The Best Extension Cords, Tested and Reviewed

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Extension cords are helpful, but they can also be dangerous if they overheat. Our top picks aim to help shoppers find safe, high-quality replacements.

A length of insulated wire with a plug at one end and a socket at the other, an extension cord comes in handy to connect an appliance, a power tool, or another electrical device to a power source beyond the reach of the item’s own cord. Yet helpful as they are, extension cords can be dangerous.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, about 3,300 home fires are started annually by extension cords, killing or injuring hundreds of people each year. These fires occur because of overheated wires, which happens when too much electrical current passes through wires that are inadequate for the job.

To help keep consumers safe, this guide showcases extension cords that we selected and tested based on specific shopping and performance criteria. We also offer several factors shoppers will want to consider before buying a new extension cord for their indoor or outdoor electrical needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Iron Forge Tools 100-Foot Outdoor Extension Cord
2. RUNNER-UP: US Wire and Cable 50-Foot Lighted Extension Cord
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE 6-Foot 3-Outlet Polarized Extension Cord
4. BEST STANDARD INDOOR: Firmerst Low-Profile Flat Plug Extension Cord
5. BEST SMART: GHome Smart Power Strip
6. BEST FOR SAFETY: Yellow Jacket 2737 12/3 Locking Extension Cord
7. BEST FOR STYLE: Slimline Flat Plug Conductor Extension Cord
8. BEST FOR GENERATORS: Champion Power Equipment Generator Extension Cord
9. BEST FOR OUTDOORS: UltraPro 25-Foot Extension Cord, 3-Outlet Power Strip
10. BEST ALL-WEATHER: US Wire and Cable 100-Foot SJTW General Purpose Cord

How We Tested the Best Extension Cords 

We spent 2 days (12 hours total) testing each of the extension cords listed to provide authoritative recommendations based on electrical performance, ease of use, and durability.

We started by measuring the voltage of each extension cord with a multimeter to ensure that they all deliver adequate power without excessive voltage drop. With the multimeter set to test AC voltage, we probed the wall outlet to get our baseline (121.2 volts). We then plugged each extension cord into that outlet and probed the cords’ sockets, measuring the voltage at the point of delivery. For multisocket extension cords, we tested each socket. All of our recommendations delivered at least 118 volts.

To test for ease of use, we plugged in the cords and used them to power as many tools and appliances as they were designed for. We noted special features, like lighted ends and multiple outlets. We also noted limitations, like excess or shortness of length, bulkiness, or limited plug compatibility. This information guided our decisions for use recommendations.

For any outdoor or indoor/outdoor extension cord, we tested durability by laying the cords across a concrete driveway and driving a pickup truck over them 10 times, inspecting the cord jackets afterward for signs of abrasion. To test for cold-weather operation, we placed the coiled cords in a deep freezer at -5 degrees Fahrenheit for 24 hours, then immediately attempted to uncoil them, rating each one according to its cold-temperature flexibility.

Helpful Terminology

Further down, we’ve outlined what to consider before buying extension cords (see “Jacket Strength”), but the following definitions are good to know before reading reviews of our Top Picks. These letters are used to define the strength, material, and purpose of extension cord jackets, and they are often printed directly on the product:

• S – flexible cord designed for general use
• W – rated for outdoor use
• J – has standard 300-volt insulation (if this letter isn’t displayed, the cord has 600-volt insulation and is meant for heavier use)
• P – parallel wire construction, used in air conditioner cords and household extension cords
• T – made from vinyl thermoplastic
• E – made from thermoplastic elastomer rubber
• O – oil-resistant

Our Top Picks

Our top picks were chosen based on electrical performance, ease of use, and durability. Here’s a look at how each one performed, and why we consider them to be some of the best extension cords on the market.

Best Overall

Iron Forge Tools 100-Foot Outdoor Extension Cord

See It

This all-purpose extension cord from Iron Forge Tools, designed for both indoor and outdoor use, features a flexible, yellow vinyl jacket that’s water-resistant and protects against moisture, abrasion, and sunlight. The 12-gauge wire has a power rating of 15 amps, 125 volts, and 1,875 watts, and the cord is Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed for safety.

The 100-foot extension cord offers a light socket illuminated by LED bulbs that helpfully indicate when the power is on. The plug boasts reinforced blades to prevent bending or breaking. This extension cord can handle most medium- to heavy-duty applications, from running a lawn mower to powering Christmas lights. Users can choose the best length for the job from among additional sizes, from 3 to 200 feet.

