Not all home and workplace appliances can be used from certain sockets. An extension cord solves this by allowing you to use appliances from a distance away from the socket. When selecting an extension cord, you have to consider key factors like the distance to be covered, the power equipment in question, and if it would be exposed to the elements. This could be an overwhelming task since there are over a thousand products in this category and this is why, after extensive research, we’ve put together a review of the top five brands and a product from each to help you understand what they offer. You should check out other extension cords from these brands if the featured ones aren’t to your liking.
Overview
PROS
CONS
SPECS
Length(s)
Wire Gauge
Amperage
Certification
Best for
Our Top Choice
US Wire & Cable Heavy-Duty Extension Cord
For over twenty-five years, US Wire and Cable has been making reliable wire and cable products made to very high standards.
It’s made of a super flexible vinyl cord and has a distinct yellow color and a power-on indicator as safety measures. Its outer jacket is resistant to abrasion and deterioration and doesn’t ruin floors or walls.
The higher gauge wires become stiff and unwieldy in cold temperatures. The heavy cord is quite cumbersome.
N/A
13 Ga.
15 A
N/A
Outdoor use
Best Value
Coleman Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
Coleman Cable Inc. is an industry leader when it comes to the manufacture and delivery of quality innovative products and processes.
Its jacket is made of PVC, making it very flexible. It can be used indoors and outdoors.
The extension wire twists and stiffens in cold temperatures.
25, 50, 100 ft.
16 Ga.
10 A
UL Listed
Outdoor use
Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
Iron Forge Cable is known globally for providing quality products at reasonable prices.
It has a slip-, water-, and flame-resistant design. Its LEDs light up when powered and it has a PVC jacket for protection against abrasion and direct sunlight.
The end of the cord is pressed onto the cover material, making it somewhat easy for water to enter the plug.
50 ft.
12 Ga.
15 A
N/A
Indoor and outdoor use
Etekcity 10 Pack Extension Cord
Etekcity is an e-commerce retailer that provides customers with excellent electronics and outdoor equipment that make life easier.
These cords solve the problem of large and oddly-shaped plugs that take up too much space. It practically eliminates cable clutter.
Some users have noted that the ends of these cords are bulky and inflexible.
1 ft.
16 Ga.
N/A
UL certified
Indoor and outdoor use
AmazonBasics Outdoor Extension Cord
AmazonBasics is a popular e-commerce brand which provides great value when it comes to its products and services.
This extension cord rarely heats up. It is also lightweight and flexible.
After about a month outside, the orange color tends to fade.
If a device draws more current than an extension cord’s rating, it may result in overheating, which can damage the cord and equipment. If you choose the right extension cord for the job, you won’t have this problem. Take a look at the products and brands reviewed below and see which offers the features that are right for your appliances.
Our Top Choice
The US Wire and Cable Heavy Duty Extension Cord is double insulated with solid molded plugs. Because of its brightly-colored design, it can be easily seen during the day or at night. The Yellow Heavy Duty Lighted Plug Extension Cord, weighing 7 lbs. and with a length of 50 ft., is a similar, lighter alternative. You can check it out, too.
US Wire and Cable 100-Feet Yellow Heavy-Duty Lighted Extension Cord
US Wire and Cable Extension Cord 74100
Features
With over twenty-five years of experience in the wire and cable industry, US Wire and Cable prides itself in its commitment to manufacturing quality wires and cables in the United States. If you want reliability in your extension cords, you’ve found the right manufacturer.
The US Wire and Cable Yellow Heavy-Duty Lighted Extension Cord (MSRP $48.38) measures 100 feet and has individually insulated conductors surrounded by an outside jacket. This outer jacket won’t ruin floors or walls and it’s resistant to abrasion and deterioration from moisture and sunlight. The highly visible yellow color ensures that the extension cord can be seen at all times. The power-on indicator lets you know when power is running, which helps prevent electrocution. It’s made of a super flexible vinyl cord which sets itself apart from its competition.
The Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord is a thick 100 foot cord that works well outdoors. It can also be used in the garage, office, and kitchen. The SlimLine Flat Plug Extension Cord is specially designed for indoor use. The cord stays close to the wall and can be used to power lamps and other household equipment.
