Did you know that the average home experiences multiple power surges every day? While many of these are minor, a single significant surge from a lightning strike or a power grid fluctuation can instantly destroy thousands of dollars worth of electronics. In our increasingly connected world of 2025, where smart homes, powerful gaming PCs, and home offices are the norm, the need for robust power protection is no longer a luxury—it’s an absolute necessity. This is where a high-quality surge protector comes in, and the Anker 351 Power Strip stands out as a top contender.
This comprehensive review will delve into why the Anker 351 is more than just a simple power strip. We’ll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if this is the best surge protector to safeguard your valuable electronics in 2025.
Product Overview :
- All the Power You Need: Features 12 AC outlets, 1 USB-C port, and 2 USB-A ports to give you everything you need to power…
- Fast Charge Your iPhone: Use the 20W USB-C port to give your iPhone 15 a high-speed charge from 0-50% in just 26 minutes…
- 8-Point Safety System: Combines surge protection, fire resistance, overload protection, temperature control, and more to…
The Anker 351 Power Strip is a versatile and powerful solution for both home and office use. It’s designed to not only expand your outlet capacity but also provide superior protection for your devices.
Key Features and Specifications:
- 12 AC Outlets: Ample space to power a wide range of devices, from computers and monitors to home theater systems.
- 3 USB Ports: Includes one 20W USB-C port for fast charging and two USB-A ports, allowing you to charge mobile devices directly.
- 2100-Joule Surge Protection: A high joule rating indicates a greater ability to absorb energy from power surges, offering excellent protection for your valuable electronics.
- 8-Point Safety System: Anker’s comprehensive safety system includes surge protection, fire resistance, and temperature control for peace of mind.
- Slim and Mountable Design: The slim profile and keyhole slots on the back allow for easy mounting under a desk or behind furniture.
- 5-Foot Cord: A flexible cord that provides decent reach for various setups.
This USB surge protector is designed to accommodate the modern user’s needs, blending a high number of outlets with the convenience of fast-charging USB ports. The thoughtful design ensures that even bulky power adapters can be plugged in without obstructing other outlets.
Performance & User Experience
In real-world usage, the Anker 351 Power Strip performs exceptionally well. The 12 AC outlets are a significant advantage for users with multiple devices, such as those with a home office or a gaming surge protector setup. The inclusion of a 20W USB-C port is a standout feature, capable of charging an iPhone 13 to 53% in just 30 minutes.
Pros:
- Ample Outlets: With 12 AC outlets, you’re unlikely to run out of space for your devices.
- Fast Charging: The 20W USB-C port provides rapid charging for modern smartphones and tablets.
- High Joule Rating: The 2100-joule rating offers robust protection against power surges.
- Thoughtful Design: The slim design and widely spaced outlets make it a practical choice for various environments.
Cons:
- Cord Length: While 5 feet is adequate for many, some users might prefer a longer cord for more flexibility.
- Modest Joule Rating for High-End Setups: While 2100 joules is substantial, users with extremely high-end and expensive equipment might seek even higher-rated protectors.
One user noted that this power strip with USB is a “must-have for any household with a lot of tech,” describing it as safe and reliable for family use. The convenience of having both AC outlets and high-speed USB charging in one unit cannot be overstated in 2025’s tech-driven landscape.
Comparison with Similar Products
To give you a better perspective, here’s how the Anker 351 Power Strip stacks up against some of its popular competitors:
| Feature | Anker 351 Power Strip | Belkin PivotPlug 12-Outlet | Tripp Lite 12-Outlet Surge Protector |
| AC Outlets | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| USB Ports | 1 USB-C, 2 USB-A | None | None |
| Joule Rating | 2100 Joules | 4320 Joules | 2160 Joules |
| Cord Length | 5 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet |
| Unique Feature | Fast-charging 20W USB-C port | Pivoting outlets for large adapters | Extra ports for Ethernet and cable |
While the Belkin PivotPlug boasts a higher joule rating and rotating outlets, it lacks the integrated USB charging that is a significant advantage of the Anker 351. The Tripp Lite model is a strong contender with a similar joule rating and the added benefit of protecting Ethernet and cable lines, making it a great choice for a surge protector for home theater setups. However, for users who prioritize the convenience of charging mobile devices without a separate adapter, the Anker 351’s power strip with USB functionality makes it a more versatile option.