In our tests, the Iron Forge Tools lighted extension cord offered the best combination of performance and price for general indoor and outdoor use. This single-outlet SJTW-designated cord delivered good operational performance, easily powering our portable table saw. The bright yellow cord and lighted sockets improved visibility in the work area, adding a helpful safety element. The jacket held up well to abrasion by car tires on the driveway, but the cord does stiffen up quite a bit in freezing conditions. For the price, it would be hard to find a better 12/3 extension cord.

Product Specs 

• Length: 100 feet
• Type: 12-gauge diameter with 3 wires
• Amps: 15

Pros

• 12-gauge wire delivers up to 15 amps of electrical current
• Grounded plug and socket compatible with all corded hand tools
• Lighted socket end lets user know when the cord is live
• Competitive price for a heavy-duty 100-foot extension cord compared to other models

Cons

• Cord stiffens in freezing conditions, making it difficult to coil

Get the Iron Forge Tools extension cord at Amazon or Iron Forge Tools.

Runner-up

US Wire and Cable 50-Foot Lighted Extension Cord

See It

This bright yellow 50-foot extension cord (25-foot and 100-foot versions are also available) stands out in dark conditions outside and among tools in a garage or workshop to help prevent tripping and other accidents. It includes an SJTW vinyl outer jacket that won’t split or crack in colder temperatures as low as -35 degrees Fahrenheit. The 12-gauge wire features 15 amps, 125 volts, and 1,875 watts of power, as well as a lighted female plug that indicates when the cord is in use.

The US Wire and Cable lighted extension cord performed nearly identically to our Best Overall pick, with the only difference being the shorter 50-foot length. Measured voltage drop was slightly reduced because of the shorter cord length, but for practical purposes, this cord simply worked well. It powered our portable table saw without issue, and the three-hole plug is compatible with any corded electric hand tool. After a night in the deep freezer, this cord had stiffened similarly to our Best Overall pick, but the price is slightly higher on a per-foot basis. This option would be a good choice for DIYers with less distance to cover.

Product Specs 

• Length: 50 feet
• Type: 12-gauge diameter with 3 wires
• Amps: 15

Pros

• Lighted plug lets user know when extension cord is electrified
• SJTW designated for hard service in hot or cold conditions
• 12-gauge wire delivers up to 15 amps of electrical current
• 50-foot cord experiences less voltage drop than longer cords

Cons

• Becomes stiff and difficult to coil and uncoil in subfreezing temperatures

Get the US Wire and Cable 50-foot extension cord at Amazonor Tools 4 Flooring.

Best Bang for the Buck

GE 6-Foot 3-Outlet Polarized Extension Cord

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No little fingers or slim objects will get stuck inside any of the receptacles of this three-outlet indoor extension cord from GE. It boasts twist-to-close safety outlet covers that help prevent injuries. The 16-gauge cable also boasts power ratings of 13 amps, 125 volts, and 1,625 watts and is UL certified.

Users can add three outlets up to 6 feet from the nearest plug with this inexpensive extension cord, and the two-prong plug features strain relief to reduce fraying. The cord is ideal for home offices, workshops, or garages. In addition to the 6-foot length, choose from white, brown, and black in 9-, 12-, and 15-foot lengths.

We tested the GE polarized extension cord in several indoor scenarios. We loaded all three sockets with plugs from lamps, chargers, a glue gun, and strings of holiday lights. Everything worked as expected, without causing the extension cord to heat up. We especially appreciated the rotary-socket locks that allowed us to close off unused sockets when only one or two were needed. This relatively short extension cord provided adequate reach without increasing clutter or creating a trip hazard. It makes an ideal choice for office, household, and crafting where two-prong plugs are common.

Product Specs 

• Length: 6 feet
• Type: 16-gauge diameter with 2 wires
• Amps: 13

Pros

• Three 2-prong sockets efficiently power multiple tools or small appliances
• Shorter cord length (6 feet) minimizes trip hazards and clutter
• Patented rotary-socket safety covers reduce the risk of shock

Cons

• Not compatible with 3-prong power cords; may limit usage options
• Some shoppers say the cord stopped working shortly after first use

Get the GE extension cord at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Target.

Best Standard Indoor

Firmerst Low-Profile Flat Plug Extension Cord

See It

Firmerst’s 1-foot extension cord has a 14 AWG gauge rating and a power capacity of 15 amps, 125 volts, and 1,875 watts. The cord is UL certified and temperature-resistant up to 167 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, the flat plug design is well suited for the tight spaces between outlets and furniture, bookshelves, and desks.

