The Best Surge Protectors (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

We think you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more versatile, reliable, and power-efficient model. Featuring six regular outlets and an additional six widely-spaced outlets, the Holsem has all of your plugs covered. Plus, it contains two USB charging ports with smart IC technology and one regular USB port, giving you plenty of options from a charging standpoint. The device features a 4000 Joule energy rating, making it powerful enough to support computers, televisions, or any other larger devices that need more juice. Additionally, this model features a 6-foot-long extension cord, key slots on the back to hang the device, power surge protection with built-in LED lights, and a double break overload switch for additional overload protection. 

One small complaint is that the overall build quality is less than reassuring. The activation light is relatively small, and the power switch is very flimsy feeling. However, it performs exactly as it should, rendering these observations as nothing more than superficial.

For the best value—especially if you need two separate surge protectors — this is your best bet. Each power strip features two six-outlet surge protectors with another two USB charging ports. They also contain an 8-foot cord that is easy to handle and coil for storage. Plus the molded strain relief on the plug of the extension cord helps provide you with long-lasting durability. In other words, you likely won’t need to make another surge protector purchase in quite some time after buying this value pack. Each device contains an 1875-watt power rating and a 300 Joule suppression rating, and they even come with a surface mounting template for easy installation on your wall or any other surface. This is a great feature because it helps keep your home nice and organized. 

Of course, as a budget-level option, there are some things to be aware of. This particular model will not last very long, and many report a short lifespan and the unit dying after a single power surge.

Of course, safety is paramount when shopping for a surge protector—hence the “protector” part of the name. While all of these surge protectors are safe in their own right, this unit stands out amongst the competition. This six-outlet surge protector comes with a 10-foot cord for optimal reach. From a safety standpoint, it features an 800 Joule protection rating and integrated circuit breaker, as well as twist-to-close safety outlets that make it easy to seal off outlets when they’re not in use, thus protecting you from any shock. All things considered, this is the safest surge protector on the market—in more ways than one. 

Users fell in love with this unit with its initial release because it had so many great features. But, GE decided to reshape the entire unit and do away with some of the things that made it stand out. While it is still a great option, if you are replacing your old one, you should be aware that it now has a new design.

If your main priority is charging your smartphones/devices, you’ll probably want something with a little more USB capabilities. This model features a total of six USB ports and is worthy of your consideration. This features a fantastic 1:1 ratio of AV outlets and USB outlets. This is great for smartphones, tablets, laptops, and a variety of other USB-compatible devices. The device’s built-in surge protector module can protect you from some serious power surges. Plus, the Hitrends protector features high-current overload and short-circuit protection for 100 percent safe charging, making this a safe and effective option for any type of smart device or electronics.

The abundance of USB ports is excellent; their performance is a whole different story. Only two are rated for 2.5 amps, which is what most modern devices rely on. The other four are only rated to supply one amp. That said, they are still great for maintaining battery levels, but charging will be very slow with the less powerful ports.

For something with a little bit more flexibility, a pivot-lug surge protector is just what you need. More specifically, we’d go with this listing from Belkin. This 12-outlet surge protector features four regular, stationary outlets along with eight rotating ones. The rotating outlets are great for hard to reach areas like behind a computer desk, TV stand, etc. In general, the Belkin is perfect for offices, home theater, and home appliances, as it features a 4,320 Joule energy rating and a 6,000v maximum spike voltage, making it one of the most powerful—and flexible—options available. The design allows you to get the most out of the pivoting plugs with its ability to be mounted in a fixed position. This is great because it will prevent cords from pulling it away from other models. Furthermore, this feature, in combination with the 8-foot cable, makes it possible to keep this surge protector out of sight, so your home will remain organized. 

You will want to be aware that the pivoting plugs move very easily. This can be an alarming and annoying design. However, it still works perfectly fine and provides the flexibility you’re after.

When it comes time to select a surge protector that can function as a power strip to accommodate as many devices as possible, then look no further. This surge protector has a total of 12 120-volt outlets. That is more than plenty for the average desktop or entertainment system. But if that isn’t enough, it sweetens the pot with the addition of four USB ports. Each USB port also offers 2.4-amp charging to quickly power up any device that is hooked to it. Of course, the protective abilities are something to write home about as well. This surge protector has a 4360-Joule rating, which promotes ample protection for most instances. But, if it does fail, the fire-retardant casting works to keep all risks of an electrical shortage at bay.

Unfortunately, the design makes it challenging to use it with big power adapters. They will take up a lot of space and may even over multiple outlets on the housing. Thankfully, the high number of outlets still allows you to get plenty of use out of it.

If you’re after the best looking surge protector out there, you’ve found it. That isn’t to say other adapters aren’t aesthetically pleasing, but this one certainly takes the cake. That’s because it features a tasteful woodgrain design on its exterior. While that may seem like an odd thing to have on a surge protector, it makes sense when you consider the environment they are in. This design will match almost any home’s décor and won’t stand out like a sore thumb if it cannot be hidden behind a desk or otherwise. It features a total of six 12-volt outlets and four USB ports, making it a great option to keep on a desktop next to your computer. The look isn’t all, though. This model is constructed of premium materials to provide a quality product.

Unfortunately, it is only rated to handle just over 1000 Joules. While it will protect your devices, it will have a relatively short lifespan, and this can be a significant setback considering the price. Still, if aesthetics are a must, it’s a great way to go.

This particular surge protector looks pretty typical, with one exception. Two of the adapters are spaced very far apart from the others. Why is this there? To accommodate large power adapters. As you’ll see with many, large adapters tend to take up a ton of space and even impede the use of other outlets. With this model, you won’t have that problem. Plus, there are another eight outlets with standard spacing to allow you to use electronics with large power adapters alongside those without. Your dollar goes even further with the addition of four USB ports that are capable of fast charging. As a surge protector, it has a 2100-Joule rating. While it’s not the highest rating, it is certainly enough to provide years of use.

You will need to know that this model does use a power cord that sticks straight out from the outlet and can be hard to plug in behind a desk or tight spaces. On an otherwise perfect design, this is something you may find to be very annoying.

This surge protector is an excellent runner-up for our choice of best value. It is a pack of two surge protectors, which furthers the value of your investment. But, that’s not the only thing to like about this entry. This design features a heavy-duty power cord with a great space-saving design. The head of the outlet places the power cord at a 45-degree angle. That not only makes it possible to fit into tight space but leaves the lower outlet open for use. The heavy-duty braided sleeve keeps it safe in these tight spaces as it won’t expose bare wires after light abrasion. It also has a total of six power outlets and two USB ports, which is very handy for most locations in your home.

Unfortunately, it does not offer a very long lifespan. The 600-Joule rating only lasts through a few surges before needing to be replaced. But, the low price point lessons the impact of having to replace it after a few instances.

This entry is a wall-mounted design that we know you’ll appreciate. For one, it features a total of six power outlets, so it effectively multiplies the number of devices you can run to a single outlet. Furthermore, it offers two USB ports that are capable of fast-charging your device. And if that wasn’t enough already, it has a specially designed top portion that allows you to keep a smartphone held on top of it while it charges. That will prove extremely handy when you need to charge your phone but don’t have a long enough cable to keep it on a raised surface. And the price is excellent too. If it were for more than a single surge protector, it would undoubtedly take the place of best value.

What’s not to like? It’s a low Joule rating. While 1680 is excellent for the price, it will only last for a portion of the time many others will. Still, it’s hard to complain about when you consider just how affordable it is.