Best Surge Protection Devices for Sensitive Electronics: 2025 Expert Review
Oli at OR Electrics
Fully Qualified 18th Edition Electrician
Let's be honest: most people don't think about surge protection until it's too late. You might spend thousands on a new 4K TV, a gaming PC, or smart home gear, only to plug it all into an ancient, yellowing extension lead you found in the back of a cupboard. In my line of work across Leeds, I often get called out after a fault has already fried sensitive components.
While the best defence is always a Type 2 Surge Protection Device (SPD) installed directly in your Consumer Unit (fuse box)—something we install regularly—secondary protection at the socket is vital for that extra layer of security. This is what we call Type 3 protection, and it handles the residual voltage spikes that can occur from switching heavy loads nearby or distant grid issues.
In this review, I've selected three surge protection options that I'd be happy to see in a client's home. We'll look at a trusty budget option from a solid British brand, a smart plug that helps you monitor energy usage, and a high-capacity solution for the messy home office.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Lightning Protection"
"Marketing often implies these strips will save your devices from a direct lightning strike."
Nothing stops a direct lightning strike; the voltage is simply too high. These devices are designed to divert smaller voltage spikes and surges (from grid switching or nearby appliances) safely to earth. They are your second line of defence, not a magic shield.
The Spec: "Joules Rating & Lifespan"
"The device works effectively forever."
Surge protection components (MOVs) are 'sacrificial'. They degrade every time they absorb a spike. Once the indicator light goes out, it's just a normal extension lead. Check the lights regularly!
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Masterplug Four Socket Extension Lead, 2 Metre Cable with Surge Protection
Masterplug
Masterplug is a staple brand in the UK electrical trade for a reason: they are reliable, compliant, and no-nonsense. This is the ideal everyday surge protector for your TV corner or bedside table.
The Good
- Includes a connected equipment warranty (up to £1,000)
- Clear LED indicators show if protection is actually active
- Wall-mountable keyholes on the back help keep floors tidy
The Bad
- Unswitched sockets (you have to turn off at the wall)
- Basic black aesthetic isn't exciting, but it works
Installer Tip:
Mount this on the wall behind your TV unit using the keyhole slots. It keeps the cables off the floor, which makes cleaning easier and reduces dust build-up—dust is a fire risk in itself.
Priced at £9.30 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonTapo P304M Smart Plug Power Strip with Energy Monitoring
Tapo
If you are tech-minded, this is a fantastic piece of kit. Not only does it offer surge protection, but the energy monitoring is brilliant for identifying which appliances are driving up your bills. The 'Zero-Crossing' detection is a geeky electrical feature that actually extends the life of the relay significantly.
The Good
- Individual control of sockets via app or voice
- Energy monitoring allows you to see real-time cost of devices
- Zero-crossing detection prevents sparking inside the relay (safer)
The Bad
- More expensive than a standard strip
- Requires WiFi and setup (not 'plug and play' if you want features)
Installer Tip:
Use the 'Away Mode' on this strip for your lamps. It randomises on/off times to make it look like you're home, which is a great security deterrent alongside your burglar alarm.
Priced at £24.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonBlack Extension Lead, 8 Way Outlets with 4 USB Ports
HANYCONY
I often see dangerous 'daisy-chaining' (plugging extension leads into extension leads) in home offices because standard 4-way strips aren't enough. This 8-way tower-style layout solves that problem safely, provided you don't exceed the total load.
The Good
- Eliminates the need for dangerous daisy-chaining
- Widely spaced sockets fit bulky transformer plugs easily
- Includes USB C for modern device charging
The Bad
- Physically large unit takes up desktop space
- You must still respect the total 13A limit across all sockets
Installer Tip:
This is perfect for a computer setup (monitor, PC, printer, router). These devices are low amperage, so you can fill all 8 sockets without tripping the fuse. However, DO NOT use this for high-power items like heaters or kettles simultaneously.
Priced at £17.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Does a surge protector strip replace a Consumer Unit SPD?
How do I know if my surge protector is still working?
Can I plug a surge protector into another extension lead?
Why does the joule rating matter?
What is the 13A limit you mentioned?
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