.

[@millomweb]

Do note the Essentials at least had a wire strip gauge on them !

[@petermichaelgreen]

Because slapping your name on cheap crap brings quick profits. Of course in the long term it devalues the brand but a lot of companies are only focussed on the short term.

[@millomweb]

@@petermichaelgreen Many companies seem to go through phases. Brand new stuff is often either very good or a disaster. Then, 2nd & 3rd versions might have more features but less quality. Quality continues to drop to the point they stop selling enough items as everyone's buying better brands.

[@stembuzz6426]

Excellent video and channel which I recommend to my students and those that have started to follow my own channel. You have a very easy and professional learning style which people can’t help but learn from..

[@MrAlexwoolf]

I’ll keep using logic plus 👍

[@interstat2222]

And now we have MK Base (likely from same Chinese OEM as BG Nexus and Knightsbridge range), seemingly in response to the poor uptake of MK Essentials. MK Base doesn't even have any of the expected MK features or an MK logo on the front, it’s just a generic socket. Crabtree now has a Logic Plus lookalike (China made) to complement the classic Capital (UK made/same as original late 80s design) and they also have the pretty nice Volex Casa range. How can MK do this to us?

[@italiastar33]

Thank you for showing this. Clip in covers such as those used in Italy made by Bticino Who are the Italian version of MK), Vimar, are ascetically good, and there's no reason why a similar design could not be made fro the UK sockets - MK Grid was similar. That said, British sockets, switches, and accessories are far better quality than foreign ones. I remember my Italian uncle saying that the UK must be well off looking at the amount of brass they put in their plugs.This is just re-badged rubbish. I do take the people to task about DIYers likely to use this Junk. As a DIYer, the only junk Ive seen on installations has been used by professionals - some of whom will do anything to cut corners. As John has said, there isn't actually much of a saving for the DIYer, infant for some it'll be more expensive. I suspect that the trade suppliers may be where Essential is cheaper. I agree, MK is not as good as it used to be, and they've even reduced their guarantee to 15 years from 25. Thank you John, for bringing these fantastic videos to us - shame you are not closer to me as you are a professional who I'd employ without hesitation.

[@interstat2222]

I have no issue with the main Logic Plus range. Doesn’t seem materially different to when it was first introduced in the late 90s, maybe just the terminals and screws. Prices are kept low for the quality after all. Before Honeywell they’d never have added these cheap ranges. I know the Italian accessories and what you mean - unswitched sockets in the bathroom! Seems alright though. Prefer our UK over engineering but look at all the rubbish in the market now at the low end!

[@Tephnos]

@@interstat2222 Logic Plus range is hated by sparkies these days because the terminal screws are busted way too many times. They go for Click (cost) or Hager (best).

[@interstat2222]

@@Tephnos I hate Click (crude snappy switches from some Chinese OEM) and not keen on Hager either. If it's not MK (agree the terminal screws chew up easily and often don't grip first time and increasingly showing signs of cost cutting) I stick to Crabtree just like I did since the 90s. Maybe Contactum if you can find them. Not sure if I like BG as it's just OEM from China and QC seems sloppy.

[@Tephnos]

@@interstat2222 Why wouldn''t you like Hager? There's absolutely nothing to fault about them.

[@loosecannon5813]

I've only used the 'essentials' triple pole fan isolator and at £6.99(screwfix) a considerable saving of nearly £6 on the logic +version, exactly the same mechanism different white plastic. I'm actually very impressed.

[@benwainwright2314]

The earth shutter appears to be the bog standard type rather than the even safer logic plus design whereby both L+N pins have to be inserted at the same time? Always liked the innovation of the angled terminals & captive screws on logic plus, maybe they've copy pasted the descriptions? Looks like just the one earth terminal on the sockets also? Dear oh dear, always used to say any MK fitting going to have to append that with except 'essentials' range!

[@gospelman7222]

Very good and informative video. As an aside, I wonder why the manufacturers don't use crosshead screws for fixing, it would aid installation greatly, especially in awkward locations.

[@echothehusky]

Cross head screws look totally crap. As an electrician, all electrical screws, (especially terminal screws) should be slotted, and the less said about those awful cross/slotted 'combo' screws the better.

[@REWYRED]

Forget flats or cross head "Phillips" head screws... Should be using square headed "Robertson" heads for everything.

[@forevercomputing]

I don't like the "covered screws" look. I like seeing them.

