When searching for a rackmount power strip 20A, the key considerations are durability, number of outlets, and overload protection. The Best Overall pick is the Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420, thanks to its heavy-duty build and reliable performance. The Tripp Lite Metered PDU offers advanced monitoring features, making it ideal for data centers, while the Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20 strikes a balance between cost and capacity. Buyers face tradeoffs between price, feature set, and rack compatibility, making it essential to understand what each product offers. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and insights to help you choose the right power strip for your setup.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked products combine durability with ample outlets for professional-grade setups.
- Metered and monitored PDUs are best suited for data centers or critical environments that need power management.
- Heavy-duty metal construction often correlates with longer lifespan and better overload protection.
- Size and compatibility vary; selecting the right form factor is crucial for seamless installation.
- Price often reflects feature depth—more advanced monitoring or surge protection comes at a premium.
| 1U Horizontal Rackmount Power Strip with Overload Protection |  | Best Overall for Versatile Rackpower Management | Number of Outlets: 10 NEMA 5-15R | Cord Length: 6 ft | Compatibility: Universal 19-inch racks, 4 inches or deeper | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420 Heavy Duty Long Metal 20A Power Strip with 4 Outlets |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Industrial Environments | Outlets: 4 (2 NEMA 5-15, 2 NEMA 5-20R) | Cord Length: 15 ft | Housing Material: Aluminum | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20 Heavy Duty Metal 20A 1U Rack Mount Power Strip |  | Best for Versatile Rack and Wall Mounting | Number of Outlets: 12 NEMA 5-20R | Power Cord Length: 15 ft | Housing Material: Heavy-duty metal | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tripp Lite PDU Basic 120V 20A 14 Outlet Rackmount Power Distribution Unit |  | Best for Data Center Power Distribution | Voltage: 120V | Current: 20A | Outlets: 14 NEMA 5-15/20R | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 20A, 6 Outlets, 120V, Vertical Rack-Mount |  | Best for Monitoring and Space-Saving Power Distribution | Current: 20A (de-rated to 16A) | Voltage: 120V | Outlets: 6 NEMA 5-15/20R | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eaton Tripp Lite IBAR12-20T 1U Rack Mount 20A Surge Protector with L5-20P Plug |  | Best Overall for Versatile Surge Protection and Mounting Flexibility | Number of outlets: 12 | Power cord length: 15 feet | Plug type: L5-20P | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS-1215-20T 1U Rack Mount 20A Power Strip with L5-20P Plug |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Durability in Professional Setups | Number of outlets: 12 | Outlets location: 6 front, 6 rear | Power cord length: 15 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 1U Horizontal Rack Mount Power Strip |  | Best for High-Level Surge and Lightning Protection in IT Setups | Outlets: 12 NEMA 5-15R | Input plug: NEMA 5-15P | Power cord: 16 ft, 12AWG | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 20A, 12 Outlets, 120V, 5-15/20R, L5-20P / 5-20P, 15 ft. Cord, 1U Rack-Mount, Black |  | Best for Real-Time Load Monitoring and Data Center Use | Number of outlets: 12 | Voltage: 120V | Maximum current: 20A | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS361220 Heavy Duty Metal 20A Power Strip with 12 Outlets |  | Best for Heavy-Duty, High-Amp Applications in Workshops or Garages | Number of outlets: 12 | Extension cord length: 15 ft | Circuit breaker: 20A | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| rackmount power strip 20a | Number of Outlets | Housing Material | Outlets | Mounting Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1U Horizontal Rackmount Power | 10 NEMA 5-15R | Industrial-grade metal | — | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420 Heav | — | Aluminum | 4 (2 NEMA 5-15, 2 NEMA 5-20R) | Vertical and horizontal |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20 Hea | 12 NEMA 5-20R | Heavy-duty metal | — | Rack, wall, workbench |
| Tripp Lite PDU Basic 120V 20A | — | — | 14 NEMA 5-15/20R | — |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU | — | — | 6 NEMA 5-15/20R | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite IBAR12-20T 1U | 12 | — | — | Rack, wall, workbench |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS-1215-20T 1 | 12 | Heavy-duty metal | — | — |
| 1U Horizontal Rack Mount Power | — | — | 12 NEMA 5-15R | Horizontal, vertical, wall, rack |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU | 12 | — | — | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS361220 Heav | 12 | Metal | 12 | Wall mount, workbench, under desk |
More Details on Our Top Picks
1U Horizontal Rackmount Power Strip with Overload Protection
This 1U rackmount power strip stands out for its combination of safety and universal compatibility. Its 10 outlets with independent switches offer precise control, ideal for managing multiple devices in a server or network rack. The built-in circuit breaker enhances safety, making it suitable for environments where overload protection is critical. Unlike the Tripp Lite RS1215-20, which focuses on durability and mounting options, this model emphasizes safety features and fireproof construction, though it lacks surge protection. The manual reset after overload may be less convenient for some users, and it doesn’t include surge protection, which could be a drawback for sensitive equipment.
