Cable Matters 6-Outlet Surge Protector with USB Ports - 12ft

Our review of this Cable Matters power strip finds it best for home and small office setups that need extra outlets and simple USB charging without extra adapters. The single biggest reason to buy is straightforward: it combines a six-outlet surge-protected strip with two easy-access USB-A ports and a long extension cord, giving practical protection and flexible placement in one affordable 2-pack. The strip's ETL listing and 490 Joules of surge suppression make it a sensible choice when you want basic surge safety and convenient charging without fuss.

Key Features

• ETL Listed protection: The 490 Joules of surge suppression and built-in 15 Amp circuit breaker provide a layer of protection against spikes and overloads for everyday electronics.
• High power capacity: With a 15 Amp, 125VAC, 1875W rating the strip supports higher-draw devices such as computers, printers, and TVs without tripping under normal loads.
• Integrated USB charging: Two USB-A ports (5V 2.1A) located at the end of the strip let you charge smartphones and tablets without using bulky wall adapters.
• Long extension cord: The 12 ft cord gives flexibility to reach distant wall outlets or to position the strip under desks and media stands.
• Durable construction: Built with 14 AWG wire and molded strain relief the unit is designed for reliable, long-term use and reduced wear at the plug.
• Power-saving switch and mountable design: The ON/OFF switch conveniently cuts power to all connected devices and the included mounting template makes wall or under-desk installation straightforward.

Who It's For

This surge protector is well suited for students, remote workers, and homeowners who need multiple grounded AC outlets plus occasional USB charging at a desk, entertainment center, or bedside. The 12 ft cord and mounting option make it practical for placement where wall outlets are out of reach.

People who need advanced surge suppression for mission-critical equipment or a large number of USB-C fast-charging ports should look elsewhere; this model provides basic surge protection and two 5V 2.1A USB-A ports rather than USB-C PD or very high joule ratings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good balance of surge protection and outlet capacity with six grounded receptacles for multiple devices.
• Convenient dual USB-A ports at the strip end simplify charging phones and tablets without extra adapters.
• Durable build with 14 AWG wire, molded strain relief, and a long 12 ft cord for flexible placement.
• Included mounting template and power-saving ON/OFF switch add practical convenience.

Cons

• 490 Joules is solid for basic protection but not as high as some heavy-duty surge protectors for premium equipment.
• USB ports are USB-A 5V 2.1A only, so they do not provide faster USB-C PD charging for laptops or newer devices.

Specifications

Certification	ETL Listed
Surge suppression	490 Joules
Power rating	15 Amp, 125VAC, 1875W
USB ports	2 x USB-A, 5V 2.1A
Cord length	12 ft
Wire gauge	14 AWG
Extras	On/Off switch and mounting template

Our Verdict

For anyone looking for an affordable, well-built power strip that combines six grounded outlets, basic surge protection, and USB charging, this Cable Matters strip is a practical buy. It delivers sensible protection, a long cord for flexible placement, and convenient USB ports, making it good value for typical home and small office use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this strip protect against power surges?
Yes, it is ETL Listed and provides 490 Joules of surge suppression plus a 15 Amp circuit breaker to guard against spikes and overloads.

How many USB ports and what output do they provide?
There are two USB-A ports at the end of the strip, each offering 5V 2.1A charging suitable for phones and tablets.

Can it handle high-power devices like a TV or desktop PC?
Yes, the strip is rated 15 Amp, 125VAC, 1875W, which supports higher-draw devices such as computers, printers, and TVs for normal use.