Looking for power strips that expand your available outlets? The best models balance plenty of ports with safety features like surge protection, while some prioritize compactness or USB charging. The 6Ft Surge Protector Power Strip with 8 Outlets stands out as the top overall choice, offering a solid mix of outlets and surge protection. Meanwhile, the Surge Protector Outlet Extender with Rotating Plug excels for tight spaces, and the Power Strip with 22 Outlets suits large setups. When choosing, consider factors like outlet count, surge protection, cord length, and safety certifications. Keep reading for a detailed comparison to help you find the best power strip for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The best power strips offer a mix of outlet quantity and surge protection, with the 8-outlet models providing versatile coverage.
- USB ports, especially USB-C, add significant value for charging modern devices without occupying traditional outlets.
- Cord length and mounting options are crucial for flexibility and space management, especially in cluttered setups.
- Buyers should prioritize safety features like surge protection and ETL listing to prevent damage and ensure compliance.
- Premium models with higher joule ratings generally provide better protection but come at a higher price point.
| 6Ft Power Strip Surge Protector with 6 Outlets and 3 USB Ports |  | Best Overall Power Strip for Versatile Charging and Surge Protection | Number of AC Outlets: 6 | USB Ports: 3 (2 USB A, 1 USB C) | Joule Rating: 1680 Joules | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surge Protector Outlet Extender with Rotating Plug, 6 AC Outlets, 4 USB Ports (2 USB-C), 1800J Surge Protection, Wall Charger, 3-Sided Power Strip |  | Best for Flexible Placement with High Surge Protection | Number of AC Outlets: 6 | USB Ports: 4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A) | Maximum Power: 1875W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surge Protector Power Strip – 8 Outlets, 4 USB (2 USB-C), 5ft Braided Extension Cord, Wall Mountable, ETL Certified |  | Best for High Device Capacity in Home or Office | Number of AC Outlets: 8 | USB Ports: 4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A) | Extension Cord Length: 5 ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wall Charger, Surge Protector, 5 Outlet Extender with 4 USB Ports |  | Best Compact Wall-Mounted Surge Protector for Duplex Outlets | Number of AC Outlets: 5 | USB Ports: 4 (3 USB A, 1 USB C) | Surge Protection: 1680 Joules | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Ft Surge Protector Power Strip with 8 Outlets and 4 USB Ports |  | Best for Large Power Needs with Extended Reach | Number of AC Outlets: 8 | USB Ports: 4 (including USB-C) | Extension Cord Length: 6 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wall Mount Power Strip with 6 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, Night Light, Surge Protector |  | Best for Compact Home and Office Use | Number of AC outlets: 6 | USB Ports: 4 (2 Type-A, 2 Type-C) | Total output: 12W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JouleLoom 6 FT Flat Plug Surge Protector Power Strip, 17 Outlets with USB and USB-C Ports |  | Best for High Outlet Capacity in Limited Space | Length: 6 feet | Number of AC Outlets: 11 | USB Ports: 4 USB-A, 2 USB-C | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surge Protector Power Strip with 8 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Cord, 2700 Joules, ETL Listed |  | Best for High Surge Protection and Versatile Charging | Number of AC outlets: 8 | USB ports: 4 (including 1 USB-C) | Cord length: 6 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Ft Extension Cord Power Strip with Surge Protector, 12 AC Outlets, 4 USB Ports, ETL Listed, Black |  | Best for Versatile Power Extension with High Capacity | Input Voltage: 125VAC | Max Current: 15A | Max Power Rating: 1875W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Anker Power Strip with 2100J Surge Protector, 12 Outlets, 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C, 5ft Extension Cord |  | Best for Compact Power with Fast USB Charging | Number of AC outlets: 12 | USB-A ports: 2 | USB-C ports: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 18 Outlets Surge Protector Power Strip with 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Flat Plug, 2100 Joules, Black |  | Best for Extensive Device Management and Home or Office Setup | Outlets: 18 AC outlets | USB Ports: 4 USB ports | Joule Rating: 2100 Joules | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Power Strip with 12 