Power strips

Smart power strip vs standard extension lead

A standard extension lead splits one socket into several and offers no intelligence. A smart strip adds the ability to switch individual sockets via a mobile app or schedule — and often includes a built-in USB-C Power Delivery port for charging a laptop and phone. At homescreen.pl you will find two types: pure USB/socket strips with fast charging (no online control) and smart strips with individual socket management.

Strips with individual socket control let you, for example, turn off the TV, games console and amplifier with a single "goodnight" command while keeping the router and NAS server powered. Or automatically cut power to a desktop workstation computer after working hours.

Meross HomeKit: smart strip with Home app support

Meross MSS425F is the only strip at homescreen.pl with Apple HomeKit certification. It offers four individually or group-controlled sockets, four USB-A ports and integration with the Home app on iPhone and iPad. Siri control, iOS automations, local operation without cloud dependency. MSS420F is the simplified version without energy metering. For Apple ecosystem users this is the simplest way to bring desk or AV equipment into the smart home without configuring additional platforms.

BlitzWolf: energy metering across the strip

BlitzWolf BW-PC1 and BW-PC2 are Tuya WiFi strips with a built-in wattmeter. They display current energy consumption for all connected devices combined, consumption history and estimated energy cost. BW-PC2 adds two USB-A ports. For a home office or gaming setup, it is a convenient way to monitor how much power the computer system draws over a day or month.

• BW-PC1 — 4 sockets, WiFi Tuya, energy metering
• BW-PC2 — 4 sockets + 2 USB-A, WiFi Tuya, energy metering

LDNIO: desk strips with USB-C PD

LDNIO specialises in power strips with advanced USB charging. Models SC3604, SC3301, SC4407 and SC5614 offer 3 to 6 mains sockets and 2 to 6 USB ports in various configurations:

• LDNIO SC5614 — 5 sockets + USB-A + USB-C PD 30 W, long 1.8 m cable
• LDNIO SC4407 — 4 sockets + USB, compact desk housing
• LDNIO SC3301 — 3 sockets + 3 USB (including USB-C), for powering a laptop and charging a phone from one strip

LDNIO strips have no online control — these are traditional strips with built-in fast charging. They work well as desk additions where you need to power equipment and charge mobile devices without multiple separate chargers.

Ugreen: quality for a demanding desk

Ugreen CD243 and CD244 are desk strips with USB-C Power Delivery up to 65 W, capable of simultaneously powering a laptop, tablet and phone. Aluminium or high-quality plastic housing, flat design, braided cable. For remote workers who value minimalism and high-quality charging in one device.

Baseus PowerCombo: compact for desk and sofa

Baseus PowerCombo Strip combines 4 mains sockets with a USB-A and USB-C PD port in a compact housing with a rotating plug. The 180° rotation makes it easier to connect behind furniture or near a wall. Gosund P4 is a smart alternative with four individually Tuya-controlled sockets.

Surge protection: why it matters for electronics

Voltage spikes can damage sensitive electronics: computers, TVs, amplifiers and hi-fi equipment. A good surge-protected power strip contains an MOV (Metal Oxide Varistor) that absorbs brief voltage surges and protects connected equipment. When buying a strip for a computer or TV, look for surge protection — this information is usually in the product technical specification or on the packaging.

How many sockets and how many USB ports?

When choosing a power strip, count the devices requiring mains power and those charged via USB. A typical desk setup: monitor (1 socket), desktop or laptop (1–2 sockets), speakers (1 socket), phone charger (USB), controller or headphones (USB). Six sockets with 3–4 USB ports is a sensible reserve. For an AV setup, count TV, games console, soundbar, decoder and router — 5–6 sockets are useful there. Also check cable length: a standard 1.5 m is often too short; look for 1.8–3 m for distant walls.

Related categories

Besides the strip, also check smart sockets for controlling a single device, in-wall modules, touch wall switches for lighting, and the full home automation category.

FAQ — Power strips

Smart strip or standard: which to choose?

If you want to remotely control sockets or monitor energy consumption, choose a smart strip (Meross MSS425F with HomeKit, BlitzWolf BW-PC1/2 with Tuya, Gosund P4). If you just need more sockets and USB ports for charging, a standard strip with USB-C PD — LDNIO, Ugreen or Baseus — will be a better choice due to the higher charging standard.

Is the LDNIO strip suitable for a computer?

Yes, LDNIO strips work well as power strips for a computer and desk setup. Models with surge protection (check the specific model specification) are better for more expensive equipment. LDNIO SC5614 with USB-C PD is a popular choice for powering a laptop and charging a phone from one desk strip.

HomeKit power strip: which one?

The only HomeKit-certified strip at homescreen.pl is Meross MSS425F. Four independently controlled sockets, four USB-A ports, full integration with the Home app, Siri and iOS automations. Works locally via the router, requires no additional gateway.