Best power strips for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports is the best overall pick for most households thanks to its generous outlet spacing, integrated USB ports, and reliable build quality.
For serious surge protection, go with the Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector; the BESTEK rotating model is ideal for cramped desks; Belkin offers a trusted name with solid performance; and the KMC Smart Power Strip delivers surprising value on a tight budget.
A modern power strip is the unsung hero of any desk, entertainment center, or workshop. Beyond simply multiplying outlets, today’s models add USB charging, surge protection, smart controls, and rotating plugs that make fitting bulky adapters a breeze. Choosing the right one means balancing outlet count, cord length, surge-joule rating, and whether you want smart-home integration, all without creating a fire hazard or wasting valuable space. Before you buy, think about where you‘ll use it. A home office might need widely spaced outlets for laptop bricks and monitor power supplies, while a nightstand could prioritize USB ports for phones and tablets. If you’re protecting expensive electronics like a TV or gaming PC, get a model with a high joule rating and a connected-equipment warranty. And if you regularly rearrange your setup, a rotating or flat-plug design can save your sanity.
Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports
the do-it-all default
4.8out of 5This Anker model strikes an excellent balance between outlet count, USB speed, and build quality. The generous spacing between sockets means even chunky power bricks won’t block adjacent ports, and the built-in USB-C and USB-A ports deliver fast charging for modern devices.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip
the surge-protection specialist
4.7out of 5Tripp Lite is a respected name in power protection, and this 7-outlet model lives up to that reputation. It offers a very high joule rating and a connected-equipment warranty that gives peace of mind for expensive gear. The metal housing is rugged, and the indicator lights clearly show protection status.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →BESTEK 8-Outlet Rotating Power Strip
the space-saving swivel
4.5out of 5The BESTEK 8-outlet rotating power strip solves the classic frustration of bulky adapters blocking other sockets. Each outlet rotates independently, so you can angle plugs to fit even the tightest spaces. It’s an affordable solution for cramped desks, nightstands, or behind furniture.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports | 4.8 / 5 | $$ | Anyone who wants a single power strip that works seamlessly for a home office, entertainme | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Anyone protecting pricey electronics such as a home theater, gaming PC, or network equipme | Check price → |
| Best value | BESTEK 8-Outlet Rotating Power Strip | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Anyone who needs to fit a power strip in a crowded spot or regularly uses large power adap | Check price → |
| Best trusted brand | Belkin 12-Outlet Power Strip | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | Shoppers who prefer a well-known brand and need a high outlet count for stationary setups | Check price → |
| Best budget | KMC 6-Outlet Smart Power Strip | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Budget-conscious users who want to automate lamps, fans, or small electronics with voice o | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports: the do-it-all default
Best overallThis Anker model strikes an excellent balance between outlet count, USB speed, and build quality. The generous spacing between sockets means even chunky power bricks won’t block adjacent ports, and the built-in USB-C and USB-A ports deliver fast charging for modern devices.
Pros
- Wide outlet spacing accommodates bulky adapters without losing ports
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A ports with smart charging
- Robust surge protection with a high joule rating
- Long, heavy-duty cord offers flexible placement options
Cons
- No rotating or swivel plugs, fixed configuration may not suit all angles
- Slightly larger footprint than some compact alternatives
- USB ports are not individually controlled
Who it’s for
Anyone who wants a single power strip that works seamlessly for a home office, entertainment center, or general household use.Who should skip it
You need a very compact strip for travel or a rotating design to fit behind furniture.2. Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip: the surge-protection specialist
Runner-upTripp Lite is a respected name in power protection, and this 7-outlet model lives up to that reputation. It offers a very high joule rating and a connected-equipment warranty that gives peace of mind for expensive gear. The metal housing is rugged, and the indicator lights clearly show protection status.
Pros
- Top-tier surge protection rating for maximum equipment safety
- Metal housing is durable and dissipates heat well
- Spaced outlets handle transformer plugs without crowding
- Includes a covered master switch and diagnostic lights
Cons
- No USB ports, you’ll need separate chargers for devices
- Larger and heavier than plastic strips, making it less portable
- Price is higher than basic models with similar outlet counts
Who it’s for
Anyone protecting pricey electronics such as a home theater, gaming PC, or network equipment where surge protection is the top priority.Who should skip it
You need integrated USB charging or a lightweight, compact strip for travel.3. BESTEK 8-Outlet Rotating Power Strip: the space-saving swivel
Best valueThe BESTEK 8-outlet rotating power strip solves the classic frustration of bulky adapters blocking other sockets. Each outlet rotates independently, so you can angle plugs to fit even the tightest spaces. It’s an affordable solution for cramped desks, nightstands, or behind furniture.
