Imagine this: you’re in the middle of an important task on your computer, maybe a school project or a fun game, and suddenly… poof! Everything goes dark. Your computer is off, and all your hard work could be lost. This is a common worry for anyone who relies on their computer. That’s where a good power strip comes in, but picking the right one can feel like a maze.
So many power strips look alike, but they’re not all created equal! Some might not have enough outlets for all your gadgets, while others don’t offer enough protection from power surges that can damage your precious computer. It’s frustrating to spend money on something that doesn’t quite do the job, or worse, puts your electronics at risk. You just want a reliable way to power up and protect your computer and its accessories.
This post is here to clear up the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a power strip great for computers, helping you understand the important features. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident choosing a power strip that keeps your computer safe and running smoothly. Let’s dive in and find the perfect power strip for your setup!
Our Top 5 Power Strip For Computers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Power Strip For Computers Detailed Reviews
1. Anker Power Strip Surge Protector (2100J)
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of juggling chargers and searching for outlets? The Anker Power Strip Surge Protector (2100J) is here to rescue your tangled tech life. This power strip is a true all-rounder, designed to handle all your charging needs in one sleek package. It’s perfect for your home, office, or even your dorm room, making sure all your devices are ready to go when you are.
What We Like:
- It has a ton of outlets! You get 12 AC outlets, plus a USB-C port and two USB-A ports. That means you can plug in and charge everything at once.
- It charges your iPhone super fast. The 20W USB-C port can get your iPhone 15 from empty to half-charged in just 26 minutes.
- Your devices are safe. It has an 8-point safety system that protects against power surges, fires, and overloads. It even controls the temperature.
- You won’t have trouble plugging in big things. The outlets are spaced out nicely, so bulky plugs won’t block other spots.
- You get a lot for your money. The package includes the power strip, mounting screws, a welcome guide, an 18-month warranty, and a $200,000 warranty for connected equipment. Plus, the customer service is friendly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 5ft extension cord might feel a bit short for some people. You might need to get a longer one if your outlets are far away.
- While it has many ports, the USB-C port only offers 20W. If you need to charge a laptop or other high-power USB-C devices, this might not be fast enough.
This Anker power strip is a fantastic solution for anyone needing to power multiple devices safely and efficiently. It offers great value and peace of mind.
2. Belkin 12-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip w/ 12 AC Outlets & 8ft Flat Plug
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of a tangled mess of cords and worrying about your electronics? The Belkin 12-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip is your solution. This heavy-duty power strip gives you plenty of space to plug in all your gadgets, from computers and laptops to phones and cameras, all at once. It offers serious protection, so your expensive devices are safe from power surges.
What We Like:
- It has 12 AC outlets, so you can power many devices at the same time.
- It protects your electronics with 3,940 joules of power surge protection.
- A handy safety light tells you when your devices are protected.
- The outlets are spaced out nicely, fitting even large plugs and chargers.
- Its slim design works well in homes and offices.
- The 8-foot cord has a flat plug that fits easily behind furniture.
- It’s UL-listed, meaning it meets strict safety rules.
- The housing is made with recycled materials, and it comes with a 2-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s heavy-duty, it’s not designed for outdoor use.
- The 8-foot cord length might be too short for some very large rooms.
This Belkin surge protector is a smart buy for keeping your electronics safe and your workspace tidy. It’s a reliable way to power all your essential devices.
3. Power Strip
Rating: 9.0/10
The ALESTOR Surge Protector with 12 Outlets and 4 USB Ports is a versatile power solution designed to keep all your devices powered up and protected. With its robust construction and multiple charging options, it handles everything from your home office setup to your entertainment center with ease.
What We Like:
- It offers a generous 12 AC outlets, so you can plug in many electronics at once.
- Four USB ports, including a USB-C, let you charge your phones and tablets directly without needing extra adapters.
- The widely spaced outlets are great for bulky power bricks.
- It provides excellent surge protection with 2700 Joules, safeguarding your valuable electronics from power spikes.
- The 6-foot heavy-duty cord gives you plenty of reach.
