Quick answer
Yes, a power strip with USB ports can charge many small kitchen gadgets like digital scales, Bluetooth speakers, or rechargeable lights, but it won't power high-wattage appliances like blenders or coffee makers. The USB ports typically deliver up to 18W, which is fine for phones and small devices but not for larger kitchen electronics.
Why USB ports on a power strip have power limits
Most power strips with USB ports, including models with surge protection, offer USB-A and sometimes USB-C ports that output around 18W total. That's enough to charge a smartphone or a small kitchen timer, but a stand mixer or immersion blender requires far more power—usually hundreds of watts—and must be plugged into a standard AC outlet.
If you're using a power strip in the kitchen, also consider safety: a surge protector with USB can protect sensitive electronics from voltage spikes, but it won't turn a low-power USB port into a high-power outlet.
USB-A vs USB-C: which port works for your gadget
Many kitchen gadgets still use older USB-A cables, but newer devices like some smart scales or rechargeable kitchen lights may come with USB-C. A power strip that offers both USB-A and USB-C gives you flexibility. However, not all USB-C ports support fast charging—check the output specs. For example, the Belkin surge protector with eight outlets provides one USB-C and one USB-A port, both suitable for low-power charging.
Frequently asked questions
Can I charge my kitchen scale with a USB power strip?
Yes, most digital kitchen scales with rechargeable batteries charge via USB-A or USB-C at low wattage (5W or less). A power strip with USB ports will work fine.
Will a USB power strip charge a blender or mixer?
No. Blenders and mixers require AC power (typically 300–1000W). The USB ports on a power strip only deliver up to 18W, so you must plug these appliances into a standard AC outlet on the strip. Use USB ports only for small electronics; plug high-power appliances directly into AC outlets.
Do I need surge protection for kitchen gadgets?
If your kitchen has sensitive electronics like a smart display, coffee grinder with digital controls, or a rechargeable gadget, a surge protector with USB (like the Belkin model) adds protection against voltage spikes. For simple appliances like a toaster, it's less critical. Surge protection is most valuable for devices with microchips or digital displays.
Can I charge my phone and a kitchen gadget at the same time?
Yes, but the total USB output is shared. With an 18W power strip, charging a phone (about 12W) leaves only 6W for another device—enough for a small gadget but not for fast charging both. For simultaneous charging, prioritize one device or use a higher-wattage USB charger.
Product spotlight
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Überspannungsschutz mit acht Steckdosen, einem USB-C- und einem USB-A-Anschluss: This Belkin surge protector offers eight AC outlets plus one USB-C and one USB-A port with 18W total USB charging and 900 joules surge protection. You can safely charge small kitchen gadgets via USB while protecting your electronics from power surges, but the USB ports won't run high-wattage appliances.
Überspannungsschutz mit acht Steckdosen, einem USB-C- und einem USB-A-Anschluss
