The Best Surge Protectors for 2026: Powerful Winter Storm Protection
CNET has tested the best smart surge protectors from brands including Tapo and Wyze to see what power strips your home needs.
Our Experts
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Every home needs at least one surge protector. These power strips come equipped with defenses against electrical surgesfrom blackouts, storms, construction work and other events that would otherwise fry electronics such asyour computer orTV.
Our Picks
At CNET, we've tested over a dozen of the latest surge protectors, with an eye on both quality andadvanced smart features that offer scheduling options, app controls and energy monitoring. Our list includes the best choices for Apple users, cheap models you can trust and powerful versions for large setups.
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What is the best surge protector overall?
Tapo's surge protector has the best smart features out of everything we tested.
TapoWhen testing smart features in particular, one surge protector quickly rose to the top: theTapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip. You'll see this surge protector recommended on many lists and for good reason. The Tapo brand is generally reliable and the smart features are excellent, including Apple Home compatibility and energy monitoring, and it's not prohibitively expensive either.
However, some people may want extra cord length, or a brand that specifies a healthy amount of Joules protection. Check out all my final picks below for the full range of options.
Best surge protectors of 2026
Pros
- Super smart with Apple, Alexa and Google support
- Energy monitoring features
- Overcharge shutoff
Cons
- No USB-C
- No stated certification or Joules rating
Why I like it:
Tapo’s smart surge protector includes a bit of everything, making it the easiest recommendation for anyone who wants a smart surge protector upgrade. The six outlets and three USB ports are Matter supported, so they work with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home/Siri. (Apple support is particularly hard to find for these power strips.)
Setup and connection are easy, although you'll need to name each plug for the device it’s connected to -- I’m using one in my Google Home app right now, so I’m well acquainted with the process. Individual and group control is easy, and Tapo includes energy monitoring as well if you prefer to dig into the data and see what’s consuming the most power.
This is the go-to surge protector if you want the complete set of smart features. The only downside is that the current version of this power strip doesn’t have any USB-C ports, which is a pain when connecting some newer devices. (I’ve got another option for that below.) Tapo also isn’t releasing any specific Joules protection numbers, which is a pity on such an otherwise complete model.
Who this is for:
People who want all the smart bells and whistles, including Apple support and energy monitoring, in one package.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who absolutely need USB-C ports on their surge protector, and those who don’t really care about having that many smart features or app controls.
Specs & Configurations
Pros
- USB-C ports included, plus fast charging 20W port
- Alexa and Google Home compatibility
Cons
- Fast charging may not work with nearby plugged-in devices drawing on power
Why I like it:
Despite their now-widespread use, it can be hard to find USB-C ports on smart surge protectors. This BN-Link model offers two USB-C options, with one offering 20W fast charging, something not many smart power strips have. The three indicator lights are also useful for spotting device performance and signaling when you need a replacement.
Those smart features also include compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, although scheduling features appear to be limited to the outlets only. Also note that the fast charging USB-C port may not provide the full 20W if other devices are plugged in at the same time.
Who this is for:
Those who really need a USB-C port or two on their smart surge protector.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People without many USB-C needs, those who absolutely need Apple support.
Specs & Configurations
Pros
- Longer cord options at 6 feet
- Apple and Siri compatibility
- Overload cutoff circuit
Cons
- Only four outlets
Why I like it:
Not all surge protectors have lengthy cords, but you may need one badly if nearby outlets are unavailable. This Meross smart power strip has one of the longest cords I’ve found at 6 feet. Along with Tapo’s model, it’s also one of the few I’ve found that work with Apple and Siri, along with Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings.
This is an otherwise dependable power strip, but note that it includes four outlets while most of my other picks have six or more.
Who this is for:
People who don’t have nearby outlets and need a surge protector with a bit of a reach.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Those looking for a power strip with more than four outlets or those who need USB-C.