[@mikefield4650]

Excellent review. Thanks John. Shocked that MK quality brand has such shonky rubbish associated with them Are they BEAB , kite marked etc. I wonder? The light switch with exposed terminal screw and requiring deep back box is just astounding. Thanks. Mike

[@syaz4380]

Logic Plus series are rare to see in Malaysia. MK used to be the gold standard for commercial uses. Now they're rarely seen.

[@syaz4380]

@sipsoup we used to have MK Logic Plus but they stopped doing production for it, I think. They do still make the metalclad version for it, but the shutters are different.

[@syaz4380]

@sipsoup also, our kind of Logic Plus have a different kind of shutters

[@Graham_Langley]

Thought I ought to point out that some Logic+ stuff is made in Malaysia - the double sockets with outboard switches for example.

[@jwflame]

Had an MK 646 plug that was made there. When wiring it, one of the terminals inside sheared completely off.

[@Graham_Langley]

And the double unswitched socket K781.

[@Graham_Langley]

@@jwflame I had one - country of manufacture unknown - that one of the cord grips broke off straight out of the bag. It had been in stock long enough not to know where it had come from so I called MK. Their response: "Buy another one - they're cheap enough."

[@stevecoatesdotnet]

I have a few Malaysian MK items. I was intrigued when I saw the 'Made in Malaysia' bit, but they seem to be of the same quality as English made ones.

[@Graham_Langley]

@@stevecoatesdotnet The only real difference I've seen is the fixing screw earthing riveting seems to be a bit messier than on the UK ones.

[@neilcaldwell870]

Have sent MK via their contact us an invite to comment about their essentials range, let's see what they say.

[@marcbiff2192]

I notice the massive CE mark warning you it is an example of Chinese Engineering.

[@tubaman66]

Or is it Caveat Emptor?

[@marcbiff2192]

@@tubaman66Yep I prefer your more esoteric interpretation i will use that from now on.

[@Graham_Langley]

The CE mark doesn't apply to domestic plugs and sockets and its use on the socket may constitute an offence under the TDA. You'd think MK would know that.

[@echothehusky]

Essentials is MKs answer to Crabtrees budget Instinct range (that nobody bought either).

[@pradolover]

What a fall from grace for the company that for decades was the Sony of wiring accessories.

[@millomweb]

Good grief - never though MK was ever as bad as Sony.

[@pradolover]

@@millomweb I guess Sony in the 80s and 90s 😆

[@chaos.corner]

Might be interesting to see if it's a standard Chinese design just rebadged for MK.

[@interstat2222]

It is (was).

[@noelj62]

Informative video as usual from John. Thank you.

[@karl3721]

Good video JW, started fitting MK as a sprogg in 1980, didn’t like the new logic plus when that came in and will not be using this essential trash!

[@LittleRichard1988]

I think MK accessories have been available in other Type G countries for decades either manufactured or imported. MK also used to manufacture their Avant range which is basically the old Logic range in a more curved design plus clip on face plates in either white or synthetic metallic finishes. I did at least expect the Essentials range to have basic British Standard compliance as standard in the sense that the design wasn't flawed that some accessories don't fit 25 ml back box properly. In other countries back boxes with 4 screws in each corner are more common then they are here in the UK so I can see the reasoning behind the clip on faceplate on the Essentials range but the Logic Plus range does have indents on the reverse side that can be drilled out but that ruins them if they are going to be reclaimed.

[@chompchompnomnom4256]

Those cheap ones are ugly as sin with those horrible clip on plates

[@fiddley]

I just got one of the Logic Plus light switches and found that the brass wire retaining screws were inserted cross threaded and have stripped upon first tightening. I came here looking to see if you answer how it's possible that the switch has already broken before the first use. I wasn't looking forward to a half hour video, but actually you nailed it at 3:53. Thank you!

[@AlexSavage]

The Essential range are just ugly. I have loads of logic plus in my house. I would never fit Essentials because of aesthetics even if they were better quality..

[@eddiespencer1]

Here, in the US, it's very unusual to see a fuse in a wall outlet or switch. I've never seen a face-plate with a hole in it for a cable to run out from!

[@blaser80]

Now I'm curious as to how MK compare with LAP sockets.

[@heffo1992]

Have you shared this review with MK/ Honeywell?

[@Petertronic]

Wow those essentials ones are ugly. Will you be taking a look at the switch contacts inside at some point?

[@arthurdaley895]

Just found this channel. Love the content and find myself agreeing with many of your opinions. My preferred choice is Hager Sollysta. Would love to see you review some of their accessories and see what you think.