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Extension Cord, 2700 Joules, ETL Listed |  | Best for Safe, Smart Charging of Multiple Devices with High Surge Protection | Number of AC outlets: 12 | USB ports: 4 (including 1 USB-C) | Extension cord length: 6 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Power Strip with 22 Outlets and 6 USB Ports, 1875W, 2100 Joules, 6.5Ft Flat Plug Extension Cord |  | Best for Maximal Outlet Count and Tidy, Space-Saving Organization | Outlets: 22 | USB Ports: 6 | Wattage: 1875W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| power strips for extra outlet | USB Ports | Number of AC Outlets | Surge Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6Ft Power Strip Surge Protecto | 3 (2 USB A, 1 USB C) | 6 | — |
| Surge Protector Outlet Extende | 4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A) | 6 | 1800 Joules |
| Surge Protector Power Strip | 4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A) | 8 | 1080 Joules |
| Wall Charger | 4 (3 USB A, 1 USB C) | 5 | 1680 Joules |
| 6 Ft Surge Protector Power Str | 4 (including USB-C) | 8 | — |
| Wall Mount Power Strip with 6 | 4 (2 Type-A, 2 Type-C) | 6 | 1050J |
| JouleLoom 6 FT Flat Plug Surge | 4 USB-A, 2 USB-C | 11 | — |
| Surge Protector Power Strip wi | 4 (including 1 USB-C) | 8 | 2700 Joules |
| 6 Ft Extension Cord Power Stri | — | — | — |
| Anker Power Strip with 2100J S | — | 12 | — |
| 18 Outlets Surge Protector Pow | 4 USB ports | — | — |
| Power Strip with 12 Outlets an | 4 (including 1 USB-C) | 12 | 2700 Joules |
| Power Strip with 22 Outlets an | 6 | — | 2100 Joules |
More Details on Our Top Picks
6Ft Power Strip Surge Protector with 6 Outlets and 3 USB Ports
This power strip stands out for combining multiple outlets with high-quality surge protection and fast-charging USB ports, including both USB-A and USB-C. Compared with the larger, more complex options like the 8-outlet models, it offers a balanced mix of features in a manageable size. Its 1680 Joules rating provides strong defense against power spikes, while smart charging technology ensures your devices power up efficiently. However, the 6-foot cord might limit placement options, and it lacks individual outlet surge indicators for quick safety checks. This pick makes the most sense for users needing a reliable, all-in-one charging station that’s easy to install and use daily.Pros:- Multiple outlets and USB ports for versatile device charging
- High Joules rating offers robust surge protection
- Built-in smart charging technology for fast device power-up
- Wall-mountable design for flexible installation
Cons:- Cord length may be insufficient for some setups
- No individual surge indicator per outlet
- Limited to 6 outlets, which might not suit very high device counts
Best for: Home office users needing a compact, reliable surge protector with USB charging.
Not ideal for: Users with large, complex setups requiring more outlets or longer cords, as the 6-foot length may be restrictive.
- Number of AC Outlets:6
- USB Ports:3 (2 USB A, 1 USB C)
- Joule Rating:1680 Joules
- Cord Length:6 feet
- Max Power:1250W/10A
- Voltage Compatibility:120V to 240V
- Surge Protection Response Time:less than 1 nanosecond
Our verdict“This power strip is ideal for those seeking a compact, feature-rich surge protector for everyday home or office use.”
Surge Protector Outlet Extender with Rotating Plug, 6 AC Outlets, 4 USB Ports (2 USB-C), 1800J Surge Protection, Wall Charger, 3-Sided Power Strip
This outlet extender excels with its rotating plug and wide spacing, designed to accommodate large adapters without blocking adjacent outlets. Its 1800 Joules surge protection surpasses that of smaller models like the 1080 Joules on the Power Strip, offering enhanced safety during voltage spikes. The three-sided design maximizes outlet access in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for crowded outlets or behind furniture. However, its maximum power limit of 1875W could restrict use with high-power devices, and it requires careful reading of the manual to ensure safe operation. This product is well-suited for users who need flexible placement and reliable surge protection without sacrificing outlet space.Pros:- Rotating plug for flexible positioning
- Wide spacing for large plugs
- High 1800 Joules surge protection
- Smart USB ports for fast charging
Cons:- Limited maximum power of 1875W restricts high-power devices
- Requires review of manual for safe use
- No individual outlet surge indicator
Best for: Apartment dwellers or office users with limited outlet space needing flexible, high-protection power strips.