Pros
- Rotating outlets let you adjust the angle of each plug independently
- Very compact footprint, ideal for tight spots like behind a bed or desk
- Budget-friendly price point without sacrificing outlet count
- Includes a generous amount of USB ports for device charging
Cons
- Surge protection rating is lower than dedicated protectors (still adequate for most gear)
- Rotating mechanism can feel slightly loose on some units
- Cord length might be shorter than average, check before buying
Who it’s for
Anyone who needs to fit a power strip in a crowded spot or regularly uses large power adapters next to standard plugs.Who should skip it
You need the highest possible surge protection for expensive electronics, or you prefer a fixed, heavy-duty design.4. Belkin 12-Outlet Power Strip: the trusted household name
Best trusted brandBelkin’s 12-outlet power strip offers a familiar, reliable option from a brand with decades of experience in consumer electronics accessories. It provides ample outlets, a sturdy build, and solid surge protection, though it lacks the rotating outlets or smart features of some newer competitors.
Pros
- 12 outlets, generous count for home theaters or multiple-device setups
- Trusted brand with strong reputation and good customer service
- Decent surge protection with indicator lights for peace of mind
- Wide outlet spacing prevents most adapter conflicts
Cons
- No USB ports, must rely on separate chargers
- Physically large, may overwhelm a small desk or nightstand
- No rotating or swivel features for tight spaces
Who it’s for
Shoppers who prefer a well-known brand and need a high outlet count for stationary setups like a home theater or computer lab.Who should skip it
You want integrated USB charging or a compact/rotating design for a small area.5. KMC 6-Outlet Smart Power Strip: the smart budget pick
Best budgetThe KMC 6-Outlet Smart Power Strip proves that you don’t have to spend much to get basic smart features. It includes voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, individual outlet control through an app, and energy monitoring, all at a price that undercuts most competitors. It’s a fantastic entry point into smart power management.
Pros
- Very affordable compared to other smart power strips
- App control and voice assistant support for each outlet individually
- Compact size doesn’t take up much space
- Built-in USB ports add extra convenience
Cons
- Only 6 outlets, fewer than many non-smart strips at the same price
- Surge protection is minimal or absent (check model specifics)
- Build quality feels a bit lighter than premium options
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious users who want to automate lamps, fans, or small electronics with voice or app control.Who should skip it
You need heavy-duty surge protection or require more than 6 outlets in a single strip.Best for specific needs
Best for home office setups
A home office often juggles a laptop adapter, monitor power brick, desk lamp, phone charger, and maybe a printer. You want ample outlets with wide spacing to fit those chunky transformer blocks, plus fast USB ports for your phone or tablet. The Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports handles all of that without breaking the bank, and its long cord easily reaches floor outlets or behind furniture. Our pick: Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports.
Best for high-value surge protection
If you‘re powering a multi-thousand-dollar home theater system or a high-end gaming PC, surge protection is non-negotiable. The Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector stands out with its exceptional joule rating, metal housing, and equipment warranty. It won’t charge your phone, but it will give you real peace of mind that your expensive gear stays safe during power events. Our pick: Tripp Lite 7 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip.
Best for travel and tight spaces
When every inch counts, behind a nightstand, on a cramped desk, or in a travel bag, a rotating power strip saves the day. The BESTEK 8-Outlet Rotating Power Strip lets you swivel each plug to fit the available space, and its compact footprint makes it easy to tuck away. Plus, it includes USB ports so you can leave your wall warts at home. Our pick: BESTEK 8-Outlet Rotating Power Strip.
Our verdict
No single power strip fits every scenario, but for most people the Anker Power Strip 12 Outlets with USB Ports offers the best combination of outlet count, USB charging speed, and overall value. If surge protection is your chief concern, invest in the Tripp Lite; if you’re working with a tight space, the BESTEK rotating model will save your sanity. And if you want to dip into smart-home controls without spending much, the KMC Smart Power Strip is a surprisingly capable budget option. Focus on the features that matter most for your setup, and you’ll find a reliable power strip that cleans up cord clutter and protects your gear for years to come.