Best extension cord

Extension cords are helpful for running electrical power from one point to another when the electronic's own cord is too short. Different extensions cords are made for indoors and outdoors, though there are some designed to work for both. If you're planning on using the same extension cord for multiple electronics, make sure you consider their combined wattage to prevent overloading. Take a look at some of our favorite picks to learn what sets one apart from the other. 

This sleek power strip enables you to expand one wall socket to six surge-protected outlets. And with a 20-foot-long extension cord, you’ll never again need to crawl around the floor or push furniture looking for an outlet. The 3-prong outlets have a twist-to-close safety cover to keep foreign objects from getting into unused outlets. In the case of transient voltage, an integrated surge protector cuts off power flow to the strip to protect your electronics. You can conveniently mount it to a wall, workbench, or table for easy access. 

Bring power with you outdoors with this 50-foot heavy-duty extension cord. This versatile cord is built with a 12/3-gauge cable that's rated for 15 amps, making it ideal for power-intensive appliances. The bright yellow jacket increases the cord's visibility to prevent accidental trips and falls. The female end is well molded and fitted with a light indicator, so you can tell if it's plugged in and powered up without having to go near the outlet.

This extension cord has a 100-ft range, meaning you do'nt have to be too close in order to use the remote control, and it works through glass. You can set the timer to come on and go off automatically at dusk and dawn, or after 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours of use. Unfortunately, you con't set each individual outlet on its own time setting, so everything plugged into the Dewenwils timer and extension cord will come on and go off together. It is safe to use this device in all kinds of weather, including rain, without worrying about it shorting out. When fully assembled the entire cord, ground stake and timer box measure only 8 inches high, and its a natural gree color so it won't stick out like a sore thumb when it's set up.

This extension cord, available in stylish, heathered colorways, is a welcomed break from the usual white or black options. You get a 15-foot cord for optimal reach and three polarized outlets perfect for powering small electronics like lamps and phone chargers. The outlets have safety slide covers to keep kids from sliding objects in there.

Extend your existing power source or make room to run extra cords with this two-pack of 16-gauge, three-prong power extension cords. The cords are rated for 13 amps, perfect for powering common office electronics and household appliances. The outlet and plug are well insulated to protect against power surges as well as warding off that annoying electrical hum that you might hear over speakers or headphones. The two extension cords come in four lengths ranging from 3-to-15-feet long, so you can choose exactly how much cord length works best for your needs.

Featuring modern aesthetics, this power strip with a 5-foot braided extension cord is compact so as not to hog up space on your bedside or tabletop. You get three AC outlets, three USB-A ports with a maximum output of 12 watts, and one futuristic USB-C port with a maximum output of 15 watts. This one is particularly great for powering a work desk with several electronics.

This retractable extension cord reel can withstand the abuse of a busy garage or workshop thanks to the rugged, impact-resistant polypropylene case. Mount it to a wall, ceiling, or workbench for easy access to the three power outlets. And the 180-degree swivel movement gives you the freedom of movement required while working. When not in use, this 50-foot extension cord automatically retracts into an attractive storage reel making sure your garage or workstation doesn't turn into a bird's nest.

Reliable connectivity

Extension cords are the unsung heroes of the toolbox, and they do their job without much fanfare. While there is no single quality that makes an extension cord great, length, amperage, and the number of outlets are all great checkpoints.

With that in mind, the GE 6-outlet surge protector extension cord checks all the right boxes for an indoor extension. You get multiple outlets complete with surge protection and safety covers. 

Keep the party, landscaping project, and any other outdoor activity going with the 50-foot Southwire 2588SW0002 3-prong extension cord. It's covered with a flexible vinyl jacket for protection against moisture, abrasion, and sunlight. Also, the visible bright yellow color will prevent accidental trips. 

The One Beat power strip with USB-C is a future-forward power strip with a decent 5-foot braided extension cord. With three-prong outlets, four USB ports, and a beautifully sleek design, you can now get rid of those bulky power strips sitting at the end of your bedside table or office desk! 

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