Not ideal for: Users intending to power high-wattage appliances or heavy-duty equipment, as the 1875W limit may be insufficient.
- Number of AC Outlets:6
- USB Ports:4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A)
- Maximum Power:1875W
- Surge Protection:1800 Joules
- Dimensions:5.7 x 1.9 x 1.7 inches
- Material:Fire-resistant ABS
Our verdict“Ideal for users requiring adaptable placement and solid surge protection in tight outlet spaces.”
Surge Protector Power Strip – 8 Outlets, 4 USB (2 USB-C), 5ft Braided Extension Cord, Wall Mountable, ETL Certified
This power strip offers a generous 8 outlets and 4 USB ports within a compact, wall-mountable design, making it excellent for users with many devices. Its 1080 Joules surge rating is sufficient for everyday protection, but it falls short compared to the 1800 Joules of the outlet extender, which means slightly less safety margin during major spikes. The braided 5-foot extension cord adds durability and flexibility, yet the maximum power of 1875W necessitates careful device management to avoid overloads. This model is best suited for environments where multiple devices need simultaneous charging with moderate surge protection, but not for very high-wattage appliances.Pros:- Eight outlets and four USB ports for high capacity
- Surge and overload protection for safety
- Wall mountable with flat plug for space efficiency
- Durable, fire-resistant construction
Cons:- Limited surge protection capacity at 1080 Joules
- Extension cord length may be too short for some setups
- Maximum power limit of 1875W requires careful device management
Best for: Home users with multiple gadgets and moderate surge protection needs who want a durable, wall-mountable solution.
Not ideal for: Users with high-power equipment or requiring very high surge protection, as the 1080 Joules rating may be insufficient.
- Number of AC Outlets:8
- USB Ports:4 (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A)
- Extension Cord Length:5 ft
- Surge Protection:1080 Joules
- Maximum Power:1875W/15A
- Certifications:ETL, RoHS
Our verdict“Best for households or offices needing multiple outlets and moderate surge protection in a space-efficient package.”
Wall Charger, Surge Protector, 5 Outlet Extender with 4 USB Ports
This wall-mounted surge protector is designed specifically for duplex outlets, with five wide-spaced AC outlets and four USB ports, including a USB-C port. Its 1680 Joules protection offers solid safety, similar to the 1680 Joules on the Power Strip, but it’s tailored for users who want a neat, built-in power extension. Its narrow outlet spacing limits compatibility with larger adapters, making it less suitable for multi-plug power strips or bulky devices. It’s ideal for small spaces where a neat, safe power solution is needed, but not for setups requiring multiple high-wattage appliances.Pros:- Wide spacing for multiple devices
- Built-in surge protection for safety
- Includes both USB-A and USB-C ports with smart charging
- Secure wall mounting with screws
Cons:- Only compatible with duplex outlets, not GFCI outlets
- USB C port lacks Quick Charge 3.0 support
- Limited to duplex outlets, reducing versatility
Best for: Home or office users with duplex outlets needing a compact, integrated surge protector with USB charging.
Not ideal for: Users with GFCI or non-duplex outlets, or those needing to power high-wattage or bulky devices simultaneously.
- Number of AC Outlets:5
- USB Ports:4 (3 USB A, 1 USB C)
- Surge Protection:1680 Joules
- Outlet Spacing:2.1 inches
- Compatible Outlets:Duplex only
- USB A Max Output:5V/2.4A
- USB C Max Output:5V/3A
Our verdict“Ideal for users seeking a compact, wall-mounted surge protector for duplex outlets with USB charging.”
