Long, multi-outlet power strips are usually found in tech-heavy places like IT department workbenches and server rooms, but there’s no reason you can’t buy and install them on the underside of your desk at home. I have one, they’re relatively cheap, and they offera slim, minimal profile that’s easy to corral cables around.
For reference, I picked up this Tripp-Lite 12-outlet power strip ($40) a couple of years ago and installed it in the rail under my desk. I connected it to my battery backup for a little surge protection (it’s not on the backup circuit, don’t worry) and use it to charge phones, portable consoles, and just about anything else I need a spare plug for on or around my desk. Best of all, it’s small enough that it’s out of the way, and not a big plastic box with a thick, difficult to wrangle cable sticking out of it. Cool Tools elaborates on how surprisingly useful they can be:
Unlike their smaller plastic brethren, they look ok when mounted under a counter or at the base of a backsplash. Unlike smaller strips you can use the mother-of-all wall warts (the ur-wart?) in each outlet and not block anything. They are made of metal and won’t crack when you drop something on them. I got my first giant power strip a decade or more ago and it is still going strong.
The best part is that their cables are long and flexible enough to coil up or stretch out and run where they need to go, while also being mounted under a desk, kitchen counter, or a garage workspace. It’s a sturdy and easy way to add power just about anywhere, or create an instant charging station somewhere you’re short on outlets.
Super Long Power Strips | Cool Tools
Photo by Ian Brown.