Pros:- Multiple outlets with independent control switches
- Durable fireproof construction
- Universal compatibility with standard 19-inch racks
Cons:- Requires manual reset after overload trip
- No surge protection feature
Best for: IT professionals managing server racks who need reliable, fireproof power strips with individual outlet control
Not ideal for: Home users requiring surge protection or those with less frequent overload concerns
- Number of Outlets:10 NEMA 5-15R
- Cord Length:6 ft
- Compatibility:Universal 19-inch racks, 4 inches or deeper
- Housing Material:Industrial-grade metal
- Wire Material:Pure copper
- Protection Features:Built-in circuit breaker, overcurrent reset
Our verdict“This power strip is well-suited for rack environments demanding safety and control, but lacks surge protection for sensitive gear.”
Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420 Heavy Duty Long Metal 20A Power Strip with 4 Outlets
This power strip excels in durability and flexible placement, thanks to its long 15-foot cord and rugged aluminum housing. Its two standard and two twist-lock outlets provide versatility for retail, POS, or industrial setups where secure connections are needed. Compared to the other models, like the RS1215-20, this unit prioritizes heavy-duty build and extended reach, though it lacks surge protection, which might be a concern for sensitive electronics. The absence of surge features means it’s more suited to environments where power stability is less fluctuating, but its limited capacity to handle high-power devices could be a constraint.
Pros:- Heavy-duty aluminum housing for durability
- Long 15-foot cord for flexible placement
- Multiple mounting options for versatile installation
Cons:- No mention of surge protection features
- Limited to 20A capacity, may not support high-power devices
Best for: Retail or industrial settings requiring durable power strips with flexible installation options
Not ideal for: Home or office users seeking surge protection or higher outlet counts for complex setups
- Outlets:4 (2 NEMA 5-15, 2 NEMA 5-20R)
- Cord Length:15 ft
- Housing Material:Aluminum
- Mounting Options:Vertical and horizontal
- Circuit Breaker:20-amp
- Certification:UL1363A / cUL
Our verdict“Ideal for rugged environments needing extended reach and durability, but not suitable for sensitive or high-power applications.”
Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20 Heavy Duty Metal 20A 1U Rack Mount Power Strip
This 1U rackmount power strip features 12 NEMA 5-20R outlets and a 15-foot cord, making it a flexible choice for audio, video, or network hardware. Its heavy-duty metal housing ensures durability, and the inclusion of mounting hardware allows installation in rack, wall, or workbench setups. Compared to the PS120420, which emphasizes ruggedness and long reach, the RS1215-20 offers more outlets, though it still doesn’t include surge protection, which some users might find limiting. Its multiple mounting options make it adaptable for various environments, but it’s limited to 20A, which might restrict high-power system use.
