When it comes to protecting your valuable electronic devices from sudden power surges, investing in the best surge protectors is crucial. These devices act as a first line of defense, safeguarding your appliances, gadgets, and sensitive equipment from voltage spikes that can cause irreparable damage. In this article, we will explore a range of surge protectors that have proven to be reliable and efficient in shielding against power surges. Whether you’re looking for surge protectors with USB ports, surge protectors for home theater systems, or surge protectors with long cords, we have got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of surge protectors and discover the top options available in the market to ensure your electronics stay protected.
What Is Surge Protectors?
Surge protectors, also known as surge suppressors, are crucial electrical devices that safeguard electronic equipment from voltage spikes and transient surges. They act as a buffer between valuable appliances and harmful voltage, offering protection against power surges.
How Surge Protectors Works?
Surge protectors work by diverting excess electrical energy away from connected devices during voltage spikes and transient surges. They contain a component called a metal-oxide varistor (MOV) or a gas discharge tube that acts as a voltage-sensitive switch.
Here’s how surge protectors work in simple terms:
- Normal Operation: During regular operation, when the voltage remains within safe levels, the surge protector allows the electricity to pass through to your devices uninterrupted.
- Voltage Spike Detection: When a voltage spike occurs, such as due to lightning or power fluctuations, the surge protector detects the sudden increase in voltage.
- Diversion of Excess Energy: The surge protector’s MOV or gas discharge tube responds rapidly to the increased voltage. It conducts electricity only when the voltage is within the normal range, but when a spike occurs, it becomes highly conductive and starts to redirect the excess energy safely to the ground.
- Protection of Connected Devices: By diverting the excess energy to the ground, the surge protector prevents it from reaching and damaging your electronic devices.
- Resettable or Non-Resettable: Some surge protectors have a built-in circuit breaker or fuse that trips in case of a severe surge, rendering the surge protector non-functional. Others may have a resettable feature, allowing you to restore protection after a significant surge event.
It’s important to note that surge protectors have a limited lifespan and can wear out over time or after multiple surge events. Therefore, it’s recommended to replace surge protectors periodically to ensure continued protection for your valuable electronics.
Best Surge Protectors of 2023
1. APC SurgeArrest P12U2
The APC SurgeArrest P12U2 is a 12-outlet surge protector with two USB charging ports. It is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes. The P12U2 has a 4320 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 4320 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- The P12U2 also includes a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker, among other safety features. If the P12U2 overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the P12U2 from overloading.
- It includes a variety of convenience features in addition to its security features. It includes two USB charging ports, each of which can provide up to 2.4 amps of power. This means you can charge your smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets quickly and easily.
- Very simple to operate. It has a straightforward design with clearly labeled outlets. It also includes an integrated status light that shows when the P12U2 is protecting your devices.
2. Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector
The Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector is an excellent choice for safeguarding your gadgets against power surges and spikes. It is rated at 3940 Joules, which implies it can resist a surge of up to 3940 joules. This is more than enough security for the majority of homes and offices.
- Other safety features of the Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector include a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will instantly cut the power, and the circuit breaker will stop the surge protector from overloading.
- The Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector includes a variety of convenience advantages in addition to its protective features. It has six outlets with generous spacing, making it ideal for large devices like computer and TV power adapters. Additionally, it has a built-in cord management clip to keep your cables organized tidy.
- Additionally, the Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector is incredibly user-friendly. It is simple in appearance and contains outlets that are plainly labeled. Additionally, it has an integrated status light that lets you know whether the surge protector is guarding your electronics.
3. Anker PowerPort Strip 12
A 12-outlet surge protector with three USB charging ports is the Anker PowerPort Strip 12. It offers quick charging for your USB devices and is a wonderful solution for shielding your electronics from power spikes and surges.
- The 4320 joule rating of the PowerPort Strip 12 indicates that it can tolerate surges up to that much. The majority of homes and offices are well protected by this.
- A thermal fuse and a circuit breaker are among the additional safety features it has. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will instantly cut the power, and the circuit breaker will stop the surge protector from overloading.
- The PowerPort Strip 12 provides a variety of convenience features in addition to its security features. It features three USB charging connections, each of which is capable of delivering up to 15 watts of power. You can now effortlessly and rapidly charge your smartphones, tablets, and other electronic gadgets thanks to this.
