Extension cords are indispensable in any setting – whether it’s your home, office, or job site. They provide the ultimate flexibility to access a limitless power supply at all times and locations. With their versatility, you can effortlessly connect multiple devices, tools, or appliances anywhere. Plug one into a wall socket and unleash the full potential of an extension cord.
As the go-to solution for indoor or outdoor electricity needs, extension cords are perfect for powering handheld vacuum cleaners, trimming your garden with precision hedge trimmers, charging tech gadgets in the office, or completing DIY projects in a garage with powerful miter saws. What’s more? An extension cord is an ideal travel companion, suitable for use in RVs or on cruise ships.
The 10 Best Extension Cords
When it comes to extension cords, a reliable and high-quality option is crucial. Here are some of the top-rated options on the market: Iron Forge’s 25-foot extension cord is a popular choice among users, while HITRENDS’ 5-foot extension cord power strip provides a compact solution for small spaces. For those needing more length, Kensington’s 15-foot extension cord power strip and Tripp Lite’s 25-foot extension cord are excellent options.
If you need an even longer reach, consider US Wire and Cable’s 50-foot extension cord or Southwire’s 50-foot extension cord, both of which received top marks from customers. For a more convenient option, look to Masterplug’s 80-foot extension cord reel or Flexzilla’s retractable extension cord reel for easy storage. And for those in the agricultural industry, Woods’ AgriPro extension cord is a great choice.
Finally, NTONPOWER’s extension cord power strip offers a reliable and space-saving solution.
Our Top Pick for the Best Extension Cord
We’re impressed by the US Wire and Cable 50-foot Extension Cord, which earns our top spot for the best extension cord. This premium option is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a valuable addition to any DIY home renovation or construction project toolkit. What sets this extension cord apart is its exceptional quality, reliability, and safety features.
Whether you’re powering high-powered tools or appliances or meeting everyday residential electrical needs, the 65050 model’s sturdy, flexible design ensures a smooth operation. Its extra-long 50-foot length provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to extend power supplies almost anywhere. With such impressive specifications, it’s no wonder we highly recommend this extension cord for any project or application.
How to Choose an Extension Cord
When selecting an extension cord that meets your electrical requirements, don’t overlook several key characteristics. To ensure a reliable and safe power supply, think about the length of the cord needed, its rated amperage capacity, as well as any specific safety certifications or features like weather-resistant construction, multiple outlets, or surge protection.
Indoor Extension Cord
Indoor extension cords are typically designed to power small and medium-sized appliances and electronic devices, but it’s essential to note that they may not be suitable for long-term use outdoors or in wet conditions. While they can handle some limited exposure to sunlight, it’s not recommended to leave them out in the elements for an extended period.
When connecting multiple extension cords together, it’s crucial to ensure that the plug on the other end of the cord has a safely grounded 3-pronged outlet. To avoid any potential safety risks, consider purchasing a longer cord rather than attaching two separate ones.
Indoor Extension Cord Power Strip
When shopping for indoor extension cords, consider those that come with built-in power strips, like the Tripp Lite TLP825 25-foot Extension Cord Power Strip. These power strips offer multiple sockets to accommodate various appliances or digital devices. One of the key benefits is their ability to provide surge protection against power spikes, safeguarding sensitive devices from potential damage.
In addition, some power strips may feature a built-in light that indicates when the strip reaches maximum capacity. This added layer of safety is particularly important for devices like laptops and desktop computers, which can be severely impacted by power surges.
Outdoor Extension Cord
When it comes to outdoor extension cords, look no further than specially designed options like those from US Wire and Cable’s 50-foot Extension Cord. These durable cords are perfect for both DIY home renovations and heavy-duty industrial construction projects. One distinct feature of outdoor extension cords is their bright coloration – think yellow, lime green, orange, or red – which greatly enhances visibility in a variety of environments.
Before putting one to use, be sure to thoroughly review the specifications, particularly when working with heavy machinery or power tools. Additionally, take note of the cord’s water resistance and waterproofing capabilities to ensure reliable performance in inclement weather conditions.
