Black Extension Lead 1M with 3 USB Slots (1 USB-C) – 2-Gang Short Power Strip with Surge Protection
Product description
What is it
A compact 5-in-1 extension lead designed to power multiple devices from a single wall outlet. It combines two standard sockets, three USB ports (two USB-A and one USB-C) and a 1-metre cord, all housed in a black, small footprint unit. On paper it aims to balance travel-friendly portability with the practicality of quick device charging in spaces like bedrooms, kitchens or offices.
Key features
This extension lead supports a high total capacity (up to 3250W / 250V / 13A), which covers typical high-wattage appliances such as kettles or hair dryers when used with care. The USB-C port is advertised to charge at up to 12W, with both USB-A and USB-C ports capable of automatic current adjustment to suit connected devices. Built-in surge suppression helps mitigate voltage spikes, and a 13A fuse adds a layer of overcurrent protection. The unit is crafted from fireproof PC material and includes child safety shutters for extra security.
Practical use cases
If you travel or work from a small space, this compact lead can replace several wall adapters, letting you top up a phone, tablet and a small laptop while still using a kettle or microwave, provided you spread power usage sensibly. Its short 1 m cord reduces clutter on crowded desks or hotel rooms and keeps cables within easy reach. The combination of USB-C fast charging and USB-A ports offers flexibility for mixed devices, from modern phones to older accessories.
What stands out day to day
On the plus side, the 2-gang setup plus three USB ports means you can consolidate a few devices into one outlet without needing multiple adaptors. The surge protection is a meaningful feature if you’re plugging valuable electronics into a shared outlet at home or while travelling. The size is genuinely pocketable, and that is not always easy to achieve with a power strip that includes USB charging.
Limitations to consider
The total wattage is high on paper, but you’ll want to manage energy usage in practice. If you routinely run high-wattage appliances at the same time, this may push the rated capacity. The USB fast charging capability depends on what the USB ports detect from the connected devices, charging speed can vary, especially for power-hungry gadgets or older devices. It’s also a short extension lead, so it won’t replace a longer power strip in rooms where outlets are far apart.
Who it’s for
This unit is suited to travellers who need a compact, surge-protected hub for a handful of devices (phones, tablets, a small laptop, a kettle or hair appliance checked separately) in tight spaces. It also appeals to people who want to reduce cable clutter at a desk or bedside without multiplying plug sockets.
Who it isn’t ideal for
If you regularly rely on numerous high-powered appliances at once, or you need longer reach from the wall, this 1 m lead may feel limiting. It’s not a substitute for a full-size power strip in a home workspace when you require more outlets or longer cords. For those who prioritise charging speed above all else, the USB-C port’s 12W may be slower for some newer laptops or devices that expect higher wattage input.
What to check before buying
- Ensure your total power draw does not exceed the 3250W/13A rating when using high-wattage devices alongside USB charging.
- Consider whether a 1 m lead fits your space needs, longer cords offer more flexibility but can create more clutter.
- Verify if your devices require faster USB-C charging than what is provided, this model provides up to 12W on USB-C, which is typical for standard charging scenarios.
- Look at the build material and safety features (fireproof PC, child safety shutters) as part of ongoing reliability in everyday use.
How it compares to alternatives
If you value compactness and travel-readiness, this 1 m, 2-gang plus USB setup stands out against larger wall transformers. In a home office with more devices or a need for longer reach, a traditional power strip with more outlets or a longer cord could be a better fit. For users prioritising raw charging speed, some USB-C configurations offer higher watts or dedicated fast-charge technologies, in that context, this model offers reasonable versatility without overpromising speed.
Final decision
Is it worth it?
Worth considering if you want a miniature, surge-protected hub that covers essential charging for a handful of devices in limited spaces. It won’t replace a full desktop power strip for a high-demand setup, but it delivers practical convenience for travel, bedrooms or compact offices.
FAQ
- Do I need to worry about safety with a surge-protected USB extension? Yes, the integrated surge suppression and 13A fuse are designed to protect connected devices, though you should still avoid daisy-chaining other power strips.
- Can I plug a kettle into the socket alongside USB devices? The unit supports up to 3250W total, so high-watt appliances should be used with care to avoid overloading the circuit.
- Will USB-C charging be fast for a modern smartphone? USB-C is rated up to 12W, which is adequate for typical speed charging but may be slower for devices requiring higher wattage.}