- It’s also quite simple to use the PowerPort Strip 12. It has a straightforward layout with outlets that are well labeled. Additionally, a built-in status light shows when the surge protector is guarding your electronics.
4. Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector
The Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector is an excellent choice for safeguarding your devices against power surges and spikes. It is rated at 4,320 Joules, which implies it can resist a surge of up to 4,320 joules. This is more than enough security for the majority of homes and companies.
5. CyberPower Desktop Power Charger
The CyberPower Desktop Power Charger is a 10-outlet surge protector with two USB charging ports. It is a great option for protecting your desktop computer and other sensitive electronics from power surges and spikes.
- The Desktop Power Charger can resist surges up to 2400 joules, according to its 2400 Joule rating. The majority of desktop computers and other home office gadgets are well protected by this.
- A thermal fuse and a circuit breaker are among the additional safety features it has. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will instantly cut the power, and the circuit breaker will stop the surge protector from overloading.
- The Desktop Power Charger provides a variety of convenience advantages in addition to its safety features. It includes two USB charging ports, each of which is capable of delivering 2.1 amps of electricity. As a result, you may quickly and simply charge your smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
- It’s also quite simple to utilize the desktop power charger. It has a straightforward layout with outlets that are well labeled. Additionally, a built-in status light shows when the surge protector is guarding your electronics.
6. Monster Power HTS300
The Monster Power HTS300 is a high-end surge protector that offers excellent protection for your electronics. It has a 4320 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 4320 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- A thermal fuse and a circuit breaker are among the other safety features included in the HTS300. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will instantly cut the power, and the circuit breaker will stop the surge protector from overloading.
- The HTS300 provides a variety of convenience features in addition to its security features. It features six outlets with generous spacing, making it ideal for large devices like computer and TV power adapters. Additionally, it has a built-in cord management clip to keep your cords tidy.
- Aside from these advanced features, the HTS300 is a fantastic option for music and video fans. It contains a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that can assist shield you from electrical shocks and a noise filter that reduces interference from power lines.
- It’s also quite simple to utilize the HTS300. It is simple in appearance and contains outlets that are plainly labeled. Additionally, it has an integrated status light that lets you know whether the surge protector is guarding your electronics.
7. Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector
The Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes. It has a 4320 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 4320 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- Other safety features of the Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector include a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will instantly cut the power, and the circuit breaker will stop the surge protector from overloading.
- The Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector includes a number of convenience features in addition to its safety characteristics. It features six outlets with generous spacing, making it ideal for large devices like computer and TV power adapters. Additionally, it has a built-in cord management clip to keep your cords tidy.
- The Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector is a fantastic option for music and video fans thanks to a variety of cutting-edge features as well. It contains a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that can assist shield you from electrical shocks and a noise filter that reduces interference from power lines.
- It’s also quite simple to utilize the 12-Outlet Surge Protector from Etekcity. It is simple in appearance and contains outlets that are plainly labeled. Additionally, it has an integrated status light that lets you know whether the surge protector is guarding your electronics.
8. Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports
The Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes. It has a 3940 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 3940 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- Other safety features of the Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports include a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports includes a variety of convenience benefits in addition to its safety features. It includes six wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for large connections like computer and TV power adapters. It also features four USB ports, all of which are fast charging compatible. This means you can charge your smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets quickly and easily.
- The Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports is extremely simple to operate. It has a straightforward design with clearly labeled outlets. It also includes a status light that indicates whether or not the surge protector is safeguarding your devices.
9. Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection
The Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes. It has a 2400 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 2400 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- The Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection additionally includes a thermal fuse and a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically shut off the power, and the GFCI will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The GFCI feature is extremely vital for protecting you from electrical shocks. If there is a ground fault, the GFCI will automatically turn off the power to the outlet, sparing you from being shocked.
- The Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault safety includes a variety of convenience features in addition to its safety functions. It includes six wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for large plugs such as computer and TV power adapters. It also includes a status indicator that shows when the surge protector is protecting your devices.
- The Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection is also extremely user-friendly. It has a straightforward design and properly labeled outlets. It also includes a status indicator that shows when the surge protector is protecting your devices.
