Most household and computer equipment is constantly connected to the network. However, the voltage in the sockets is not always equal to 220 V. Power surges and interference adversely affect the condition of the equipment and can damage it. A network filter will help solve this problem. In stores, these devices are presented in a huge variety. Let's analyze how the devices differ from each other, how to choose the right device, give an overview of popular models, compile a rating of the best surge protectors of different price categories for 2020.
Content:
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Ranking table
| Place in the ranking / Name | Expert evaluation | Price range, rub. |
|---|---|---|
Rating of the best budget network filters | ||
4th place: ERA USF-5es-B (B0019737) | 80 out of 100 | From 422 to 730* |
3rd place: Defender DFS 751 (99751) | 87 out of 100 | From 413 to 810* |
2nd place: Pilot S, white, 1.8m | 92 out of 100 | From 529 to 1,290 rubles* |
1st place: MOST Elite ERG, white, 2m | 95 out of 100 | From 870 to 1 573* |
Rating of the best network filters in terms of price-quality ratio | ||
3rd place: LDNIO SE3631, 1.6m | 90 out of 100 | From 799 to 1480* |
2nd place: APC by Schneider Electric PM5B-RS, 1.8m | 92 out of 100 | From 1589 to 2408* |
1st place: CROWN MICRO CMPS-10, 1.8m | 97 out of 100 | From 1669 to 2290* |
Rating of the best premium network filters | ||
3rd place: APC by Schneider Electric PM8-RS, 2m | 95 out of 100 | From 2196 to 4203 * |
2nd place: Rubetek RE-3310 with Wi-Fi, 1.8m | 97 out of 100 | From 2265 to 3920* |
1st place: Energenie EG-PMS2-LAN | 99 out of 100 | From 4,539 to 7,130* |
* Prices are valid for July 2020
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The principle of operation of the network filter is relatively simple. The device operates on the basis of passive filtering of the incoming voltage. Budget options are designed to “screen out” high-frequency or impulse noise. Higher cost line filters protect against both types of interference.
In expensive models, an additional protection system is provided, for example, an automatic fuse to turn off the power at an increased current load. The design of such filters may also include metal-oxide varistors. They operate at extreme voltages during a short circuit or thunderstorm.
Some users confuse electrical filters and stabilizers. The latter, unlike filters, actively influence the supply voltage, compensating for deviations from the specified range.
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What to look for when choosing
When buying a surge protector, you should pay attention to the following factors:
- Number and type of sockets;
- Maximum power;
- Protection levels;
- The presence of a switch on the case;
- Power cord length;
- Additional functions and features.
Number and type of outlets
Modern surge protectors may have a different number of built-in outlets. Usually the number of sockets does not exceed 8-10 pieces. Such devices allow you to connect many devices to them. However, it should be borne in mind that their total power in kW should not exceed the maximum load level.
Surge protectors can be equipped with different types of sockets. The Russian market mainly sells models with sockets C and F. These are standard European sockets. The difference between the two is that Type F receptacles have grounding shutters in their design.
In stores, you can find filter models with an IEC C14 computer plug. Such devices are used for direct connection to an uninterruptible power supply.
Maximum power and load current
These two parameters are the main ones for network filters. These indicators allow you to find out whether the selected model will “pull” the connection of all intended devices. If the total power of the device exceeds the indicator allowed for the filter, you should choose a model designed for increased load.
If you plan to use a filter to connect a computer, laptop or TV, the power will be enough in almost any case. The fact is that the consumption of these devices is not so high. If the surge protector is supposed to be used in the kitchen to protect the stove, oven, water heater, refrigerator, washing machine, you should choose a model with maximum power.
Protection levels
Network filters are usually divided into several classes according to the degree of protection:
- Essential - Devices of this type provide basic protection. They are able to accept a voltage impulse. The main advantage of such devices is their low cost. They are used to connect equipment with low power.
- Home/Office - surge protectors of this class are designed to protect most household appliances and office equipment. They represent the best value for money. Models are optimal for home and office.
- Performance - professional level surge protectors. Such devices cope with all types of interference, are recommended for connecting sensitive equipment.
Almost all modern filters provide protection against short-term power surges. Such devices do not protect against prolonged overvoltage. If you have high or low voltage in your house, experts recommend giving preference to stabilizers. In Russia, the network frequency is 50 Hz, but often high-frequency harmonics are present in it. The noise suppression filter eliminates them.
Presence of a switch
On the filter housing there must be a switch in the form of a toggle switch. It allows you to turn off the device without pulling the plug out of the socket. The switch can be general, that is, turning off all connected devices. More expensive surge protectors have individual switches for each outlet.
Power Cord Length
Line filters can be equipped with a cable length from 1.5 to 10 meters. The choice of model should be based on the purpose of use. To connect portable equipment, such as construction tools, you should give preference to surge protectors with a long cable. Such a device will replace the extension cord and protect the equipment. When connecting computer equipment, the minimum length of the cord is usually sufficient.
Additional functions and features
As an added feature, most surge protectors have an indicator light, often built into the power button. A lit light indicates that the device is on. Pilots with a large number of outlets are often equipped with a wire holder. It protects against tangling of a large number of cords and their crease.
