Powering your outdoor space requires more than just a simple extension cord. From festive holiday lights to essential power tools, outdoor electronics demand protection from the elements and potential electrical hazards. Choosing a dedicated outdoor power strip is a critical safety decision that safeguards your devices, your home, and your family.
This roundup focuses on the key safety features to look for, such as Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection, weatherproof (IPX) ratings, and surge suppression. We’ve selected eight reliable options that prioritize safety, offering various combinations of smart features, outlet counts, and durability to meet different needs for your patio, garden, workshop, or holiday display.
Our Recommended Outdoor Power Strips for Safety
- POWRUI Outdoor Smart Plug, Surge Protector
- IPX6 Outdoor Power Strip Weatherproof with USB Ports
- GFCI Power Strip with 4 Gang Sockets Outdoor
- CCCEI GFCI Outdoor Power Strip Weatherproof with 8 AC
- BN-LINK Outdoor Power Strip with 4 GFCI Outlets
- Woods 1432 4-Outlet Outdoor Power Strip with GFCI
- DEWENWILS Outdoor Power Strip with 4 GFCI Outlets
- Foval Outdoor Power Strip, 4 Outlets with GFCI
POWRUI Outdoor Smart Plug, Surge Protector
This smart outdoor power strip brings modern convenience and safety to your exterior outlets. It allows you to control each of its four outlets individually via a smartphone app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant. You can set schedules or countdown timers for lights, pumps, or decorations, adding both automation and energy savings to your routine.
Safety is integrated with a 1080-joule surge protector to shield connected electronics from voltage spikes. Its weatherproof design is suitable for covered outdoor use, and it operates on a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network without needing a separate hub. This unit is an excellent choice for those wanting to build a smarter, more controlled, and protected outdoor environment.
IPX6 Outdoor Power Strip Weatherproof with USB Ports
Designed for versatility, this power strip combines AC and USB power in a highly weather-resistant package. Its IPX6 rating means it can withstand strong water jets and heavy rain, making it reliable for patios, gardens, or even damp indoor areas like kitchens. The inclusion of two USB-A and two USB-C ports allows you to charge phones and tablets directly without bulky adapters.
A standout safety feature is the patented safety lock on the outlet cover, which requires significant force to open, preventing accidental access by children or objects. It also includes wide-spaced AC outlets to accommodate large plugs and provides surge and overload protection. The 15-foot cord and wall-mount capability offer flexible placement for a variety of setups.
GFCI Power Strip with 4 Gang Sockets Outdoor
This heavy-duty power strip is built for demanding environments like workshops, garages, and construction sites. Its core safety component is a built-in 30mA RCBO (Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent protection), which functions as a GFCI. It automatically cuts power within 0.1 seconds if a ground fault is detected, providing crucial protection against electric shock.
The construction features a 6.56-foot heavy-duty extension cord with a pure copper core for reliable power delivery. The four outlets are widely spaced to fit large tool adapters without blocking adjacent ports. With surge, overload, and short-circuit protection, this unit is a robust and safety-focused solution for powering high-draw equipment in challenging conditions.
CCCEI GFCI Outdoor Power Strip Weatherproof with 8 AC
For large-scale outdoor lighting or power needs, this strip offers an impressive eight AC outlets in a single, bright yellow housing. It provides dual-layer safety with both a weatherproof, water-resistant design and a sensitive GFCI that trips at a 10mA leakage current. This high sensitivity offers an extra margin of safety in wet conditions commonly found in gardens or during holiday decorating.
The 15-foot, 16-gauge extension cord is substantial for its length, and the flat plug design helps it fit neatly against walls or in tight outdoor receptacle covers. The unit is compatible with both two-prong and three-prong plugs and includes a 1200-joule surge protector. Built-in cord wraps make for tidy storage when the season is over.
BN-LINK Outdoor Power Strip with 4 GFCI Outlets
BN-LINK offers a straightforward and reliable outdoor power solution centered on essential safety. This model features four individual GFCI-protected outlets, each with its own TEST and RESET button. This design allows you to monitor and control the ground fault protection for each outlet independently, which can be helpful for troubleshooting if a device causes a trip.
The unit comes with a full 15-foot outdoor-rated extension cord, providing ample reach from your home’s outlet to your desired setup area. Its weatherproof casing is designed to resist moisture and debris, making it a dependable choice for seasonal decorations, power tools, or patio appliances where basic, certified GFCI protection is the primary requirement.
Woods 1432 4-Outlet Outdoor Power Strip with GFCI
From a trusted brand in outdoor electrical products, the Woods 1432 provides a no-fuss, safety-compliant option. It integrates a single GFCI circuit breaker at the beginning of the power strip, protecting all four downstream outlets from ground faults. This is a common and effective design that meets electrical safety standards for outdoor use.
