Power surges happen from time to time, and when they do, they can destroy any electronic devices that happen to be plugged in. But, there is a pretty simple fix to protect your electronic devices from power surges — a surge protector!
Finding the best surge protector for your electronics means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available styles and configurations. With the right surge protector, keeping your electronics safe from potentially costly power surges can become a quick, over-and-done-with task.
We reviewed dozens of surge protectors to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated surge protectors people can purchase to ensure their electronics are protected.
We’ve identified the Nekteck Surge Protector Power Strip as the best surge protector out there. With 6 rotating AC outlets and 2 USB ports in a space-saving design, this surge protector is one that will keep all your devices securely powered up.
The 5 Top-Rated Surge Protectors
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Surge Protector Overall | Nekteck Surge Protector Power Strip | 4.8 |
| Best Surge Protector with USB | Belkin 12-Outlet USB Power Strip Surge Protector | 4.5 |
| Best Budget Surge Protector | AmazonBasics 6 Outlet, Wall Mount Surge Protector | 4.7 |
| Best RV Surge Protector | Camco Adapter PowerDefender | 4.6 |
| Best Battery Backup Surge Protector | CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Surge Protector Overall: Nekteck Surge Protector Power Strip
The Nekteck Surge Protector Power Strip took the top spot on our list of the best surge protectors, and boasts a combination of 6 rotating AC outlets and 2 USB ports in a space-saving design. It features a 6-foot long power cord, and offers 590 joules of surge protection. The main plug is flat and rotates 360 degrees to fit easily in tight spaces and behind furniture. You’ll know your devices are plugged in safely thanks to the surge protection indicator light.
Those who purchased and reviewed this surge protector appreciated that the rotating outlets and main plug meant this surge protector could be used in various configurations. Many said it was “great for confined spaces.” People liked the wall-mounting capability, although some found it difficult to source compatible screws (some said they came in the box).
With a price tag of about $24, it’s a pretty affordable option as far as surge protectors go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Nekteck Surge Protector Power Strip Key Features:
- UL certified
- Includes a 12-month warranty
- Lifetime technical support
Best Surge Protector with USB: Belkin 12-Outlet USB Power Strip Surge Protector
The Belkin 12-Outlet USB Power Strip Surge Protector took the runner-up spot on our list of the best surge protectors, and boasts a combination of 12 AC outlets and 2 USB ports. It features a 3,996 joule energy rating, with a 6,000V maximum spike voltage protection. The power cord is 6 feet long, and features a flat design for ease of placement. The protector can be wall-mounted for added convenience, and boasts a slim profile.
Those who purchased and reviewed this surge protector appreciated that the outlets were “well spaced with firm/tight connections” and liked the protected indicator and ground-fault indicator lights. People really liked the slim design, saying “it doesn’t take up too much room and the USB outlets charge decently quickly!”
At a cost of around $28, it’s a bit of an investment, though only slightly more expensive than our top pick. The quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Belkin 12-Outlet USB Power Strip Surge Protector Key Features:
- $250,000 connected-equipment policy
- Advanced power filtration
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Best Budget Surge Protector: AmazonBasics 6 Outlet, Wall Mount Surge Protector
The AmazonBasics 6 Outlet, Wall Mount Surge Protector is an excellent choice for those looking for a surge protector that won’t break the bank. It is available with or without USB charging ports, and features both protected and grounded indicator lights on the front of the unit. It offers space for 6 AC three-prong plugs, and features a low-profile design that can be strategically placed behind an entertainment center or desk, or mounted on the wall.
Those who purchased and reviewed this surge protector appreciated that the indicator lights “give peace of mind” and felt that the 6 outlets came in “real handy” for locations such as the kitchen counter. People commented that the “2 USB plugs have enough amperage that my devices charge quickly” and said they “couldn’t be any happier” with the unit.
With a cost of approximately $15, this surge protector is a solid choice for those looking for a surge protector option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at protecting their electronics as its more expensive counterparts.
