Power strips and surge protectors are essential tools in today’s tech-heavy world. With multiple devices running in our homes and offices, having a reliable power strip or surge protector is key to safeguarding your electronics from damage due to power surges or spikes.
Whether you’re powering a computer, entertainment system, or home office, the right surge protector can make a huge difference in ensuring the longevity and safety of your equipment.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 power strips and surge protectors available on the market today. These picks are based on a combination of protection quality, features, user ratings, and price.
Top 10 Power Strips and Surge Protectors for Your Tech
1. Belkin 12-Outlet Surge Protector (BE112230-08)
Key Features:
- 12 outlets to power multiple devices
- 4,320 joules of surge protection
- 8-foot heavy-duty cord
- Overload protection and EMI/RFI noise filtration
Why Choose It?
Belkin is a well-known brand in the surge protection game. The BE112230-08 provides excellent surge protection, with an impressive 4,320 joules, ensuring that your devices are safe from power surges. The 12 outlets make it great for homes or offices with multiple devices. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty and a connected equipment guarantee of up to $300,000.
2. Anker PowerPort Strip 12
Key Features:
- 12 AC outlets and 3 USB charging ports
- 4,500 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot braided power cord
- Compact, space-saving design
Why Choose It?
Anker is known for its high-quality chargers and power strips. The PowerPort Strip 12 combines powerful surge protection with USB charging ports, making it ideal for tech-savvy homes and offices. The 4,500 joules of surge protection offers robust defense, while the compact design helps reduce cable clutter.
3. APC P11VT3 11-Outlet Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 11 outlets (6 with block spacing for larger adapters)
- 2,880 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
- Data-line protection for phone, internet, and coaxial cables
Why Choose It?
APC is a leader in power protection, and the P11VT3 is an excellent option for those needing a reliable surge protector. It offers multiple outlets and superior surge protection, including for data lines, which is great for those with cable modems or internet routers. Its surge protection rating of 2,880 joules is good enough to safeguard your equipment against most household surges.
4. CyberPower CSP600WSU 6-Outlet Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 6 outlets, including 3 with widely spaced outlets for large adapters
- 900 joules of surge protection
- 2 USB charging ports
- Compact and travel-friendly design
Why Choose It?
If you’re looking for a compact surge protector for travel or small spaces, the CyberPower CSP600WSU is an excellent choice. It offers solid protection for up to 900 joules and includes two USB ports for charging devices like phones and tablets. Its small size and sturdy build make it ideal for home offices or desks with limited space.
5. Eaton 5S 8-Outlet Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 8 outlets with 2 USB ports
- 1,050 joules of surge protection
- 3-foot power cord
- Integrated circuit breaker for overload protection
Why Choose It?
The Eaton 5S provides moderate surge protection (1,050 joules) and comes with USB charging ports for added convenience. This surge protector is equipped with a circuit breaker for overload protection, ensuring that your devices are safe from both power surges and general overloading. It’s a great pick for small to medium home offices.
6. Kensington Guardian 8-Outlet Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 8 outlets with surge protection
- 2,160 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
- Flat plug for space-saving installation
Why Choose It?
The Kensington Guardian offers great value for those who need solid protection without breaking the bank. With 8 outlets and 2,160 joules of protection, this surge protector ensures your electronics are safe from power surges. Its flat plug design helps reduce space usage, making it ideal for tight spaces behind furniture or in home theaters.
7. Belkin SurgePlus USB 6-Outlet Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 6 outlets and 2 USB charging ports
- 1,080 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
- Compact design
Why Choose It?
This Belkin model is perfect for those looking for a combination of surge protection and USB charging. It offers a moderate amount of surge protection (1,080 joules) and the added convenience of charging ports. Its compact size makes it a great option for smaller spaces, such as nightstands or desks.
8. Tripp Lite Isobar 8 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip (ISOBAR8-6)
Key Features:
- 8 outlets with isolated filter banks
- 3,960 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
- Noise filtering to reduce electromagnetic interference
Why Choose It?
Tripp Lite is known for its top-tier surge protectors, and the Isobar 8 is no exception. With 3,960 joules of protection, it provides robust defense against power surges and spikes. What sets this unit apart is its isolated filter banks, which help reduce noise from other devices, ensuring clean power to your sensitive electronics.
9. AmazonBasics 12-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip
Key Features:
- 12 outlets and 2 USB charging ports
- 4,320 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
- Affordable and straightforward design
Why Choose It?
The AmazonBasics 12-Outlet Surge Protector is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. With 12 outlets and USB charging capabilities, it offers excellent surge protection for up to 4,320 joules. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a simple yet effective surge protector for multiple devices.
10. Superdanny Power Strip Tower Surge Protector
Key Features:
- 12 outlets in a tower design
- 4 USB charging ports
- 3,000 joules of surge protection
- 6-foot power cord
Why Choose It?
For those looking for a unique, space-saving design, the Superdanny Power Strip Tower is a standout. The tower layout makes it easy to plug in bulky adapters without wasting outlets. It also includes 4 USB charging ports and offers a high level of protection with 3,000 joules.
READ ALSO: The Best Ergonomic Tech Accessories for Your Comfort
FAQs
What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
A power strip simply provides multiple outlets for plugging in devices, whereas a surge protector has the additional feature of protecting devices from electrical surges or spikes. A surge protector contains components that divert excess voltage to the ground, preventing it from reaching your electronics.
How do I choose the right surge protector for my devices?
Consider the number of outlets you need, the level of surge protection required (measured in joules), and any additional features such as USB ports or EMI/RFI noise filtering. For high-value electronics, a surge protector with a higher joule rating (3,000 joules or more) is advisable.
Can I use a surge protector with a high-power appliance like a refrigerator?
While surge protectors are generally designed for electronics and sensitive devices, high-power appliances like refrigerators or microwaves should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. They require more power than a standard surge protector can handle.
How long do surge protectors last?
Surge protectors don’t last forever. The lifespan depends on how many surges the protector absorbs. After several significant surges, a surge protector’s effectiveness may diminish. It’s a good idea to replace it every 2-3 years or after a large power surge.
Can a surge protector prevent lightning damage?
While surge protectors can help protect against smaller electrical surges, they may not always protect against direct lightning strikes. However, they can mitigate the effects of nearby lightning strikes or power surges from utility companies.