The thick wires are encased in heavy-duty plastic that is sturdy but flexible. The wires can handle more amperage and wattage—with less chance of overheating compared to similar products with thinner 16 or 18 AWG wires. Available in white or black in a convenient three-pack.

The Firmerst low-profile extension cord we tested was just 12-inches long, a short length ideal for use as an adapter, where the low-profile plug may improve the functionality of a small space. It reduced plug profiles from a standard depth of about 3 inches to .75 inch, and worked with three-prong plugs. Because the cord is so short and made of thick 14 gauge wire, it even worked well with high amperage tools like our portable table saw. This extension cord could be helpful for organizing the house, garage, or workshop.

Product Specs 

• Length: 1 foot
• Type: 14-gauge diameter with 3 wires
• Amps: 15

Pros

• Flat plug profile saves space when plugged into a standard wall outlet
• Specialized plug shape allows use of both top and bottom wall outlet sockets
• Improves the use of wall outlets that are located behind furniture

Cons

• The plug angle may not be convenient for all users
• Plugs are not sized for efficient use with most power strips

Get the Firmerst extension cord at Amazon.

Best Smart

GHome Smart Power Strip

See It

The GHome Smart Power Strip offers three 3-prong electrical sockets and three USB ports all in one surge-protected unit. The power strip features a 4-foot power cord, onboard on/off switch, and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via a free mobile app or voice command through Amazon Alexa or Google Home. It has a power rating of 120 volts, 10 amps, 1,200 watts. The total USB output current is 3.1 amps.

With Wi-Fi connectivity, each of the socket outlets is individually controllable from anywhere. Name the outlets according to their function, use the app or voice control to turn them on or off individually, or set personalized schedules so they turn on and off automatically.

We used the GHome smart power strip to charge two phones and a watch on the USB ports while powering three small lamps with the outlets. Basic operation without Wi-Fi worked just fine. Next, we downloaded the mobile app and connected to our Alexa. Setting up the smart features took about 20 minutes. Using them required a strong Wi-Fi connection at all times. Navigating the app was a fairly intuitive process, and everything worked well along the way. Shoppers who are looking for more connectivity and convenience will enjoy this smart power strip.

Product Specs 

• Length: 4 feet
• Type: 16-gauge diameter with 3 wires
• Amps: 10

Pros

• Three 3-prong sockets, 3 USB ports, and baseplate on/off switch
• Built-in surge protector that prevents damage to sensitive electronic devices
• Controllable via mobile app or voice command with Alexa pairing
• 4-foot-long 3-prong power cable made from high-quality, fire-resistant materials

Cons

• Some users may consider this cord to be too short
• Its 3 USB ports are remotely controlled altogether, not individually

Get the GHome Smart extension cord at Amazon.

Best for Safety

Yellow Jacket 2737 12/3 Locking Extension Cord

See It

The Yellow Jacket locking 12/3 extension cord is power rated for 15 amps, 125 volts, and 1,875 watts. It includes multiple features that improve work-site safety. The weather-resistant bright yellow PVC jacket improves visibility to reduce a tripping hazard. The cord is SJTW designated for hard use in tough environments. It is treated with a special compound to remain flexible, even in cold weather.

The specially designed locking plugs ensure that tools remain plugged in, meaning less time messing around with the cord and more productive time. Heavy-duty strain relief built into the plug connections reduce wear and tear and extend cord life. This cord meets OSHA specifications for safe use on commercial projects.

In our tests, the Yellow Jacket locking extension cord delivered outstanding performance. We used it to power a portable table saw for 4 hours with no trouble. In order to text the locking connections, we attached a corded electric leaf blower. The connections held securely through the project. This cord also turned in the best cold temperature performance, as it remained significantly more flexible than any of the other “all-season” outdoor extension cords we tested. In our opinion, the Yellow Jacket could have been an alternate choice for Best Overall if not for the elevated, but justifiable, price point.

Product Specs 

• Length: 50 feet
• Type: 12-gauge diameter with 3 wires
• Amps: 15

Pros

• High-visibility yellow jacket is easy to see, minimizing trip hazard
• Locking plugs keep tools securely plugged into the cord socket
• Heavy-duty strain relief in plug and socket for longer cord life
• SJTW designated for hard service plus weather and wear resistance

Cons

• Premium price point for a commercial-grade extension cord compared to other models

Get the Yellow Jacket extension cord at