[@qviewq2071]

So I assume MK will switch manufacturing to China as the cheaper range sells more as contractors buy the cheapest from a choice of 2 MK products. Another UK manufacturing plant closes in the endless pursuit of that last 1% extra profit for the share holders.

[@m101ist]

And we buy the products back in the UK.🙄

[@dasy2k1]

Can you do a 3 way review, MK logic plus vs Hagar vs Schneider Ultimate

[@johndododoe1411]

Talking of Schneider, they bought out Denmark's MK-equivalent LK brand and has closed down most company locations. Still the original LK FUGA line are the premium product for most places, with other companies selling imported crap.

[@markh5210]

The electrician who wired up my kitchen used crap sockets (not sure what make) of which 2 have failed. The failed ones were powering the oven and tumble drier which are high power, but still under 13A. It seems to be the switch that has failed as on one of them it won't move to the off position (no power is being supplied), on the other it provides power for a short period of time, to a heavy load, before cutting out. I suspect they installed CCS [Cheap Chinese S----] sockets, a light switch in the kitchen also failed, not under heavy load.

[@loopinnerthe]

The terminal screws are very tight on the light switches. I was scratching my head for ages thinking they were too short and wouldn't go in.

[@davidclark3603]

Absolutely brilliant, again. Thanks for the video. I personally don't like these "cheap" accessories. There are plenty of spaces for mistakes here, especially when guys are tired. How did that light switch get through the design process? They certainly didn't consult with electricians. I look forward to your video on load testing. I wonder how that sockets will stand up against a wahi g machine, long term? Hmmm? I wonder if we will see the tell tale brown burn marks around the plug entrances? Thanks again John.

[@iangascoigne8231]

The essentials spur fuse holder looked like it had been over tightened when assembled. It does appear to have the same cord grip as a Metal Clad Plus.

[@Ian-Steele]

MK Essentials are obviously cheaper to make, but otherwise rubbish. Thanks for alerting everyone to this situation.

[@petermichaelgreen]

I find it slightly strange that you chose to use a single socket for your price comparisons when double sockets are the norm in the UK. Regarding the stickout it seems to be caused by a switch module with the terminals behind the switch mechanism rather than beside it. I would guess the switch module was designed that way either because it was the cheapest way to do it or because it wasn't originally designed for use in a UK electrical accessory.

[@jwflame]

The double MK socket was covered in a video some time ago.

[@alanmarshall101]

Made in China means not coming anywhere near me ......

[@davidgreaves6872]

Great review. I’ve got a house full of MK Logic Plus. Won’t be changing them for essentials range ever ! Cheap rubbish.

[@henryrussell2404]

Presumably covering the two fixing screws with the cover is safer. Speaking as one who has received a shock from touching exposed fixing screws.

[@jwflame]

Not at all - fixing screws should be earthed. To get a shock from them, that earth connection was missing, and a second fault caused them to be live.

[@billyponsonby]

I can imagine JW and MK Essentials coming up in the trade counter chat

[@starbar1958]

I am an Electrician currently working in a building with 24 way MK gridswitches stamped made in China. they are abysmal quality so am guessing they are snide MK copies.?( four out of 8 mounting lugs snapped off during installation )

[@paianis]

The Essentials range seems to have surprisingly good reviews on Amazon. Mostly based on the 'convenience' more than anything else.

[@m101ist]

Are they safe? 😳

[@raymurphy9749]

Hard to believe MK would put their name to this rubbish.

[@paultipton743]

Just makes me wonder if the essentials range will creep in more and Mk will phase out the Logic plus range for cost saving for Mk

[@LittleRichard1988]

I don't think so, for one the essentials range doesn't even fully comply with BS1363. They might end up making all Logic Plus accessories in Malaysia and maybe even make everything in China. I don't think the Essentials range is going to catch on.

[@LittleRichard1988]

@sipsoup I think it's mainly the outer board rocker double sockets that are made in Malaysia but I think the inner board rocker double sockets ( K2747 ) are still UK made. Most single Logic Plus sockets are still UK made.

[@chrisjones8741]

Do they happen to have one called the Ultra? 😬

[@jetg2111]

I wonder if they sent their old moulds over to China.... Would be interesting to compare that Fcu with a 1960s/70s MK one. I wonder why on earth they would come up with such a range.... Perhaps not really designed for the UK market.

[@jwflame]

Some of the old 1970s ones here: www.flameport.com/electric_museum/fused_connections_switches/MK_6779_Fused_Connection_unit.cs4 entirely unrelated.

