Vampire plugs are slide-on, insulation-piercing connectors that let you make custom-length cords for holiday and decorative lighting. They clamp onto flat zip cord (commonly 18/2) and pierce the insulation to create a secure, polarized connection—no soldering required.

• Also called Gilbert plugs, zip plugs, or slip-on plugs.
• Available as male (plug blades) and female (socket) styles.
• Offered in SPT-1 and SPT-2 to match cord insulation thickness.
• Often polarized to help align the ribbed neutral conductor correctly.
• Options include different colors and indoor/outdoor ratings; check the item specs for amp rating and listings.

They’re popular for neat, tailored installations where standard extension cords are too long or don’t place outlets where you need them.

They refer to the same style of connector. In this category, “vampire plug” and “Gilbert plug” are commonly used interchangeably for slide-on, insulation-piercing plugs designed for flat zip cord.

• What changes between products: SPT rating (SPT-1 or SPT-2), male vs. female style, indoor/outdoor suitability, color, and the amp rating.
• Compatibility: Many are made for 18/2 zip cord; match the plug’s SPT type to your cord for a proper fit.
• Polarization: Look for polarized connectors that align the ribbed neutral with the wider blade side.

When comparing options on Walmart, focus on SPT type, amperage, and use location guidance on the product page to choose what fits your setup.

SPT-1 and SPT-2 describe the insulation thickness of the zip cord (and matching plugs). The plug must match your cord type for a reliable connection.

• Fit: Use SPT-1 plugs with SPT-1 cord; SPT-2 plugs with SPT-2 cord.
• Insulation: SPT-2 is thicker, which can offer a sturdier grip when paired correctly.
• Amps: Many SPT-1 plugs list ratings around 8A, while SPT-2 plugs often list around 10A (always verify the specific item’s rating).
• Wire: Both typically pair with 18/2 zip cord and polarized connections.

Choosing the right SPT type helps the teeth pierce properly and can support the stated amp rating. Always confirm the exact specifications on the product page.

1. Plan and measure: Unplug power, measure your run, and cut 18/2 zip cord to length.
2. Identify neutral: Find the ribbed conductor (neutral). It aligns with the plug’s wider blade side.
3. Open the plug: Slide or open the back per the design to expose the piercing teeth.
4. Seat the cord: Place the cord into the channel, keeping insulation intact under the teeth.
5. Close to pierce: Press or slide the housing until the teeth pierce the insulation.
6. Check connection: Do a gentle tug test and verify alignment.

Match SPT type (SPT-1 or SPT-2), confirm the plug’s amp rating, and review the product page for indoor/outdoor guidance. This approach can help create neat, custom-length lighting runs.

Choose based on where you need power to start or end, and whether you want inline outlets along your cord.

• Male vampire plug: Adds plug blades to the beginning of your custom run so you can connect to a wall outlet or timer.
• Female vampire plug/socket: Creates an end-of-line socket or an inline add-on outlet for plugging in light strings where you need them.
• Match and rating: Select SPT-1 or SPT-2 to match your 18/2 cord and check the amp rating and polarization.
• Use location: Review product pages for indoor/outdoor suitability to align with your display’s environment.