A surge protector is vital if you want to keep your electronics safe from electrical power spikes. The latest models have more than just a few outlets, as well as smart connectivity and energy-monitoring features.
In addition to controlling a surge protector from your smartphone, some of the top-rated protectors have added safety features, coaxial connectors, and adjustable cords for added convenience. Check out our list for a top-of-the-line surge protector for every home, office, and budget.
At a glance:
TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Strip
Today’s best surge protectors don’t just protect electrical devices, they also enable all kinds of useful connections. This excellent TP-Link strip, for example, has six smart outlets that can be individually controlled with an app, giving protection while allowing you to customize devices, set schedules and automatically turn them on or off. It’s also compatible with voice commands via Alexa, Google Assistant or Cortana. Three USB ports provide alternative connections for charging other devices, too.
If all this wasn’t enough, this power strip also has energy monitoring features, measuring how much power everything is consuming so you can decrease power use, if necessary. You can also check out our larger list of the best smart surge protectors for more like this.
APC Desk Mount Power Station
This professional U-shaped protector is designed to hook onto the edge of a desk, for much easier access than trying to position a strip on the floor (you can also put it over a cubical wall, etc.) It provides 18 joules of surge protection. This model is also one of the few available with a USB-C charging port, as well as two USB-A ports for other connections, making it a great fit for many offices.
Teckin Smart Power Strip
Teckin has a competitive smart power strip that you can control via app, perfect for larger entertainment systems or complex computer layouts. You can set timers and other settings for each individual outlet, as well as setting shut-off times to fully power down/up the power strip and save energy. In addition to compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, the strip also works with IFTTT, ideal for those who prefer the customizable platform for their smart gadgets.
Belkin BE112230-08 12-Outlet
With many years of experience working with outlets and plug-in solutions, Belkin has experience making durable surge protectors. This 12-outlet model is a great professional piece with multiple options for cord length, sliding safety covers, and a 3,940-joule energy rating that’s high enough to protect even the largest office equipment. There are also detachable cord clips to route all your cords through for better organization.
Tripp Lite 10-Outlet
Tripp’s contribution is a “home and office” surge protector suitable for various electronic setups. Its handy LED diagnostic lights keep you posted about outlet status, and a built-in splitter can turn one RJ11 jack into two for a modem, fax (hey, some people still use them), or telephone/DSL line. We especially liked that four of the outlets provide enough space to fit more awkwardly-shaped adapter plugs.
This cord measures a standard eight feet long. You can also choose a version with coaxial connectors to protect your coaxial TV connections.
Belkin 6-Outlet SurgeMaster Wall Mount
This Belkin version has a wall mount option for setups that aim to raise the surge protector off the floor. Just plug the model into a wall outlet for six individual, protected outlets, each with a substantial 1,045-joule rating. It’s not appropriate for use with large appliances, but it’s an excellent choice for garage worktables, kitchen counters, office desks, and the like. This cord measures a standard eight feet long, and you can choose a coaxial connector model that protects any coaxial TV connections you may have.
Globe Electric 7732001 6-Outlet
Most surge protectors don’t give you any positioning choices, but the Globe Electric outlet has a vertical swivel that lets you adjust your outlets’ direction. This impressive feature helps you optimize your space by simultaneously organizing several cords. Despite its small size, the Globe Electric is compatible with hefty electronics, which is another perk. You can choose between six- or eight-outlet models.
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