Surge Protector vs Power Strip: 4 Important Differences

There are high chances of mixing up between Surge Protectors and Power Strips, especially if an individual user is availing the market for additional electrical sockets for the very first time. Having noticed the differences between a power strip and a surge protector, we have listed them down and analyzed them in this article to help others.

What are the key functionalities of a heavy-duty power strip/power strip?

Functionality is the key element distinguishing between these two types of electrical sockets. While power strips are designed to offer extra space for an outlet, surge protectors secure a job of protecting the electronics and the electrical devices used by an individual. These Surge protectors also come along with a joule rating defining the unit of measurement utilized that measures the time limit of the electronics to be protected. They absorb a limited amount of the power surges that intend on causing huge damage to one’s appliances. But the problem occurs when the user can’t find when these surge protectors turn into a simple power strip. While some surge protectors indicate alarm, others indicate by light when the reservoir is towards the end.

On the other hand, power strips are created to provide additional outlets for using electronic devices. This can be done by plugging into a wall outlet which then connects into other outlets. It is especially suitable for using multiple electronic gadgets at the same place and time.

How are power strips the best option to opt for?

A heavy-duty power strip is considered a suitable option when using multiple electronics close to each other. In most of the residential areas, it can be seen that there are hardly two plug sockets fixed in the walls which is mostly not sufficient for usage. Having an extra pair of power strips is considered to be a solution to these problems. It consists of several outlets, a circuit breaker, and an on/ off button, which ends up being a good choice for someone looking to conserve power. But the problem occurs as all power strips do not have an in-build surge protector. Both power strips and surge protectors are ideal for using various devices simultaneously, within proximity. However, the added benefit of utilizing a surge protector is that it protects the house from the voltage surges while one uses the cords for their phone, computer or laptop.

Because power strips and surge protectors look very similar to each other, there are high chances of getting confused between the two, especially if one is buying it for the first time. This confusion can be avoided by checking the joules rating, which is mentioned in the packaging of surge protectors. Similar to Watts and calories, joules measure the energy that detects the longevity of the surge absorption capacity. Sometimes it may take ten to fifteen waves of surges to exceed the number of joules, while in other cases, a single massive surge can multiply into the times of fifteen small surges. Thus if one keeps in mind to check the number of joules inbuilt within the power strips give protection against works, similar to a reservoir. But one needs to make sure they choose the type of electrical socket that caters to their needs. 

Power strips are considered to be under budget when it comes to price-related matters, and these can be purchased from any electronics shop within an amount of $35 and less. Further, if an individual is looking for extra sockets for plug-in devices, power strips are the correct option. On the other side of the coin are surge protectors that cost higher than power strips as they provide the additional benefit of protecting the used devices. 

Lastly, staying within budget, an individual should opt for power strips as they are the best option for utilising one or more electrical gadgets within a very close range of proximity. This is mostly suited for all-purpose use and even caters for special occasions. It is always advised to keep a set of power strips handy just to avail it in case of emergencies or vital necessities.