The best surge protectors in 2020 build on past designs with increased functionality and new technological efficiencies. There’s a lot more to surge protectors and power strips these days compared to years ago when all it would be is a line of inputs. Check out some of the new functionality and types below.
Why every house needs a surge protector
They aren’t very exciting purchases but surge protectors work at preventing damage from electrical surges. If you have high-expense devices – like gaming consoles, 4K TVs, PCs, or other electronics – you absolutely should have these plugged into a surge protector. Although seemingly a rare occurrence, a lightning storm or power surge can come along at any moment and wipe out a power supply or fry the motherboard.

- Market price: $34.99
What makes the best surge protector?
The best surge protector for your home is likely going to carry more than the basic features. You will want your surge protector to have grounded outlets to ensure you can plug in whatever devices you need. They also come designed with USB ports built directly in, making it easy to charge a tablet or smartphone. There are designs that are wall mounted, with smartphone holders, in a metal encasing, with side sockets that swivel, and more.

- Market price: $34.89
How many outlets do you need in a surge protector?
There are all kinds of surge protectors available. Though some households may require more inputs, we recommend a surge protector with no fewer than four outlets. This will ensure you can purpose your power strip in various areas of the home, in case your furniture arrangements change.
Do you have any oversized plugs?
If you know what you’re plugging in already, verify whether you are working with any oversized plugs. If you are, buy a surge protector with enough space between the outlets to fit oversized plugs. Unfortunately, not all surge protectors or power strips have this space. In some cases, households or businesses may have to downgrade in functionality to accommodate size requirements.

What area of the home is most likely to require surge protection?
There are a few rooms in the average household that almost always necessitate a surge protector. Home theater systems can be hooked up with $1,000s of equipment. Home offices can have computers that need a little extra protection. If you are living in a family household where everybody has a device to charge, it also doesn’t hurt to set up a charging station with surge protection either in the kitchen or main living space.
It’s a near-guarantee, every household has a surge protector, power strip, or extension cable plugged in somewhere. Get an upgrade on your surge protector or power strip, with new functionality and reliability. You won’t find a better deal than what we got going on right now at PrimeCables. For the next 72 hours, the best surge protectors and power cords in Canada at PrimeCables are at 15% off. Get yours today.