A desktop power strip is a bank of electrical outlets that distributes power to various devices in the home, at the desk, in the workshop or anywhere else that there's a collection of electrical appliances. They typically come in the shape of a power strip extension cord, ranging from 1.5ft to 25ft, but some wall-mounted models plug directly into the wall outlet. Surge protector power strips also prevent spikes in power from damaging electrical items, as well as offering convenience.
Electrical surges and spikes can cause irreparable damage to electronic devices. Surges can occur numerous times a day, and even if they don't immediately destroy electrical equipment they cause electronic rust and long-term degradation. They are especially damaging to microprocessors that can be found in home TV and audio equipment, computers and office equipment, and even appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. A surge protector power strip acts as a barrier, absorbing any unexpected increase in power, and potentially prolonging the life of your home or work equipment.
Power strip extension cords can include a single outlet, while some models offer 42 or more outlets. Consider the number of appliances you need to power and allow some extra outlets for the addition of new equipment. The length of the cord is also important when choosing a power distribution unit. If all equipment is in a single location close to a wall outlet, a 1.5ft extension cord might be ample. Extension cords should not be too tight, and the outlets should not be hanging off the edge of a desk or table. A cord that is too long can pose a potential trip hazard, and will look untidy. Leads as long as 25ft are also available, enabling you to power devices while running the cord safely around the perimeter of a room.
The vampire load of an appliance is the amount of power that it uses when you have the device turned off. This costs the average U.S. household hundreds of dollars a year. If you have a long list of devices, like TVs and A/V equipment, this figure could be much higher. A heavy duty desktop power strip can include a power switch. A single switch enables you to turn all devices on or off instantly, enabling you to avoid the cost associated with vampire loads.
If you charge a lot of electronic devices, look for desktop power strips with USB sockets. You can also buy power strips that include power inverters. Power surges can be especially damaging to cell phones and other sensitive electronic devices. Constructed from materials like stainless steel, heavy-duty power strips are durable and rugged. Often used in challenging environments like warehouses and workshops, they provide surge protection for expensive electrical equipment and tools.
“ Anker makes pretty great products and this is one of them. I really like all the power plugs and the switch. ”
Anker 332 USB C Power Strip Surge Protector(300J),6 Outlets and 20W Power Delivery for iPhone 14/13, 3-Side Outlet Extender,10ft Extension Cord, for Travel,Home,Desk,Dorm,Office,TUV Listed(White)“ I do recommend this strip. It is compact enough to take with you when traveling. It has enough outlets to power several electronic devices. I'm very happy with this power and surge strip. ”
Power Strip Surge Protector - Xiaogan 5 Ft Extension Cord with 4 Outlets & 4 USBs, 900 Joules, Overload Switch, Grounded, Mountable, Desktop Charging Station for Home, Office, Hotel, Dorm, Black“ This is a well-designed and beautiful power cord. I like how compact it is, and all the little details that make it more usable. ”
Anker Power Strip with USB PowerExtend USB 2 mini, 2 Outlets, and 2 USB Ports, Flat Plug, 5 ft Extension Cord, Safety System for Travel, Desk, and Home Office“ It's nice with the protective cover over the on/off switch so no accidental turning off the power and this is made very well , love the metal design over the cheaper plastic power strips out there ”
TRIPP LITE 3SP 3 Outlets Power Strip 120V Input Voltage 6 ft. Cord Length“ Basically this is one of the best power strips you can get. ”
TRIPP LITE PS4816 16 Outlets Power Strip 120V Input Voltage 1800 W Maximum Power 15 ft. Cord Length“ Definitely would buy again, installing this power strip under my PC table was very easy (but you need proper tools) and worked straight away without any problems so far. ”
Tripp Lite 8-Outlet Vertical Power Strip, 120V, 15A, NEMA 5-15P, 15 ft. Cord, 24 in., Black Housing (PS2408B)