Charging trolleys and cabinets

Charging trolleys and cabinets store and charge several tablets, laptops or Chromebooks at the same time, which suits schools, training centres and offices that share devices. Mobile trolleys move between rooms, while wall-mounted and floor-standing cabinets stay in one place. The category sits within UPS and extras, alongside other power accessories.

How to choose a charging trolley or cabinet

Capacity and device size. Count the devices you need to charge today and add a few spare slots for growth. Check the slot width and depth against your thickest device, including any protective case, because a laptop in a rugged sleeve often will not fit a slot sized for a bare tablet.

Charging method. Some units have a power socket for each slot, so each device uses its own charger. Others have built-in USB charging ports. Mains sockets suit laptops, which need their own adapters, while USB charging is usually enough for tablets. Check the total power rating of the unit against the devices you plan to load.

Mobility or fixed position. A trolley with lockable castors lets one set of devices serve several classrooms or meeting rooms. A wall-mounted or floor-standing cabinet takes less floor space and suits a room where the devices stay. Measure doorways and lifts before choosing a trolley.

Security. Look for a lockable door and a sturdy steel body, particularly where devices are shared by many people. A cabinet that can be bolted to a wall or floor adds protection against theft.

Ventilation and cable management. Devices that charge in a closed space produce heat, so vents or fans matter, especially with a full load of laptops. Separate cable channels or clips also keep leads tidy and make it quicker to find the right slot.

Brands and what to look for in a maker

No brands are listed in this category at the moment, so it helps to compare units by type and build.

• Mobile trolleys: built on castors with a handle, they hold devices in upright slots and are common in schools that share one set of devices between classes.
• Wall-mounted cabinets: fixed to a wall, they save floor space and suit small rooms or offices with a limited number of devices.
• Floor-standing cabinets and lockers: they offer larger capacity and stronger anti-theft protection, but cannot be moved easily.
• Units with built-in USB charging: they keep cabling simple for tablets and phones, though they are not designed for laptops that need their own power adapters.

Brand names will appear here once products are added to the category.

Charging trolleys and cabinets FAQ

How many devices can a charging trolley hold?

Capacity varies by model, and units are typically built for a set number of slots, such as 16, 30 or 32 devices. Choose a size that covers your current devices with some room to spare. Check that the slot dimensions suit your device and its case.

What is the difference between a charging trolley and a charging cabinet?

A charging trolley has wheels and moves between rooms, while a cabinet is fixed to a wall or stands in one spot. Trolleys suit shared devices that travel. Cabinets suit a fixed location and are often easier to secure.

Can I charge laptops and tablets in the same unit?

Yes, if the slots fit both device types and the unit can supply enough power. Laptops usually need mains adapters, while tablets can often charge over USB. Check the slot size and total power rating before mixing devices.

Do I need a UPS with a charging cabinet?

A UPS is not essential, but it helps if power cuts or voltage dips are common where you work. It keeps charging going for a short time and protects the connected devices from sudden shutdowns. Check that its rated capacity covers the total load of the cabinet.