AmazonBasics 6 Outlet, Wall Mount Surge Protector Key Features:
- 1080 joule energy rating
- Mounting screw for added stability
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Best RV Surge Protector: Camco Adapter PowerDefender
Those with an RV require a specialized surge protector, and the Camco Adapter PowerDefender is more than up to the task. It not only protects against potentially costly and dangerous power surges, it analyzes the circuit for faults and displays their status via 3 indicator lights on the top of the unit.
Those who purchased and reviewed this surge protector said it was a “low-cost solution that greatly reduces your risk” and appreciated that it lets you spot a bad wiring job. Many reviews mentioned that you “can’t beat it for the price!” and appreciated that it removed many worries about using their RV in a new park. Some people did comment that the unit shorted, but most users had no problems with the device.
With a price tag of about $49, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use and the ability to quickly diagnose circuit problems more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing RV owners to make the investment.
Camco Adapter PowerDefender Key Features:
- Integrated surge protection up to 1,050 joules
- Weather-resistant design
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Best Battery Backup Surge Protector: CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System
For those who want an uninterrupted power supply in case of a surge, the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System is a solid choice. It features a combination of 6 battery backup and surge protected outlets and 6 surge protected outlets. The multifunction LCD panel provides real-time detailed information on battery and power conditions. Automatic voltage regulation helps correct minor power fluctuations without switching to battery power. This model is Energy Star rated and comes complete with a 6-foot long power cord.
Those who purchased and reviewed this surge protector appreciated that it was “very full featured and has features found on more expensive units.” People especially liked the easy-to-read display (that can be turned off, as it is very bright), and the automatic power down feature in case of sustained outages.
At a cost of around $150, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from thousands of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System Key Features:
- Includes a 3-year warranty
- Free power management software included
- $500,000 connected-equipment policy
Who Should Buy a Surge Protector
A surge protector is a must-have item for anyone who is charging expensive electronic devices. Electronics such as laptops, tablets, and cell phones are all susceptible to power surges, which can damage their components. A surge protector offers an inexpensive solution for protecting very expensive devices.
Additionally, a surge protector is also a good choice for places where you need to plug in multiple devices, but only have access to a two outlet receptacle. Many surge protectors offer anywhere from 6-12 AC outlets, plus 2 or more USB ports, creating plenty of space to power a computer or home theater setup.
Finally, people with RVs will need a surge protector when plugging into a park’s outlet, as many parks will not guarantee against electrical faults without one.
And if you’re looking for information on electronics you might plug into a surge protector, such as finding the best cable modems, the best gaming computers, the best home automation systems, or the best photo printers, we have in-depth guides that can help make it easier.
Important Features to Consider
Not all surge protectors are created equal. A surge protector should provide enough protection and outlets. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best surge protector for your needs:
- Type. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best surge protector is the type. There are a few different types of surge protectors: standard, UPS, and RV.
Standard surge protectors look just like a power strip, but offer surge protection. They might have multiple outlets as well as USB ports. They are fairly inexpensive, and are suitable for use with smaller electronics.
UPS — or uninterrupted power supply — surge protectors offer a battery backup so that your devices remain powered on in case of a power outage. Battery life varies depending on the model, as does the number of battery backup outlets. Some also provide backup power for ethernet connections. They tend to be more expensive than other surge protectors, but are ideal for more expensive and high powered electronics.
Finally, RV surge protectors are specially designed to handle the loads of recreational vehicles. - Outlets. The next thing to consider when shopping for a surge protector is how many outlets it has. There are some surge protectors with as few as 4 outlets, or as many as 12 or more. Some models have outlets that twist or swivel to accommodate large plugs and challenging positions.
- Joules. The most important number to look for when comparing surge protectors is the protection in joules. The higher the number, the more protection it offers.
- Battery backup. If keeping certain devices powered on in the event of a power outage is important to you, look for a surge protector with battery backup. Some units only power for a few minutes, while others last hours. You can even purchase replacement batteries for many battery backup surge protectors if you need extended power.
- USB ports. If you charge electronics such as cell phones and tablets, but don’t want the charging blocks taking up an outlet space, look for surge protectors with integrated USB ports. Some have ports that are only 1 Amp, which won’t charge your devices very quickly, so look for those with 2 Amps.
