TESSAN Power Strip Review: Space-Saving but Limited Power
The surprising takeaway from user feedback on the TESSAN Power Strip Surge Protector with 8 Outlets and USB-C is how often buyers praise its space-saving design as much as its charging capacity. Across Amazon, Reddit, and Trustpilot, users rate it between 4.7 and 4.8 out of 5 stars, translating to a solid 9/10 in real-world satisfaction. Its ultra-thin flat plug and multiple outlet configuration consistently draw praise from those working in tight spaces, while minor complaints tend to center on surge protection expectations and load limits.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Highly recommended for home offices, dorms, and travel setups where space and organization matter, but less ideal for high-wattage appliances.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-thin flat plug fits behind furniture | Surge rating may not meet heavy-duty expectations |
| 8 widely spaced AC outlets avoid blocking | Breaker can trip with high-power devices like kettles |
| Integrated USB-C and USB-A ports | USB charging limited to 15W total |
| Compact, space-saving tower/strip design | Not Quick Charge 3.0 compatible |
| Wall-mountable and anti-slip feet | Some confusion over actual surge protection performance |
| Reliable overload protection | 5 ft cord may be short for some setups |
| Positive customer service experiences |
Claims vs Reality
One of TESSAN’s key marketing claims is that the strip’s 0.31–0.35 inch ultra-slim flat plug allows placement behind sofas, beds, and wardrobes without obstruction. Users confirm this is accurate. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: "Finally fits all those bulky cords plus USB ports!" and Reddit users repeatedly praised how it "runs under carpet without a bulge".
Another claim is the 11-in-1 charging capacity (8 AC outlets, 3 USB ports). While this is technically true, users found the benefit most for small electronics. A Trustpilot reviewer explained: "This tower allowed me to consolidate the cords and have a little more organization. And it has USB ports for easy charging without a brick." However, high-wattage appliances could trip the breaker — one BestViewsReviews user reported: "Every time I make tea, the surge protector breaker trips and I have to reset it."
TESSAN advertises 900J surge protection and multiple safety features. While 74% of surveyed users were satisfied with surge protection, 26% expressed doubts. One review stated: "This power strip does not provide surge protection, but it has an automatic shut off feature if the wattage through it goes over 2500 watts." This suggests some misunderstanding between overload protection and true surge suppression.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Space efficiency is the standout feature. The 3-sided, wide-spaced design means bulky adapters don’t block neighboring outlets. An Amazon buyer explained: "With 1.9 inches between outlets, I can finally plug in my camera charger and laptop without wrestling cables." Dorm room users particularly benefit, with one Trustpilot comment noting the tower format "saved my tiny desk from cable chaos."
The integrated USB-C port is another favorite. While it’s capped at 3A/15W, for phones and tablets it’s plenty. A Reddit user said: "It’s my charging station for my phone, iPad, and earbuds — no extra bricks needed." The combination of USB-A and USB-C was cited as increasing flexibility.
Customer service earns rave reviews. One Trustpilot user recounted: "My wall plug stopped working, they replaced it within two days! Amazing people to deal with." Long-time buyers also report consistent quality: "Always bought Tessan products and never had any problems. They work great and last for years."
Common Complaints
Heat-producing appliances like kettles, hair dryers, or space heaters are problematic. Multiple reports mention the overload breaker tripping. BestViewsReviews documented this with one user saying: "Every time I make tea, the surge protector trips." This aligns with its 1250W–1875W rating, which is fine for electronics but not for high-drain kitchen gear.
Some users expected higher USB charging speeds. The lack of Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 support led to comments like: "It charges my phone, but not as fast as my dedicated adapter." For laptops needing USB-C PD, the 15W limit is insufficient.
Surge protection confusion is also a recurring theme. Even with a marketed 900J–1700J rating (depending on model), a minority of buyers questioned if it was active surge suppression or just overload cut-off.
Divisive Features
The 5 ft cord length splits opinion. Apartment dwellers found it just right for desks and nightstands, but some home office setups wanted the 10 ft version. While the flat cord’s ability to run under rugs is praised, its thinness made a few users worry about durability — though no widespread failures were reported.
The tower vs flat strip form factor also divides. Some love the vertical design for organization, others prefer a flat strip for under-monitor setups. Both styles get similar functional praise for spacing and stability.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot reviews indicate strong reliability and responsive support. Users describe replacements being shipped within days when defects occurred. One customer wrote: "They didn't hesitate and replaced them immediately. Very happy."
Long-term Reddit feedback shows the strips holding up under daily office use. A user reported their TESSAN unit "still works like new after a year of constant laptop and monitor charging." The anti-slip rubber feet and wall-mount holes also contribute to perceived build quality.
Scam concerns are absent; the brand is consistently described as delivering the advertised product, with functional USB ports and stable outlets.
Alternatives
The only alternatives mentioned in user discussions were other TESSAN models — notably the 10 ft tower with 1050J surge protection for those needing more reach and the wall outlet extender for ultra-compact needs. The tower version suits multi-device desks, while the wall extender is praised for hotel and travel use. Users comparing them often choose based on space constraints rather than electrical performance.
Price & Value
Current pricing sits between $24.99 and $36.99 depending on model and cord length. eBay listings show only slight discounts, indicating stable demand and reasonable resale potential. Community buying tips include waiting for seasonal sales — TESSAN’s own store often offers 10–20% off thresholds. For those who value space-saving and multiple device charging, users see it as worth the price, especially compared to generic strips with fewer safety features.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the TESSAN power strip for kitchen appliances like kettles or toasters?
A: Not recommended. Multiple users report the overload breaker trips with high-wattage appliances. It’s best suited for electronics like laptops, chargers, and lamps.
Q: Does the USB-C port support fast charging for laptops?
A: No. It outputs a maximum of 15W, fine for phones and tablets but insufficient for USB-C PD laptop charging.
Q: Is the surge protection real or just marketing?
A: The unit is rated at 900J–1700J depending on model, and includes overload cut-off. Some users confuse overload protection with surge suppression, but most report no damage during storms.
Q: Can it be mounted on a wall or under a desk?
A: Yes. It has two keyholes for mounting and anti-slip feet for stable desktop use.
Q: How thick is the cord, and can it run under rugs?
A: The ultra-thin flat cord is about 0.12 inches thick, making it easy to run under rugs or doors without a noticeable bump.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a home office worker, student, or traveler needing a compact, multi-device charging station with excellent space efficiency. Avoid if you plan to run high-wattage appliances. Pro tip from the community: choose the tower version if you have many bulky adapters, and the flat strip if you want it hidden behind furniture.