10. Tripp Lite SMART1200LCD Surge Protector
The Tripp Lite SMART1200LCD Surge Protector is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes. It has a 4,320 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 4,320 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- A thermal fuse and a circuit breaker are also included in the SMART1200LCD’s safety measures. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The SMART1200LCD provides a variety of convenience features in addition to its security measures. It includes six wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for large connections like computer and TV power adapters. It also has an LCD display incorporated in that displays the current voltage, protection status, and remaining surge protection capacity.
- The SMART1200LCD is also very simple to operate. It has a straightforward design with clearly labeled outlets. It also includes a status light that indicates whether or not the surge protector is safeguarding your devices.
11. TP-Link HS300 Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip
The TP-Link HS300 Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes, while also giving you the ability to control it remotely. It has a 3940 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 3940 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- The HS300 also includes a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker, among other safety features. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The HS300 provides a variety of convenience features in addition to its security characteristics. It includes six wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for large connections like computer and TV power adapters. It also features two USB connections, each of which can supply up to 12 watts of power. This means you can charge your smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets quickly and easily.
- Because the HS300 is also a smart power strip, it can be controlled remotely via the Kasa Smart app. The app allows you to control the power, set timers, and make schedules. This is useful for things like turning off appliances when you leave the house or turning on your coffee maker in the morning.
- The HS300 is also very simple to operate. It has a straightforward design with clearly labeled outlets. It also includes a status light that indicates whether or not the surge protector is safeguarding your devices.
12. Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB Charger Ports
The Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB Charger Ports is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes, while also providing you with two convenient USB ports for charging your devices. It has a 4320 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 4320 joules. This is more than enough protection for most homes and offices.
- Other safety features of the Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector include a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector provides a variety of convenience features in addition to its safety features. It includes twelve wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for large plugs like computer and TV power adapters. It also includes two USB ports, each of which can supply up to 2.1 amps of power. This means you can charge your smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets quickly and easily.
- The translucent plastic tabs on the unit’s sides light up green to indicate when the surge protector is protecting your gadgets and when a correct ground is found. When voltage and current spikes have completely consumed the protection circuitry, the protection light will no longer illuminate, indicating that the surge protector should be replaced.
- The Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector is also quite simple to operate. It has a straightforward design with clearly labeled outlets. It also includes a status light that indicates whether or not the surge protector is safeguarding your devices.
13. Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports
The Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports is a great option for protecting your electronics from power surges and spikes, while also providing you with two convenient USB ports for charging your devices. It has a 1200 Joule rating, which means that it can withstand a surge of up to 1200 joules. This is enough protection for most small electronics, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
- Other safety features of the Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports include a thermal fuse and a circuit breaker. If the surge protector overheats, the thermal fuse will automatically turn off the power, and the circuit breaker will prevent the surge protector from overloading.
- The Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports includes a number of convenience benefits in addition to its safety qualities. It includes three wide-spaced outlets that are ideal for compact plugs like laptop and smartphone power adapters. It also includes two USB ports, each of which can supply up to 2.1 amps of power. This means you can charge your smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets quickly and easily.
- The Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports is also very easy to use. It has a simple design with clearly labeled outlets. It also has a built-in status light that indicates when the surge protector is protecting your devices.
Surge Protectors Pros and Cons
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| APC SurgeArrest P12U2 |
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| Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector |
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| Anker PowerPort Strip 12 |
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| Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector |
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| CyberPower Desktop Power Charger |
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| Monster Power HTS300 |
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| Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector |
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| Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports |
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| Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection |
