Power Strips & Surge Suppressors

Best Power Strips & Surge Protectors in the UK: Where to Buy and What to Look For

Understanding power strips and surge suppressors

If you’ve ever tripped over a tangle of chargers behind your TV or watched a sudden storm fry your router, you know the humble power strip matters. A power strip is more than just extra sockets — many models include surge suppression, USB charging ports, and built-in switches that make life simpler and safer. Think of a good surge protector like a bouncer at a club: it watches the flow of electrical "guests" and keeps the troublemakers out so your devices leave the night unscathed.

What differentiates a surge suppressor from a basic power strip?

At first glance, a basic power strip and a surge suppressor look the same: multiple outlets on a single block. But a surge suppressor contains protective components designed to absorb voltage spikes caused by lightning or power-grid faults. Those extra parts add a layer of defense for expensive electronics. If you care about your laptop, TV, or smart home gear, you’ll want a suppressor with a clear joule rating and an indicator light so you know the protection is still working.

Power strips vs distribution boxes — when to choose which

Distribution boxes, like the Click Flow 8 Way Distribution Box you’ll see stocked by specialist electrical suppliers, are a step up in robustness. They’re aimed at wiring distribution across circuits or for lighting setups, and they’re built for fixed installations rather than bedside use. If you’re wiring a workshop or fitting Downlights, a distribution box can replace multiple ad-hoc connections and is usually mounted out of sight. For everyday plug-in needs, a surge-protected power strip will do the trick; for permanent or heavy-duty distribution, consider a distribution box.

Why a quality surge protector matters in a UK home

In the UK we love our gadgets — from smart thermostats to gaming rigs. But the mains supply can be unpredictable, and bad surges don’t knock down prices, they knock out hardware. A good surge protector can save you the cost and hassle of replacing a device and the data loss that often comes with it. Plus, many modern strips include metering, USB-C fast charging, and remote switches so you can turn off a whole bank of devices with one click. It’s convenience and protection in one tidy block.

Top UK stores to buy power strips and surge suppressors

So where should you shop? The market ranges from specialist electrical wholesalers to big-name high-street retailers and online giants. Each type of store offers different benefits — specialist sellers focus on technical specs and trade-grade gear, while mainstream retailers offer value-for-money and easy returns.

Expert Electrical

Expert Electrical is a go-to for both professionals and DIYers who want trade-grade gear. They often stock products like the Click Flow 8 Way Distribution Box and a wide range of surge protectors designed for installation. If you want slightly more technical advice or gear built for installation behind walls or in consumer units, Expert Electrical is a great place to start.

Currys

Currys is an obvious destination for home electronics and accessories. They carry everything from compact bedside USB strips to larger surge protectors for home entertainment systems. The benefit of Currys is convenience and frequent promotions, plus clear product reviews from a broad customer base.

Screwfix

Screwfix specialises in trade tools and electrical accessories and is ideal if you’re fitting out a workshop or need robust power solutions. You’ll find heavy-duty extension leads, industrial-grade surge protection, and distribution boxes for more demanding setups. Their click-and-collect service often means you can get your gear the same day.

B&Q and Wickes

If your project crosses into home improvement — like running power to new kitchen appliances or setting up under-cabinet lighting — B&Q and Wickes are handy. They stock practical power strips, socket extensions, and basic surge guards geared to homeowners. You’ll find options suited to everyday use and DIY installations.

Argos

Argos offers a broad selection of affordable power strips and surge protectors, often with next-day pickup or delivery. If you want a quick, budget-friendly option or a spare strip for a room, Argos is convenient and easy to navigate online.

Amazon UK

Amazon’s advantage is sheer variety. You can compare dozens of brands, read thousands of reviews, and often find niche items like travel-size surge protectors or multi-device charging hubs. Just be cautious: when buying on marketplaces, double-check seller ratings and warranty coverage to avoid counterfeit or substandard items.

How to choose the right power strip for each room

Not every power strip fits every situation. Consider what you’ll be powering, how often you’ll plug and unplug devices, and whether the strip will be visible or tucked away. Match the strip to the room’s needs rather than buying the cheapest option on impulse.

For the home office

Your office may host a laptop, monitor, printer, and router — all sensitive to surges. Choose a strip with robust surge protection, an indicator light, and ideally a few USB or USB-C ports for phones and tablets. If you have a desktop and monitor, look for strips rated for the correct maximum load and with a sufficient cord length so you don’t need an extra extension.

For the living room and entertainment systems

Home entertainment systems benefit from high-joule surge protectors because AV gear can be costly to replace. Look for models with spaced outlets to accommodate big plugs and maybe coax or phone-line protection if your setup needs it. A strip with a single switch that kills power to all downstream devices is great for avoiding phantom power drain.