Specs & Configurations
Pros
- Very low cost
- Slim design
Cons
- Only three outlets
- Around 250 Joules protection is quite low
Why I like it:
If you want affordability as well as some surge protection, you can’t do much better than this Wyze model, which starts at $10, and I’ve found it discounted for significantly less, too. Wyze is a reliable producer of budget-level home technology, and this power strip doesn’t disappoint.
The protector is more limited than my other picks, with only three outlets and USB ports, but the price can’t be beat. The downside is a lack of smart surge protector features such as app or voice assistant compatibility.
Who this is for:
People who want some surge protection, but at a very low cost.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
If you really want smart features, app controls and scheduling, this isn’t the power strip for you. Also, the surge protection is pretty low at 268 Joules, so if you get a lot of lightning storms or power surges you should probably find a more powerful model.
Pros
- High 4,000-Joule rating for serious home protection
- 13 outlets with lots of spacing and four USB ports
- Options for very lengthy cord up to 15 feet
Cons
- No USB-C
- No smart features
Why I like it:
You won’t find smart features on Trond’s surge protector, but you will find a powerful 4,000-Joule protection rating, particularly high for a home setting and ideal if you have a large bank of electronics to plug in. The 13 well-spaced outlets also help, along with the three USB-A and one USB-C port.
This model is also wall-mountable and if you don’t mind paying more, it’s another excellent choice for a lengthy power cord, which can be upgraded up to 15 feet for a large reach. If you need extra protection in your home and you have the room, this power strip is hard to beat.
Who this is for:
People who need a heavy-duty, versatile surge protector for a large setup.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Those who really want a smart surge protector with app features, those who don’t have the space or the need for so many outlets.
Specs & Configurations
Pros
- Connected device warranty for up to $200,000
- USB-C port with 20W charging
- 12 outlets
- 2,100 Joule rating, which is more than most
Cons
- No smart features
Why I like it:
A connected device warranty offers coverage if surges damage expensive hardware such as computers while connected to the surge protector. It’s quite rare for home surge protectors to offer warranties like these, since they’re difficult to claim and costly for companies when they do pay out. But Anker is one of the few brands still offering a strong package, including a lifetime $200,000 connected equipment warranty.
Pair that with the very healthy 2,100-Joule rating and the included USB-C port, and this is one of the best surge protectors I’ve found for those who want protection for all kinds of devices, especially if they have larger setups that may need a dozen outlets. The only thing it’s missing is smart features.
Who this is for:
People who want a connected device warranty, those looking for a larger surge protector that has a USB-C offering.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Those most interested in smart features, or who want a slimmer, smaller surge protector.
Specs & Configurations
Surge protectors, compared
| Best surge protectors | Tapo P316M Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip | BN-Link Smart Plug Power Strip | Meross Smart Plug Power Strip | Wyze Surge Protector | Trond Surge Protector | Anker Power Strip Surge Protector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $50 | $40 | $32 | $10 | $30 | $29 |
| Outlets | 6 outlets, 3 USB-A ports | 6 outlets, 2 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports | 4 outlets, 4 USB-A ports | 3 outlets, 3 USB-A ports | 13 outlets, 3 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port | 12 outlets, 2 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port |
| Joules | N/A | 1,200 | N/A | 268 | 4,000 | 2,100 |
| Smart home support | Amazon Alexa, Google Home/Gemini, Siri, Bixby | Amazon Alexa, Google Home | Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Siri | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Cable length | 3 feet | 5 feet | 6 feet | 4 feet | 5 to 15 feet | 5 feet |
| Connected device warranty | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Lifetime warranty up to $200,000 |
| Review score | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Read more: 10 Shocking Facts About Power Strips
Other surge protectors we've tested
Accell D080B-051B (Out of stock): This surge protector's main benefit was that instead of rigid outlets on a flat frame like most surge protectors, it has five short cables with the outlets at the end. The Accell is rated at a claimed 1,080 Joules and has a cut-off failsafe like many heavy-duty surge protectors offer. That's good, but its unique shape makes it difficult to recommend for the average situation.
