5 Best extension leads
Today's models do more than just add sockets, and I've tested the best extension leads that truly earn their place in your setup.
5
They might not be glamorous, but a good extension lead is one of the most useful bits of kit you can have around the house.
And while they might seem low-tech, the best extension lead options these days come with smarter features that make them surprisingly handy.
Having tested everything from smart home devices to the best video doorbells on the market, I've seen just how much difference the right set-up can make.
Many extension leads now come with USB-A and USB-C ports, surge protection, timers, and even voice control.
Whether you're building a home office, powering smart devices, or just fed up with juggling chargers, the right lead can make your setup run a whole lot smoother.
Read on for my top picks.
How I tested
I've plugged in and put these extension leads to work over the past couple of weeks, testing how they hold up in a busy household.
From simple desk setups to outdoor use, and juggling multiple devices charging at once, I've seen how they perform in real life.
I focused on build quality, the variety and usefulness of ports, how well any smart features work, and overall day-to-day reliability.
After plenty of hands-on time and careful comparison, these are the extension leads that really stood out.
Best extension leads - tried and tested
Tapo P304M
5
Tapo P304M Smart Power Strip, £29.99 from Amazon
I didn't quite realise how clever extension leads had become until I got hands-on with the Tapo P304M.
This one lets you control each of the four mains sockets individually through the Tapo app, which means you can turn off things like a lamp or printer without having to get up.
It also works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands and basic automations, and you can even set timers or schedules.
There's some neat energy monitoring baked in too, though I didn't find myself using it much day to day.
Same goes for voice control, it's clever, but most things I plug in are there to stay, so I rarely found myself actually talking to it.
The big miss for me is the lack of USB ports; there are none here. In 2025, that feels like a bit of a slip, especially when so many of our gadgets charge via USB-C.
That said, for under £30, it's a great value way to make a standard setup a bit smarter.
The 2-metre cord gives you enough reach for most rooms, and you can mount it if you want a cleaner finish.
Sockets: 4 mains sockets, USB ports: None, Smart features: Voice control (via Alexa/Google), app timers, energy monitoring, Cable length: 2m, Mounting: Freestanding or wall-mountable, Power switch: Master on/off switches in app
Addtam 1.6m Extension Lead
5
Addtam 1.6m Extension Lead, £16.99 £12.34 on Amazon
BUY HERE
This Addtam lead has quietly become one of my most-used tech bits around the house over the past few years, and it's held up really well.
It's compact and surprisingly travel-friendly, with a tough braided cord that feels much more durable than the usual plastic kind.
I've used it by the bed and when working on the dining room; and it's the one I'd reach for to pack for trips abroad.
Despite the small size, it gives you two mains sockets, plus three Type-A and one Type-C port, which is a brilliant mix for charging everything from laptops to earbuds.
The Type-C port is the star here; more devices use it now, and it means you don't need to lug around extra plugs. I would've liked another one, but having at least one is a win at this price.
I went with the shortest 1.6m model just to make the sockets behind the bed more accessible, but you can go up to 5 metres if needed.
Now that I know how well this works, I'd have no hesitation branching out to Addtam's larger extension leads.
VonHaus Tower Extension Lead
5
If your desk or media setup is crying out for more sockets, the VonHaus Tower Extension Lead is a no-brainer.
It gives you a whopping eight mains sockets and four USB ports (2 Type-A, 2 Type-C) in a compact, upright design that takes up way less space than a flat bar.
I swapped this in from a chunky old lead and immediately doubled my socket count without any clutter.
I've got it powering a lamp, smart speaker, and our phone chargers, and it looks tidier than most, with a clean, matte finish.
You get surge and overload protection built-in too, which adds peace of mind if you're plugging in expensive gear.
My only gripe is it's so lightweight that it can wobble or tip if only a couple of plugs are in play.
Still, that's a minor issue; overall, it's a smart, space-saving pick that can easily handle a busy setup without looking like a jumble of cables.
Sockets: 8 mains sockets, USB ports: 2 Type-A, 2 Type-C, Smart features: None, Cable length: 2m, Mounting: Freestanding, Power switch: Master on/off switches on tower
VonHaus 25m Splash-proof Extension Lead
5
VonHaus 25m Splash-proof Extension Lead, £44.99 from VonHaus
For outdoor jobs where a standard lead just won't stretch, this VonHaus 25m splash-proof reel is a proper workhorse.
I use it mainly for things like jet washing the patio and running power tools at the far end of a long driveway.
