Pre-wired vs Power-Board vs Components Starter Packs - Which one is for me in 2025?

  • May 21, 2025
  • By James Withams
  • 0 Comment

If you’re just getting started and feeling overwhelmed by the variety of electrics kits on offer. We’ve got you covered. Below is a straightforward rundown of the three main types of starter packs—Pre-Wired Power Boards, Pre-Wired Kits, and Components Only—plus some quick tips on how to decide which one’s best for you.


Pre-Wired Power Boards

If you’re after a plug-and-play experience with minimal fuss, Pre-Wired Power Boards are your best friend. Here’s why:

  1. Everything’s Mounted and Connected
    All the major electrical components (fuse blocks, switches, chargers, etc.) come pre-installed on a Phenolic board(s). No separate mounting needed!

  2. Labelled, Terminated High-Current Cables
    We handle the tricky stuff—like those thick, high-amperage cables—so you don’t have to.

  3. Wiring Loom Included
    The kit comes with a wiring loom for your lights, fridge, or any other 12V appliances you plan to install. It’s all cut, crimped, and labelled, so there’s little room for error.

  4. Easiest Install
    Because so much is already done, the only real work you need to do is fit the board in place and hook it all up. It’s a low-stress option if you’re not experienced in camper electrics.

Ideal For:

  • Anyone short on time who wants the simplest solution
  • People who’d prefer not to deal with many separate cables and crimps

Pre-Wired Kits

Think of Pre-Wired Kits as the middle ground. They’re super similar to the Power Boards in that we provide the same components, labelled cables, and thorough instructions—but the actual components aren’t pre-mounted on a board.

  1. Same Components, More Flexibility
    You still get all the fuse blocks, chargers, cables, etc., with labelled high-current cables. But you decide where and how to mount them.

  2. Longer Cable Lengths
    Cable lengths for certain parts (like chargers) aren’t perfectly tailored. This can be great if your van layout is unique, or you have a custom mounting plan.

  3. Slightly Harder Install
    Because you’re essentially doing your own layout and not just bolting a single board in place, there’s a bit more labour involved. Still, the labelling and instructions help keep it manageable.

Ideal For:

  • DIYers who aren’t total beginners but still appreciate labelled pre-terminated cables
  • Van builds with special design/layout considerations which don't fit our power boards.

Components Only

This one’s for the DIY purists out there who aren’t afraid of a little extra electrical grease.

  1. High-Current Cables Terminated Only
    While the thicker, high-current cables (like those connecting your battery and key electrical components) are still properly crimped, you don’t get pre-cut, terminated low-current cables (for lights, fridge, etc.).

  2. No Pre-Cut Wiring Loom
    You’ll receive a cable kit with different cable sizes, but you’ll be doing all the cutting, crimping, and heat-shrinking yourself for the 12V accessories.

  3. Great for Customisation
    If you’re comfortable with laying out your chargers wherever you like and you want the freedom to wire up everything from scratch, this is an excellent option.

  4. Most Challenging Install
    Because you’ll be handling more of the wiring yourself, expect to spend extra time labelling, measuring, and cutting.

Ideal For:

  • Experienced DIYers and electrical hobbyists
  • People who want maximum layout freedom and aren’t afraid of the extra work

All Kits Include:

  • Fitting Manual & Wiring Diagram
    No matter which kit you pick, you’ll get a solid manual and wiring diagram. Perfect if you learn best visually or you just want a safety net while you’re working.

  • Support & Guidance
    Need a little help along the way? We’re here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or clarifications.


Which One Should You Choose?

  • Absolute Beginners or Busy Schedules: Pre-Wired Power Boards
  • Somewhat Handy & Want Some Flexibility: Pre-Wired Kits
  • Confident electrician Ready to Get Hands Dirty: Components Only

At the end of the day, it’s all about your comfort level, time constraints, and van layout. If you just need a quick, easy solution, go Pre-Wired Power Boards. Want something you can customize a bit more? Pre-Wired Kits. Ready to go full DIY? Components Only.


(Opinion: For most people, I recommend either the Pre-Wired Power Boards for minimal stress or the Pre-Wired Kits if you have a custom build in mind. But if you love a good hands-on challenge, go Components Only!)

Enjoy your campervan electrics journey! Let us know which kit you go for, and we’ll be excited to see how your conversion turns out. Safe travels!

Author Bio

Hello! I'm James Withams, owner here at Rayne Automotive. My expertise is in designing and supplying campervan and off-grid electrical systems. With over 12 years of hands-on experience, I design thousands of campervan electrical setups every year. I'm passionate about helping fellow adventurers create reliable and efficient electrical systems for their campervans and off-grid projects. Through this blog, I share my expertise in campervan electrics to make your off-grid journeys enjoyable and worry-free. Let's power your adventures together!