As a gadget fanatic, I’m always looking for something that will be usable with several of the devices that are the focus of my addiction. Simplicity is a major factor that I’m looking for in something like this.
Belkin is one of the companies that have made truckloads of cash on the coattails of the iPod industry. Yet Belkin’s bread and butter has been in making a variety of accessories for many of the more popular devices on the market, either by designing them for specific devices or making them generic enough that they will be compatible across a range of devices.
The Belkin Mini Surge Protector fits the second category. To see the Surge Protector put through its paces, you’ve come to the right place so just follow the break.
Design & Features
Belkin’s Mini Surge Protector packs three AC outlets as well as two USB power outlets. A miniUSB cable (power only) is included. The surge protector plugs into a standard US wall outlet via a grounded plug that rotates 360 degrees.
The design is about as compact as it gets. The only thing that I would have liked to see would be a fold out or retractable style plug.
Build
I haven’t always been a fan of Belkin’s products. In the past they have had some quality issues, but the last couple of their products that I have used have thoroughly reversed that feeling. The fact that they offer a full Lifetime warranty for their products (as well as a $75,000 Connected Equipment Warranty for this one in particular) doesn’t hurt at all. Seriously, what’s there to lose? All of the outlets functioned without any issues.
One little oddity that I found stems from the plastic cover for the plug that is included with the surge protector. The cover has a protrusion from the top that can be inserted into a spot on the bottom of the unit to prevent it from getting lost. I personally didn’t feel that the cover did all that much for me in the first place, but I guess they felt it was important enough to include.
Conclusion
It’s not flashy and it’s not expensive, but Belkin’s Mini Surge Protector could be one of those must have devices for travelers. For those of us that carry two phones and a laptop (and a netbook); this thing will save you from a lot of dirty looks for hogging all of the power outlets at the airport. You can get one of your very own at your favorite store for a mere $19.95.
| Ratings (out of 5)Design and Features: 4Build: 3Overall: | ProsCompact without skimping on featuresUSB ports = happy geeksConsPlug doesn't rotate as easily as I would like |