Belkin SRA007p12tt6: This is a classy-looking 12-outlet surge protector with a matte-white finish that would work better on a desk or otherwise visible spot than most of the other large protectors. Six of its outlets are widely spaced, and there are two 2.4-amp USB-A and one 3-amp USB-C outlet (4.5 amps combined max output). The wall plug is conveniently angled at 90 degrees at the end of the 6-foot cable.
Amazon Basics Smart Plug Power Strip: Amazon's strip is fine, if you're an Alexa user, but it lacked other smart features, and $40 is too high a price for this limited surge protector.
Belkin BE112230: This model uses the same flat design as the switched Belkin F7C01008q, just without the switch. It has six wide-spaced outlets, a claimed high 3,940 Joules of protection and a connected equipment warranty.
Belkin BST300bg: This is a decent travel alternative to the Accell. It has three outlets on the front and two USB ports on the top. The plug swivels so you can orient it in multiple ways. The Accell is a little smaller, but this is a good runner-up.
Belkin BSV300ttCW: This wall-mounted model has three outlets and two USB ports, all on the front. Its most interesting design feature is a lipped top surface where you can lean your phone while it's charging.
Eve Energy Strip: The goal for this power strip may have originally been to provide an Apple-focused experience for those who have an iPhone or iPad (which are required to use the surge protector). The problem is that now other models from brands such as Tapo offer Apple compatibility without restrictions and at far lower prices, leaving this power strip far behind.
What's the difference between a surge protector and a power strip?
A surge protector controls and diverts excess power to keep your electronics safe, while a power strip simply offers more outlets to plug stuff in.
Raimund Koch/Getty ImagesA power strip and surge protector may look similar, but the power strip will not offer surge protection for appliances and devices plugged into it. Plug-in surge protectors work by absorbing and diverting a surge. The excess voltage is sent to the outlet's ground wire -- the third prong in modern electrical sockets -- and is prevented from reaching any devices that are plugged into that socket. A power strip will simply give you more outlets to plug in electronics.
The easiest way to tell the difference between a basic strip and a surge protector is by checking if it has a Joule rating. All surge protectors have one, and it's essentially how much of a power surge it can protect against.
What we updated
Early 2026: It was time for a full list refresh after we tested and looked at all new models, checked the latest specs to see what was available and took a look at models that just weren't keeping up. The result is our new list, which includes a mix of both very smart surge protectors and less smart (but powerful) models for those who don't want an app. I'm also working on testing the latest Anker offerings, which could find a place on this list.
Factors to consider when buying a surge protector
Consider what surge protectors can do for your home and what exactly you need.
mikroman6 via Getty ImagesA high Joule rating
Joule ratings indicate how much energy a surge protector can absorb before failing. It's essentially a measure of how much protection each surge protector will offer you. Around 1,000 Joules or more is ideal. Be wary if there are no certifications or Joules/other ratings.
Well-spaced sockets
One of the most important things was having enough outlets to fit the wall wart power adapters that come with most products. These bulky connectors usually take up two or more spaces on normal outlets and power strips. I physically checked each power strip to see if its outlets were sufficiently spaced to fit multiple warts.
Number of outlets
Generally, the next size up from what you’re considering will give you room to grow if you need to add new gear or devices down the road.
Warranties for connected devices
Gaurantees aren't as common as they once were, but this warranty applies in case your gear is destroyed by a power surge. Are you likely to get your money back if your gear gets zapped? Hard to say. Insurance like this is hard to collect on, as some companies will only replace connected gear "at their option." Having this sort of guarantee does give you some peace of mind, however; more than you have without it, and perhaps it will cover you in a way your homeowners or renters insurance doesn't.
Number of surge protector
If you’re connecting enough devices to fill a surge protector, it’s worth considering getting two smaller ones (say, two eights instead of one 12). Spreading out the electrical load could be safer. Even more practical, it also might allow you to connect to two different outlets. This is especially important if you’re connecting a lot of high-power devices. Of course, this isn’t always possible, but it’s worth considering.
