The Best Surge Protectors of 2021

Surge protectors are essential whether you’re on the road, at home, or on the job.
Without getting too technical, these devices safeguard your electronics from an increase in electrical voltage caused by a power surge, which happens far more often than you may think.

Most models include several outlets, allowing you to plug in and secure multiple gadgets at the same time. You won’t find a better safe solution than a surge protector when it comes to preventing a possibly large price for replacing your phone, camera, or laptop.

What to Look for in a Surge Protector

Surge protectors are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, with an almost infinite number of specifications and features. You’ll need to consider a few of these different factors to locate the best option for your needs.

Joule Rating

A joule is a unit of energy that is universally measured. The joule rating of a surge protector indicates how much power it can withstand during a power surge.
Simply put, the higher the joule rating of your surge protector, the better the protection. As a starting point, look for anything with at least 600 joules of protection, and the more the better.

Portability

If you’re a frequent traveller, the mobility of your devices is critical. You’ll need a surge protector that’s small, light, and plugs directly into an outlet in this situation. A larger-bodied surge protector, on the other hand, is often preferable for household use because it typically provides greater protection and allows for more flexibility when employing bulky plugs. Furthermore, a surge protector for domestic use usually comes with a cord, allowing you to hide it behind or under furniture.

Number of Sockets

Consider what you’ll connect to the surge protector. Do you only have a phone and a laptop with you? Or do you require the installation of a complete home theatre system? This will have a significant impact on the surge protector you pick.
Look for alternatives that include many outlets and USB connections for added convenience.

Power Strip vs. Surge Protector

The final piece of important information is to distinguish between a power strip and a surge protector. Power strips simply divide a single plug into many outlets, allowing you to connect multiple devices at the same time.

Most consumer surge protectors split a single outlet as well, but they also protect your gadgets against voltage surges. These are some of the greatest surge protectors of 2021, ranging from small, travel-friendly gadgets to ones suitable for the home office or living room.

1. Best Home Office Surge Protector: Witeem Power Strip Surge Protector

The Witeem Power Strip Surge Protector is your best work ally if you’re one of the many people who’ve made the switch to working from home in the previous year. You have everything you need to plug in and protect a computer, monitor, printer, and nearly anything else you need to have a productive day with eight outlets and four USB connections.

One of the safest surge protectors on the market today is the Witeem Power Strip Surge Protector. It provides up to 4,360 joules of surge protection, considerably outperforming most other surge protectors under $100. It also comes with a fire-resistant housing that can withstand temperatures of up to 750°C (1400°F).

A six-foot rope adds the finishing touch to this surge protector, allowing you to hide it anywhere you need it. Our only major gripe is that the sockets can be a little tight when inserting and removing plugs, but it’s a terrific alternative for the hardworking remote worker at a great price.

Pros

• Excellent protection level
• Large number of outlets and USB sockets
• Six-foot cable lets you place it out of sight

Cons

• Outlets can be quite tight

2. Best Surge Protector for Business Travelers: Philips 6-Outlet Surge Protector

Philips has a long history of producing high-quality electronics, dating back to the late 1800s, and the company’s 6-outlet surge protector is no exception. This is the one to get if you’re a business traveller. It contains everything you need in one compact and low-cost design, including six outlets, exceptional portability, and surge protection up to 900 joules.

This specific type lacks USB ports, but there are similar, slightly larger models available with two or four USB ports if needed. The Philips 6-Outlet Surge Protector is available in five different colours to suit your preferences (white, black, coral, grey, and teal).

In addition, the device has an LED that indicates whether or not surge protection is operational. The device’s only flaw is that it requires two top-to-bottom plugs with a ground to be plugged in. That’s a common layout in most hotels and companies, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s something to be aware of before you buy.

Pros

• Plenty of outlets, including models with USB ports
• Several colors available
• Light to tell you if surge protection is active
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Requires two grounded outlets on top of each other

3. Best Travel Surge Protector: Accell Power Travel Surge Protector

The Accell Power Travel Surge Protector is an ideal choice when you require top-notch surge protection and a compact design. This surge protector is one of the lightest on the market, weighing only 6.4 ounces. The fold-down plug on the top helps it fit conveniently into a compact carry-on bag.

