Best surge protectors for 2020

Electronics surrounds a person everywhere: at home, at work, on the street. People try to use only high-quality devices, because they are the guarantor of safety. However, some people buy cheap tees or extension cords to save money, which sparks when the plug is inserted. It is wrong to think that this is normal. On the contrary, it shows that the equipment is made of substandard materials. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best network filters for 2020.

Device and principle of operation

The main function of a surge protector is to protect electronic devices from power surges. Thanks to him, the equipment will serve for a long time and trouble-free.

Every device, whether it be a computer or a regular toaster, gives out heavy loads when first turned on. In turn, this can lead to sad consequences: from knocking out plugs to the occurrence of a malfunction of one of the connected devices or failure of previously operating lamps. However, this is problematic only when a person uses several demanding devices at home at once. The surge protector copes with the initial load, so the person will remain safe.

For this reason, the device is equipped with a more complex design than a standard extension or tee. So, varistors are used to reduce resistance. However, if their work is not enough, then fuses are used, which even budget models are equipped with. They are able to protect devices connected to the mains filter from voltage fluctuations. The quality versions use several fuses. In the event that the voltage is too high, a current limiter is triggered in the filter, its main task is to disconnect the connected device from the network.

In addition to variable resistors and fuses, the line filter is equipped with capacitors and a symmetrical choke. The main function of the latter is to smooth out electrical noise.

Also, all surge protectors are grounded, since without it a complex device will turn into an ordinary extension cord.

How to choose

The first thing that catches your eye

In addition to the standard protection functions, the user buys a device based on the length of the wire: for some, 1.5 m is enough, while for others it is not enough 3. Therefore, at first it will not be superfluous to pay attention to the length of the cord and the quality of the insulating material.

Also, it is important to pay attention to the number of sockets, if necessary, a USB connection is possible. Further attention is paid to the dimensions, the presence of wall mounts (lugs), the color and location of the holes for connecting electrical appliances.

Only after that is it worth paying attention to ...

Voltage filtering

Almost every household device is designed to operate using a standard voltage of 220 V. But often it is not possible to achieve a "clean" signal.

The main problem faced by users is power surges. It is difficult to notice them visually, it is possible only with the help of special testers. Unfortunately, this problem arises not only in the territory of an ordinary consumer, but also in the area of ​​the electricity supplier.Surges often occur due to breakdowns, substation malfunctions, malfunctioning switches, or lightning discharges.

To eliminate surges, the line filters are equipped with varistor suppressors. For proper operation, manufacturers recommend connecting the device to a grounded outlet so that in the event of an unforeseen situation, most of the energy is dumped to ground. Thus, the connected equipment will be safe and will not heat up.

To suppress high-frequency interference in the line filter, there is a capacitive unit, which consists of capacitors of different capacities and, in some cases, an inductor. In addition, some models are equipped with short circuit protection.

But there are voltage problems that make the surge protector useless. Most often these are drops, the duration of which is several milliseconds. The user can observe them visually, thanks to the blinking lights. This problem occurs when starting asynchronous electric motors for refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines, etc. Therefore, in order to protect yourself from the consequences, it is recommended to buy an uninterruptible power supply, especially since the average price for a device is 2500-5000 rubles.

In other cases, when the house is connected to old power grids, the main human problem is undervoltage, which negatively affects the electrical boards. Buying a surge protector will also not provide the necessary protection, so it is better to purchase a voltage stabilizer. You can read about the best models here.

After the user has figured out filtering, the next thing to pay attention to ...

Protection level

According to the degree of protection, modern filters are divided into three categories:

• Standard or basic. Equipped with a simple function to protect low-power equipment. Sometimes users buy them as an alternative to standard extension cords;
• Advanced degree of protection. This option is suitable for both home and office use. Works well with a variety of electrical appliances;
• Professional level of protection. The cost of such equipment is from 3,500 rubles, but the cost fully pays for itself. It will be useful only if a person uses equipment that is sensitive to interference at home.

In addition to protection, it will not be superfluous to find out if there is a surge protector ...

overheat protection

Like most electrical appliances, the filter emits heat. Allocation occurs due to heating of wires, capacitors, variable resistors, etc. Also, heat generation can occur in the event of an emergency, for example, current leakage.

Therefore, in order to protect wiring and plastic from melting, most surge protectors use overheating protection. A temperature sensor is built into the fuse and in the event of an emergency, the device turns off.

As soon as a person understands this parameter, it is worth paying attention to ...

Rated current

Like standard outlets, the filters are equipped with a rated current limitation. Most models are rated for 10A or 16A. Therefore, it will not be difficult to calculate the permissible power; for this, it is enough to use a simple formula that is familiar to many from physics: P = U * I. Where P is the power, U is the voltage (according to the 220 V standard), and I is the rated current.

Thus, it turns out that for a home network with a voltage of 220V and a rated current of 10A, a person can connect equipment with a total power of 2200 W. At a different current value, the total power will differ.

In some cases, manufacturers indicate a maximum power value that may not correspond to the calculations, but these readings are acceptable for voltages above nominal.

In the event that the power exceeds the permissible value, the bimetallic release will cut off the power supply to all connected devices.

Only after a person takes into account all the above factors, he can proceed to the last characteristic ...

Additional connectors

Some filter models, in addition to the standard socket, are equipped with a telephone line or computer network connector.

In addition, modern devices have a USB input, which allows you to charge your phone, tablet or e-book. When choosing such a model, special attention should be paid to the rated current. For a phone, 1A is enough, but for tablets it is recommended to purchase a filter with a current of 2.5A.

