WAGO lever connectors have become the go-to way to join cables quickly, safely and without screws. But with 2-way, 3-way, 5-way and inline versions to choose from, which one do you actually need? This quick guide helps you pick the right WAGO connector for the job in seconds.
The Quick Answer: Count Your Wires
Count how many conductors you need to join at that point, then choose a connector with at least that many ports. Unused ports can simply be left empty.
| You Need To Join | Choose | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2 wires side by side | WAGO 221-412 (2-Way) | Simple joints, fitting a light or appliance |
| 3 wires | WAGO 221-413 (3-Way) | Loop-in lighting, spurs and junction boxes |
| 4 or 5 wires | WAGO 221-415 (5-Way) | Busy junction boxes and earth connections |
| 2 wires end to end | WAGO 221-2411 Inline | Extending, repairing or re-routing a single cable run |
Need a mix? The WAGO 221 Series Bundle gives you 10 each of the 221-412, 221-413 and 221-415 – ideal for a van stock or a full rewire.
Will It Take My Cable Size?
All of the WAGO 221 connectors above accept copper conductors from 0.2mm² to 4mm² (solid and stranded) and 0.14mm² to 4mm² (fine-stranded). That covers the 1.0mm² and 1.5mm² cable used on most lighting circuits and the 2.5mm² cable used on most socket circuits. They are rated 32A / 450V with a 4kV rated impulse voltage, and you can mix solid, stranded and fine-stranded wires in the same connector.
For 6mm² cable and larger (for example cooker or shower circuits), the 4mm² 221 connectors are not suitable – contact us and we will help you find the right connector.
Lever Splicing Or Inline – What Is The Difference?
The 221-412, 221-413 and 221-415 are compact splicing connectors: wires enter side by side from one end, making them perfect inside junction boxes, ceiling roses and fittings. The 221-2411 is an inline connector: one wire enters each end so the joint sits in line with the cable – neat for extending or repairing a single run.
How To Fit A WAGO 221 Connector
- Isolate the circuit and prove it is dead before you start.
- Strip 11mm of insulation from each conductor.
- Lift the orange lever, push the conductor fully in, then close the lever.
- Check through the clear housing that each conductor is fully inserted, and give each wire a gentle tug.
- House the connection in a suitable junction box or enclosure.
Because the connectors are lever-operated, you can open them again to re-make or change a connection – no screws to over-tighten and no special tools needed.
Safety First
In England and Wales, electrical installation work must follow BS 7671 (the IET Wiring Regulations), and some work is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations. If you are not sure, always use a qualified electrician.
More WAGO Help
For a closer look at sizes and specifications, read WAGO 221 Lever Connectors: Which Size Do I Need? or browse the full WAGO Range. Trade packs bring the price per connector down, and orders placed by 4pm Monday to Friday go out the same day.