Extension Cord Splitter
When it comes to powering multiple devices simultaneously, an extension cord with a built-in splitter is a game-changer for individuals involved in renovation projects or farming. A prime example of such a product is the Woods 2451 AgriPro Extension Cord. This type of setup allows users to effortlessly power up several power tools or appliances at once. However, it’s crucial to consider the total wattage of the cord before connecting heavy-duty equipment to avoid any potential issues.
Extension Cord with a Lighted Plug
When it comes to powering tools and equipment on construction sites or in home workshops, having an outdoor extension cord with a lighted plug outlet is essential. One great option is the Flezilla FZ8140503 Retractable Extension Cord Reel, which boasts a protective sleeve that illuminates when power is flowing. This innovative feature eliminates the risk of electrocution, allowing you to work safely and confidently, even in low-light environments.
Extension Cord Reels
Consider elevating your extension cord game with a retractable cord reel, an innovative solution that combines the convenience of a garden hose reel with the added benefits of a portable power outlet. This clever design not only keeps your cord tidy but also allows for easy movement and storage. Some models even feature additional outlets on the exterior of the housing, such as the Flexzilla Extension Cord Reel, providing a complete tool setup at your fingertips.
Extension Cord Safety
When utilizing an extension cord, prioritizing safety is crucial. To ensure a safe experience, select the right tool for the job and position the cord in a clear area where foot traffic won’t pose a tripping hazard. Moreover, heavy furniture should be positioned to avoid crushing the cord. When employing power strips, refrain from overloading them with large transformer plugs to prevent potential hazards.
Furthermore, when shopping for extension cords, opt for those that are UL listed or carry similar safety ratings to guarantee a secure connection.
Plugs with Three Prongs or Two Prongs
When it comes to extension cords, having a 3-pronged plug plays a crucial role in boosting their overall safety. In contrast, 2-pronged plugs are more commonly seen on smaller devices like cordless phones and stereos. The third prong of a 3-pronged plug serves as an additional safeguard for appliances with metal casings, effectively shielding users from the risks of electrocution posed by wear and tear or lightning strikes.
This design feature ensures that even if there’s a fault in the appliance’s internal wiring or an external electrical surge occurs, you’re protected from harm.
Understanding Extension Cord Specifications
When it comes to extension cords, manufacturers often employ a set of abbreviations to convey crucial information about the product’s materials, components, usage guidelines, and safety features. This concise notation allows consumers to quickly assess the cord’s capabilities and limitations. For instance, an ‘E’ designation might indicate that the cord jacket is constructed from thermoplastic elastomer rubber (TPE), while a ‘J’ code suggests standard 300-voltage insulation.
Other abbreviations like ‘O’, denoting oil-resistance, or ‘P’, indicating parallel wire construction for household use, provide valuable insights into the product’s properties and intended applications. Additionally, designations such as ‘S’ signify general-purpose usage, while a ‘T’ code indicates a vinyl thermoplastic jacket. Finally, certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and approvals like ‘W’ for outdoor use offer assurances of the cord’s safety and reliability.
Extension Cord Gauge
When it comes to determining the suitable application for an extension cord, its gauge plays a crucial role. The American Wire Gauge (AWG) system assigns numbers to cords, with lower numbers indicating heavier-duty usage and higher numbers signifying lighter-duty applications. Specifically, AWG gauges of 10 or 12 are commonly found in power tools, whereas a cord sporting an AWG gauge of 16 is more suitable for everyday use, such as powering lamps or small appliances.
Length
The versatility of extension cords is one of their most significant advantages. They come in a wide range of lengths to cater to various needs and settings. For everyday use in homes or offices, you can find cords as short as 15 inches, as well as 5-foot, 25-foot, and even longer varieties. In contrast, heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor or industrial applications are often significantly longer, measuring up to 50 feet, 80 feet, or a full 100 feet in length.
10 Best Extension Cords – Reviews
Iron Forge Cable 25-foot Extension Cord
When it comes to powering digital devices, small household appliances, or even installing Christmas lights on your patio, you’ll want an extension cord that’s reliable and safe. The Iron Forge Cable 25-foot Extension Cord is an excellent choice for your home. With its generous 16-gauge length and three-outlet powerboard, this cord offers convenient power distribution.
