6 Reasons Why You'll Want a Surge Protector​

6 Reasons Why You' ll Want a Surge Protector

A power strip isn' t just an extension cord anymore Expand your outlets safely as you add devices

Alvaro Dominguez Not long ago, power strips were mostly simple things: beige, about a foot long with four to six outlets and — if “fancy” — with an on-off switch. Times certainly have changed.
Shopping for a new power strip today takes almost as much research as for a new appliance. And with ever more electronics in our homes, including an increasing number that require frequent recharging, outlets are at a premium. What to consider:

1 Surge protection is a must

This feature keeps your electronics from getting damaged in a power surge, usually storm related, by redirecting unexpected increases in voltage away from delicate equipment. Even without a storm, smaller, less noticeable power spikes can shorten the life of your devices. Protection is rated by joules, a measurement of energy. “For computers, home theaters and audio equipment, you should have nothing less than 2,000 joules,” says Michael Richard, director of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers’ construction and maintenance department.

2 USB outlets are handy

In addition to the typical three-pronged grounded outlets, many power strips now include USB slots. Instead of plugging your phone's charging cable into an outlet adapter, just plug it into one of the USB ports, a real space saver.

3 Flexibility for big plugs is important

Oversized plugs, which are common these days, can cover the adjoining outlets on a traditional power strip, preventing you from using it at full capacity. New strips deal with this by spacing outlets farther apart or allowing them to pivot up to 90 degrees.

4 New models are designed to sit off the floor

Manufacturers know that we have numerous devices to plug in on tables and nightstands, often with cables of varying lengths that may not reach the floor. Easy access is key. So they have developed tower-style and disc-shaped strips that can sit on a table and not look like an eyesore. Some even have a built-in wireless charging pad for smartphones.

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5 Small ones are perfect for travel

Hotels may not have all the outlets you need. Pack a small, lightweight , three-outlet power strip in your suitcase for extra juice.

6 A premium purchase can guard high-end devices

Whether it’s a or an expensive computer, sometimes you want additional security. Some power strips come with top-grade surge protection, extra safeguards and warranties for damages to your equipment. “Don’t go cheap,” Richard says. “And also consider something that lets you know when the surge protection is no longer effective. The real nice ones will just shut down when that happens, so you know it’s time for a new one.” of

Charger in the round

Manufacturer: Accell Price: As low as $37.99 About: The Accell Power Air/Surge Protector and USB Charging Station has six AC adapters and two USB charging ports. It has a 6-foot power cord and an energy rating of 1,080 joules. of

Utility player​

Manufacturer: Belkin Price: As low as $17.99 About: Small enough to travel with, it can also be mounted on the wall. Has six rotating AC plugs. Energy rating of 1,080 joules. Lifetime warranty and $50,000 connected equipment warranty. of

Magic wand

Manufacturer: Belkin Price: As low as $32.93 About: Has eight pivoting AC outlets and a 6-foot heavy -duty extension cord , with a cord management system that helps keep cables organized. Energy rating of 2,160 joules. Lifetime warranty and $150,000 connected equipment warranty. of

Big boy

Manufacturer: Belkin Price: As low as $36.99 About: Has eight pivoting and four fixed AC outlets. Has 8-foot heavy -duty extension cord , with cord management system. Energy rating of 4,320 joules. Lifetime warranty and $300,00 connected equipment warranty. of

Have port will travel

Manufacturer: Tripp-Lite Price: As low as $21.25 About: Great for travel. Plugs into wall and has two USB ports and three fixed AC outlets. Energy rating of 540 joules. Lifetime warranty and $5,000 connected equipment insurance. Chris Morris is a contributing writer who covers technology and video gaming. He previously was an editor at CNN Money and Yahoo! Finance. His work also appears in Fortune, on Nasdaq.com and on CNBC.

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