[@chrisrix7645]

Definatly not old MK which were built like battleships, always needed 35mm boxes which was why i used Crabtree which is now also crap

[@Anaerin]

The "Essentials" seems to be designed for ease of decorating - You can just paint over the base, then when you're done you snap the outline cover over the top and cover up your sloppy work. They also remind me of the American style outlets.

[@observersnt]

Really sensible and useful comparison, but the cheap one clearly has “CE” standard on them, so who really was responsible for the inferiority?

[@interstat2222]

Ningbo Kaifeng is the Chinese OEM. Some products sold as ExtraStar in the UK. They’re good quality extensions and plugs. I’ve had their plugs (as Scolmore) in the 90s. For sockets I’ll stick with real MK and Crabtree.

[@WaynesElectrical]

No MK, no........ *_JUST FLIPPING NO!!!!!!!!_* Notable points listed below I wish to comment on...... . . . (1) At 3.42 .......... Those lower "essentials" accessories DO NOT deserve to be in those bags! (2) Also at 3.42 ..... The socket at the top left just wanted to be a rebel and threw itself in the bag sideways. :D (3) At 3.52 ........... Logic Plus, Made in UK. (4) At 4.04 .......... Essentials made in china. Also, ironic timing point in the video: 404 - Switch not found. :D (5) At 4.46 .......... Exactly how much mileage of protrusion do they want on that switch module?!!! (6) At 5.14 ........ Packaging Fest. As you say, completely unnecessary, as well as easy-to-lose screws bag! (7) At 5.50........ Yes, that stuff can easily be broken on the LogicPlus range, but stays white, does not 'yellow' over time. (8) At 6.55 ....... Bendy = soft, so may be easily deformed/scratched/scuffed/become grubby. May also 'yellow' over time. (9) At 7.05 ...... Burns? Did you say BURNS?! Aaaaah, *_I WANT FLAAAAMES_* See how well it melts/tans/smokes. :D (10) At 8.05 ..... These are for the bodge artists who screw the switch directly to a wall with a huge hole behind, omitting the need to install a box. This bodgery is most likely to happen in plasterboard walls, as _"seanbza"_ stated. (11) At 8.49..... Aaaah, *POXY STEEL.* I remember when fixing screws were chrome-plated brass. Never rusted. (12) At 9.49...... Check out the mileage on _thaaaaat._ My goodness, good luck installing THAT on a thin plasterboard wall !! (13) At 13.25 ..... *THAT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN* The idea of having concealed/recessed terminals is EXACTLY what you said: If someone takes the switch off the wall while it is still live...... *THINGS MIGHT GET FIZZY!!* (14) At 17.08..... GOOD LUCK trying to do THAT in a confined space such as under a shelf in an airing cupboard, right next to a 60 degree celsius immersion heater tank!! *WHAT AN ABSOLUTE PIG'S EAR THAT IS!!* (15) At 25.35..... Very good! You spotted this also: The basic one does not have MK's 'three-pin' shutter mechanism, but instead, just the rock-bottom basic earth-pin-activated shutter mechanism. (16) At 26.26.... That doesn't surprise me, being only SP switched. Look at the neutral terminal on the back. It's immediately inline with the neutral pin hole. Almost dead-certain to be SP switched when you see that on a socket, EVEN on early MK sockets I may like to point out. :-) Wayne's Electrical wrap-up on this: Like you say, a few pennies saved on wiring accessories is NOT really worth the hassle of installing these and the fact that they are a bit horrible and budgety. My mantra rings true once again: Pay a bit more..... *_Get a whole lot more!_* Really, I think Honeywell are behind this. MK *_IS NOT_* 'By Honeywell'. MK was around quite a long time before these kind of shenanigans. This is about making sales to make shareholders happy. Stuff reputation. Stuff quality. Unfortunately for some time now, things with MK have started going down hill. As an example, EVERYTHING used to be British Made. Not anymore. I have some 'Commando' accessories which say _'Made In Sweden'_ on them. Nothing wrong with that, on the provision that the quality is still there, and yes it is.....Or was, as I think the Commando accessories are no longer made in Sweden. I have even seen one which said _'Made In Czech Republic'_ on it. Basically: Make the things where the labour is cheapest. Minimum outlay, maximum profit, super-yay for the shareholders. That's what this is about. *POXY MONEY* again! It saddens me to say this, but I think that someone, somewhere is milking MK for all its worth, and once they have run it into the ground, it'll be sold off to some _"Could-Not-Give-A Damn"_ yeehaw outfit in some other country, all of the UK workers will be blown out and the taxpayer will have to pick up the pieces of another x-number amount of unemployment benefit claims, and that'll be the end of yet another well-known UK quality brand. The 'Essentials' brand marks the beginning of the race to the bottom: Let's see who can knock one out the cheapest. Stuff wiring accessories which last two or more decades, let's see if we can design them to knacker out and look knackered out within a decade. Polycarbonate, my backside! What next.... Recycled cola bottles?! While you still can, I would advise going to the bank, whipping-out a few hundred pounds and buying lots of good quality LogicPlus accessories, because in a few years' time when everyone's knocking out cheap tat you wouldn't want to touch with two barge-poles gaffa-taped together end-to-end, you'll be safe, knowing that you have some good quality back-in-the-day accessories to fall back on. Thanxx for showing this, but now I don't know what thumb to press: Like for the vid, but dislike for the 'essentials' range. Really, I am particularly browned-off that something like that would have the MK logo on it. Really hacked off. *_I AIN'T HAVIN' IT!!_* Also, a bit later, I want flames. BIG ONES. I want to see some of those accessories cranked up.... ....Uuuntil they pop. Let's see what they can handle. Don't pussy-foot about with it though.... Some end-users who think electrical systems run on magic fairy-dust can be known for ripping a good 25-32Amps out of ONE socket, so don't hold back on the loading tests.... really give them a PROPER BEATING!! Let's see how they hold up, and of course, if that polycarbonate maintains its shape or has a melty moment, goes all floppy, drips everywhere and consequently leaves exposed terminals. ALSO..... An interesting test: set up an accessory on a board or something and leave something VERY HOT close by, such as a heater or something heat-emitting which would be found in a typical household and let's see how the accessory deals with it. Of course, MK being quality, they have most likely done all of these tests. Right? But soft polycarbonate though..... This leaves me feeling doubtful. :-( Thanxx for showing, -Wayne's Electrical. _10th May 2020, 21.20_

