We compared two 6-outlet surge protector power strips: the APC U-Shaped Surge Protector (PE6U4) and the Belkin 6 Way Surge Protection Extension Lead.
What we looked at
Outlet configuration, USB charging, surge protection rating, and price.
The verdict
If you want a flexible U-shaped design that can clip to a desk, hang over a partition or stand alone, with 4 USB charging ports sharing 4.8 Amps and a stated 1080 Joule surge rating, the APC is the more configurable pick, at £58.86, though it usually dispatches within 4 to 5 days. If you would rather pay £38.87 less for a simple 6-way, 2m extension lead with surge protection up to 650 Joules, the Belkin is the value option, at £19.99.
A £58.86 surge protector rated at 1080 Joules with 4 built-in USB ports.
A £19.99 6-way extension lead with surge protection up to 650 Joules.
APC U-Shaped Surge Protector 6-Outlets 1080 Joule with 4 USB Charger Ports (PE6U4) — Highest Surge Rating
Intended for: Marketed as a U-shaped surge protector with 6 outlets rated at 1080 Joules of surge protection, 4 USB charger ports sharing 4.8 Amps of charging power, a 6-foot power cord that rotates 90 degrees, 4 possible mounting configurations (under a monitor, clipped to a desk, hung on a partition, or stand-alone), and backed by APC's lifetime warranty with a $50,000 connected-equipment policy.
What we liked
- Higher stated surge protection than the Belkin: 1080 Joules against 650
- 4 built-in USB charger ports sharing 4.8 Amps, none on the Belkin
- 4 possible mounting configurations, per the listing
- 6-foot power cord that rotates 90 degrees
- Backed by APC's lifetime warranty and a $50,000 connected-equipment policy
Worth knowing
- Costs £38.87 more than the Belkin on these listings
- Usually dispatched within 4 to 5 days, per the listing
Best for
- Buyers who want built-in USB charging ports
- Anyone who wants a flexible mounting design
- Higher-value equipment where the higher Joule rating matters
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who wants the fastest dispatch
Belkin 6 Way/6 Plug 2m Surge Protection Extension Lead Strip, White — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a 6-outlet surge protection extension lead strip with a 2-metre power cord, surge protection up to 650 Joules, and a £30,000 connected equipment warranty.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the APC on these listings, at £19.99
- 6 outlets on a straightforward extension lead format
- 2-metre power cord for reaching further outlets
- £30,000 connected equipment warranty, per the listing
Worth knowing
- No built-in USB charging ports, per the listing
- Lower stated surge protection than the APC: 650 Joules against 1080
Best for
- Buyers who want the lower price
- Anyone who just needs extra plug sockets with basic surge protection
- A straightforward extension lead format
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants built-in USB charging
- Buyers who want the highest stated Joule rating