With 25 metres of cable, I've never once felt restricted. It's got more than enough reach.
The reel design keeps things tidy when you're not using it, and it feels really solid.
The sockets come with hinged, IP54-rated covers to keep out water, which gives me peace of mind when I'm sprucing up the driveway. No panic if the jet wash gets a bit wild with a stray blast.
This one's not trying to be smart or techy, it's just a well-built, no-fuss lead that does exactly what it promises.
It's a bit of a beast, weighing in at 3.47kg, but if you're doing garden work, running a shed, or sorting outdoor lighting, it's a brilliant bit of kit.
Best extension leads FAQs
What should I look for in an extension lead?
Start with what you need: number of sockets, USB ports, and whether a strip or tower suits your space.
Prioritise solid build quality, a decent cable length, and surge protection, especially for high-traffic or visible areas.
Where can I buy extension cords?
You'll find them at most major retailers, Amazon, Argos, B&Q, Screwfix, and Currys, all stock a wide range.
Basic leads are everywhere, but if you're after smart features or USB-C ports, Amazon and Currys usually have the best selection.
Here's where to look:
What are surges?
A surge is a sudden spike in voltage, usually caused by power cuts, lightning strikes, or large appliances switching on.
They can damage your electronics or even start fires, so surge protection is something to look for in any good extension lead.
What are surge protectors?
It's an extension lead with built-in tech that blocks power spikes from reaching your devices.
If you're plugging in pricey gear like a laptop, TV, or sound system, it's definitely worth having. No one wants their setup fried during a storm.
Do extension leads use more electricity?
Not by themselves. They only draw power when something is plugged in and switched on.
Some smart models, like the Tapo P304M, even show you how much energy your devices are using, which is handy if you're trying to cut down on bills.
Can you plug an extension lead into another?
That's a no-no, and it has a name: 'daisy chaining.' But it's not as fun as it sounds.
It can overload the circuit and pose a fire risk, so stick to one quality lead that can handle your needs safely.
What can I not plug into an extension lead?
Avoid high-powered appliances like heaters, fridges, microwaves, and washing machines; they should always go straight into a wall socket.
Plugging them into an extension lead can overload the circuit and risk damage or pose fire hazards.
Are 6-plug extension leads safe?
Yes, as long as they're used properly.
A single lead designed for six (or even more) sockets is safe to use, provided you don't go over the total wattage limit (usually around 3,000W in the UK).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Reuters
an hour ago
- Reuters
Trump pauses export controls to bolster China trade deal, FT says
July 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. has paused curbs on tech exports to China to avoid disrupting trade talks with Beijing and support President Donald Trump's efforts to secure a meeting with President Xi Jinping this year, the Financial Times said on Monday. The industry and security bureau of the Commerce Department, which oversees export controls, has been told in recent months to avoid tough moves on China, the newspaper said, citing current and former officials. Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The White House and the department did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment outside business hours. Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials are set to resume talks in Stockholm on Monday to tackle longstanding economic disputes at the centre of a trade war between the world's top two economies. Tech giant Nvidia (NVDA.O), opens new tab said this month it would resume sales of its H20 graphics processing units (GPU) to China, reversing an export curb the Trump administration imposed in April to keep advanced AI chips out of Chinese hands over national security concerns. The planned resumption was part of U.S. negotiations on rare earths and magnets, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has said. The paper said 20 security experts and former officials, including former deputy US national security adviser Matt Pottinger, will write on Monday to Lutnick to voice concern, however. "This move represents a strategic misstep that endangers the United States' economic and military edge in artificial intelligence," they write in the letter, it added.