Rating of the best surge protectors

Rubetek RE-3310

This option is suitable for lovers of automated control via a smartphone, such as "smart home". To enable the option, the user needs to download the corresponding application, which is fully Russified.

Also, the device is suitable for use in private homes and offices, where an automatic energy saving system is supported.

Rubetek RE-3310 has 3 sockets (10A) and 4 USB ports with a nominal current of 2.4A. Supported voltage range from 90V to 265V. For safety, there are curtains on the sockets, there is also a general switch, which is indicated by a special button. The dimensions of the device are 265x65x40 mm, with a cord length of 1.8 meters and a weight of 480 grams.

The equipment works properly both with Apple HomeKit, which operates under the control of an iPhone or iPad, and is compatible with Google Home. The network filter is controlled via Wi-Fi.

The device has a timer or turn on when a certain scenario occurs. There is a switch on the case, thanks to which the user manually de-energizes all sockets and USB ports.

The average cost of such a device: from 3600 rubles.

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APC PM5U-RS

This device is also suitable for use in private homes and offices. The device was released in 2015, but even after 4 years it does not lose its relevance. There is an advanced degree of protection, which allows you to use APC PM5U-RS with computers, printers and other equipment.

Weight is 670 grams, dimensions - 370x73x56 mm. The body is made of impact-resistant plastic. Wire length - 1.8 m.

For convenience, there are special recesses on the bottom of the extension cord, which allows you to place the device on the wall. There is a special groove for laying the wire.

The APC PM5U-RS has 5 EURO type outlets (rated current - 10A), which are equipped with protective shutters and grounding. There are two USB ports with a current of 2.4A. In addition, two LEDs are located next to the switch, which provide the user with information on the status of the protection and grounding.

There is a button for a reusable thermal fuse, in the normal state it is inside the case, but if an excessive load occurs, it snaps off.

Withstands a maximum input power of up to 2300 W. It works properly at temperatures from 0 ℃ to 40 ℃ and humidity no more than 95%.

The device can be bought in specialized stores at a price: from 2500 rubles.

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Xiaomi Mi Power Strip 3

This model is suitable for use in the country or in a private house. The product is made of high-quality heat-resistant plastic that can withstand drops from 1.5 m and then functions properly, and also withstands temperatures up to 750 degrees Celsius. The dimensions are 225x41x26 mm and weighs 330 grams. The cable length is 1.8 meters.

There are 3 outlets with a rated current of 10 A and safety shutters. The total load power is 2500 W, which allows you to connect powerful power tools to the device. There are also 3 USB ports with a maximum current of 2.1 A.

The equipment can be used as a standard extension cord or controlled using a special application, the download link for which is in the technical documentation.To ensure that the device is securely installed on the surface, there are 4 anti-slip pads on the back side. In addition, Xiaomi Mi Power Strip 3 is fireproof, as it uses a special NEC protection system, which, in the event of an emergency, disconnects all connected equipment from the network.

Operating temperature of the device: -10 ℃ to + 40 ℃.

Average cost: from 800 rubles.

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ORICO HPC-8A5U-BK

This model is suitable for a person who uses several electrical appliances in one place. The location of the sockets is two-row, there is a protective shutter and grounding. The total number is 8 pcs. Rated current - 16A. That allows you to connect both a coffee machine and a gaming machine. Therefore, the device is used not only at home, but also in server rooms.

There are 5 USB ports with a nominal current of 2.4 A. Fast charging is supported, which allows you to charge several standalone gadgets at a time. In addition, ORICO HPC-8A5U-BK has overcharge protection, surge protection, overheating and short circuit protection.

The dimensions of the device are 322x100x42 mm and weighs 950 grams. The wire length is 1.5 meters.

The convenient location of the USB ports allows you to connect devices without interfering with the connection of network plugs. If all ports are used at once, the total amperage is only 8 A. Therefore, charging will take longer.

Average cost: from 2620 rubles.

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Power Cube SIS-10

For people looking for a long surge protector and don't need USB ports, this is the right option. The device is made of high-quality plastic with an original design and excellent functionality. Power Cube SIS-10 can be used both on the floor and on the wall. The length of the wire is 3 m. Dimensions - 380x90x60 mm, with a weight of 1 kg.

There are 6 sockets with a rated current of 10 A, which allows you to connect several devices at once. There are curtains for safety and protection from children. There is a general switch.

For convenience, one of the sockets is located at a considerable distance from the others, which allows you to connect a non-standard plug there. There is a light indication.

Equipment cost: from 1770 rubles.

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ERA USF-5es-USB-W

For people looking for surge protectors that cost up to RUB 700, but with USB ports, the USF-5es-USB-W ERA is the best option. The equipment is produced under a domestic brand, but made in China. This model is recommended to buy for use in the country or in a home without small children. The latter is the most important, since the device is not equipped with protective shutters.

Dimensions - 380x90x50 mm with a wire length of 1.5 meters. There is a general switch.

There are 5 sockets and 2 USB ports, rated current 10A and 2A, respectively.

This option is rated 5 stars, and most users note the low cost and availability of ports.

Average cost: from 450 rubles.

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Output

Above, surge protectors from the best manufacturers have been considered, which have established themselves in the market and have a user rating of at least 4.5. If you have experience using the filters described in the rating, or more interesting models, tell us about it in the comments. Observe safety precautions when using electrical equipment.