5 Best Power Strips & Surge Protectors for Home Office
Quick Verdict
Your $3,000 computer setup is protected by a $5 power strip from 2015. That's a problem. A modern surge protector with USB ports saves you wall adapters, protects expensive equipment from power surges, and keeps your cable management clean. Here are the best options.
Our Top Pick: APC SurgeArrest P12U2 — $34.99
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Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Price | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1APC SurgeArrest P12U2 | Best Overall | $34.99 | 4.7 | Check Price |
2Anker USB-C Power Strip | Best Compact | $25.99 | 4.5 | Check Price |
Detailed Reviews
APC SurgeArrest P12U2
12 outlets, 2 USB ports, 4320 joules of surge protection, and a $300,000 connected equipment warranty. This is the gold standard for home office power protection.
What we like
- 12 outlets
- 4320 joules protection
- $300K warranty
- USB charging ports
Watch out for
- Large size
- Cord is stiff
- No USB-C
Anker USB-C Power Strip
3 AC outlets + 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C (30W PD) in a compact design that fits under your desk. The USB-C can charge a laptop. Perfect for minimal setups.
What we like
- USB-C 30W PD
- Compact design
- Flat plug
- Surge protection
Watch out for
- Only 3 AC outlets
- Short 5ft cord
- Lower joule rating
Buying Guide: What to Look For
- 1
Joules: Higher = more protection. Minimum 2000J for office equipment. 4000J+ for expensive setups.
- 2
USB ports: Built-in USB saves wall adapters. Look for USB-C with PD for laptop charging.
- 3
Warranty: Good surge protectors include connected equipment warranty ($100K-$300K).
- 4
Outlet spacing: Wide spacing for bulky adapters. At least 4 widely-spaced outlets.
- 5
Mounting: Under-desk mounting keeps it hidden. Look for keyhole slots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Do I really need a surge protector?
Yes. One power surge can destroy your computer, monitor, and dock simultaneously. The cost of a surge protector ($25-35) vs replacing $2,000+ of equipment is obvious.
Q:When should I replace my surge protector?
Every 3-5 years. Surge protection degrades with each surge absorbed. If the protection indicator light is off, replace immediately.
Editorial independence: Our recommendations are based on hands-on testing and research. We may earn commissions from purchases made through our links, but this never influences our reviews. Prices and availability are accurate as of April 10, 2026 and may change.