- Safety certified. Because you’re dealing with electricity, look for a surge protector that has been certified by an electrical safety authority. Certifications such as UL, CSA, CUL, ETL, FCC, and RoHS are all good.
- Warranty. Some surge protectors offer a warranty on connected equipment — anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000. This means that if your plugged-in devices are damaged while using the surge protector (properly, of course) you could have them replaced by the surge protector manufacturer at no cost to you.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a surge protector. Surge protectors vary in price from $15-$350 or more. While it might seem like a hefty expense, it can help to protect against thousands of dollars in replacement costs should a power surge fry your electronics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a surge protector and how does it work?
A surge protector is a device that protects against possible voltage spikes that could damage your electronics. A power surge is basically a brief spike in your home’s electrical current that can cause damage to your home and appliances. They can also occur when the flow of electricity is interrupted or when something sends electricity flowing back into the system. These surges can damage the sensitive microprocessors found in nearly all of today’s electronic devices. A surge protector works by limiting the voltage supplied to an electric device. It does this by either blocking or shorting to ground any unwanted voltages above a safe threshold.
What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
The main difference between a power strip and a surge protector is that a power stip simply allows you to plug in multiple items, while a surge protector protects against possible voltage spikes that could damage your electronics.
Can I plug an extension cord into a surge protector?
No, you cannot plug an extension cord into a surge protector. Extension cords should only be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Plugging an extension cord into a surge protector or other extension cord (also known as daisy chaining) creates an unnecessary fire hazard, and can potentially damage or degrade the cords of either product.
What can you not put into a surge protector?
While surge protectors are certainly handy for lower-drawing electronics, it is not recommended to use them with high-power capacity items such as space heaters, dehumidifiers, or other appliances. You should also not plug your refrigerator or freezer into a surge protector, as the surge protector can override the fridge/freezer’s compressor system, preventing it from restarting in the event of a power surge. You also should not plug an extension cord, or another surge protector, into a surge protector.
Other Surge Protectors We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other surge protectors. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best surge protectors list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your power needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
RV Surge Protector
Progressive Industries SSP-30XL Surge Protector with Cover
This RV surge protector is designed for outdoor use, and boasts a weather-resistant, all weather shield assembly for added durability and longevity. It comes complete with a lifetime warranty.
Key features:
- Rated 30A / 120V / 3,600W
- For use in temperatures from -40C to +105C
- UL certified
Cost: $110
Camco 55301 30 Amp RV Power Defender Voltage Protector/Monitor
This RV surge protector boasts an automatic disconnect/connect function that disconnects when it senses dangerous conditions and reconnects after normal operating conditions are restored.
Key features:
- Protects against wiring issues
- Surge protection up to 2,800 joules
- Weather-resistant design
Cost: $278
Progressive Industries Portable RV Surge Protector
This RV surge protector boasts a tough housing and all-weather shield assembly for use outdoors. It features a security locking bracket for added safety.
Key features:
- Rated 30A / 120V / 3,600W
- For use in temperatures from -40C to +105C
- UL certified
Cost: $272
Hughes Autoformers PWD30-EPO Smart Bluetooth Surge Protector
This RV surge protector provides 2,400 joules of advanced surge protection, and features Bluetooth connectivity so you can monitor power conditions via a smartphone app in real time.
Key features:
- Plug-and-play installation
- Emergency power off
- Text alerts
Cost: $217
Southwire Company LLC 44380 Surge Guard
This RV surge protector boasts convenient Easy-T-Pull™ plug handles, and features an easy-to-read LED fault chart for simple power analysis. The fully enclosed receptacle cover makes this unit ideal for use outdoors.
Key features:
- UL/CUL listed
- Anti-theft lock ring on cord
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Surge Protector with USB
Belkin BST300 3-Outlet USB Surge Protector
This surge protector with USB boasts a rotating plug ideal for use in tricky spaces, and comes complete with three outlets and two USB ports.
Key features:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Available in a choice of Amps
- 918 joule rating
Cost: $17
APC 6-Outlet Wall Surge Protector with USB
This surge protector with USB boasts a 1080 joule surge protection energy rating, and comes complete with 6 standard outlets and 2 USB ports.