The housing is built to be weather-resistant, and the 15-foot cord is sufficiently long for most backyard or driveway applications. Its simple plug-and-play operation makes it accessible for anyone needing a safe way to extend power outside without complex features. It’s a solid, brand-name choice for powering holiday lights, lawn equipment, or outdoor entertainment systems.
DEWENWILS Outdoor Power Strip with 4 GFCI Outlets
DEWENWILS focuses on delivering essential safety features in a durable package. This power strip includes four GFCI outlets within a rugged, weatherproof enclosure that can handle exposure to rain and sun. The design often includes a clear, sealed cover for the outlets to keep water out while in use, adding an extra layer of physical protection.
It is equipped with a 15-foot heavy-duty cord that resists kinking and abrasion. The GFCI protection is sensitive and fast-acting, providing the necessary defense against electrical shock in damp conditions. This model is well-suited for contractors, landscapers, and homeowners who need a tough, reliable, and safety-certified power source for tools and temporary outdoor setups.
Foval Outdoor Power Strip, 4 Outlets with GFCI
The Foval Outdoor Power Strip completes our list as another strong contender emphasizing core safety. It provides four outlets protected by a built-in GFCI breaker, ensuring automatic shutoff in the event of a ground fault. Its compact and efficient design is made for repeated outdoor use in various weather conditions.
With a 15-foot outdoor-rated cord, it offers good reach and flexibility for placement. The unit is constructed to resist moisture and impacts, making it a practical choice for everyday outdoor electrical tasks, from powering string lights to running electric grills or leaf blowers. It represents a value-oriented option that does not compromise on the critical GFCI safety feature.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Safe Outdoor Power Strip
When I’m looking for an outdoor power strip, safety isn’t just a feature—it’s the whole point. Using a regular indoor strip outside is a serious risk, so knowing what makes an outdoor model different is key. I always start by checking for the right certifications. Look for a clear UL 1363 or UL 1363A listing. That “A” suffix is specifically for outdoor portable use, meaning it’s been tested to handle weather. If it doesn’t have this, I don’t even consider it.
Next, I examine the physical build. The enclosure should be heavy-duty, impact-resistant plastic. A tight-sealing, gasketed cover is non-negotiable; it keeps rain, sprinklers, and dust from getting to the outlets when they’re not in use. I also check the cord. It should be a thick, jacketed cable, and for my own convenience, I prefer a bright color like orange or yellow so it’s easy to see and avoid tripping over.
Electrical ratings are where I get specific. I make sure it’s rated for at least 15 amps and 125 volts. Just as crucial is a built-in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). This is a lifesaver—literally. If the strip gets wet or there’s a fault, the GFCI will cut power in a fraction of a second to prevent a shock. Some models even have a reset button right on the unit, which is super handy.
Finally, I think about placement and my specific needs. Will it sit on a deck, hang from a hook, or lay in the grass? Some strips have mounting holes or integrated hooks. I also consider outlet configuration: do I need widely spaced outlets for bulky adapters? Are there any USB ports for charging devices safely? By focusing on these certified, well-built features, I can find one of the 8 best outdoor power strip for safety options that lets me power my projects and parties without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use a regular indoor power strip outside if I’m careful?
No, I strongly advise against this. Indoor strips are not built to handle moisture, temperature extremes, or UV exposure. Their materials can degrade quickly outdoors, creating fire and shock hazards. They also lack essential safety features like weatherproof covers and GFCI protection. It’s a risk that’s simply not worth taking.
What does the GFCI reset button do on an outdoor power strip?
The GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is the most important safety feature. It constantly monitors the electrical current. If it detects even a tiny imbalance—like electricity flowing through water or a person—it cuts the power instantly to prevent a severe shock. The reset button is there to restore power after the fault has been cleared. If it trips frequently, there’s a problem with your equipment or setup.
How do I properly set up my outdoor power strip?
First, I always plug the strip into a GFCI-protected outlet if possible (like those on your home’s exterior). This gives you two layers of protection. Place the strip on a raised, stable surface away from direct puddles or sprinkler spray. Keep the cover closed over any unused outlets. Never daisy-chain multiple strips together, and don’t run the cord under rugs or through high-traffic areas where it can be damaged.
Are all outdoor power strips safe for use in the rain?
Most are designed to be weather-resistant, not submersible. This means they can handle rain, snow, and splashes, but you shouldn’t submerge them or let water pool on or in the outlet slots. The key is the closed, gasketed cover. As long as the cover is down over the unused outlets and the unit itself isn’t sitting in a puddle, it should be safe in wet conditions. Always check the manufacturer’s specific IP (Ingress Protection) rating for details.
What should I do with my outdoor power strip during winter or long-term storage?
I always unplug mine and bring it indoors for storage during off-seasons or extreme weather. Prolonged freezing temperatures can make plastics brittle, and constant UV exposure can degrade the housing over time. Storing it inside in a dry place extends its life and ensures it’s ready to work safely when I need it again for my next project.