- It’s ETL and UL certified, meaning it meets high safety standards.
- The fire-resistance and durable PC shell add to its safety and longevity.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a USB-C port, the total USB output might be a bit limited if you’re charging multiple high-power devices simultaneously.
- The 6-foot cord length is good, but for some situations, a longer cord might be beneficial.
This ALESTOR surge protector is a reliable and safe choice for powering and protecting your many devices. It’s a smart addition to any home or office needing more power outlets and USB charging capabilities.
4. Surge Protector Power Strip – Nuetsa Flat Plug Extension Cord with 8 Outlets and 4 USB Ports
Rating: 9.0/10
Keep all your electronics safe and charged with the Nuetsa Surge Protector Power Strip. This power strip is designed to handle all your devices, from your phone to your TV, with plenty of outlets and smart USB ports. Its flat plug is perfect for tight spaces, and the long cord gives you flexibility.
What We Like:
- It has 8 AC outlets and 4 USB ports, including a USB-C port, so you can plug in and charge many devices at once.
- The 4 USB ports offer smart charging, giving each device the best speed automatically.
- The power strip has a strong surge protector with 2700 Joules to keep your electronics safe from power spikes.
- It’s ETL certified, meaning it meets safety standards. The fire-resistant shell adds extra safety.
- The flat plug design makes it easy to use behind furniture.
- It comes with a 12-month warranty and good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB-C port doesn’t support devices that need higher charging voltages (14-22V).
This Nuetsa power strip is a solid choice for protecting your gadgets and keeping them powered up. It offers great features for its price.
5. Power Strip
Rating: 9.0/10
Say goodbye to power struggles with the SUPERDANNY Surge Protector. This power strip is a game-changer for anyone with a lot of gadgets. It’s got tons of outlets and USB ports, making it super easy to charge all your devices at once. It’s perfect for your home, office, or even your gaming setup.
What We Like:
- It has a whopping 22 AC outlets and 6 USB charging ports, so you can plug in everything you need.
- The widely spaced outlets mean bulky plugs won’t block others, keeping things neat and organized.
- Smart USB fast charging delivers the quickest charge to your devices, including a USB-C port.
- The flat plug fits snugly into tight spaces, and you can even mount it on the wall.
- It’s built with 8-fold safety protection, including surge protection, to keep your devices safe.
- SUPERDANNY offers a generous 1000-day free replacement, which is awesome peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The side outlets are not rotatable, which might limit placement options for some users.
This SUPERDANNY power strip is a fantastic solution for managing all your electronic needs. It’s safe, versatile, and keeps your space tidy.
Choosing the Right Power Strip for Your Computer: A Smart Buyer’s Guide
Your computer is a valuable tool. It helps you work, play, and connect. A good power strip protects your computer from power surges and gives you enough outlets for all your gear. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a power strip for your computer, keep these important features in mind:
1. Surge Protection
- What it is: Surge protection stops sudden spikes in electricity from damaging your computer. Think of it like a shield for your electronics.
- Why it matters: Power surges can happen during thunderstorms or when the power flickers. Without protection, your computer could be ruined.
- Look for: A joule rating. Higher joules mean better protection. Aim for at least 1000 joules for a good balance of protection and price.
2. Number of Outlets
- What it is: This is simply how many devices you can plug into the power strip at once.
- Why it matters: You probably have more than just your computer to plug in. Think about your monitor, speakers, printer, and maybe even a lamp or phone charger.
- Consider: How many devices do you use regularly? It’s good to have a few extra outlets for future needs. Common options are 4, 6, or 8 outlets.
3. Cord Length
- What it is: The length of the power cord connecting the strip to the wall outlet.
- Why it matters: You need to reach the wall outlet comfortably. A cord that’s too short can be frustrating.
- Think about: Where is your computer setup located? Measure the distance from your desk to the nearest outlet. Longer cords offer more flexibility.
4. Outlet Spacing
- What it is: How much room is between each outlet.
- Why it matters: Some power bricks for chargers are big. They can block nearby outlets if the spacing is too tight.