Geeky Gadgets
16 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Ryzen Z2 Extreme vs Z1 Extreme Gaming Processor Showdown
Is the Ryzen Z2 Extreme the future of portable gaming, or does the Z1 Extreme still hold its ground in 2025? With AMD's relentless push for innovation, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme promises new advancements, boasting a hybrid architecture and a more powerful RDNA 3.5 GPU. Yet, the Z1 Extreme, with its robust Zen 4 foundation, remains a formidable contender, especially in multi-core workloads. For gamers, creators, and tech enthusiasts, the question isn't just which processor is faster—it's which one delivers the best balance of performance, efficiency, and value. The answer may not be as straightforward as it seems, especially when trade-offs like base clock speeds and core configurations come into play. In this piece, we'll dissect the critical differences between these two processors, from their architectural breakthroughs to their real-world performance in gaming and productivity. You'll discover how the Z2 Extreme's hybrid design impacts multi-core tasks, why its GPU performance might redefine expectations, and whether its promise of future driver optimizations is enough to sway potential buyers. Whether you're eyeing a gaming laptop upgrade or simply curious about AMD's next-gen innovations, this comparison will help you navigate the nuances of these innovative chips. After all, the battle between the Z2 and Z1 Extreme isn't just about specs—it's about how those specs translate into everyday experiences. Ryzen Z2 vs Z1 Comparison Architectural Advancements and Core Specifications Both the Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Z2 Extreme feature 8 cores and 16 threads, but their architectural designs and clock speeds set them apart. Here's a detailed breakdown of their specifications: Ryzen Z1 Extreme (Zen 4): 8 cores, 16 threads, a base clock of 3.3 GHz, a boost clock of 5.1 GHz, and a 12 Compute Unit (CU) RDNA 3 integrated GPU. 8 cores, 16 threads, a base clock of 3.3 GHz, a boost clock of 5.1 GHz, and a 12 Compute Unit (CU) RDNA 3 integrated GPU. Ryzen Z2 Extreme (Zen 5): A hybrid architecture with 3 Zen 5 performance cores and 5 Zen 5C efficiency cores, maintaining the same 8-core, 16-thread configuration. It features a base clock of 2 GHz, boost clocks of 5 GHz for Zen 5 cores and 3.3 GHz for Zen 5C cores, and a 16 CU RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU. The Z2 Extreme's hybrid design introduces a balance between performance and efficiency, while its enhanced GPU architecture delivers improved graphical capabilities. However, the reliance on efficiency cores and lower base clock speeds introduces trade-offs in multi-core workloads. Performance Analysis: CPU and GPU CPU Performance The Z2 Extreme benefits from the architectural advancements of Zen 5, offering superior single-core performance. This makes it a strong contender for tasks that rely on single-threaded operations. However, its multi-core performance slightly trails the Z1 Extreme due to the inclusion of Zen 5C efficiency cores, which operate at lower clock speeds. For users focused on multi-core workloads such as video rendering or complex simulations, this could be a critical consideration. GPU Performance The Z2 Extreme's 16 CU RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU represents a significant leap in graphical performance compared to the Z1 Extreme's 12 CU RDNA 3 GPU. Benchmarks across various games and graphical tasks highlight the Z2 Extreme's dominance: Cyberpunk 2077: Higher frames per second (FPS) at both 17W and 25W TDPs, offering smoother gameplay. Higher frames per second (FPS) at both 17W and 25W TDPs, offering smoother gameplay. Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Forza Horizon 5, and Black Myth: Wukong: Noticeable performance gains, particularly at lower power levels. Noticeable performance gains, particularly at lower power levels. Horizon Zero Dawn: Minimal performance difference, underscoring the importance of game-specific optimization. While the Z2 Extreme excels in most scenarios, its performance gains are not uniform across all games, emphasizing the role of software optimization in maximizing its potential. Ryzen Z2 Extreme vs Z1 Extreme Which One Wins in 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on Ryzen consoles by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Memory Capabilities and Power Efficiency Both processors are equipped with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, but the Z2 Extreme supports faster memory speeds of up to 8000 MT/s, compared to the Z1 Extreme's 7500 MT/s. This improvement enhances system responsiveness and performance in memory-intensive applications such as data analysis and multitasking. In terms of power efficiency, the Z2 Extreme demonstrates better performance scaling at lower wattages. At a 17W TDP, it outperforms the Z1 Extreme in efficiency, making it an ideal choice for portable devices like gaming laptops and handheld consoles. However, as power consumption increases, the efficiency advantage diminishes, narrowing the gap between the two processors. Future Potential Through Driver Updates One of the most promising aspects of the Z2 Extreme is its potential for future performance improvements through driver updates. AMD has a strong track record of enhancing hardware performance via software optimizations, and the Z2 Extreme is expected to benefit from similar updates. Over time, these optimizations could address some of the current performance gaps, particularly in multi-core tasks and game-specific scenarios. Choosing the Right Processor for Your Needs The Ryzen Z2 Extreme introduces meaningful advancements in GPU performance, architectural design, and memory capabilities, making it a compelling choice for gaming enthusiasts and users focused on graphics-intensive tasks. However, its mixed CPU performance and incremental improvements over the Ryzen Z1 Extreme may not justify an upgrade for all users. For those who already own a Z1 Extreme, waiting for future driver updates and optimizations might be the more prudent option. On the other hand, new buyers prioritizing gaming performance, power efficiency, and future-proofing will find the Z2 Extreme to be a forward-looking solution. Ultimately, the decision should align with your specific needs, whether they center on gaming, productivity, or a balance of both. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