6 Ft Surge Protector Power Strip with 8 Outlets and 4 USB Ports
This power strip provides 8 outlets and 4 USB ports, including USB-C, with a 6-foot extension cord and space-efficient flat plug. It is well-suited for users who need to power many devices simultaneously while maintaining a tidy setup. Its 600 Joules surge protection is lower than higher-rated models like the 1800 Joules of the outlet extender, making it less ideal for environments with frequent or severe voltage spikes. The 6-foot cord offers good reach, but its limited surge capacity suggests it’s better for everyday safety rather than protection against major surges. This makes it a practical choice for dorms or offices where device overloads are less common.Pros:- Eight outlets and four USB ports for high capacity
- Flat plug design saves space in tight areas
- Built-in surge and overload protection
- Six-foot extension cord for flexible placement
Cons:- Limited surge capacity at 600 Joules
- No smart charging features for USB ports
- Limited to 6 feet, which may restrict placement in some rooms
Best for: Students or office workers needing multiple outlets and USB charging with a longer extension cord.
Not ideal for: Environments with high surge risks or where high-value electronics require maximum surge protection.
- Number of AC Outlets:8
- USB Ports:4 (including USB-C)
- Extension Cord Length:6 feet
- Surge Protection Capacity:600 Joules
- Maximum USB Output:5V/2.4A (USB A), 5V/3A (USB C)
- Safety Certifications:ETL
Our verdict“Best suited for users needing multiple outlets and USB charging over a longer reach for everyday devices.”
Wall Mount Power Strip with 6 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, Night Light, Surge Protector
This wall-mounted power strip excels in offering a versatile charging setup, with 6 AC outlets and 4 USB ports—including Type-C for faster device charging—making it a strong choice for spaces where desk or wall real estate is limited. Compared to the JouleLoom, it provides built-in surge protection and safety features in a more permanent, wall-mounted form, though it lacks the sheer outlet count and longer cord of a power strip like the one with 12 outlets. Its compact design and mounting options make it ideal for maintaining a clean workspace, but the Type-C ports may not support higher-voltage laptops, and the night light feature is somewhat limited in detail. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for users who want a neat, integrated charging station without sacrificing safety or versatility.Pros:- Multiple charging ports including USB-C and USB-A for versatile device compatibility
- Built-in surge protection and circuit breaker for added safety
- Wall-mountable design with mounting holes for secure installation
Cons:- Type-C port may not support higher-voltage laptops requiring more power
- Limited details on night light functionality
Best for: Homeowners or office workers needing a space-saving, mounted charging station with USB-C support
Not ideal for: Users seeking a high-capacity power strip for multiple heavy-duty appliances or a portable solution
- Number of AC outlets:6
- USB Ports:4 (2 Type-A, 2 Type-C)
- Total output:12W
- Surge protection:1050J
- Voltage range:100V-250V
- Built-in circuit breaker:Yes
Our verdict“Best suited for users who want a compact, wall-mounted solution with reliable safety features for everyday device charging.”
JouleLoom 6 FT Flat Plug Surge Protector Power Strip, 17 Outlets with USB and USB-C Ports
The JouleLoom offers an impressive 17 outlets, including 11 AC and 6 USB connections, in a notably compact, flat plug design that’s perfect for tight spaces like behind furniture or in travel scenarios. It surpasses the 8-outlet models by providing more total connections, but its 1250W capacity limits heavy-duty appliances, making it less suitable for high-power setups. Its compact size and flat plug are advantageous for saving space, but requiring a 6-foot cord can restrict placement options in smaller rooms. This model is well-suited for users who need maximum outlets in a limited footprint but don’t plan to run multiple high-wattage devices simultaneously.Pros:- Very high number of outlets and USB ports in a small footprint
- Space-saving flat plug design for tight spaces
- Includes surge and overload protection for safety
Cons:- Limited to 1250W, restricting heavy appliances
- Requires a 6-foot extension cord, which may not fit all setups
Best for: Small offices, dorm rooms, or travelers needing a high-outlet, space-efficient power strip
Not ideal for: Users who need to power high-wattage equipment like space heaters or large kitchen appliances
- Length:6 feet
- Number of AC Outlets:11
- USB Ports:4 USB-A, 2 USB-C
- Power Rating:1250W/10A
- Dimensions:6.5″ x 4.3″ x 1″
- Safety Certifications:ETL
Our verdict“Ideal for users who need many outlets in a compact, space-saving form but don’t require high power capacity.”
