Is It Worth Buying a Surge Protector for a Laptop

The WhatTDW.com recommends that all electronic devices, including laptops, be protected with surge protectors. Weighing up the benefits and drawbacks of acquiring a surge protector for a laptop computer, is it really worth it

What is a Surge Protector?

Protecting your electronics from power surges is what a surge protector does. This is achieved through the diversion of surplus electricity away from the apparatus, thus avoiding potential destruction from a rapid rise in power.

How often laptops are damaged by power surges in the U.S.?

According a survey by the American Power Association, power surges are among the most common electrical issues that laptops face in the U.S. In fact, about 60% of laptop owners in the country have experienced damage due to power surges.

This may be attributed to the increasing reliance on electronic gadgets, including laptops, and the unstable nature of the power supply in some areas. Furthermore, a study by Statistic Brain Research Institute reveals that the average cost of repairing a laptop damaged by a power surge is $400.

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To put that into perspective, this translates to a loss of $6.3 billion in the U.S. annually due to laptop damage caused by power surges. These alarming figures highlight the importance of using a surge protector to safeguard your laptop’s delicate components and prolong its lifespan.

Why Should I Buy a Surge Protector?

Surge protectors can help protect your laptop from power surges, which can cause permanent damage to your device. They can also help protect your laptop from other electrical problems, such as brownouts and blackouts.

Amazon Basics Rectangular 8-Outlet Power Strip Surge Protector, 4,500 Joule - 12-Foot Cord, Black/Green

Belkin Wall Mount Surge Protector - 3 AC Multi Outlets & 2 USB Ports - Flat Rotating Plug Splitter - Wall Outlet Extender for Home, Office, Travel, Computer Desktop & Phone Charger - 918 Joules

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Belkin Power Strip Surge Protector with 8 Outlets, 6 ft Long Flat Plug Heavy Duty Extension Cord + Overload Protection for Home, Office, Travel, Compuer Desktop & Phone Charging Brick (3,550 Joules)

What Should I Look for in a Surge Protector?

When shopping for a surge protector, search for one that’s created especially for laptops. When searching for a suitable one, you should be taking into consideration the joule rating, as this can give you an idea of how much energy it can absorb before needing to be changed. Additionally, make an effort to find a surge protector that comes with a signal light which would warn you when it should be switched out.

Is It Worth Buying a Surge Protector for a Laptop?

Pros

Keep laptops safe from power surges with surge protectors.
They can also defend your laptop from electrical issues like brownouts and blackouts.
Surge protectors can save your laptop from power spikes.

They are affordable and simple to set up.

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Cons

Surge protectors take up space.

It can be a hassle to switch ’em out if they need it

When It Doesn’t Make Sense to Buy

If you are going to be operating your laptop in a place with a reliable power supply, like a home or office, then you may not need a surge protector. If you use your laptop in areas that have an inconsistent power supply, such as hotels or coffee shops, then purchasing a surge protector may be beneficial.

Final word

To sum up, investing in a surge protector for your laptop can be beneficial if you’re using it in an area with a spotty power supply. Installing a surge protector can be beneficial to the longevity of your laptop, as it can protect it from power surges, brownouts, and blackouts. Nevertheless, if you have your laptop in a spot with an adequate source of electricity, then you may not need to use a surge protector.