Power strip with USB charging ports
A versatile power solution for individuals who need to charge multiple mobile devices alongside traditional electronics, simplifying their charging setup.
Tech & Gadgets
Power strips & surge suppressors
8 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Power strips are a practical gift for anyone whose desk, dorm room or nightstand has more cords than outlets. College students are the classic fit, but anyone with a laptop, phone, lamp and speaker competing for one wall socket will use one every day. The ones that actually get used solve a specific problem: a USB power strip that charges phones without extra bricks, or a desk strip that brings outlets up where hands can reach them. Think about where it will sit and what will plug into it. A gift that matches the person's real setup beats a bigger strip with more outlets than they need.
Kind 1 of 8
Power strips with built-in USB ports
This is a regular strip of outlets with USB ports added, so phones, earbuds and watches can charge straight from the strip without separate wall adapters. It suits students, remote workers and anyone who charges several devices in one spot. Before buying, count the USB ports and check whether any are USB-C, since most newer phones and laptops use that connector. Look at the total charging output shared across the ports, because several devices charging at once can slow down. Cord length also matters if the nearest outlet is behind a bed or desk.
Kind 2 of 8
USB power bars for a tidier setup
Power bar is the everyday Canadian name for a power strip, and a USB version works the same way. Some add smart features, letting outlets be switched on or off from a phone app or a voice assistant, which appeals to people who like automating lamps or holiday lights. For a smart bar, check that it works with the home's Wi-Fi and the assistant the person already uses. For a plain bar, focus on outlet spacing, USB-C availability and whether the switch is easy to reach.
Smart home wi-fi power bar
Perfect for tech-savvy individuals, this smart strip allows remote control of connected devices via an app or voice assistant, enhancing home automation.
Kind 3 of 8
Surge protectors that also charge USB devices
A surge protector looks like a power strip but includes components meant to absorb voltage spikes before they reach plugged-in electronics. Adding USB ports makes it a single hub for a computer, monitor and phone. Swiveling outlet designs help when chargers and adapters are bulky and would otherwise block neighbouring outlets. Before buying, confirm the packaging clearly says surge protector rather than just power strip, check the joule figure listed, and look for an indicator light showing the protection is still active.
Swiveling outlet surge protector
This clever power strip accommodates bulky power adapters without blocking adjacent outlets, making it perfect for anyone with diverse electronics and chargers.
Kind 4 of 8
Slim surge strips with USB
A surge strip with USB is a compact take on the same idea, often built with a flat plug that sits close to the wall. That flat plug is the real selling point: it lets furniture push nearly flush against the outlet, which matters in small dorm rooms and apartments. It suits anyone short on space behind a couch, bed or dresser. Check the plug angle against where the cord needs to run, and make sure the outlets are spaced widely enough for adapters.
Low profile flat plug power strip
An ideal solution for tight spaces behind furniture, this power strip features a slim plug that allows furniture to sit closer to the wall, reducing clutter.
Kind 5 of 8
Choosing a solid surge suppressor
People searching for the best surge suppressor usually want dependable protection for a computer, TV or gaming setup rather than extra features. A straightforward multi-outlet model covers most homes. Outdoor, weather-resistant strips are a separate category for patios, garages and holiday light displays. Compare the joule figure, the number of outlets, cord length and whether there is a protection indicator light. For outdoor use, make sure it is specifically marked for outdoor use, with covers over the outlets.
Essential multi-outlet surge protector
This practical device protects electronics from power spikes, making it ideal for anyone with valuable home office or entertainment equipment.
Outdoor weather resistant power strip
Designed for patios, gardens, or workshops, this durable power strip provides safe and reliable power for outdoor lights, tools, and decorations in various conditions.
Kind 6 of 8
Power strips that live on the desk
A desk power strip clamps to the edge of a desk or sits under the lip, so outlets and USB ports are within reach instead of on the floor. It suits home offices, students and anyone tired of crawling under a desk to plug in a laptop. Before buying, check the clamp's range against the desk thickness, since thick or rounded edges can be a problem. Also look at which way the outlets face and whether the cord is long enough to reach the wall.
Desk mount power strip
This innovative power solution keeps cables tidy and outlets accessible, making it an excellent gift for anyone seeking an organized and efficient workspace.
Kind 7 of 8
All-in-one USB strips with surge protection
This combines three things in one unit: several outlets, USB charging and surge protection. Tower designs stack outlets vertically, taking up less desk or floor space while offering plenty of plugs. They suit gamers, streamers and anyone running a full computer setup. Check that the tower's base is stable, that the USB ports include USB-C, and that surge protection is clearly listed rather than implied. Outlet spacing matters too, since towers can crowd large adapters.
Multi-level tower power strip
An excellent space-saving solution for crowded desks or entertainment centers, offering numerous outlets in a compact, vertical design for efficient power distribution.
Kind 8 of 8
Wall-mounted surge outlets with USB
A surge outlet with USB plugs directly into a wall socket and turns it into several outlets plus USB ports, with no cord at all. It is a neat option for kitchens, bathrooms counters, bedside tables and hallways where a strip on the floor would be in the way. It suits renters who want more charging spots without any installation. Check that it will not block the second wall socket, that it sits securely, and that it includes the USB-C ports the person needs.
How to choose power strips & surge suppressors as a gift
- Ask or look at where it will go, since a desk clamp, wall outlet or floor strip each solves a different problem.
- Count the devices the person charges daily and match the USB-C and USB-A ports to that mix.
- Pick a surge protector over a basic strip when computers, TVs or gaming consoles will be plugged in.
- Check cord length against the distance from the wall outlet to the desk, bed or entertainment unit.
- Choose flat plugs or wall-mounted designs for small rooms where furniture sits close to the wall.
Usually safe to skip
- Strips without any USB-C ports tend to feel dated quickly, since most new phones and laptops charge through USB-C.
- Novelty-shaped strips often sacrifice outlet spacing, so bulky adapters block neighbouring plugs and the strip ends up unused.
- Indoor strips bought for patio lights or garage tools miss the mark, because outdoor use calls for a weather-resistant design.
Questions people ask about power strips & surge suppressors
- What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
- A power strip simply adds more outlets. A surge protector adds outlets and includes components meant to absorb voltage spikes. They can look almost identical, so check the packaging for the words surge protector and a listed joule figure.
- Is a USB power strip a good gift for a college student?
- Usually, yes. Dorm rooms rarely have enough outlets, and students charge a phone, laptop, earbuds and often a tablet. A compact strip with USB-C ports and a flat plug that fits behind a bed tends to get daily use.
- How many USB ports should a power strip have?
- Two to four covers most people. Think about what charges at the same time each night, such as a phone, watch and earbuds, and make sure at least one or two ports are USB-C for newer devices.
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Everything else
All power strips & surge suppressors picks
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