Surge Protector Power Strip with 8 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Cord, 2700 Joules, ETL Listed
With 8 outlets and 4 USB ports—including a USB-C—this power strip offers substantial surge protection, rated at 2700 Joules, making it suitable for safeguarding multiple electronics. It compares favorably to smaller models like the 6-outlet version, especially for users concerned about power surges, but the 6-foot cord may limit placement flexibility. The fire-resistant shell adds an extra safety layer, yet its USB-C port does not support higher voltage charging, which could be a drawback for certain devices. This pick is perfect for those needing robust surge protection without sacrificing multiple outlets, but it’s less ideal for setups that require longer cords or support for high-voltage USB-C devices.Pros:- High surge protection of 2700 Joules for safety
- Multiple outlets and USB ports, including USB-C
- ETL safety certification and fire-resistant construction
Cons:- USB-C port does not support devices needing 9-22V charging
- Limited to 6-foot cord length, restricting placement options
Best for: Home or office users prioritizing surge protection for multiple devices and high Joules capacity
Not ideal for: Users seeking a portable or longer-cord solution for flexible placement
- Number of AC outlets:8
- USB ports:4 (including 1 USB-C)
- Cord length:6 feet
- Surge protection:2700 Joules
- Certification:ETL
- Overload protection:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for users who need a high-protection, multi-outlet power strip in a fixed location for electronics and gadgets.”
6 Ft Extension Cord Power Strip with Surge Protector, 12 AC Outlets, 4 USB Ports, ETL Listed, Black
This extension cord power strip packs 12 outlets and 4 USB ports into a robust 6-foot heavy-duty cord, making it ideal for large setups like workshops or extensive home entertainment systems. It offers a surge capacity of 2700 Joules and wide voltage compatibility, matching the protection levels of dedicated surge protectors. Compared with smaller strips, its higher outlet count provides greater flexibility, but the 6-foot length may not suit all spaces, and overloading could pose risks if the rated wattage is exceeded. It’s a solid choice for those who need a long, heavy-duty extension with surge protection, but it’s less suited for quick, temporary setups or limited spaces.Pros:- Large number of outlets and USB ports for extensive device charging
- High surge protection capacity of 2700 Joules
- Wide voltage compatibility and fire-resistant shell
Cons:- Overloading can cause hazards if rated limits are exceeded
- 6-foot cord length may limit flexibility in tight spaces
Best for: Workshops, garages, or large home setups requiring extensive outlet access and surge safety
Not ideal for: Small apartments or desks where shorter cords and fewer outlets suffice
- Input Voltage:125VAC
- Max Current:15A
- Max Power Rating:1875W
- Surge Protector Rating:2700 Joules
- USB Port Output:DC 5V, Total 3.4A
- Cord Length:6 ft
Our verdict“Perfect for heavy-duty, high-capacity extension needs where surge protection and safety are priorities.”
Anker Power Strip with 2100J Surge Protector, 12 Outlets, 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C, 5ft Extension Cord
The Anker Power Strip prioritizes high-speed USB-C charging, with a 20W output, alongside 12 AC outlets, making it ideal for users who want quick device charging at their desk or bedside. Its 5-foot cord is slightly shorter than others in this roundup, but the layout is optimized for bulky plugs, avoiding blockages. Compared to the JouleLoom’s higher outlet count, Anker’s strength lies in its fast charging and safety certifications, though it doesn’t match the maximum surge capacity of models offering 2700 Joules. This makes it suitable for everyday electronics, but less so for power-hungry appliances or large-scale setups.Pros:- 20W fast USB-C charging for compatible devices
- Multiple outlets and USB ports for versatile charging
- Enhanced safety features including surge protection
Cons:- Limited to 5-foot extension cord, reducing placement options
- No smart or remote control features for automation
Best for: Desk workers or bedside users seeking fast charging and reliable surge protection in a compact form
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty applications requiring many outlets or longer extension cords for flexible placement
- Number of AC outlets:12
- USB-A ports:2
- USB-C ports:1
- Wattage:20W
- Extension Cord Length:5 ft
- Safety Certifications:TUV
Our verdict“Best suited for users needing fast USB charging combined with multiple outlets for everyday electronics in a compact setup.”