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| Tripp Lite SMART1200LCD Surge Protector |
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| TP-Link HS300 Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip |
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| Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB Charger Ports |
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| Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports |
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Surge Protectors Comparison
| Model | Clamping Voltage | Protection Rating | Number of Outlets | Number of USB Ports | Power Cord Length | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APC SurgeArrest P12U2 | 330 volts | 4320 joules | 12 | 2 | 6 feet | 12.24 x 5 x 1.3 inches | 1.92 pounds |
| Belkin 12 Outlet Surge Protector | 400 volts | 3940 joules | 12 | N/A | 6 feet | 10.1 x 2.8 x 29 centimeters | 2.45 pounds |
| Anker PowerPort Strip 12 | 400 volts | 4320 joules | 12 | 3 | 6 feet | 5.04 x 2.76 x 1.77 inches | 1.3 pounds |
| Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector | 400 volts | 4320 joules | 12 | N/A | 6 feet | 10.4 x 3.2 x 2.3 inches | 2.1 pounds |
| CyberPower Desktop Power Charger | 400 volts | 2400 joules | 10 | 2 | 6 feet | 4.7 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches | 1.2 pounds |
| Monster Power HTS300 | N/A | 4320 joules | 6 | 2 | 6 feet | 10.4 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches | 1.6 pounds |
| Etekcity 12-Outlet Surge Protector | 400 volts | 4320 joules | 12 | 2 | 6 feet | 10.4 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches | 1.6 pounds |
| Renogy Surge Protector with USB Ports | 400 volts | 3940 joules | 6 | 4 | 6 feet | 5.9 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches | 1.2 pounds |
| Leviton 6-Outlet Surge Protector with Ground Fault Protection | 400 volts | 2400 joules | 6 | N/A | 6 feet | 5 x 3 x 1.7 inches | 1.2 pounds |
| Tripp Lite SMART1200LCD Surge Protector | 400 volts | 4320 joules | 6 | N/A | 6 feet | 10.4 x 3.2 x 2.3 inches | 2.1 pounds |
| TP-Link HS300 Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip | 400 volts | 3940 joules | 6 | 2 | 6 feet | 5.9 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches | 1.2 pounds |
| Monoprice 12-Outlet Power Surge Protector with 2 Built-in USB Charger Ports | 400 volts | 4320 joules | 12 | 2 | 6 feet | 10.4 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches | 1.6 pounds |
| Belkin 3-Outlet Mini Surge Protector with USB Ports | 400 volts | 1200 joules | 3 | 2 | 3 feet | 3.2 x 2.1 x 1.2 inches | 0.7 pounds |
FAQ’s
What are surge protectors, and why are they essential for electronic devices?
Surge protectors, also known as surge suppressors, are electrical devices that protect electronic devices against voltage spikes and transient surges. They serve as a buffer between important appliances and potentially hazardous voltage, providing protection against power surges. Investing in surge protectors is critical for protecting appliances, devices, and sensitive equipment from potentially irreversible damage caused by unexpected power surges.
What happens to a surge protector after it diverts excess energy during a surge event?
Some surge protectors contain a built-in circuit breaker or fuse that trips after redirecting surplus energy during a surge event, rendering the surge protector inoperable. Others may include a resettable function that allows you to restore protection following a severe surge occurrence. Surge protectors should be replaced on a regular basis because they have a limited lifespan and can wear out over time or after repeated surge events.
Are all surge protectors the same, or do they offer different levels of protection?
Surge protectors have different protection ratings, which are commonly measured in joules. Greater protective capabilities are indicated by higher joule ratings. While most surge protectors provide adequate protection for regular home and office use, it is critical to choose a model with an appropriate joule rating based on the value of the connected electronic equipment as well as the potential risk of power surges in your location.
Can surge protectors be used for all types of electronic devices?
Surge protectors can be used for a variety of electronic devices, including computers, televisions, audio equipment, gaming consoles, smartphones, tablets, and others. Surge protectors are advised for important and sensitive devices to ensure their safety and longevity.
How often should surge protectors be replaced?
Surge protectors have a limited lifespan and can wear out over time or after significant surge events. It is advisable to replace surge protectors every few years or if they show signs of wear or damage to ensure continued protection for your valuable electronics.
Can surge protectors protect against lightning strikes?
Surge protectors can protect against certain lightning-induced surges, but they cannot provide total protection against a direct lightning strike. Additional precautions, such as grounding and lightning rods, should be provided for optimal lightning protection.
Do all surge protectors come with a warranty?
Many surge protectors provide a guarantee, the length of which varies depending on the manufacturer and model. It is best to get surge protectors with dependable warranties to ensure help in the event of any problems or malfunctions.
Can I use multiple surge protectors in a daisy-chain configuration?
It is not suggested to use numerous surge protectors in a daisy-chain configuration. It can limit surge protection effectiveness and overload the electrical circuit. For your electrical equipment, it’s recommended to utilize a single high-quality surge protector or a power strip with surge protection.
Conclusion
Buying in reliable surge protectors is critical for protecting your electrical gadgets from power surges and spikes. With a variety of alternatives available, such as those with USB ports, lengthy cords, and home theater system protection, you may select one that meets your individual requirements. Understanding how surge protectors function and their vital features protects the safety and lifespan of your costly equipment. Protect your assets with the correct surge protector, and confront potential power surges with confidence.