Pros:- Heavy-duty metal housing for durability
- Versatile mounting options including rack, wall, and workbench
- Long 15-foot cord for flexible placement
Cons:- No surge protection features
- Limited to 20A outlets, restricting high-power device compatibility
Best for: AV and network technicians needing durable, versatile power distribution in multiple mounting formats
Not ideal for: Home users or small offices requiring surge protection or fewer outlets
- Number of Outlets:12 NEMA 5-20R
- Power Cord Length:15 ft
- Housing Material:Heavy-duty metal
- Mounting Options:Rack, wall, workbench
- Circuit Breaker:Resettable
- Outlets Capacity:20A
Our verdict“This model suits professional environments needing durable, multi-mount options but falls short on surge protection for sensitive equipment.”
Tripp Lite PDU Basic 120V 20A 14 Outlet Rackmount Power Distribution Unit
This PDU is designed for high-density data center applications, providing 14 outlets in a vertical rackmount form factor. Its straightforward design supports up to 2.4kVA and offers reliable, space-saving power distribution. Unlike the more flexible models like the RS1215-20, it focuses on high capacity and stability over versatility or extra features. While it doesn’t include surge protection, its 14 outlets and vertical mounting make it ideal for densely packed server racks, where space efficiency and continuous power are priorities. The absence of surge protection could be a concern if power stability becomes an issue.
Pros:- Reliable power distribution for racks
- 14 outlets for multiple devices
- Vertical rackmount design maximizes space efficiency
Cons:- No surge protection features
- Limited to 120V applications
Best for: Data center managers and server room technicians needing reliable, high-capacity power distribution in tight spaces
Not ideal for: Home or small office users needing surge protection or fewer outlets
- Voltage:120V
- Current:20A
- Outlets:14 NEMA 5-15/20R
- Power Capacity:2.4kVA
- Mounting:Vertical rackmount
- Features:Basic power distribution
Our verdict“This PDU is perfect for densely packed server environments but lacks surge protection for sensitive network hardware.”
Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 20A, 6 Outlets, 120V, Vertical Rack-Mount
This metered PDU makes a strong case for monitoring power load directly, with a clear two-digit lighted meter showing total current draw, aiding in preventing overloads. Its compact 0U vertical rack-mount form preserves rack space, unlike larger models, and the inclusion of a 15-foot cord and a 5-20P adapter adds versatility. Compared with the RS1215-20, which offers more outlets, this unit focuses on providing real-time current data, making it ideal for critical systems where load management is vital. Its de-rated 16A continuous current and limited outlet count could restrict its use for larger setups or high-power devices.
Pros:- Displays total output current with a clear, lighted meter
- Compact 0U vertical rack-mount design saves space
- Includes a 15-foot line cord and an adapter for versatile connectivity
Cons:- De-rated to 16A for continuous use
- Limited to 6 outlets, restricting larger setups
Best for: Network administrators and data center operators needing load monitoring in tight spaces
Not ideal for: Setup environments where multiple outlets are needed without load monitoring
- Current:20A (de-rated to 16A)
- Voltage:120V
- Outlets:6 NEMA 5-15/20R
- Input Plug:NEMA L5-20P
- Line Cord Length:15 ft
- Mounting Format:0U vertical rack-mount
Our verdict“This PDU is tailored for environments prioritizing real-time load monitoring in compact rack spaces but isn’t suited for high outlet demands.”
Eaton Tripp Lite IBAR12-20T 1U Rack Mount 20A Surge Protector with L5-20P Plug
This surge protector stands out for its high 3840 joule rating, offering robust defense against power surges, which makes it ideal for protecting sensitive audio, video, and IT equipment. Its isolated filter banks help reduce line noise, a feature not always present in competitors like the Tripp Lite RS-1215-20T. The versatile mounting options—rack, wall, or workbench—add to its adaptability, though the heavy metal housing can make installation more cumbersome. Compared to the 1U Horizontal Power Strip, it provides better surge protection but at the cost of increased weight and less streamlined setup. The 15-foot cord length offers ample reach, but the overall weight may challenge portability. This pick makes the most sense for users needing premium surge protection combined with flexible mounting in various environments.
