Addtam 3M Braided Extension Lead with Surge Protection: 2 AC outlets and 4 USB ports
Product description
What to know
The Addtam 3M braided extension lead is a compact power strip designed to consolidate charging and device power in home and office spaces. It combines two traditional AC outlets with four USB charging ports, offering a practical hub for a desk, dorm room, or shared workspace. The unit is built with safety in mind, featuring childproof shutters and a fire-resistant PC shell rated to withstand significant heat. It uses a 3M braided extension cord, which adds durability and reduces tangling, while the copper wiring is chosen to carry a solid 13A current when needed. On the safety front, it carries CE and RoHS certifications and includes protections against over-current, over-charging, short circuits, and overheating. If you value a tidy setup with a single location to power multiple devices, this could be convenient on paper.
Key features
On the surface, the Addtam unit makes charging multiple devices straightforward: two AC outlets and four USB ports, with a total USB output of 4.5A. USB-A ports can deliver up to 2.4A each, while the Type-C port offers up to 3A. The smart charging technology aims to identify connected devices and allocate current efficiently, which can help a mix of phones, tablets, and other peripherals charge more quickly than a basic USB hub. It’s worth noting that the Type-C port is not compatible with certain laptops that require higher voltage charging, such as some MacBooks. This is an important practical limitation if you plan to power a laptop alongside other devices.
Technical details
The device is housed in fire-resistant PC material, purportedly providing protection up to 1382°F. The braided extension cord adds flexibility and resilience, with a design intended to resist deformation and prolong the unit’s life. Layout-wise, you get two standard outlets and four USB ports placed for easy reach on a desk or bedside surface. The product is oriented toward a range of environments—from college dorms to offices and even cruise ships—where a single extension unit can reduce clutter while keeping devices charged. Importantly, the unit comes with a safety-forward approach: a childproof shutter mechanism helps prevent accidental contact.
Practical use and limits
If you prioritise a neat charging station that can handle several devices at once, this Addtam strip has merit. It can serve as a bedside hub for a phone, smartwatch, and a tablet, while a spare outlet could power a small lamp or a laptop charger during a session of work. The inclusion of Type-C charging is useful for phones and certain accessories, provided the devices don’t require higher voltage. A limitation to keep in mind is the 14–22V charging range restriction for some laptops on the Type-C port, plan accordingly if you intend to power a laptop primarily from this strip.
Who it’s for
This unit is well suited to individuals who want a compact, all-in-one charging solution at a desk, in a student room, or in an office nook. It suits light to moderate device usage rather than high-demand setups that require heavy power delivery to multiple laptops or high-widelity equipment simultaneously. If you need a simple charging station with built-in surge protection and tidy cable management, this could be a sensible option. It may not be the best pick if your workflow hinges on charging a single power-hungry laptop via USB-C or if you require more than 3A from a Type-C port for certain devices.
What to check before buying
- Confirm the devices you plan to charge align with the USB port outputs (4.5A total, Type-C up to 3A).
- Consider whether the two AC outlets suffice for your setup or if you need more outlets elsewhere.
- Be aware of the Type-C limitation for certain laptops, this could influence whether you use it as a primary charging point for a laptop.
- Check your space: the 3M cord is designed for flexibility, but ensure the braid and weight balance won’t make the unit prone to tipping on a busy desk.
Alternatives in approach
If your priority is rapid charging for multiple devices without any laptop charging, a power strip like this can be a practical middle-ground option. For heavy-duty laptop charging or higher voltage Type-C needs, you might need a dedicated USB-C charger or a separate high-widelity surge protector designed for professional use. In other words, this Addtam strip is about convenience and space-saving for common devices, rather than replacing a higher-capacity charging solution.
What’s included
In the box you’ll find the braided 3M extension lead with two AC outlets and four USB ports, plus safety shutters on the outlets. The packaging reflects a focus on safety features and build durability, consistent with the fire-resistant shell and copper wiring noted in the product description. There isn’t a lot of extra accessories included, so plan to pair it with standard wall sockets and devices you use daily.
Is it worth it?
Should you buy it? A good question. It makes sense if you want a compact, all-in-one charging station that reduces desk clutter and provides a straightforward mix of USB and outlet charging. It’s a sensible option for students, home offices, and light office use where mobility and simplicity are valued over maximum USB-C power delivery or laptop charging capability. If your setup requires high-power Type-C charging or frequent laptop charging from the strip itself, you may want to explore alternatives with higher current specifications or separate charging solutions for laptops.
FAQ
- Does it charge fast? It offers up to 4.5A across USB ports in total, with individual ports rated up to 2.4A (USB-A) and 3A (Type-C). Real-world speeds depend on connected devices and their own charging needs.
- Can I power a laptop from the Type-C port? The Type-C port is not compatible with certain laptops that require 14–22V, verify your model before relying on it for laptop charging.
- Is it safe for a child-filled environment? Yes, it includes childproof shutters and is built with fire-resistant materials, though supervision is always advisable around any mains-powered devices.