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The Best Power Strip Surge Protectors

Last updated on January 19, 2024

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Electricity can be a scary thing so taking the right precautions for your electronics is an absolute must. For most home offices, a power strip that has multiple outlets can accommodate all the devices. But if the power strip is overloaded, it could fry everything that is plugged into it if it doesn’t shut off. This is where the surge protector comes in to play. Let’s see how they work and why you need one.

A surge in an electrical outlet is a significant increase in voltage that surpasses the set amount of electricity for that outlet. If too many devices are plugged into a power strip and it calls for more voltage than that outlet is designed to put out, then it will surge that voltage on the electronics, and they will “fry” or burn out.

When you purchase a power strip with a surge protector, you will prevent your electronics from burning out in the case of a surge. Inside a surge protector are different devices that direct the outstanding voltage to a grounding wire and away from the actual outlets. The main component is the metal oxide varistor also known as the MOV. This part connects the power line and the ground line before the electricity reaches the individual outlets. Surge protectors are a valuable asset to have to keep your electronics safe and functioning.

There are several styles of power strips with surge protectors to select. The more common type is a unit that looks like a wand and has a thick cord that plugs into the wall outlet. The bototek Power Strip Surge Protector With USB Ports and the AmazonBasics Power Strip Surge Protector, 2-Pack are both the wand type. Other options are wall units that plug the unit directly into the wall, leaving you with a bigger outlet-looking unit. Both types are effective in protecting your electronics from surges.

Our Picks For The Top Power Strip Surge Protectors

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Product Overview
Our Take
  The Best Overall

GE Extra-Long Power Strip Surge Protector

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

GE

Extra-Long Power Strip Sur Protector

Overall Take

PHILIPS Bluetooth Power Strip Surge Protectors, 2-Pack

PHILIPS

Bluetooth Power Strip Surge Protectors, 2-Pack

PHILIPS Surge Protector Wall Tap, 2-Pack features several outlets in place of the standard two per wall unit. This unit keeps your wall outlet looking organized and neat. A 2-pack is quite handy as you may find you’ll need both for the number of electronics you want to plug in.

Overall Take

Most DiscreetPHILIPS Surge Protector Wall Tap, 2-Pack features several outlets in place of the standard two per wall unit.

 Runner Up

AmazonBasics LED Lights Power Strip Surge Protectors, 2-Pack

AmazonBasics

LED Lights Power Strip Surge Protectors, 2-Pack

This power strip surge protector features six outlets per strip. The energy rating of 200 joules makes these units ideal in a home office for computers. The extended length cord features two feet of cord to work with. You’ll find peace of mind with the protecting capabilities of these power strips.

Overall Take

Does Double-DutyThis power strip surge protector offers lots of outlets for all those office electronics.

 Runner Up

BESTEK Outlet & USB Surge Protector, White

BESTEK

Outlet & USB Surge Protector, White

This surge protector offers lightning strike protection in 4000 joules. Users will appreciate the 6-foot extension cord, as well as surge protector's ability to handle a large number of plugs and adapters. Like other models, this unit also comes with an LED light to let you know that it's successfully connected to the electricity in your home.

Overall Take

Built-In Extension CordThis surge protector provides over-voltage, short-circuit and over-current protection.

What to Look For

  • Look for a warranty that covers not just the power strip but also insurance on your electronics in case of failure.
  • Make sure the power strip adheres to safety standards with automatic shutoff among other standards.
  • Consider a power strip with USB ports so you can charge your phone and devices on the same unit without taking up an outlet.
  • Make sure the spacing of the outlets is generous so that if you have bulky plugs, they all fit well.

More to Explore

Harold P. Kopp invented the surge protector in 1979.

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