Pros:- High 3840 joule surge protection for critical equipment
- Multiple mounting options for adaptability
- Isolated filter banks reduce line noise
- Long 15-foot power cord for flexibility
Cons:- Heavy metal housing can be cumbersome to install
- Limited to 20A outlets, unsuitable for high-power devices
Best for: Professionals or home users seeking high joule surge protection with versatile mounting options.
Not ideal for: Users with limited space or seeking lightweight, portable power strips for casual use.
- Number of outlets:12
- Power cord length:15 feet
- Plug type:L5-20P
- Mounting options:Rack, wall, workbench
- Line noise filtering:Yes
Our verdict“Best suited for those needing comprehensive surge protection with flexible installation options.”
Eaton Tripp Lite RS-1215-20T 1U Rack Mount 20A Power Strip with L5-20P Plug
This model is well-suited to environments demanding rigid durability and flexible mounting, such as AV or network setups. Its heavy-duty metal housing ensures longevity, comparable to the PS361220 Heavy Duty Metal Power Strip, but with a slightly shorter 15-foot cord. The 12 outlets are split evenly front and rear, facilitating easy access in tight rack spaces, though it lacks explicit surge protection features, unlike the IBAR12-20T. The versatile mounting options—rack, wall, or under counter—make it adaptable but may require additional hardware for some configurations. The resettable circuit breaker enhances safety, although its 20A limit restricts use with high-power devices. This pick makes sense for professional users needing robust, metal-encased power strips with flexible mounting.
Pros:- Heavy-duty metal housing for durability
- Versatile mounting options in multiple environments
- Long 15-foot power cord for flexibility
- Front and rear outlet accessibility
Cons:- No explicit mention of surge protection
- Limited to 20A capacity, not for high-power tools
Best for: IT and AV professionals requiring durable, heavy-duty rack-mount power distribution.
Not ideal for: Home users or hobbyists with minimal power needs who prefer lightweight or surge-protected options.
- Number of outlets:12
- Outlets location:6 front, 6 rear
- Power cord length:15 feet
- Plug type:L5-20P
- Housing material:Heavy-duty metal
- Circuit breaker:Resettable
Our verdict“Ideal for professional environments demanding durable, versatile power distribution.”
1U Horizontal Rack Mount Power Strip
This power strip emphasizes advanced surge and lightning protection, with a 3600 joule rating and 10KA lightning capability, making it suitable for sensitive IT or business applications. Its horizontal mounting offers a different form factor compared to vertical or rack-mount options like the Metered PDU, providing easy access in tight spaces. The 12 outlets support multiple connections, and built-in anti-interference circuitry enhances device stability. However, its limited compatibility to 19-inch racks and absence of smart features or remote control may restrict its use in more advanced setups. Compared with the Metered PDU, it lacks load monitoring but compensates with superior surge protection. This choice makes sense for users prioritizing lightning resilience and noise filtering in a compact, accessible design.
Pros:- High 3600 joule surge protection
- 10KA lightning protection for resilience
- Flexible mounting options including horizontal orientation
- Built-in anti-interference circuitry
Cons:- Limited to 19-inch rack compatibility
- No load monitoring or smart features
Best for: IT professionals or small business owners needing high surge and lightning protection with flexible mounting.
Not ideal for: Users looking for load monitoring or smart features, or those with larger rack systems.
- Outlets:12 NEMA 5-15R
- Input plug:NEMA 5-15P
- Power cord:16 ft, 12AWG
- Surge protection:3600 joules, 10KA
- Mounting options:Horizontal, vertical, wall, rack
- Lightning protection:10KA
Our verdict“Best for users needing robust surge and lightning protection in a versatile, space-efficient format.”
Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 20A, 12 Outlets, 120V, 5-15/20R, L5-20P / 5-20P, 15 ft. Cord, 1U Rack-Mount, Black
This PDU shines in environments where monitoring load is critical, such as data centers or server rooms. Its digital meter provides real-time load data, helping prevent overloads, unlike the other models that lack measurement features. The rack-mount design and 15-foot cord facilitate flexible placement, while its all-metal construction ensures durability. However, its 12 outlets may be insufficient for larger setups, and its 20A limit restricts power capacity. The lack of surge protection features, unlike the IBAR12-20T, means it’s better suited to environments where power monitoring is prioritized over surge defense. This makes it especially valuable for IT professionals managing multiple devices with a focus on power monitoring and safety.
Pros:- Real-time load monitoring via built-in digital meter
- Rack-mountable for easy integration into data centers
- Heavy-duty metal housing for durability
- Long 15-foot power cord for flexible placement
Cons:- Limited to 20A capacity, unsuitable for high-power devices
- Only 12 outlets, may not meet larger setup demands
Best for: Data center managers or IT professionals needing real-time load monitoring of rack-mounted equipment.
Not ideal for: Home users or small offices without critical need for load measurement or extensive power management.
- Number of outlets:12
- Voltage:120V
- Maximum current:20A
- Power plug type:L5-20P / 5-20P
- Item dimensions:21″L x 10″W
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“Best suited for environments requiring precise load management with reliable rack-mount design.”
Eaton Tripp Lite PS361220 Heavy Duty Metal 20A Power Strip with 12 Outlets
This heavy-duty power strip is designed for high-amp devices like power tools, with a metal construction that guarantees durability in demanding environments. Its 15-foot extension cord offers flexible placement, and the 20A circuit breaker provides essential overload protection. While it shares the same robust build as the RS-1215-20T, it’s more suited for high-power equipment rather than sensitive electronics, given its lack of surge protection or advanced filtering. The bulkier design might limit installation in tight spaces, and it’s primarily aimed at workshops, garages, or industrial settings. Compared to the IBAR12-20T, it’s less suitable for delicate electronics but excels in high-current, rugged environments.
Pros:- Heavy-duty metal construction for durability
- Long 15-foot extension cord for flexible placement
- Includes mounting hardware for multiple installation options
- 20A circuit breaker for high-current protection
Cons:- Not suitable for sensitive electronics
- Bulkier design may not fit in tight spaces
Best for: Workshops, garages, or industrial settings needing reliable power for high-amp tools and equipment.
Not ideal for: Home or office users seeking sensitive electronics protection or compact form factors.
- Number of outlets:12
- Extension cord length:15 ft
- Circuit breaker:20A
- Housing material:Metal
- Mounting options:Wall mount, workbench, under desk
- Outlets:12
Our verdict“Ideal for high-current, rugged applications where durability and overload protection are priorities.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on build quality, current capacity, safety features, versatility, and rack compatibility. We prioritized units that deliver reliable overload protection and are designed for professional or industrial environments. Our rankings also consider ease of installation, cable management features, and overall value for money. No single feature determined placement; instead, a balanced assessment of durability, functionality, and user-centric design dictated how these options compare. This approach ensures that whether you need a simple power strip or a feature-rich PDU, you’ll find a product that fits your specific needs.| rackmount power strip 20a | Housing Material | Mounting Options |
|---|---|---|
| 1U Horizontal Rackmount Power | Industrial-grade metal | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420 Heav | Aluminum | Vertical and horizontal |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20 Hea | Heavy-duty metal | Rack, wall, workbench |
| Tripp Lite PDU Basic 120V 20A | — | — |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU | — | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite IBAR12-20T 1U | — | Rack, wall, workbench |
| Eaton Tripp Lite RS-1215-20T 1 | Heavy-duty metal | — |
| 1U Horizontal Rack Mount Power | — | Horizontal, vertical, wall, rack |
| Tripp Lite Metered PDU | — | — |
| Eaton Tripp Lite PS361220 Heav | Metal | Wall mount, workbench, under desk |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Rackmount Power Strip 20a
Choosing the right rackmount power strip 20A involves considering several key factors that impact performance, safety, and ease of use. Understanding these aspects helps avoid common pitfalls such as underestimating load capacity or selecting incompatible sizes. Here are the main considerations to guide your selection:Capacity and Outlets
Ensure the power strip can handle 20A loads consistently, especially if you’re powering high-demand equipment. Count the outlets to match your current and future needs, but also consider spacing for larger power adapters. Overloading a strip can cause failures or safety hazards, so choose a unit with a slightly higher capacity if you plan expansion.
