Best Power Strips and Surge Protectors (2026)

What We Looked For

We evaluated power strips on surge protection rating in joules, outlet count and spacing, cord length, build quality, and extra features like USB ports. For surge protectors specifically, we checked whether they include an automatic shutoff when protection degrades and whether they cover phone and coax lines in addition to AC power.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Anker 647 Charging Station

The Anker 647 is the most versatile power strip for a modern desk setup. Six AC outlets handle your monitor, computer, and peripherals, while two USB-A and two USB-C ports charge phones and tablets without extra adapters. The flat plug sits flush against the wall, so you can push furniture close without kinking the cord.

Surge protection is solid at 1,800 joules, which is enough for everyday electronics. The main limitation is the USB-C output. At 15W per port, it charges phones fine but cannot power a laptop. If you need high-wattage USB-C delivery, you will still need a separate charger.

Best Surge Protection: Belkin 12-Outlet

If raw outlet count and surge protection are your priorities, the Belkin delivers. Twelve outlets give you room for an entire entertainment center or office setup, and 4,000 joules of surge protection is among the highest available in a consumer power strip. The eight-foot cord is long enough to reach awkward outlet placements.

The trade-off is modern convenience. There are no USB ports, so phone and tablet charging still requires wall adapters that take up outlet slots. The housing is also larger than most strips, which matters if floor space is tight.

Best for Home Theater: APC SurgeArrest P11VT3

The APC SurgeArrest is designed for home entertainment systems. In addition to 3,020 joules of AC surge protection, it includes phone line and coaxial cable protection, which shields your router, modem, and cable box from surges that travel through data lines.

The standout feature is automatic shutdown. When the surge protection components wear out over time, the APC cuts power to connected devices rather than leaving them unprotected. Most power strips continue to function as a basic strip after protection degrades, which gives a false sense of security.

The Bottom Line

The Anker 647 is the best desk power strip with its blend of AC and USB ports. The Belkin 12-Outlet provides the most outlets and highest surge rating. And the APC SurgeArrest is the smartest choice for home theaters where coax and phone line protection matters.