It contains two USB ports for phones and other small equipment, as well as three outlets, one on the front and one on each side, all of which are strategically placed. This allows you to plug in larger adapters without losing an outlet, which is a common problem with conventional surge protectors.

The presence of surge protection is indicated by an LED light. The maximum protection levels aren’t as great as some other models, but at 612 joules, they’re still adequate. If that makes you nervous, don’t worry: Accell backs this product with a five-year limited guarantee that covers you for $100,000 if the gadget fails.

Pros

• Small and lightweight
• Light to tell you surge protection is active
• Outlets in sensible locations to avoid being blocked

Cons

• Protection level isn’t as high as some other models

4. Best Compact Surge Protector: Allocacoc PowerCube

The Allococac PowerCube is the answer to your hunt for a small surge protector. This surge protector has a simple cube form, as the name suggests. With four outlets and two USB connections, you’ll be able to charge everything you need without taking up too much space on your desk or in your suitcase.

It’s also fairly unobtrusive, allowing you to plug gadgets in without having to deal with a bulky enclosure or a long power wire. One of the PowerCube’s most creative features is that multiple units may be readily connected to each other, providing you even more outlets if needed.

In addition, this surge protector comes with an extension cord (not included) that allows for even easier access to the wall socket if it is hidden behind furniture or otherwise difficult to reach. The sole disadvantage is the 175, which is a low joule protection rating.

On the plus side, this is still preferable to plugging your equipment directly into the wall, but if maximum security is a necessity, you’ll need to look for a different model. The PowerCube, on the other hand, should be near the top of your list if you’re looking for a tiny and inventive power “strip” with some level of surge protection.

Pros

• Small and lightweight
• Sensible design
• Multiple units can be stacked together
• Optional extension cord gives extra flexibility

Cons

• Low amount of surge protection

5. Best All-Purpose Surge Protector: Addtam Surge Protector

The Addtam Surge Protector is a good choice if you need a surge protector that offers both protection and versatility. Three fast-charging USB ports and five outlets, including one that’s offset to handle larger power adapters, are included in this 8-in-1 power strip/surge protector.

A thick, flexible power cord with a soft-touch fabric bends easily to provide access, and a flat plug head allows you to arrange furniture against the wall without difficulty.
With a 900 joule rating and a fireproof casing that can withstand temperatures of up to 750°C (1400°F), you’ll be safe against power surges, spikes, and other electrical issues.

This surge protector also comes with excellent customer service and guarantees. If you’re unhappy with the product for any reason, you can return it for a full refund within 30 days. Addtam additionally provides a 12-month replacement warranty against manufacturer’s defects, as well as 12-hour replies to any product-related queries or issues.

Pros

• Sensible design
• Strong protection
• Large number of outlets and USB sockets
• Good customer service

Cons

• No individual on/off buttons: either all sockets are active, or none are

6.Best Surge Protector for Gaming: APC Surge Protector With USB Ports

This APC surge protector can bring joy to avid gamers. It’s the ideal solution for individuals who need a lot of outlets for their gaming equipment, and it’s designed by Schneider Electric.

It’s extremely adaptable, with 11 outlets and two high-speed USB charging connections to meet practically any need. If you’re looking for new ways to relax, it’s likely that your gaming habits are bordering on obsession. That isn’t to suggest there isn’t something wrong with that!

The APC lighting alert systems are another useful function, as they notify you whether the surge protector is working well, is overloaded, or if there is an issue with the building’s wiring. SurgeArrest Technology from APC is included in this surge protector.

This function employs numerous varistors and a thermal fuse to protect your gaming consoles from severe surges caused by lightning and other extreme conditions.  Your PlayStation, computer, or Nintendo Switch is about as safe against poor power as you can get, thanks to a massive 2880 joules of protection.

It’s not a little device, but that’s not a major deal because you’re unlikely to travel with it. Given its intended usage, it’ll most likely be placed behind a desk and rarely moved.

Pros

• Very strong levels of protection
• Huge number of outlets and sockets
• Useful diagnostic lighting

Cons

• Big and bulky