Best Surge Protectors For Gaming PCs: Protect Your Gaming Equipment
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Best Surge Protectors For Gaming PCs: Protect Your Gaming Equipment
Game so hard @#$# wanna fine me.
An electrical surge is among the most common factors that could cause damage to your gaming equipment, and the worst thing that could happen to a gamer, aside from losing in-game, is their expensive gaming PC getting burned due to an electrical surge. Now, unless Thor himself did your wiring, there's every likelihood that you may experience an electrical surge. And since getting the Asgardian god of thunder to play electrician is pretty much impossible, the next recommended option is to buy a surge protector.
We understand that, unlike gaming, shopping for a surge protector might not be your forte, which is why we have put together this buying guide with a list of the best surge protectors for gaming PCs in 2021. This piece will also give you the low-down on the components that make up an ideal surge suppressor, allowing you to make an informed buying decision.
Here are the Best Surge Protectors For Gaming PCs in 2021
1. APC Surge Protector
Best Overall
The APC Surge Protector is a lightweight model with multiple outlets to serve a whole gaming setup and other appliances. It offers a primary level of protection against surges, spikes, and lightning discharges that have the potential to cause severe damage to your gaming setup. This unit is also designed to notify you of potential wiring problems before they happen.
Its classic black design does not disturb the overall aesthetic of your space. It also comes with a user manual to help new users understand it better. And like most units, this surge protector may not do well if other power strips or UPS devices are connected to it.
Key Features
An 8-foot power cord and 2 USB charging ports
It weighs only 2.23 pounds and has a maximum surge rating of 2880 joules
The APC Surge Protector features 11 plug outlets and runs on 120 volts
2. Amazon Basics Surge Protector
Runner-up
The Amazon Basics Power Strip Surge Protector is a heavy-duty model that protects any electronic device against the fiercest electrical spikes and surges. Its unique design features LED lights that indicate active protection.
This model is made from heavy-duty plastic casting, making it a super durable option. Plus, its outlets are well-spaced to allow the connection of large adapters.
Key Features
A fireproof MOV that confers enhanced protection against lightning and spikes
Features a tough 8 ft cord with built-in LED lights that indicate active surge protection
This unit has a grand 4320-joule energy rating
It has 12 outlets, a back keyhole wall-mount, and sliding safety covers
This surge protector comes with an off/on power button that works with a built-in 15 Amp overload resettable circuit breaker to ensure effective surge protection
3. Belkin Surge Protector
Honorable Mention
The Belkin Power Strip Surge Protector is a super surge arrester suitable for homes, offices, and game rooms. It features a heavy-duty framework that makes it durable and highly resistant to damage by electrical surges or spikes.
This unit comes with multiple outlets, which means you can connect several electronic devices, including your gaming PC. In addition, it is rust-resistant, lightweight, and designed with enough space to accommodate large plugs/adapters.
Key Features
Weighs only 2 pounds and comes with a 3-prong angle plug for plugging convenience in tight spaces
It also features a power bar and fax protection to protect satellite connections
This unit has a 3,940-Joule energy rating, a 6,000-volt maximum spike voltage, and 12 AC outlets
It comes with an 8ft cord and a safety slide lock to close unused outlets
4. Echogear Surge Protector
Also Consider
The Echogear Surge Protector is a powerful surge suppressor designed to protect various devices, including TVs, gaming PCs, and home appliances. It has a simple design that'll blend perfectly with the existing aesthetic of your space, plus you can mount it on the wall, so it does not need to occupy any space on the floor.
The outlets on this surge protector are spacious enough for large adapters and plugs. You'll also like the fact that this surge protector comes with a flexible power cord designed to withstand electrical fluctuations.
Key Features
Features a built-in circuit breaker switch and a fireproof Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV)
With 3240 Joules of surge protection and eight outlets, this unit is one of the most powerful and versatile models available
It also comes with a safety slide lock that allows you to close unused outlets; plus, it can handle a max spike current of 6kv
5. Yintar Surge Protector
When it comes to protection against electrical surges, spikes, and lightning, there aren't many better options than the Yintar Surge Protector. Everything about this fascinating surge protector is custom-made to protect gaming PCs and other appliances from the damaging effects of electrical malfunctions. Not only does it come with multiple outlets to protect several devices at once, but it is also fire-resistant and built to withstand electrical malfunctions.
It also features a flexible power cord that can be tied and packaged to reduce clutter.
Key Features
18 AC outlets with an 8 ft heavy-duty power extension cord
A 3-tier surge suppression system made of a GDT (gas discharge tube), MOV (metal oxide varistor), and TVS (transient voltage suppressor)
Has a maximum surge rating of 2100 joules and a fire-resistant PC shell
6. Anker Surge Protector
If you're looking for the perfect gadget to protect your gaming PC and other appliances from electrical surges, then the white Anker Power Strip Surge Protector should be your go-to. It features multiple outlets to protect several devices at once and a flexible, heavy-duty cord for optimal protection.
This unit comes with patent technology that lets it charge USB devices faster than conventional means; plus, it is also flame-retardant, so it is very unlikely to catch on fire.