Key features:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- $50,000 connected-equipment policy
- Integrated building wiring fault indicator
Cost: $14
POWRUI USB Wall Surge Protector
This surge protector with USB comes complete with 6 standard outlets and 2 USB ports, and has a 1680 joule surge protection energy rating.
Key features:
- Integrated phone holder on top of unit
- ETL certified
- Includes a 12-month warranty
Cost: $14
HITRENDS Power Strip Surge Protector
This surge protector with USB boasts a combination of 6 outlets and 6 USB ports to suit your charging needs, and offers overload, overvoltage, and short circuit protection.
Key features:
- Available in a choice of colors
- Fire-resistant PC shell
- FCC, RoHS certified
Cost: $24
Maxxima 6 Outlet Dual USB Adaptor Plug
This surge protector with USB boasts a combination of 6 grounded outlets and 2 USB ports. It offers 490 joules of surge protection, and easily plugs into standard household outlets.
Key features:
- ETL approved
- LED indicator light
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $14
ECHOGEAR On-Wall Surge Protector
This surge protector with USB boasts 1080 joules of surge protection, and comes complete with a combination of 4 pivoting AC outlets and 2 USB ports.
Key features:
- Low profile design
- Mounting screw for added stability
- UL certified
50 Amp Surge Protector
Camco 50 Amp RV Power Defender
This 50 Amp surge protector helps protect RVs from dangerously high and low voltage levels, as well as power surges. It features an automatic disconnect/connect function, and integrated diagnostic LED lights.
Key features:
- Protects against wiring issues
- Surge protection up to 4,200 joules
- Weather-resistant design
Cost: $273
Progressive Industries, Smart RV Surge Protector, 50-Amp
This 50 Amp surge protector boasts a rugged pull handle, and durable, weather-resistant design. It is thermally protected, and has a surge failure indicator for added peace of mind.
Key features:
- Plug-and-play installation
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Bright 3-color LED indicator
Cost: $130
Southwire Surge Guard Portable 50-Amp
This 50 Amp surge protector helps protect against dangerous electrical conditions by testing conditions before allowing power to the RV.
Key features:
- Connected equipment coverage
- Anti-theft lock ring on cord
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Cost: $349
Hughes Autoformer PWD50 303305050-1 50 Amp Surge Protector
This 50 Amp surge protector boasts a rugged and durable design ideal for outdoor use. It features Bluetooth connectivity to monitor power conditions via a smartphone app in real time.
Key features:
- LED park power diagnostics
- Fault alert notifications
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
Battery Backup Surge Protector
APC UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector
This battery backup surge protector boasts 8 outlets — 4 battery backup surge protected, plus 4 surge protection only. It also offers Ethernet dataline surge protection for connected equipment.
Key features:
- Right-angle 3-prong wall plug
- Power cord is 5’ long
- Includes a 3-year warranty
Cost: $68
Tripp Lite 750VA UPS Battery Backup
This battery backup surge protector boasts a combination of 6 battery supported outlets and 6 surge-only outlets. It can be wall-mounted for flexibility in placement.
Key features:
- Offers TEL/DSL protection
- Includes a 3-year warranty
- $100,000 connected-equipment policy
Cost: $90
CyberPower EC850LCD Ecologic UPS System
This battery backup surge protector boasts a combination of 6 battery supported outlets and 6 surge-only outlets. The multifunction LCD panel displays detailed battery and power condition information.
Key features:
- Suitable for use in temps from 0-40C
- Includes a 3-year warranty
- $100,000 connected-equipment policy
Cost: $87
APC UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector
This battery backup surge protector boasts a combination of 5 battery backup surge protected outlets, as well a 2 surge protection only. There’s also a USB port for charging mobile devices.
Key features:
- Includes a 3-year warranty
- $75,000 connected-equipment policy
- Free power management software included
Cost: $57
This battery backup surge protector includes 6 surge-protected outlets and 6 surge-protected battery-backup outlets. It features a compact design, and provides up to 525 joules of surge protection.
Key features:
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- $75,000 connected-equipment policy
- Power cord is 5’ long
Cost: $79