Pricing & Value:
The Anker 351 Power Strip is competitively priced, typically falling in the affordable to mid-range category for surge protectors with this level of functionality. Given its high number of outlets, robust safety features, and the inclusion of a fast-charging USB-C port, it offers excellent value for the money.
When you consider the potential cost of replacing electronics damaged by a power surge, investing in a reliable power surge protector like the Anker 351 is a small price to pay for significant peace of mind. Anker also provides an 18-month warranty and up to a $200,000 lifetime connected equipment warranty, further enhancing its value proposition.
Customer Reviews & Feedback
Customer feedback for the Anker 351 Power Strip is overwhelmingly positive. On Amazon, it has garnered thousands of reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Users frequently praise its ample outlet space, the convenience of the USB ports, and its overall reliability.
One reviewer stated, “[It] powers everything I have on my desk — lamps, my computer, speakers, chargers, and other miscellaneous things. It protected my devices from a power surge once… Very well built, and robust!” Another highlighted its fast-charging capabilities, saying they were able to charge their iPhone 15 Pro from near-dead to half-charged in under 30 minutes. These firsthand accounts underscore the product’s real-world performance and user satisfaction.
Pros, Cons & Expert Analysis
Here’s a quick summary of the key advantages and disadvantages of the Anker 351 Power Strip:
Pros:
- High Outlet Count: 12 AC outlets cater to extensive power needs.
- Versatile Charging: A mix of USB-C and USB-A ports for modern and legacy devices.
- Strong Surge Protection: A 2100-joule rating is suitable for most home and office electronics.
- User-Friendly Design: Slim, mountable, with well-spaced outlets.
- Excellent Safety Features: Anker’s 8-point safety system provides comprehensive protection.
Cons:
- Shorter Cord: The 5-foot cord may not be long enough for all setups.
- Joule Rating: While good, it may not be the absolute highest on the market for protecting extremely sensitive, high-end equipment.
Experts generally agree that Anker produces well-designed and reliable charging accessories. While their surge protection joule ratings may not always be the highest in the industry, they offer a solid mix of form, function, and safety features that are more than adequate for the average consumer and even many tech enthusiasts. For those needing to protect a surge protector for computer setups or general home electronics, the Anker 351 is an excellent and highly recommended choice.
Final Verdict
The Anker 351 Power Strip is a top-tier surge protector that delivers on its promises of ample power, versatile charging, and robust protection. In a world where we are more dependent on our electronic devices than ever, safeguarding them from unpredictable power surges is crucial. The Anker 351 provides a comprehensive and user-friendly solution that meets the demands of the modern, tech-savvy household.
With its impressive array of 12 AC outlets, a fast-charging USB-C port, and a solid 2100-joule protection rating, this power surge protector offers exceptional value and peace of mind. Whether you’re setting up a home office, a gaming station, or simply need to power and protect your family’s numerous devices, the Anker 351 Power Strip is an outstanding choice in 2025.
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FAQs
What do surge protectors do?
Surge protectors are designed to absorb and divert the excess electricity caused by power surges and voltage spikes before they can damage your connected electronics. They are an essential tool for protecting valuable equipment like computers, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Do surge protectors work?
Yes, surge protectors are effective at safeguarding your devices from common power surges. The level of protection is often indicated by a joule rating—the higher the rating, the more energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. It’s important to note that no surge protector can offer 100% protection against a direct lightning strike, but they are highly effective against most other types of power fluctuations.
What is the difference between a power strip and a surge protector?
A power strip is simply an extension of a wall outlet, providing more places to plug in devices. It offers no protection against power surges. A surge protector, on the other hand, looks similar to a power strip but contains internal components that protect your electronics from voltage spikes.
Do I need a surge protector for my computer?
Absolutely. The sensitive electronic components inside a computer are highly susceptible to damage from power surges. While a computer’s power supply offers some minimal protection, it’s not designed to handle a significant surge. Using a quality surge protector for your computer is a crucial step in protecting your investment and the data stored on it.
How often should I replace my surge protector?
Surge protectors don’t last forever. The internal components that absorb power surges wear out over time. It’s a good practice to replace your surge protectors every few years, or immediately after a major electrical event like a nearby lightning strike, even if it appears to be working fine.
What are your thoughts on the Anker 351 Power Strip? Share your experiences in the comments below!
