GE 6-Outlet Power Strip Review: Reliable, Safe Choice
A verified buyer on Amazon summed up their experience with the GE 6-Outlet Power Strip with Extension Cord, Flat Plug, Wall Mount, Black simply: “It’s a great value for what it is. Definitely gets the job done with 6 outlets.” Averaging scores between 4.6 and 4.8 stars across Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Office Depot, this model earns a solid 9/10 in aggregated user satisfaction for its combination of durability, thoughtful design, and affordability.
Quick Verdict: Yes — best suited for users needing reliable, long-cord, multiple-outlet capability with strong safety features.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty PVC insulated cord for longevity | Outlets set close together can block unused ports |
| Multiple length options from 2 ft to 20 ft | Not all models include surge protection |
| Flat plug allows furniture to sit flush | Switch labeling (“restart”) may confuse some |
| Integrated circuit breaker for overload protection | Bulky when wall-mounted at certain angles |
| Easy wall-mount via keyhole slots | No USB ports on most versions |
| Widely praised value for money | Some aesthetic/color limitations |
| UL listed, backed by limited lifetime warranty | Indicator lights minimal on non-surge models |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes “expanded power,” “versatile cords,” and “protection,” promising a centralized hub for electronics with top-tier safety. Digging deeper into user reports reveals both validation and nuances.
For “expanded power,” the manufacturer highlights six grounded AC outlets and a range of cord lengths. Reddit user ibuypower confirmed: “Use it for my gaming PC, TV, and other electrical stuff. Never had any issues with it. Cord has great length which is exactly what I needed for my setup!” Yet, Best Buy reviewer dapper cautioned that “these output holes are close to each other, so some devices may cover up 2 or more sockets…rendering your net output to 3 or 4 usable ports.”
The “versatile cord” claim is validated by Walmart shoppers praising the heavy-duty PVC jacket. One noted, “It’s strong enough to last a lifetime and pliable enough to fully extend,” relevant to those positioning strips in workshops or tight spaces. However, in practice, longer cords can be bulky for wall mounting, making shorter versions preferable for compact setups.
Protection marketing claims get mixed appraisal. Surge-protected models with ratings up to 1,560 joules earn trust from users like James on Best Buy: “Using this to protect my TV, DVD, and game box — I’m well protected from power surge.” But Amazon reviewers of non-surge versions caution, “Note: this device is not a surge suppressor,” highlighting the need for buyers to confirm model specs before relying on it for sensitive electronics.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Best Buy, Reddit, and Walmart, cord length versatility is a standout point. Long-cord models — 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, and even 20 ft braided — get praise from those setting up in living rooms, offices, or large workshops. Best Buy user karen said, “I bought 3 of them for longer cord need — they work really well.” The flat plug has proven particularly beneficial for apartment dwellers, letting furniture sit flush against walls without bending cables.
Durability also emerges as a near-universal strong point. Office Depot and Walmart reviews repeatedly mention the “heavy-duty cable housed in durable PVC insulation.” For garage setups, this means surviving incidental knocks and heavy foot traffic. A Walmart customer called out its construction as “long-lasting use — perfect for creating a permanent plug-in.”
The integrated circuit breaker garners consistent trust. Users in workshops, like Reddit user risar, find having “power at your fingertips for easy control” valuable when operating multiple devices. For home office users, it adds safety assurance for high-value gear.
Common Complaints
Spacing between outlets is the most recurring frustration. Best Buy’s dapper noted that “some of your devices may cover up 2 or more sockets,” echoed by other users whose bulky plugs limited effective outlet count. This impacts scenarios involving multiple large adapters, such as gaming setups with external hard drives, chargers, and monitors.
The absence of USB ports on most versions comes up in modern multi-device households, especially where phone charging is expected from a power station. While not strictly a flaw given its intended purpose for AC devices, it’s a mismatch for some buyers’ expectations.
Switch labeling on certain non-surge models, which reads “restart” instead of “off,” puzzled a few, including Best Buy user john: “I believe it works the same but I don’t ever need to shut it off.” While functionality isn’t compromised, the design language feels inconsistent.
Divisive Features
Wall-mounting via keyhole slots splits opinion. Enthusiasts enjoy creating fixed stations on workbenches or under desks, removing clutter from floors. Yet, some buyers find mounting awkward with longer, heavier cords like the 20 ft braided variant, which can pull against its mounts.
Surge protection itself is divisive — in higher-rated joule models, it is considered essential by home theater and gaming users, but stripped-down non-surge versions appeal to those who prefer minimal bulk and cost savings.
Trust & Reliability
On Trustpilot’s mirrored Best Buy reviews, there’s consistent confidence in GE as a “trusted brand…backed by high industry standards.” Long-term accounts suggest durability beyond casual use. Best Buy user beck y reports nine months of no issues while powering a desktop PC, heater, and lamp. Similarly, Reddit entries from users with 6-month to 8-month ownership reflect steady functional performance without degradation in cord flexibility or outlet fit.
No evidence of scam activity or counterfeit concerns emerged across platforms. Most units meet UL listing requirements, and users confirm integrated safety mechanisms activate appropriately during overloads.
Alternatives
While data showed competing lengths within GE’s own lineup (2 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 20 ft), pricing and protection vary. The GE Pro 6-Outlet Surge Protector (8 ft, 1,560 joules) offers stronger surge resistance but slightly higher cost, positioning it for electronics-heavy spaces. Shortcord versions like the GE 2 ft model are favored for desktop or entertainment center setups with minimal spatial flexibility needed.
Price & Value
Amazon lists the 12 ft model at $16.98 (down from $19.99), while Walmart and Office Depot hover around $17–$23 for 6 ft versions. eBay shows 10 ft surge-protected units around $21–$28, with resale indicating steady demand for longer cords and joule ratings above 800. Community tips stress confirming surge capacity — non-surge models are sold more cheaply but shouldn’t be mistaken for protective gear.
FAQ
Q: Does the GE 6-Outlet Power Strip include surge protection?
A: Not all models. Joule ratings from 620 to 1,560 appear on surge-protected versions. Non-surge units rely solely on overload circuit breakers.
Q: Can it be mounted on a wall or desk?
A: Yes, via keyhole slots on the back, though heavier cords can be cumbersome if not supported.
Q: Is the cord durable enough for garage or workshop use?
A: Many users praise the heavy-duty PVC insulation for withstanding harsher environments without fraying.
Q: Will the flat plug work behind tight furniture?
A: Yes. Space-saving plugs let furniture sit flush, a common plus noted by apartment and office users.
Q: Why does the switch say “restart” instead of “off”?
A: Some models use “restart” labeling but function the same as a standard on/off switch.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a home office user, gamer, or workshop operator needing multiple grounded outlets, the right cord length, and overload safety. Avoid if you require USB charging or need wide plug spacing for large adapters. Community pro tip: match your chosen model’s joule rating and cord length precisely to your intended devices — overbuying cord length or underestimating protection is where most regrets happen.