In some cases, for example, when connecting computer equipment, it is convenient to place the filter not on the floor, but to fix it on a wall or furniture. For this, special loops are provided on the body of some devices. Modern surge protectors can be equipped not only with standard sockets, but also with USB ports for charging gadgets directly. In this case, gadgets can be connected to the network directly, without a power adapter.
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The top 10 best surge protectors are compiled based on their characteristics, taking into account price and customer reviews. The list includes models of different price categories. You should buy a device based on your needs.
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Rating of the best budget network filters
The list includes models costing up to 1,000 rubles.
ERA USF-5es-B (B0019737)
Specifications:
- Price - 422-730 rubles.
- User rating - 4.8;
- Max load - 2 200 W;
- Number of sockets - 5;
- Cord length - 5 m.
The device protects against impulse noise, overload, short circuit. The design provides for a thermos contactor for 10 A. There are 5 sockets with grounding contacts on the case. The filter is connected to the mains using a 5 m cord. The case with protection class ip20 is made of polypropylene.
Defender DFS 751 (99751)
Specifications:
- Price - 413-810 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Max load - 2 200 W;
- Number of sockets - 5 + 2 and usb ports;
- Cord length - 1.8 m.
The device protects against overload, short circuit, impulse noise. The design provides for an automatic thermal bimetallic fuse built into the shutdown key. The body of the model is made of non-combustible plastic, there are lugs for wall mounting.
Pilot S, white, 1.8 m
Specifications:
- Price - 529 - 1,290 rubles;
- User rating - 4.7;
- Max load - 2 200 W;
- Number of outlets - 6;
- Cord length - 1.8 m.
Five of them belong to the "euro" variety. The device protects against short circuits when the current exceeds safe values. There is also a built-in thermal fuse to protect against overheating.
MOST Elite ERG, white, 2 m
Specifications:
- Price - 870 - 1,573 rubles;
- User rating - 4.7;
- Max load - 2 200 W;
- Number of sockets - 5;
- Cord length - 2 m.
The device protects against high-frequency interference, absorbs impulses. The shock-resistant case is made of fire-retardant plastic. On the reverse side there is a wall mount. The filter has 5 sockets, four of which are equipped with grounding. The design provides one general switch, as well as the ability to turn off each outlet.
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This top includes Home/Office class models. They are designed to protect household appliances and computer equipment, have a wide scope.
LDNIO SE3631, 1.6 m
Specifications:
- Price - 799 -1 480 rubles;
- User rating - 4.7;
- Max load - 2 500 W;
- Number of outlets - 3+ 6 USB connectors;
- Cord length - 1.6 m.
The device is equipped with a cord length of 1.6 m. The body is made of fireproof shockproof plastic. The design provides a general switch. Turn on three devices at once.The device has current protection, as well as voltage surge protection.
APC by Schneider Electric PM5B-RS, 1.8 m
Specifications:
- Price - 1589 - 2408 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Max load - 2 300 W;
- Number of sockets - 5;
- Cord length - 1.8 m.
The IEEE test results have shown that the devices of this manufacturer reliably protect against impulse noise. In addition, the equipment reduces electromagnetic interference, which is often associated with freezing keyboards. Additionally, protection of coaxial, telephone and Ethernet lines is built in. The device has 5 outlets. The filter is powered by a 1.8 m cord.
CROWN MICRO CMPS-10, 1.8 m
Specifications:
- Price - 1669 - 2290 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Max load - 3680 W;
- The number of sockets is 10 + 3 RJ-11 + 2 USB ports.
- Cord length - 1.8 m.
The device has a filtering system against interference of various types. It is suitable for connecting electronics, computer, audio and video equipment. The model protects against voltage surges, surges and short circuits. Built-in flame retardant varistor system protects against fire. Additionally, protection for the TV antenna is provided. To do this, the case has two connectors of the Coaxial type. On the body of the device there are 10 euro sockets, 3 RJ-11 connectors, 2 usb ports.
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The list includes models with an increased level of protection.
APC by Schneider Electric PM8-RS, 2m
Specifications:
- Price - 2,196 - 4,203 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Max load - 2 300 W;
- Number of outlets - 8;
- Cord length - 2 m.
The design contains a metal oxide varistor and fuses. The device has built-in indicators for the status of protection, grounding, overload, breakdown. Additionally, protection of the TV antenna and telephone cable is provided. The filter has 8 outlets.
Rubetek RE-3310 with Wi-Fi, 1.8 m
Specifications:
- Price - 2,265 - 3,920 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Max load - 2 500 W;
- Number of sockets - 3 + 4 USB ports;
- Cord length - 1.8 m.
The user can turn the sockets on and off remotely. You can control both all power points, and each separately. Devices with a total power of up to 2500 W can be connected to the device.
Energy EG-PMS2-LAN
Specifications:
- Price - 4,539 - 7,130 rubles;
- User rating - 5.0;
- Max load - 2 500 W;
- Number of sockets - 5;
- Cord length - 1.8 m;
Energenie EG-PMS2-LAN is an expensive modern network filter with the ability to program and manage power.The user can control each of the four outlets individually via a local network or via the Internet. The device provides reliable protection for connected devices.
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When buying a surge protector, pay attention to products from well-known brands. Do not buy no-name models. The number of sockets, the maximum load level, choose based on the purpose of the application.