Build Quality and Durability
Opt for metal enclosures over plastic when possible, as they tend to withstand harsher environments and provide better surge protection. Heavy-duty construction often indicates longer lifespan and enhanced safety. Be mindful of mounting hardware and cable management features that simplify installation and maintenance.
Monitoring and Safety Features
Consider products with overload protection, circuit breaker reset options, and surge suppression. For critical environments, metered or monitored PDUs offer real-time data on power consumption, aiding in preventive maintenance. Avoid models lacking safety features if you’re running sensitive or valuable equipment.
Size and Compatibility
Verify the rack size and mounting compatibility before purchasing. Some units are designed for 1U or 2U racks, while others may fit specific chassis or enclosures. Proper fit ensures easier installation and reduces strain on connectors and cables.
Cost versus Features
While budget options may suffice for simple setups, investing in higher-end models with monitoring, surge protection, and robust construction pays off in reliability. Balance your budget against the criticality of your equipment and the environment where the power strip will be installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 20A rackmount power strip for high-power equipment?
Yes, a 20A rackmount power strip is designed specifically to handle loads up to 20 amps, making it suitable for high-power devices within that limit. However, always check the total power draw of your equipment to avoid overloading. For equipment with high startup currents or future expansion, consider a unit with a slightly higher capacity or additional outlets. Proper load management is critical to prevent tripping breakers or damaging equipment.
What safety features should I look for in a rackmount power strip?
Key safety features include overload protection, circuit breakers, surge suppression, and grounding. Overload protection prevents damage by cutting power when capacity is exceeded, while surge suppression guards against voltage spikes. Grounding is essential for safety, especially in industrial environments. These features help protect your equipment and ensure safe operation over the long term.
Are monitored PDUs worth the extra cost?
Monitoring PDUs provide real-time data on power consumption, which is invaluable for managing energy use and preventing overloads. They are particularly useful in data centers or environments with critical equipment, where uptime is essential. Although they tend to cost more upfront, the ability to track power trends can save money and reduce downtime in the long run. For casual or less critical applications, simpler units may suffice.
How important is the rack size for compatibility?
Rack size is a vital consideration. Units designed for 1U or 2U racks fit most standard server racks, ensuring seamless installation. Using a power strip that doesn’t match your rack size can lead to installation issues or inadequate support. Always verify the mounting hardware and dimensions before purchasing to ensure proper fit and stability.
Should I prioritize price or features when choosing a 20A rackmount power strip?
Deciding between price and features depends on your application. Budget models may cover basic needs but might lack safety features or monitoring capabilities. Investing in a more feature-rich unit offers better protection, management, and durability, especially for professional or critical environments. Weigh the importance of safety, expandability, and longevity against your budget to make the best choice.
Conclusion
For most users seeking a reliable, all-around solution, the Best Overall pick is the Eaton Tripp Lite PS120420, thanks to its balanced mix of durability and performance. Budget-conscious buyers should consider simpler, no-frills models that still meet safety standards. Data centers or environments requiring detailed power management will benefit from the advanced features of monitored PDUs, such as the Tripp Lite Metered PDU. Beginners or small setups can opt for straightforward units with easy installation, while professionals should look into heavy-duty, high-capacity options like the Eaton Tripp Lite RS1215-20. Select based on your specific power needs, environment, and budget to ensure a safe, efficient upgrade to your rack setup.
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