[@bassbatterer]

The ones from china probably have the screws in the bags its probably cheaper to buy the screws pre-bagged and chuck a bag in with the product than to get screws and have someone at the factory put screws in the product.

[@jordesclark]

I cant get past how utterly crap these accessories are. Such a shame MK have gone down this route, I've always used MK Logic Plus gear. It's very well made and designed, and lasts. Thanks for the insight there JW.

[@mathman0101]

The question is and John quite rightly points out it’s not where they are made that is the issue but what specifications and standards they were made to and whether there was sufficient design and destruction testing done. Cutting corners anywhere is a problem reflecting more management desire to sell and profit rather than build high standard products where margins might be tighter but reputationally better. cheapening their brand this way is undermining their whole business model.

[@m101ist]

Maximizing profit. 🙄

[@tinytonymaloney7832]

Mk have really gone down hill this time. Getting China to make their stuff. Big mistake MK. Reminds me of Clipsal crap. Even if the Chinese gear was any good, and 99% of Chinese stuff is generally cheap crap anyway, I wouldn't buy it now seeing as they deliberately almost wiped the worlds population out recently. Been out of the trade many years now but when I bought MK I knew I was buying good quality British made stuff and the reliability proved that. I always used MK whenever I could. How that exposed termination screw design even got past the design dept. I'll never know. I often had trouble getting the fuse carrier out of Logic Plus connection unit, I often wondered why they made it so difficult. MK should start making barrels, they seem to be scraping the bottom of them these last few years. Or would they have to be made in China also??? Good vid JW

[@nigelblake5679]

The essentials range seems like a totally pointless offering, negligible price difference but big difference in quality, plus they look awful and contain more wasted packaging. Great video, very thorough as usual.

[@p166mx]

I need to replace a two gang switch and I noticed this range on the screwfix website. It thought they looked awful but this it seems they are worse than I ever imagined. Who in the right minds at MK or Honeywell thought this was a good idea?

[@spencerwilton5831]

Ian Robertson You can be sure it was an accountant rather than an engineer / designer.

[@simonharding1572]

I think I will stick with the better ones they look nicer the essentials aren’t that nice and not worth the saving the only advantage I can see is flipping the plate off for painting

[@JUANKERR2000]

How sad; M K together with Crabtree were the fittings of choice not so very long ago.

[@boriss.861]

JW can you take them to bits and let us see the quality of the conductors inside the products?

[@montystelevision3238]

Think I'll stick to Logic Plus or preferably Hager accessories now.