If you need a bigger upgrade
If your location is prone to lightning strikes, you’ll want more protection than just a surge protector. Using a surge protector to protect against frequent lightning is like using a baby gate to stop an elephant. A whole-home surge protector is usually a better option here.
Surge protector FAQs
How often should you replace a surge protector?
That depends on the strength of the surge protector and how many incidents you have. Surge protectors don’t “recover,” so their defensive capabilities decrease with surge events. Generally, you should plan on replacing them every few years. If you get a lot of blackouts and lightning storms in your area, expect to replace them significantly sooner.
What does the Joules number mean in surge protectors?
Surge protector specifications are measured in many different ways, but one of the most common in the US is by Joules. Joules is a rating for energy used or expended. When it comes to surge protectors, Joules measures how much over-the-limit electricity the surge protector can absorb before it starts to fail.
Can a surge protector protect against lightning?
That depends on the surge protector and what kind of lightning we're talking about. Overcharge protection with automatic shutoffs (something that's become more common) can help protect devices by shutting down. However, this may not always work perfectly against a direct lightning strike (which is very rare). But even powerful surges from nearby lightning strikes will burn out surge protectors if they're frequent, which means one or two bad storms could require replacing your model.
Is it bad to plug too many things into a surge protector?
Yes, though depending on what you're trying to connect, it might not matter. The outlets in most American homes are either 15 or 20 amps. This equals approximately 1,800 to 2,400 watts. Can you connect your TV, soundbar and game consoles to one surge protector? Generally, yes. Can you connect your fridge, air conditioner, electric stove and clothes dryer to one? No. Check the wattage rating on your gear. You're better off using more surge protectors, plugged into their own separate outlets.
Is an expensive surge protector worth it?
To an extent, yes. Generally, more expensive surge protectors have higher Joule ratings (more protection) and better equipment protection policies if something happens. Surge protectors with higher prices might include options like uninterruptible power supplies, which are essentially surge protectors with built-in batteries, and whole-home surge protection.
Note that a single power strip will eventually lose its protection capabilities and need to be replaced.
Do I need a surge protector when traveling?
Need? No, but it doesn't hurt to protect your gear. More important when traveling is having enough outlets to connect all your electronics. You'd be surprised at how few accessible outlets many hotels have.
Can I plug a surge protector into an extension cord?
It's generally not recommended to plug a surge protector into anextension cord. Ideally, a surge protector should be plugged directly into a wall outlet to prevent voltage drops, overloading and for overall better protection.
What should never be plugged into a surger protector?
High voltage devices like microwave ovens, toasters, hair dryers, space heaters and coffee makers should generally not be plugged into a surge protector.
Can surge protectors act as smart plugs?
Yes. If a surge protector has smart capabilities, then it can act almost exactly like a smart plug, except it also protects from surges. Keep in mind that typically means app controls, home automations, scheduling and some voice assistant support -- but it doesn’t always mean energy monitoring, which only some devices support.
About the Author
Tyler Lacoma
Editor / Home Security and Smart HomeTyler Lacoma
Editor / Home Security and Smart HomeTyler has worked on, lived with and tested all types of smart home and security technology for over a dozen years, explaining the latest features, privacy tricks, and top recommendations.With degrees in Business Management, Literature and Technical Writing, Tyler takes every opportunity to play with the latest AI technology, push smart devices to their limits and occasionally throw cameras off his roof, all to find the best devices to trust in your life. He always checks with the renters (and pets) in his life to see what smart products can work for everyone, in every living situation. Living in beautiful Bend, Oregon gives Tyler plenty of opportunities to test the latest tech in every kind of weather and temperature. But when not at work, he can be found hiking the trails, trying out a new food recipe for his loved ones, keeping up on his favorite reading, or gaming with good friends.
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