Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Power Strips
Surge Protection
One of the essential factors to consider when selecting a power strip is surge protection. Look for power strips that offer surge protection to safeguard your devices against voltage spikes and fluctuations. Surge protection helps prevent damage to your valuable electronics, such as computers, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Outlets and USB Ports
Consider the number of outlets and USB ports available on the power strip. Ensure that it has enough outlets to accommodate all your devices and appliances. USB ports are also convenient for charging smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices.
Safety Features
Look for power strips with safety features such as overload protection and fire-resistant materials. Overload protection will automatically shut off the power strip if it detects excessive power consumption, preventing electrical hazards. Fire-resistant materials provide an extra layer of safety in case of any electrical malfunctions.
Cord Length
Consider the length of the power strip's cord. Ensure that it is long enough to reach your nearest power outlet without stretching or straining. A longer cord allows for more flexibility in positioning the power strip.
Warranty
Check if the power strip comes with a warranty. A warranty ensures that you can get a replacement or repair if the power strip malfunctions within a specific period. Look for power strips with longer warranty periods for added peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
A power strip primarily provides extra outlet space, while a surge protector offers protection against voltage spikes that could potentially damage electronics, appliances, or equipment.
2. What shouldn't be plugged into a power strip?
Certain appliances should not be plugged into a power strip, such as microwave ovens, toasters, hair dryers, slow cookers, space heaters, and coffee makers. These devices typically require their own dedicated outlet due to their power demands.
3. What is a power strip used for?
A power strip is a flexible cable with multiple electrical sockets at the end. It is used when there is a need for more wall receptacles than are available, allowing multiple electrical appliances to be plugged in simultaneously.
4. Is it better to plug into the wall or a surge protector?
For most devices, it is fine to plug them directly into the wall outlet. However, if you have expensive or sensitive devices that could be affected by power surges, it is recommended to use a surge protector for added protection.
5. How many things can I plug into a power strip?
The number of devices that can be plugged into a power strip depends on its capacity. Common power strips for 120-volt outlets can typically power up to six devices. It is important not to overload the power strip to avoid electrical hazards.
6. When should you not use a power strip?
Avoid plugging portable heaters, refrigerators, or other large appliances with high electrical draw into a power strip. These appliances should be plugged directly into a dedicated electrical wall outlet to prevent overloading the power strip and potential hazards.
7. How do I choose power strips?
When choosing a power strip, consider the number of devices you plan to plug into it and select one that can accommodate at least that many. It's also a good idea to anticipate future equipment and choose a power strip with more outlets if needed. Keep in mind that transformer plugs are larger than standard plugs.
8. Is it okay to leave a power strip on all the time?
It is generally not recommended to leave a power strip on all the time. Power strips are not designed to maintain a load for extended periods and can overheat if used excessively. It is advisable to use power strips sparingly and turn them off when not in use to reduce the risk of fire and ensure safety.
Editor's Notes
During our power strip research, we found 17 power strip products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,220,748 customer reviews through our big data system to write the power strips list. We found that most customers choose power strips with an average price of $19.22.
The power strips are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of power strips, including Anker, HANYCONY, Addtam, Nuetsa, GE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.