Tower Power Strip Buying Guide: Surge Protection, Ports, and Placement
The TESSAN Tower Power Strip with 1050J surge protection and a 6-foot flat plug is designed to sit vertically, saving desk or floor space while offering multiple outlets and USB ports. Before buying, consider how many devices you'll charge, whether you need surge protection for sensitive electronics, and if the tower's footprint fits your setup.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Surge protection rating: The TESSAN offers 1050 joules, which is adequate for basic electronics like phones and laptops but may be insufficient for high-value equipment in areas with frequent surges. Look for higher joule ratings (2000+) if you're protecting expensive gear.
- Port configuration: This tower typically includes a mix of AC outlets and USB ports. Count how many of each you need—if you have many USB-C devices, ensure the tower provides sufficient USB-C ports or fast-charging support.
- Flat plug and cord length: The 6-foot cord with a flat plug allows the strip to sit close to the wall, ideal for tight spaces like behind furniture. Measure the distance from your outlet to your desired tower location to ensure the cord reaches.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Quality tower power strips should have a sturdy, non-slip base, a resettable circuit breaker, and clear surge protection indicators. Check for UL listing or ETL certification to ensure safety compliance. The TESSAN's grey finish and compact design are aesthetic pluses, but prioritize build quality and safety features over looks.
Power Strips Market Context
Market Overview
The power strip market is saturated with options ranging from basic $10 strips to smart strips with app control. Tower designs are gaining popularity for their space-saving vertical orientation, especially in home offices and entertainment centers. Surge protection is a key differentiator, with joule ratings varying widely.
Common Issues
Many power strips lack adequate surge protection or have misleading joule ratings. Some tower strips are top-heavy and tip over easily, while others have USB ports that charge slowly or fail over time. Additionally, cheaply made strips may not have safety certifications, posing fire risks.
Quality Indicators
Look for a metal oxide varistor (MOV) for surge suppression, a resettable circuit breaker, and a flame-retardant casing. A weighted base or non-slip feet indicate stability. Brand reputation and verified customer reviews can also signal reliability.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade A Interpretation
The B authenticity grade with an estimated 15% fake reviews suggests that while most reviews are genuine, there is a notable minority of suspicious ones. This means the adjusted rating of 4.50/5 is more trustworthy than the unadjusted 4.89/5, but still reflects generally positive sentiment.
Trust Recommendation
Given the 15% fake review estimate, focus on reviews that include detailed pros and cons, photos, or specific use cases. The adjusted rating of 4.50 is still strong, so the product likely satisfies most buyers, but be aware that some glowing reviews may be incentivized.
Tips for Reading Reviews
When reading reviews for power strips, prioritize those that mention durability, surge protection performance, and USB port reliability. Look for patterns in negative reviews—if multiple users report the same issue (e.g., ports stopping working), it's a red flag.
Expert Perspective
The TESSAN Tower Power Strip offers a practical space-saving design with adequate surge protection for everyday electronics. Its 4.89/5 rating (adjusted to 4.50) indicates high customer satisfaction, though the presence of some fake reviews warrants caution. The 1050J rating is decent for basic use but not top-tier for high-end electronics. Overall, it's a solid choice for home offices or bedside charging stations.
Purchase Considerations
Consider your power needs: if you have many high-wattage devices or live in an area with unstable power, a higher joule rating is advisable. Also, check the number and type of USB ports—some users may need more USB-C. The 6-foot cord may be short for some setups, so measure first.
Comparing Alternatives
Compare with other tower power strips like Anker or Belkin, which may offer higher surge protection or more USB ports. Also, consider traditional flat power strips if space isn't a constraint.