Key Features
World-class PowerIQ technology that supports fast charging
A maximum surge rating of 4,000 joules and 100144V voltage
This unit features 12 AC outlets, 3 USB ports, and a durable 6ft power cable
Features integrated copper wiring and thick rubber coating for enhanced safety and protection against electrical glitches
7. Huntkey Surge Protector
Powering an entire gaming setup or workstation isn't an easy feat, but the Huntkey Surge Protector Power Strip handles it pretty well. It features an intelligent operating system that is backed by patented technology, which is something that most other surge protectors lack. You can also mount this surge protector on the wall, making it a mobile option for travel and unconventional locations.
This model is versatile, making it suitable for plugging various types of gadgets including gaming PCs, home theatre systems, computers, phones, smartwatches, and many more.
Key Features
Has a 4000-J surge protection energy rating
Features 12 AC outlets, with 3 USB charging ports for charging mobile devices
An innovative built-in intelligent IC chipset that lets it detect connected devices instantly and maintain the ideal current and voltage for charging
Best Surge Protector for Gaming PCs Buying Guide
A surge protector might not enhance your gaming skills or help you beat that Boss level, but it'll protect your gaming setup against damage from electrical fluctuations. So if you're reading this piece and you don't have one for your gaming PC, now's the time to make the right decision and get the best surge protector for your gaming PC.
Surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from your gaming equipment and into the ground. In simple terms, these gadgets keep your gaming gear safe from power surges and spikes that would otherwise cause severe damage.
Surge suppressors are very useful, but not all of them provide the same level of reliable protection.
This makes it quite challenging to select the best model for your gaming PC. Continue reading to find out how to choose the perfect surge protector for your needs.
What Are the Factors to Consider When Buying a Surge Protector?
Surge protectors come in various forms, sizes, and designs. This piece will help you filter the wheat from the chaff by enlightening you on the significant factors to consider when buying a surge protector and provide answers to some frequently asked questions about these gadgets.
Number of outlets
Depending on the brand and model, surge protectors typically have between 4-18 outlets, and you can select any based on your needs. However, it's always best to choose one with more outlets than you actually need.
Well, over time, your need for more outlets will grow, and you want to be prepared when that time comes. So, for example, if you need four outlets, go for a surge protector with six or eight.
Outlet spacing
The best surge protectors make provisions for large plugs and adapters by having enough space between outlets. That way, you'll be able to plug adapters of any size into the surge arrester without having to squeeze them through.
USB charging ports
Some models feature USB charging ports for charging mobile phones and other USB-supported devices, while others don't. The former type of surge protectors are the best options in this case because they may come in handy if you find yourself without your charging adapter. All you have to do is simply connect your USB cord to the port and charge any compatible device.
However, having a USB port isn't enough. If you want to ensure healthy charging of your gadgets via surge protector charging ports, check the amp rating and confirm that it is at least 2A. Anything less may charge your devices very slowly and cause battery damage in the long run.
Surge protection rating
The surge protection rating (usually measured in joules) is one of the major factors determining a surge protector's quality. Basically, the higher the surge protection rating, the higher its ability to protect gaming PCs and other appliances from sudden bursts of electricity. The least surge protection rating to go for is 1000 joules, but some models come with up to 4,320 joules of protection.
Wall mount
Some surge arresters come with keyholes at their backs that can be mounted on walls. Although not mandatory, you may find this feature helpful if, for some reason, you can't place your surge protector on the floor.
LED indicator lights
For some gadgets, indicator lights may just be aesthetic, but not in surge protectors. In their case, lights indicate active protection against electrical bursts. So basically, if they're off, you'll know that your gaming PC isn't safe, and you can make the necessary adjustments.
Weight
The best surge protectors are always lightweight. It is a feature that makes them portable, especially when you're moving or traveling. Most lightweight models typically weigh about 2 pounds, so anything around that figure should suffice.
Cord length
Selecting the ideal cord length depends on your needs. For example, if the surge protector box needs to travel quite a distance, simply go for one with a longer cord. It's that simple. Surge protectors come with varying cord lengths, typically 6ft and 8ft. However, note that you may find models with longer cords.
Fire-resistance
Electrical surges and spikes may lead to sparks and fire outbreaks - but not if your choice of surge protector is fire-resistant. The primary element that confers fire resistance on surge suppressors is a fireproof metal oxide varistor (MOV). Other components that determine the fire-resistant quality of a surge protector are TVSs (transient voltage suppressors) and GDTs (gas discharge tubes).
Safety slide lock
This feature allows you to close unused outlets so that kids and adults don't mistakenly touch or insert conductive materials in them. It's a safety measure that has saved tons of lives, so you should definitely look out for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can you not plug in a surge protector?
A. Surge protectors are not suitable for all devices, some of which include large refrigerators, coffee makers, hot plates, microwaves, air conditioners, air compressors, and another surge protector or power strip.
Q. What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
A. A power strip and surge protector are similar in some respects, but they have one fundamental difference. Power strips simply split the main wall outlet into multiple ports without providing any real protection against electrical spikes and surges. On the other hand, surge protectors actively protect your appliances against electrical malfunctions and split your main wall outlet into multiple ports.
Q. Do I need a surge protector for my TV?
A. Yes. You should plug your TVs, gaming PCs, laptops, and desktop computers into a suitable surge protector if you want to protect them against damage by sudden bursts of electricity.
Q. How much does a surge protector cost?
A. For the level of protection they provide, surge protectors are pretty cheap. Basic models cost as low as $10, but even the high-end models go for only $30 or slightly more.
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