18 Outlets Surge Protector Power Strip with 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Flat Plug, 2100 Joules, Black
This power strip stands out for its massive 18 AC outlets, surpassing typical options like the Power Strip with 12 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, making it ideal for environments with many devices. Its 2100 Joules surge protection provides reliable safety, although it doesn’t include smart or energy-saving features. The flat plug allows flexible placement behind furniture, but the 6-foot cord may limit placement options compared to longer cords. While its bulkiness might be a concern for tighter spaces, the reusable cable ties help organize cords effectively. Compared to smaller models, this offers the most outlets, but at the cost of portability and potentially cluttered setups.
Pros:- Massive 18 AC outlets and 4 USB ports for extensive device connection
- High surge protection of 2100 Joules for electronics safety
- Flat plug design for flexible placement and organization
- ETL safety certification ensures reliable use
Cons:- Limited to a 6-foot extension cord, reducing placement flexibility
- Bulkier design may be cumbersome in tight spaces
- No smart or energy-saving features included
Best for: Large home or office setups needing numerous outlets and USB charging options
Not ideal for: Small desks or spaces where a compact power strip is preferred, due to its size and weight
- Outlets:18 AC outlets
- USB Ports:4 USB ports
- Joule Rating:2100 Joules
- Extension Cord Length:6 feet
- Plug Type:Flat plug
- Material:Fire-resistant PC shell
- Certification:ETL listed
Our verdict“This pick is best for users who need a high-capacity, organized power solution for large setups and don’t mind the bulk.”
Power Strip with 12 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, 6 Feet Extension Cord, 2700 Joules, ETL Listed
Compared with the 18-outlet model, this power strip offers fewer AC outlets but compensates with smart charging technology and a higher surge protection of 2700 Joules. Its 12 outlets and 4 USB ports—including a USB-C—make it versatile for both home and professional environments, especially for devices that benefit from fast or optimized charging. The smart tech ensures devices charge efficiently, but the bulkier design could be a drawback in tighter spaces. Its 6-foot cord is standard, yet may limit flexibility in some setups. Being ETL certified and built with fire-resistant materials, it emphasizes safety for everyday use, though it may be too large for those needing a lightweight, portable solution.
Pros:- High surge protection of 2700 Joules for electronics safety
- Smart charging technology for fast and efficient device power-up
- Includes USB-C port for modern device compatibility
- ETL safety certification and fire-resistant build
Cons:- Bulkier design may occupy significant space
- Limited to a 6-foot extension cord, affecting placement options
- Not as many outlets as the 18-outlet model for very high-density setups
Best for: Tech enthusiasts or professionals seeking high surge protection and smart charging for multiple devices
Not ideal for: Minimalist setups or users with limited space, due to its larger size and bulk
- Number of AC outlets:12
- USB ports:4 (including 1 USB-C)
- Extension cord length:6 feet
- Surge protection:2700 Joules
- Certification:ETL
- Materials:Fire-resistant
Our verdict“Ideal for users wanting robust surge protection combined with smart, efficient charging in a moderately sized power strip.”
Power Strip with 22 Outlets and 6 USB Ports, 1875W, 2100 Joules, 6.5Ft Flat Plug Extension Cord
This power strip offers an impressive 22 outlets, making it the most extensive choice in this lineup, especially suitable for large workstations or entertainment centers. Its 6 USB ports and wide spacing prevent outlets from blocking each other, though the fixed side outlets limit flexibility in rearrangement. The 6.5-foot flat plug cord provides ample reach and fits well in narrow spaces, but its weight and bulk could be challenging for users seeking portable options. The surge protection of 2100 Joules adds safety, while built-in safety protections support reliable, consistent use. Compared to the smaller models, this is the most comprehensive, but it may be overkill for typical home use.