- Look for: Wider spaced outlets, especially if you use bulky adapters. Some strips have outlets that can swivel or are specifically designed for larger plugs.
5. Indicator Lights
- What it is: Small lights that show if the power strip is on and if the surge protection is working.
- Why it matters: It’s helpful to know your devices are getting power and are protected. A light showing surge protection is active gives peace of mind.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used can tell you a lot about a power strip’s durability and safety.
- Plastic Casing: Most power strips use plastic. Look for sturdy, flame-retardant plastic. This helps prevent the strip from overheating or catching fire. A thicker plastic casing usually means better quality.
- Internal Components: The quality of the surge protection components inside is crucial. While you can’t see them, reputable brands invest in better internal parts. This leads to more reliable surge protection.
- Metal Contacts: The metal parts inside the outlets that connect to your plugs should be well-made. They should grip the plugs firmly to ensure a good connection.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a power strip better or worse.
Improving Quality:
- UL Certification: This is a safety mark. It means an independent organization has tested the power strip and confirmed it meets safety standards. Always look for a UL listed symbol.
- EMI/RFI Filtering: This feature helps reduce electrical noise. This noise can interfere with your computer’s performance or audio. Good filtering leads to cleaner power.
- Overload Protection: Some power strips have a circuit breaker. If you plug in too many devices and draw too much power, the breaker will trip, shutting off the power safely instead of letting the strip overheat.
Reducing Quality:
- No Surge Protection: A basic power strip with no surge protection is cheaper but offers no defense against power spikes.
- Cheaply Made Components: Using low-quality internal parts means the surge protection might not work when you need it most. The plastic casing might also feel flimsy.
- Overcrowded Outlets: If outlets are too close together, you can’t use all of them effectively, reducing the strip’s usefulness.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your power strip matters.
- Home Office: This is a common use. You’ll want enough outlets for your computer, monitor, printer, desk lamp, and phone charger. Surge protection is essential here.
- Gaming Setup: Gamers often have many devices: a powerful PC, multiple monitors, speakers, a gaming console, and RGB lighting. A power strip with many outlets and good surge protection is a must.
- Entertainment Center: For your TV, soundbar, gaming console, and streaming devices, a power strip with adequate spacing for different plug sizes is beneficial.
- Under the Desk: A longer cord might be needed to reach an outlet behind a desk. Some power strips are designed to be mounted or hidden away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature of a computer power strip?
A: The most important feature is surge protection. It shields your computer from damaging power spikes.
Q: How many joules do I need for surge protection?
A: For a computer, aim for at least 1000 joules. More joules mean better protection.
Q: Can I plug a printer into a computer power strip?
A: Yes, you can plug a printer and other computer accessories into a power strip, as long as the total power draw doesn’t exceed the strip’s limit.
Q: What does UL listed mean?
A: UL listed means the power strip has been tested for safety by Underwriters Laboratories and meets safety standards.
Q: Do I need a power strip with a long cord?
A: A long cord is helpful if your computer setup is far from an electrical outlet. It provides more flexibility.
Q: Are all power strips the same?
A: No, power strips vary greatly in features like surge protection, number of outlets, and build quality.
Q: What happens if I plug too many things into a power strip?
A: If you overload a power strip, it can overheat, which can be a fire hazard. Some have overload protection to prevent this.
Q: How often should I replace a power strip?
A: It’s a good idea to replace a power strip every 3-5 years, or sooner if it shows signs of damage or if the surge protection indicator light is off.
Q: Can I use a basic power strip without surge protection for my computer?
A: While it will provide power, it’s not recommended. A basic strip offers no protection against damaging power surges.
Q: What is EMI/RFI filtering?
A: EMI/RFI filtering helps reduce electrical noise, which can improve the performance of your computer and audio equipment.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hello, I’m Muzammil Siddiqui, the mind behind ChairsFly.com.. With a deep passion for chairs and a wealth of expertise, I created this platform to share my insights, experiences, and knowledge about everything chair-related. From ergonomic solutions to stylish designs, my goal is to guide you in finding the perfect seat for your needs. Let’s embark on this journey of comfort and elegance together!