The durable, insulated thermoplastic jacket resists moisture, abrasion, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
One of the standout features of this extension cord is its smart design. The flat head allows you to place furniture flush against the wall safely, while the accessory loop enables easy hanging or wall mounting. What’s more, Iron Forge Cable offers the extension cord in five other lengths, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.
The pros of this product include its high quality, great value for money, and competitive price. It’s an ideal choice for light to medium-duty indoor use, as well as outdoor areas like patios. The cord is also covered by a lifetime replacement warranty, providing added peace of mind.
While the extension cord has several advantages, it does have some limitations. For instance, the power board lacks surge protection, which may be a concern for those with sensitive electronics.
Additionally, while the cord can be used outdoors, it’s not fully waterproof and should only be used in dry conditions.
Overall, the Iron Forge Cable 25-foot Extension Cord is a reliable and safe choice for powering your devices. Check out the price on Amazon to see if it’s right for you.
HITRENDS 5-foot Extension Cord Power Strip
The HITRENDS 5-foot Extension Cord Power Strip is an exemplary choice for extending power to small appliances and devices in your home or office. Boasting a robust set of safety features, this compact and portable power strip is designed with the user’s peace of mind in mind. With its FCC and RoHS certifications, you can trust that it meets stringent standards for quality and reliability.
This 1250-watt power strip offers an impressive array of functions, including three US standard grounded outlets and three USB 5-volt charging ports. It supports a higher current and fast charging speed through its upgraded intelligent USB ports, which also feature surge protection, overload protection, and short-circuit protection. The six-grade energy-efficient board ensures that your devices are charged efficiently.
Weighing in at a mere 5 feet, this extension cord is ideal for travel or use on a desk. With its black or white finish, it will blend seamlessly into any environment. And with HITRENDS’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that you’re protected by their free replacement guarantee.
The benefits of this power strip are numerous: high quality, great value for money, very affordable price, high functionality, convenient 6-in-1 design, and the ability to power small appliances and digital devices. It’s suitable for most phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to stow away when not in use.
However, it’s essential to note that this power strip is not designed for large appliances or outdoor use, and the cord length may be a limitation for some users.
Kensington K38215NA 15-foot Extension Cord Power Strip
When it comes to safeguarding your valuable electronics from power surges and spikes, trust Kensington’s reliable surge protection solutions. Their range of extension cord power strips is perfect for both home and office use, providing a safe haven for your devices. The Kensington K38215NA 15-foot Extension Cord Power Strip, in particular, stands out with its impressive 1500 Joule rating, accommodating up to six adapter-style plugs, making it ideal for laptops, computers, or printers.
With smart surge protection, an indicator light, and an on/off switch, this UL-listed/CSA-certified power strip effectively shields your equipment from harm. The generous 15-foot extension cord offers flexibility in placement, while the slimline design and right-angle plug minimize clutter on a desk or behind a podium. Kensington’s unique circular tabletop SmartSocket, with its 6 color-coded adapter outlets and 16-foot extension cord, is also worth considering for hosting business meetings.
For added convenience, all of Kensington’s extension cord power strips can be mounted to the wall, providing ample space for up to six AC adapters. The company also offers a range of options, including standard power strips with color-coded outlets, available in various configurations (6, 7, or 8 outlets) and lengths (6-foot or 15-foot extension cords). Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, Kensington’s surge protection solutions provide peace of mind for users.
While some may find the products expensive, they offer excellent value for money, making them an excellent choice for safeguarding your electronics.
Tripp Lite TLP825 25-foot Extension Cord Power Strip
When it comes to protecting your devices and appliances at home or office, reliability is key. The Tripp Lite TLP825 25-foot Extension Cord Power Strip offers a robust solution. This versatile power strip can accommodate a wide range of gadgets, from computers and monitors to printers, wireless routers, televisions, and more. Safety is paramount with the Tripp Lite. It features advanced internal surge/noise protection design, which provides maximum safety against electrical surges.
The UL-listed power strip also includes high-impact housing and sliding outlet safety covers to prevent accidental contact with unused outlets. In the event of a surge or overload, the automatic shutoff system cuts power to all outlets, ensuring your devices are protected. Diagnostic LEDs confirm grounding and protection status at a glance, giving you peace of mind. The power strip features 8 protected AC outlets, including 5 standard and 3 larger outlets perfect for bulky transformers.