Pros:- 22 AC outlets for extensive device connection
- Six USB ports, including fast-charging options
- Wide spacing prevents outlet blocking
- Flat plug design fits in narrow spaces
Cons:- Fixed side outlets limit rearrangement and flexibility
- Heavy and bulky, less portable for frequent movement
- Overly large for small or simple setups
Best for: Massive setups needing maximum outlets and USB ports, such as media centers or professional workstations
Not ideal for: Users with limited space or those preferring lightweight, portable power strips
- Outlets:22
- USB Ports:6
- Wattage:1875W
- Surge Protection:2100 Joules
- Extension Cord Length:6.5 ft
- Maximum Current:15A
Our verdict“Designed for environments that demand maximum outlets and USB ports, with space efficiency balanced by weight and size considerations.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these power strips, I focused on performance, safety, usability, and overall value. Key criteria included the number of outlets and USB ports, surge protection joule rating, cord length, and mounting options. Build quality and safety certifications like ETL listing played a role in filtering out lower-quality options. I ranked the products based on how well they balance capacity, protection, and convenience for different types of users, from casual home setups to more demanding workplaces.Factors to Consider When Choosing Power Strips For Extra Outlets
Choosing the right power strip involves more than just counting outlets. It’s important to consider safety features, device compatibility, and your specific space constraints. A well-chosen power strip can prevent overloads and protect your electronics, but a poor choice could lead to damage or hazards. Keep these key factors in mind to make a smarter purchase.Number of Outlets and USB Ports
Determine how many devices you’ll need to connect simultaneously. Power strips with more outlets accommodate larger setups, but they may also be bulkier or less flexible. USB ports are increasingly important for charging phones, tablets, and other gadgets directly, saving you outlet space. Consider models with a balanced mix to suit your device load without unnecessary excess.
Surge Protection and Joule Rating
Surge protection safeguards your electronics against voltage spikes, which can cause damage over time. Look for a joule rating of at least 1000J for typical household use; higher ratings provide better protection for expensive devices. Be wary of cheaper models without surge protection or with minimal joule ratings, which offer little real safety.
Cord Length and Mounting Options
Longer cords provide flexibility in arranging your setup, especially if outlets are far from your devices. Mounting features like holes or strips help keep your space organized and prevent accidental disconnection. Pay attention to these features if your workspace is tight or cluttered, as they can significantly improve usability.
Build Quality and Safety Certifications
Investing in a power strip with solid build quality and safety certifications like ETL or UL ensures reliability and compliance with safety standards. Cheaper, uncertified models might pose fire risks or electrical hazards. Always check reviews for signs of poor construction or overheating issues, especially for high-current or high-joule-rated strips.
Price and Overall Value
Premium models with higher joule ratings, more outlets, and additional features cost more but often provide better protection and durability. Conversely, if your needs are minimal, a basic model can suffice, saving money. Consider your device load and safety needs to find a model that offers the best balance of features and cost for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave my power strip plugged in all the time?
Yes, most modern power strips are designed for continuous use, but it’s wise to unplug them when not in use to save energy and reduce fire risk. Ensure your power strip has surge protection and is certified for safety, especially if you plan to leave it plugged in long-term. Regularly inspect the cord and outlets for signs of wear or overheating to maintain safety.
How many devices can I safely connect to one power strip?
The total load depends on the power strip’s maximum wattage or amperage, usually indicated on the device. Overloading can cause overheating and fire hazards. To stay safe, add up the wattage of all connected devices and ensure it remains below the power strip’s rated capacity. Using a power strip with a high joule rating and overload protection helps prevent damage in case of accidental overloads.
Is it better to get a power strip with USB-C or USB-A ports?
USB-C ports are more versatile and support faster charging for newer devices, making them a good choice if you use modern smartphones, tablets, or laptops. USB-A ports are more common and compatible with older gadgets. For future-proofing your setup, a power strip with USB-C ports adds convenience and efficiency, especially if you frequently charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Should I prioritize surge protection over the number of outlets?
Both are important, but surge protection offers critical safety for your electronics. If you have expensive or sensitive devices, prioritize a model with a high joule rating and certification. However, if you need to power many devices, choose a power strip with plenty of outlets first, then ensure it has adequate surge protection. The best option balances both features to meet your specific needs.
What safety features should I look for in a power strip?
Key safety features include surge protection with a high joule rating, safety certifications like ETL or UL, overload protection, and a sturdy construction. Some models include child safety covers or reset switches. Avoid cheap, uncertified options, as they can pose fire hazards or fail to protect your devices adequately. Always choose a reputable brand with positive safety reviews for peace of mind.
