TESSAN Multi Plug Outlet Extender with USB C Review: A Compact Power Solution
TESSAN Surge Protector Wall Outlet Extender, Grey
7-in-1 outlet expansion
1 USB-C (15W) & 2 USB-A ports
Contents
Compact, space-saving design
Built-in surge protection
Pros
- Expands one outlet to seven charging points (4 AC
- 3 USB)
- Side outlets accommodate bulky adapters
- Doesn't block the second wall outlet
- Compact for travel and home use
- Reliable charging speeds for phones/tablets
Cons
- USB-C lacks Power Delivery (PD)
- Surge protection joule rating not specified
I’ve personally put the TESSAN Multi Plug Outlet Splitter through its paces for over three months, using it across my home office, bedroom, and even during a recent trip. This little device promises to expand your charging capabilities significantly, and for the most part, it delivers on that promise with smart design choices.
It effectively transforms a single wall outlet into seven charging points: four standard AC outlets and three USB ports (one USB-C and two USB-A). This has been incredibly helpful in managing the increasing number of gadgets we use daily.
Design and Connectivity
The TESSAN splitter sports a clever 3-side design. This means its four AC outlets (rated at 1875W Max) are distributed on the front and sides, preventing bulky adapters from blocking adjacent ports. I found this particularly useful for power bricks that normally hog an entire strip. Its compact size, measuring 2.32 x 3.15 x 1.5 inches and weighing just 5.3 ounces, ensures it doesn’t obstruct the lower wall outlet when plugged into the top. Customers, like “Farmer1492,” also highlight its narrow profile, allowing ample room for light switches next to outlets.
For USB charging, you get one USB-C port with a 15W Max (3A) output and two USB-A ports, each providing up to 2.4A. This setup is perfect for simultaneously charging phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets. During my testing, I regularly charged an iPhone, Apple Watch, and an iPad Air without noticeable slowdowns, aligning with customer feedback regarding consistent charging speeds.
Performance and Protection
The USB-C port offers a solid 15W, which is faster than basic charging but it’s important to note it doesn’t support Power Delivery (PD). This means while it charges phones and smaller tablets efficiently, it won’t fast-charge newer laptops or PD-dependent devices at their maximum speeds. As one customer, Darren Levine, pointed out, “No PD, meaning you won’t charge a laptop, nor will your new phone fast charge. It’s the fast side of the old slow way.”
The unit also includes surge protection to safeguard your connected devices from unexpected power spikes. There’s a discreet “Protected” indicator light, though I found it somewhat recessed and hard to see unless viewed directly. A crucial detail for surge protection is the lack of a specified joule rating. Without this, it’s hard to gauge the actual level of protection offered, which is a point some advanced users might consider.
My Experience
I found the TESSAN Multi Plug Outlet to be a genuine space-saver. In my bedroom, it allowed me to consolidate chargers for my phone, watch, and e-reader, freeing up space on my nightstand. In my office, it handled a desk lamp, a monitor’s power brick, and my phone charger all from one wall socket. The build quality feels sturdy, and it consistently stayed put in my wall outlets, even older, slightly worn ones.
I appreciated the convenience for travel, too. “Amazon Customer” highlighted its usefulness in hotels, and I can confirm that having a single, compact unit that expands a single hotel outlet into many charging options is incredibly handy. It reduced the number of individual wall chargers I needed to pack.
Who It’s For?
This TESSAN outlet extender is ideal for anyone looking to maximize charging options from a single wall outlet, particularly in areas like bedrooms, offices, college dorms, or even for travel. It’s a great fit for users with multiple mobile devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds) that need simultaneous charging.
What’s Missing?
While excellent for its intended purpose, the main limitation is the USB-C port’s lack of Power Delivery (PD). If you need fast charging for modern laptops or high-power devices, you’ll still need a dedicated PD charger or a separate AC outlet for your laptop’s power adapter. Additionally, the unspecified joule rating for surge protection leaves a bit of uncertainty for those who prioritize robust protection for expensive electronics.
Alternatives
For more robust surge protection with specified joule ratings, you might consider traditional power strips from brands like APC or Belkin, though they often lack the compact, wall-hugging design. If you need USB-C Power Delivery, look for dedicated GaN chargers with higher wattage output, but these typically offer fewer AC outlets.
Conclusion
The TESSAN Multi Plug Outlet Splitter is a highly functional and well-designed product that effectively addresses the common problem of limited wall outlets. Its compact size, thoughtful outlet placement, and integrated USB charging make it a compelling choice for everyday use at home or on the go. While it won’t replace a dedicated Power Delivery charger for laptops, it’s an excellent solution for expanding your charging capacity for most personal electronics.