The extra-long 25-foot extension cord provides ample reach, while the right-angle plug allows furniture and equipment to be placed flush against the wall. You can mount the power strip on a wall or desk using the keyhole slots on the bottom panel. The unit is available in light gray or black.
Pros of this power strip include its high quality, great value for money, 8 outlets, three large plugs for bulky transformers, high 1440 Joule rating, surge and maximum overload protection, automatic shutoff system, UL-listed diagnostic LEDs, extra-long 25-foot AC extension power cord, space-saving right-angle design, wall mount or desk mounting ability, and lifetime limited warranty.
However, some users may find the price a bit steep, while others may note that the plastic covers are a bit flimsy. It’s also important to keep in mind that this product is not designed for outdoor use. Nevertheless, the Tripp Lite TLP825 offers an excellent solution for those seeking reliable power protection.
US Wire and Cable 50-foot Extension Cord
For DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, and avid gardeners, the US Wire and Cable 50-foot Extension Cord is an indispensable tool for any home or industrial job site. This rugged extension cord has withstood some of Alaska’s harshest weather conditions, ensuring it can withstand even the most challenging environments.
Its 12-gauge 15 amp/1875-watt design features a sturdy molded plug and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) insulated SJTW jacket that is abrasion-resistant and impervious to moisture, sunlight, or extreme temperatures as low as -35°F. The medium flexibility tangle-free design provides ample freedom of movement, allowing for safe and efficient use with power tools, electric motors, and appliances.
When ready to work, the UL-listed/OSHA-approved extension cord’s socket features a red glow that illuminates, providing added peace of mind. Available in 1 or 2-packs and colors orange or yellow, this extension cord is backed by a limited lifetime warranty from US Wire and Cable.
Its impressive list of pros includes high quality, excellent value for money, good price, ideal for both home and industrial use, heavy-duty construction, extreme all-weather design, and a range of innovative features that make it an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional.
Southwire 50-foot Extension Cord
The Southwire 50-foot Extension Cord is an all-purpose medium-duty cord designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its versatility makes it ideal for powering a wide range of electric-powered tools, from leaf blowers to power tools. The cord’s waterproof vinyl jacket provides flexibility in various weather conditions while offering maximum resistance against moisture, abrasion, and sunlight.
A heavy-duty connector and molded plug with three reinforced prongs ensure the cord can withstand bending or breaking. With its UL-listed certification and bright red color, this extension cord is safe to use indoors or outdoors. Available in 25-foot, 50-foot, and 100-foot lengths, it’s a great option for landscaping, gardening, cleaning appliances, and power tools.
Some users may experience the cord becoming stiffer in cold weather conditions, but overall, its durability, flexibility, and affordability make it a popular choice. You can check the price on Amazon.
Masterplug 80-foot Extension Cord Reel
The Masterplug 80-foot Extension Cord Reel excels in providing reliable functionality for both residential and light commercial applications. Its 14-gauge design allows seamless integration with various power tools, including miter saws, line trimmers, leaf blowers, and more. The reel’s unique 4-in-1 feature enables attachment of up to four power tools at once.
The open-style cord reel boasts a robust stand, an ergonomic handle, and a lightweight yet sturdy construction, making it highly portable around the garage, garden, or property. The extra-long 80-foot power cord ensures on-demand power indoors and outdoors, while the reel’s integrated off/on button simplifies tool operation without requiring frequent trips to a main electrical outlet.
The reel features an innovative design with built-in overload protection, a red reset button, and childproof sliding outlet covers, ensuring safe working conditions. Moreover, the bright lime green cord color provides increased visibility, making it easier to manage and store. The integrated cord guide enables effortless winding and unwinding of the cord, reducing frustration.
As for pros, this extension cord reel stands out for its high quality, excellent value, great functionality, and versatility in both outdoor and indoor settings. Its 14-gauge design is suitable for a wide range of power tools, making it an ideal choice for homes, workshops, yards, and light industrial applications. The heavy-duty steel base and easy-grip handle provide added durability and convenience.
