The 10 Best Electric Cord Reels
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in October of 2018. When you don't have easy access to an electrical outlet, one of these dedicated cord reels will provide you with the power needed to complete work efficiently in any garage, auto shop, or industrial working environment. Our options offer integrated power blocks, retractable and lockable extension cables, and impact-resistant exterior casings to withstand the rigors of any job site. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Link2Home Cord Reel
2. Reelcraft L-4545
3. AlphaWorks Smart Plug
Editor's Notes
January 12, 2021:
Choosing a suitable electric cord reel depends first and foremost on the power rating of the items you need to use it for. For regular home electronics and appliances, 16 or 14 AWG (American wire gauge) cable, such as found on the Masterplug 80-Foot should be sufficient. However, power-hungry tools and machinery will need to use a thicker gauge 12 AWG cable in order to prevent overheating, therefore options such as the Tacklife GCR2A or the Reelworks Heavy-Duty would be more suitable.
In this update, we added several reels that represent modern advancements in technology. The Poweradd Extension Cord is a compact option that, in addition to its five AC outlets, features two USB Type-A ports and a Type-C port. The Link2Home Cord Reel is a larger choice with 25 feet of cable, thermal overload protection, and two USB ports. Finally, the AlphaWorks Smart Plug boasts Wi-Fi connectivity that allows its twin sockets to be individually controlled from a smart device, and even responds to voice commands using Alexa or Google Assistant.
December 07, 2018:
Added the Reelcraft L-4545 for its durability and declutching arbor. Also included the Flexzilla Retractable due to its illuminated power block and easily adjustable cord stop. The Coxreels Spring Rewind is easy to mount on walls, ceilings, and floors. The Reelworks Heavy-Duty offers an auto-guiding rewind system and is ideal for use in extreme temperatures. Included the Masterplug 80-Foot for its easy-to-store and open design. Finally, added the Thonapa TH-163CR30 for its weather-resistant vinyl covering and the Tacklife GCR2A due to its slide-mounting bracket and safety-conscious slow retracting function.
4. Flexzilla Retractable
5. Coxreels Spring Rewind
6. Poweradd Extension Cord
7. Reelworks Heavy-Duty
8. Goodyear Retractable
9. Masterplug 80-Foot
10. Tacklife GCR2A
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.