Cable Matters 6-Outlet Surge Protector with USB-C and USB-A - 8ft

In this review of the Cable Matters 6-outlet surge protector, the bottom line is straightforward: it is a practical, budget-friendly power hub for desks, entertainment centers, and home offices that need a mix of AC outlets and accessible USB charging. The unit's main selling point is its combination of six grounded outlets plus one USB-A and one USB-C port sharing 3.4A, letting users power multiple devices while keeping charging cables neatly centralized. For anyone replacing a single wall outlet or consolidating chargers, this strip balances safety features with simple, usable design.

Key Features

• Six AC outlets: Provides a central place to plug in multiple devices so power is consolidated and easier to manage.
• USB-C and USB-A ports: The dual USB ports at the strip end share 3.4A total, offering convenient charging for phones and tablets without needing separate adapters.
• 8 ft cord with low-profile plug: The long, easy-to-coil cord and slim plug make it simple to reach distant outlets and tuck the plug behind furniture.
• 490-joule surge protection: Built-in suppression helps protect connected gear from spikes while an automatic circuit breaker stops excessive current.
• Durable construction: Heavy-duty 14 AWG wire and molded strain relief improve longevity for regular use in busy workspaces or entertainment setups.
• Mounting template included: The surface mounting template makes it straightforward to install under a desk or on a wall for better cable organization.

Who It's For

The Cable Matters strip is aimed at users who need to expand a grounded outlet into multiple AC sockets and occasional USB charging without adding bulky adapters; it suits home offices, student rooms, or media consoles where six outlets plus two USB ports handle common device loads. The accessible USB ports at the strip end are useful for devices that are frequently plugged and unplugged.

It is less appropriate for users who need high-speed dedicated USB-C power delivery for laptops or devices that require more than the shared 3.4A across both ports. Power-hungry workshop tools or industrial equipment that exceed a 15 Amp/1875 Watt rating should look for a different solution.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Multiple grounded outlets convert a single wall plug into a convenient central power station.
• Dual USB ports (USB-C and USB-A) provide accessible charging without separate chargers.
• Robust build with 14 AWG cord, low-profile plug, and molded strain relief for reliable, tidy installation.
• Included mounting template makes under-desk or wall mounting quick and clean.

Cons

• USB ports share a 3.4A total output, which limits fast charging for multiple tablets or high-power devices simultaneously.
• The 490-joule rating offers basic surge protection but is not the highest available for premium surge-sensitive setups.

Specifications

Outlets	6 grounded AC outlets
USB Ports	1 USB-A and 1 USB-C sharing 3.4A total
Cord Length	8 ft
Wire Gauge	14 AWG
Power Rating	15 Amp / 1875 Watt
Surge Suppression	490-joule rating
Safety	Power-saving on/off switch and automatic circuit breaker

Our Verdict

For everyday home and office use, this Cable Matters 6-outlet surge protector with USB-C and USB-A is a dependable, cost-effective option that consolidates outlets and adds convenient USB charging. It delivers sensible safety features and cable management for its price, making it a good value for users who need multiple AC outlets and occasional device charging without advanced USB-C power delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the USB-C port fast-charge a laptop?
No. The USB-C and USB-A ports share 3.4A total, so they are intended for phones and tablets rather than high-power laptop charging.

Is this strip safe to mount under a desk?
Yes. It includes a surface mounting template and has molded strain relief and a heavy-duty cord suitable for fixed installation under desks or on walls.

How much surge protection does it provide?
The unit offers a 490-joule suppression rating, which provides basic protection for common spikes but is lower than some premium surge protectors.