For the kitchen and small appliances

Kitchens are high-demand areas where appliances can draw surges or spikes. Use heavy-duty extension leads or dedicated circuits for big appliances and avoid daisy-chaining strips. For countertop devices like kettles or coffee machines, keep strips elevated and away from water — safety first.

For workshops and garages

In a workshop you want rugged, impact-resistant strips rated for heavier loads. Screwfix and specialist trade suppliers offer power boards with longer cords, metal housings, and individual switches per outlet. Those features make them safer and more practical in dusty, workaday environments.

Spotlight: Click Flow 8 Way Distribution Box — what to know

The Click Flow 8 Way Distribution Box is a typical example of a distribution product you’ll find at specialist suppliers. It’s designed for distributing lighting circuits or multiple fixed outputs from a consumer unit. Unlike a plug-in power strip, a distribution box is installed as part of your permanent wiring and often requires a qualified electrician. It helps keep wiring tidy and safe when you’ve got multiple lighting circuits or hardwired devices to manage.

When to pick a distribution box over a plug-in strip

If you’re doing a remodel or installing fixed fittings (like Downlights, as noted in some product categories), a distribution box gives a cleaner, more permanent solution. Distribution boxes are not for plug-and-play convenience; they’re for structured wiring where safety and code compliance matter. If your project involves new circuits or multiple fixed outputs, the distribution box is the professional choice.

Installation tips and safety checklist

Safety shouldn’t be an afterthought. Whether you’re buying a plug-in surge protector or installing a distribution box, simple practices reduce risk and prolong equipment life.

Placement and load balancing

Avoid placing strips under rugs or in tight cupboards where heat can build up. Make sure the strip’s cord can reach the socket without being pinched. Balance the load — don’t run multiple high-draw devices like heaters and kettles from the same strip. If you need to power heavy appliances, fit a dedicated circuit instead.

Avoid daisy-chaining

Daisy-chaining — plugging a power strip into another strip — is a common shortcut that’s unsafe. It increases the chance of overload and overheating. If you need more sockets, get a longer cord or a professionally installed solution rather than stacking strips like building blocks.

Inspect cords and test protection

Regularly check cords for fraying or damage. Surge protectors have a finite lifespan — the suppression components wear out after absorbing hits. Pick models with a visible indicator that shows the protective circuitry is still active, and replace the unit if the light goes out or after a significant surge event.

Buying online vs in-store: pros and cons

Shopping online gives you choice and reviews, while in-store shopping gives you hands-on inspection and instant pickup. Consider what matters most: if you need same-day gear for a job, head to a local store; if you want a specific model and time to compare, shop online.

Price, warranty and aftercare

Compare warranties and guarantees. Trade suppliers and specialist retailers often back higher-quality gear with better warranties. For electronics bought online, keep receipts and check if the manufacturer offers direct support. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money and headaches down the road.

Additional features to look for

Today’s power strips offer more than extra outlets. Some have surge ratings listed in joules, others provide EMI/RFI noise filtering for audio setups, and many include smart features like app control or energy metering. If you care about fast charging, look for USB-C PD ports rated for higher wattage. Think about what features will actually improve your day-to-day use rather than chasing every fancy spec.

Joule rating and indicator lights

Joule rating gives a rough idea of how much energy a surge suppressor can absorb before it’s spent. Higher numbers generally mean better protection. Indicator lights are practical; they tell you the unit is working. Without an indicator, you may have no way of knowing if the suppressor has already taken a hit and is no longer protecting your equipment.

Build quality and brand reputation

Buy from recognised retailers or brands with a history in electrical supplies. Trade retailers like Expert Electrical, and big-name chains like Currys or Screwfix, are good bets. Brand reputation matters because warranty support and replacements are simpler with established vendors.

Green and energy-saving considerations

Power strips with master-slave features or timer functions help cut phantom power draw from chargers and standby devices. If you’re trying to shave a few pounds off your electricity bill, use strips that turn off peripheral sockets when the main device is off. It’s an easy win for both your wallet and the planet.

Choosing the right power strip or distribution product comes down to understanding your needs, where the device will live, and whether you want a plug-in convenience or a permanent wiring solution. Use reputable stores for specialist items, and don’t skimp on protection for expensive electronics.

Conclusion: With so many options on the UK market — from specialist electrical suppliers stocking products like the Click Flow 8 Way Distribution Box to high-street retailers offering handy surge-protected power strips — you can find a solution that matches your needs and budget. Prioritise safety, check specifications like joule ratings and build quality, and pick a retailer that provides clear product information and reliable aftercare. A small investment today can save you the cost and hassle of replacing damaged equipment tomorrow.