How to Choose the Right Anderson Style Connector for Your 12V Setup
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An Anderson style connector gives you a secure, easy-to-disconnect power connection for 12V and 24V systems. You'll find them on 4WDs, caravans, trailers, battery boxes, solar setups and DC-DC charger installs.
They all look similar, but choosing the right one takes more than matching the housing. You also need to think about current, cable size, colour, mounting style and circuit protection.
Quick answer: Match the connector size, series and colour at both ends. Then make sure the cable, fuse and connected equipment all suit the current in your circuit.
Where are they used?
Their genderless design lets two compatible connectors plug together. Common uses include:
- Caravan or trailer charging circuits
- Portable fridges and battery boxes
- Solar panel connections
- DC-DC chargers
- Removable power points in a canopy or cargo area
1 Check the current rating
Start with the maximum current in your circuit. A 50A Anderson style connector is widely used in 4WD and touring setups, but the connector's rating isn't the circuit's rating. The cable, contacts, fuse or breaker, and connected equipment all have to suit the load too. Follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions, especially for DC-DC chargers.
2 Match the cable to the load and distance
Cable size (mm² or B&S) depends on the current and the length of the run. A cable that's fine over a short distance can cause excessive voltage drop over a longer one, which matters in low-voltage systems.
The cable must also fit the contacts properly. Don't trim strands or force oversized cable into a terminal. Use contacts designed for your connector and cable size.
3 Check the colour
Colour helps identify circuits, but it can also affect compatibility. Housings in the same family can be keyed so different colours won't plug together.
The VES Flush Mount Dual Anderson 50A Grey and Red Kit is a good example. It pairs a grey connector for general DC power with a red one, usually used for solar. The two aren't compatible with each other, and the kit includes lugs.
General DC power
Usually used for solar
Always match series, size and colour at both ends. Don't rely on colour alone to tell you voltage, polarity or purpose. Label the circuit clearly.
4 Inline, flush mount or surface mount?
Inline: suits extension leads, battery leads and gear you remove regularly.
Flush mount: a tidy fixed connection on a canopy, drawer system or panel. VES has single, dual and triple kits. The VES Anderson Panel with USB-C, USB QC and 12V Socket adds extra outlets in the same panel.
Fitting out several vehicles? VES also sells 50A housings in red and grey 10-packs. These are housings only, so check what's included before you order.
5 Protect the circuit
A connector isn't circuit protection. Fit a correctly rated fuse or circuit breaker in the positive cable, as close as practical to the power source, and size it to protect the cable.
A pre-matched kit like the Enerdrive 16mm² Cable Kit with 70A Fuse and 50A Anderson Connector can simplify a tow-hitch install. In a kit like this the fuse protects the cable, so keep the connected load within the connector's 50A rating. Always confirm compatibility with your equipment and vehicle.
6 Make a reliable connection
Use the correct crimp tool and terminals. A poor crimp adds resistance, voltage drop and heat.
Keep polarity consistent at every connector.
Secure cables against movement.
Use a dust cover on exposed connections. The source side stays live when unplugged, so keep it covered.
If you're unsure about cable sizing, fuse selection or installation, ask a qualified auto electrician.
Quick buying checklist
Shop Anderson style connectors at VES
Browse the VES Anderson Style Connectors collection for housings, flush-mount and surface-mount kits. Need the rest of the setup? VES also stocks cable, cable lugs and fuse holders.