Coleman Cable Vinyl Outdoor 3 Prong Grounded Extension Cord – Available in 3 Lengths
Coleman Cable Extension Cord 02309 – 100 Feet
Features
With a sky-high reputation for the innovative design of products and processes, Coleman Cable Inc. is a market leader when it comes to electronic accessories that can improve the home.
The Coleman Cable Outdoor Extension Cord (MSRP $24.90) is a general indoor/outdoor cord that is suitable for most power equipment. The PVC jacket ensures resistance to moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and exposure to sunlight. This extension cord has reinforced blades which can help prevent accidental damage of the prongs. The extension cord is a safe and attention-grabbing orange. This cord is UL, cUL and ETL listed and meets OSHA requirements for outdoor extension cord use. The cord is 16 gauge with three conductors and is rated for 10 A and 1250 W. Weighing 5.3 pounds, it’s easier carry.
The durable Lighted Outdoor Extension Cord is designed for rugged outdoor use. Its heavy-duty 12 gauge wire can handle most equipment you plug in. Looking for a 10-foot heavy-duty extension cord? We recommend you take a look at this 16\/3 Heavy Duty Green Cable by Iron Forge Cable. It has three outlets for simultaneous use.
Iron Forge Cable Lighted Outdoor Extension Cord with 3 Prong Grounded Plug – Available in 4 Lengths
Iron Forge Cable Extension Cord IFC-123Y50 – 50ft - Yellow
Features
Iron Forge Tools has a knack for producing durable and long-lasting cables. It manufactures and supplies them at very reasonable prices. It also provides a lifetime warranty for all its products, making it a preferred choice for many homeowners.
The Iron Forge Cable Lighted Outdoor Extension Cord (MSRP $69.99) comes with a three-prong grounded plug which helps protect users from electrocution. At 50 feet long with ratings of 15 A, 125 V, and 1875 W, it’s suited for outdoor use. and has a slip-, water-, and flame-resistant design The plug contains LEDs that light up, giving you the added advantage of knowing if the power is running. The PVC jacket protects the cable from abrasion and direct sunlight and the cord’s bright yellow color is highly visible, especially in the garage and garden. This amazing cord meets OSHA standards and it is ETL/CETL listed.
This 10-Pack Power Extension Cord conveniently helps extend the reach of plugs, one foot at a time. This Etekcity Power Extension Cord Cable is a suitable alternative if you want a 5-pack cord set.
Etekcity 10 Pack Power Extension Cord Cable, 16AWG-13A, UL Listed, 2015 Upgraded Version (Black, 1-Foot)
Etekcity Extension Cord 100004
Features
Etekcity delivers products that are sure to enhance safety in your home. With nearly unbeatable customer care service, it provides necessary support for its products.
The Etekcity 10 Pack Extension Cord (MSRP $100) is durable enough to withstand abrasion and sun exposure. This cord is suitable for homes that have pets and small children because it’s designed to defy wear and tear they inflict and protect them from the dangers of a damaged cable. With an extension length of 1 foot, each cord consists of a three-prong plug and ratings of 125 V and 13 A. If you want a long cord, you can connect these cables to each other. These extension cords are UL listed, which means they have met the required standard for safety.
This extension cord is a 16 gauge all-copper wire outdoor extension cord. With a plug on one end and a socket on the other, this 50 foot cord ensures your equipment stays connected. If you are looking for a longer orange extension cord for similar purposes, this AmazonBasics Heavy-Duty Lighted Extension Cord will like be a great fit for you. Measuring 100 feet, it is the longer version of the one featured.
AmazonBasics 16/3 Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord in Orange – Available in 2 Lengths
AmazonBasics Extension Cord KT101 – 50 ft
Features
Because it is a phantom brand, AmazonBasics has a unique marketing identity. Launched in 2009, it sells basic, quality items at much lower prices than many other companies that populate its site, helping to promote customer loyalty and patronage.
The AmazonBasics Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord (MSRP $16.99) has the added benefit of being an all-copper wire extension cord. This helps prevent the cord from melting or burning in the event of a power surge. This 16 gauge cord can power a range of outdoor appliances and the bright orange color makes this cord easily visible in comparison to other darker cords. The PVC jacket makes it very flexible and shields it from moisture, abrasion, and direct sunlight. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport.
Now that you’ve read our reviews, we hope that we’ve provided you with enough information to buy the right extension cord for your home or workplace. Now make that purchase and enjoy your appliances!