However, some users may find the price point to be slightly higher than expected, while others might encounter issues with the handle’s placement near the spool or the crank handle feeling a bit flimsy. Nevertheless, the Masterplug 80-foot Extension Cord Reel remains an excellent choice for those seeking reliable power cord management and storage solutions.
Flexzilla Retractable Extension Cord Reel
The Flexzilla Retractable Extension Cord Reel is an exceptional tool for both home and professional use, offering unparalleled performance and reliability. Its 14-gauge/13-amp, extra-long 50-foot extension cord is engineered to withstand harsh conditions, including oil, water, and sunlight, while maintaining its flexibility in low temperatures. The reel’s housing is constructed from impact-resistant black polypropylene, ensuring durability without sacrificing weight.
The retractable cord boasts a kink-free design, eliminating any tangles or knots, while the adjustable cord stopper allows for precise control over the length of the cord. Additionally, the cord locks out in 1-foot increments for improved precision. A lighted triple-tap outlet provides ample power capacity and features a grounded 5-foot lead-in cord for added convenience.
One of its most impressive features is the built-in circuit breaker with a reset button, which protects against tripping and blowing fuses. For optimal work efficiency, the extension cord reel can be mounted to walls or ceilings, and the swivel bracket pivots in the direction of your work. Flexzilla offers a range of options, including 25-foot and 60-foot extension cords, as well as a one-year warranty on the extension cord reel itself.
While it may have some drawbacks, such as being expensive and lacking mounting hardware, its numerous benefits make it an excellent investment for anyone seeking high-quality performance.
Woods 2451 AgriPro Extension Cord
The Woods 2451 AgriPro Extension Cord is an exceptional choice for farmers, ranchers, and those working outdoors. Its robust design makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from powering farm equipment to operating power tools in harsh weather conditions. The extension cord’s heavy-duty construction features a thick, durable vinyl jacket that resists chemicals, oil, and moisture, ensuring reliable performance even in the most demanding environments.
The plug boasts three reinforced blades that prevent accidental bending or breaking, while the UL-listed design guarantees safety and compliance with industry standards. With its generous 25-foot length (or available 50-foot option), this extension cord is perfect for powering multiple appliances simultaneously. While it may be a bit stiff in extremely cold temperatures, the Woods 2451 AgriPro Extension Cord is generally easy to use and maintain its flexibility in most weather conditions.
As with any product containing lead, users should wash their hands after handling.
NTONPOWER Extension Cord Power Strip
Are you tired of struggling to find enough outlets to charge your devices while traveling? Look no further than the NTONPOWER Extension Cord Power Strip, the ultimate companion for any traveler. This compact and portable donut-shaped power strip can be easily carried in a suitcase or backpack and provides three outlets and three 150-volt intelligent USB ports to keep all your devices charged.
With its non-slip rubber stand, you can set it up on a nightstand or desk, making it perfect for use at home, in an RV, or even on a cruise ship. The power strip’s high-temperature fire shield outer shell and multi-protection design ensure safe and reliable operation, protecting against electrical short-circuits, overheating, overcharging, and voltage overload. Additionally, the three-pronged plug is FCC and RoHS approved for added peace of mind.
With an 18-month warranty from NTONPOWER, you can trust that this extension cord power strip will provide years of reliable service. While it may not be suitable for larger or bulkier plugs, and may require an additional extension cord for use on nightstands located further away from a power outlet, the benefits far outweigh any minor drawbacks. Overall, the NTONPOWER Extension Cord Power Strip is an excellent value for money and offers a high level of convenience and reliability.
Our Top Pick for the Best Extension Cord
When it comes to choosing the best extension cord for your needs, our top pick is the US Wire and Cable 50-foot Extension Cord. This premium product excels in terms of durability, functionality, reliability, and most importantly, safety. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional builder, having access to high-quality tools that can withstand heavy use is crucial.
The US Wire and Cable extension cord is designed to handle demanding tasks, such as powering high-powered tools or appliances, while also meeting everyday residential electrical needs. Its sturdy construction, flexibility, and safe operation make it an excellent choice for any project or application.
And with its extra-long 50-foot length, you’ll have the freedom to extend a power supply just about anywhere – all with the confidence of knowing you’re using a product that prioritizes safety above all else. For more information on this top-rated extension cord, be sure to check out current pricing and availability on Amazon.