BBC News
a day ago
- BBC News
Astronomer's 'clever' PR move embracing CEO scandal
The US tech firm whose CEO and chief people officer resigned after being caught on camera embracing at a Coldplay concert has released a tongue-in-cheek promotional video featuring Gwyneth Paltrow as a "temporary spokesperson".In the 60-second clip posted on Astronomer's X account, Hollywood star Paltrow - who was married to Coldplay frontman Chris Martin for more than 10 years - says she wants to answer "the most" common questions the company has recently been first of these questions, appearing as captions on screen, reads "OMG! What the actual f", to which Paltrow responds: "Yes, Astronomer is the best place to run Apache Airflow", she ends the answer by claiming the company is "thrilled so may people have a "newfound interest in data workflow automation."When a follow up question asks how the company's social media team is "holding" after the clip went viral, Paltrow says spaces are still available for a forthcoming conference. Paltrow signs off the clip, which has been viewed over 27 million times by thanking viewers for their "interest in Astronomer", saying the company will now be returning "to what it does best." "It's a really clever video," Jordan Greenaway, CEO of PR firm Profile says. "Everyone has heard about this scandal, everyone has seen the video. But if you'd gone down the street and asked someone who the CEO of Astronomer was, they'd say 'the guy in the Coldplay video', but if you then asked 'what does Astronomer actually do or sell, they would probably say 'they're kind of a tech company.'" Greenaway says the video going viral probably won't have too much of a negative impact on Astronomer going forward, as the viral scandal "doesn't strike at the heart of the quality of their product." He says the company's goal was to create brand awareness amongst the mass public so the company isn't just known as the one whose CEO had an affair. "I know there are some PRs whose default it is to lean into humour to bridge the scandal and get over the hump.""In most cases that doesn't work."But this is what Astronomer is attempting to do in this case," he says. "Rather than sidestepping things, they're jumping in with both feet. That's often a good strategy when a crisis is so big and well-known that you cannot easily duck it." Greenaway compares it to the horsemeat scandal of 2013, when horsemeat was discovered in beef products across Europe, and says "it would not have been right to dress that up in humour by posing as a horse, for example, and giving a response."That could lead to your customers saying "this is something that attacked the quality of your product, and you're making light of it." The nature of this scandal gives Astronomer the flexibility to approach their response with a bit more humour because the company sells a data service, Greenaway continues. "They're not making fun of the quality of their product, they're making fun of their CEO, who has now resigned." But Greenaway says while Astronomer can come out of this relatively unscathed, that isn't the case for Andy Byron. "He and his reputation are a different matter," he says. "If Andy Byron had made light of this, that would have been very unfair and very unethical, because he was the one undertaking in the bad behaviour." Byron had been CEO of Astronomer for two years when he and Kristin Cabot were caught on the giant screen at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts on 16 July. Greenaway says he would have taken "by and large the same strategy," that Astronomer has had he been involved in a situation like this. "I would have got rid of the CEO sooner. If possible I would have liked to have shown these type of leadership ethics at Astronomer are unacceptable. "But in terms of moving the discussion back to the company, and what it actually does, I don't think this is a bad way to go about it."I don't know if I would have had the courage to do what they are doing, but I hope I would have." Interest in Astronomer, which describes itself as "the best place to run Apache Airflow" - a product not developed by Astronomer - increased hugely since the clip of its former CEO went viral, with some unverified reports suggesting a spike of 15,000% in visits to the company's website. The company was founded in 2018, and provides services for companies that want to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI). Astronomer says it has worked with Apple, Ford and Uber, the Wall Street Journal reports. Pete DeJoy, co-founder and chief product officer has been appointed as the company's interim CEO, and can at least see a positive to all the attention on his company. "The spotlight has been unusual and surreal for our team and, while I would never have wished for it to happen like this, Astronomer is now a household name," he wrote on LinkedIn. The only previous statement the company had made was on X, two days after the Coldplay concert. "Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability," it said, while announcing a formal investigation had been launched. Seeing the moment Byron and Cabot hid from the camera from his position on stage, Coldplay's Chris Martin said: "Either they're having an affair, or they're just very shy."And if you're wondering what kind of PR impact this had on Paltrow's famous ex-husband and his band, Greenaway thinks it's neutral. "I don't think it increases awareness of them... the public at large have one thing in their head, and that's the Kiss Cam video. That drowns out all the other stuff."
