If you're anything like me, you've probably experienced your fair share of tangled extension cords, or have that one tool that's an inch short from reaching your power socket. That's why in this post I've gone on the hunt for the best retractable extension cord reels in Australia. Say goodbye to tangled and short cords, and hello to a more organised and efficient workspace.
Best for most
The handyman is our top pick as it's a good price, has multiple sockets, easy to use, and 25m of cord. You'll be able to use this reel for any worksite or home project to power your tools.
Auto retractable
The Ultracharge is designed to be bolted onto a wall and then extend with its 15m long cord. The neat feature of this cord is that it's retractable like a vacuum machine cord.
Also good
The Masterplug is similar to our top pick, but just a bit shorter being 10m in length, meaning its also a bit cheaper. So if you don't need 25m of cord, but only need about 10m, then you can save some money with the Masterplug.
How We Decided
You know what they say, a tidy workspace is a productive workspace. And nothing keeps a workspace tidy quite like a retractable extension cord reel compared to a normal power cord. These nifty wheels keep cords neatly coiled and out of the way, reducing the risk of accidents and allowing you to focus on the task at hand.
But with so many options on the market, how do you find the perfect reel for your needs? That's where I come in! We've sought out the best retractable extension cord reels available in Australia. We did this by firstly seeing what was on the market, cross referencing them with tradie forums and sub-reddits, before looking at the features of each reel, and narrowing it down to our top three picks.
Best Retractable Extension Cord Reels Australia: Top 3
- Best for most: Handyman 25m
- Retractable: Ultracharge 15m Auto Retractable
- Also good: Masterplug 10m Pro
Best for most
What we like
Very long!
Multiple sockets
Surge protection
Specifications
Length: 25m
Volts: 230 Volts
Weight: 4.7 kg
The build quality of this extension reel is excellent. It is made from durable, heavy-duty plastic that can withstand tough conditions. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold and makes it easy to carry the reel around my workspace. The 25-meter cable length is perfect for larger spaces like big garages or even extending it to your backyard to use eletric gardening tools.
The Handyman has four power outlets, which has been more than enough for to connect multiple power tools simultaneously like a mitre saw or power drill. The built-in overload protection and surge protection features provide an additional layer of safety, ensuring that my equipment remains protected from any electrical issues. The winding mechanism is smooth and efficient, making it easy to roll up the cable after use.:
Considering the quality, features, and performance of this extension reel, I believe it offers excellent value for money. It is a reliable and durable option for anyone in need of a long and sturdy extension cable for their workshop or other projects.
Retractable
What we like
Retractable
Mounts to wall
Swivels
Specifications
Length: 15m
Volts: 230 Volts
Weight: 6.15 kg
The build quality of this retractable extension reel is outstanding. It features a robust, heavy-duty construction that is built to last. The wall-mountable design has been a game-changer for, as it saves valuable floor space in any garage and keeps the cord organized and easily accessible. The 15-meter cable length has been sufficient for most people, and the high-visibility yellow colour ensures that the cable remains noticeable, reducing the risk of accidents.
The one downside of the UltraCharge is that is only has one outlet. However for most jobs when you need an extension cord, you will only need one any way. Further it is because of it's design there is only one outlet - it's retractable.
The auto-retraction feature eliminates the hassle of manually winding up the cable, saving time and effort. The wall-mountable design keeps the cable off the floor and neatly organized, while the 180-degree swivel function allows me to reach different areas of my garage with ease.
Considering the quality, features, and performance of this extension reel, I think it offers excellent value for money. It is a reliable and durable option for those looking for a retractable extension cord for their workshop, garage, or other projects.
Also good / budget
What we like
Multiple sockets
5 year warranty
Good price
Specifications
Length: 10m
Volts: 230 Volts
Weight: 320 g
One of the standout features of the Masterplug is its compact and portable design. It is lightweight, making it easy to carry around and store when not in use. This cable reel is perfect for occasional use and smaller DIY projects around the house, as well as outdoor activities with its 10m length.
The 10-meter cable length is sufficient for most home tasks, providing a decent range for use in the garden, garage, or various rooms within the house. The high-visibility green color helps to prevent accidents by making the cable easily noticeable, reducing the risk of tripping over it.
The reel features four wo power outlets like our top pick, which is convenient for connecting multiple devices simultaneously. The integrated power switch is a handy feature, allowing you to quickly and safely turn off the power supply without having to unplug the devices, providing an added layer of safety and convenience.
The build quality of the Masterplug is quite decent for a home-use extension reel. While it may not be as robust as some heavy-duty cable reels available in the market, it can withstand normal use around the house without any issues. Especially for its price!
The Masterplug is a practical and user-friendly solution for those in need of a basic extension cable reel for occasional use and small tasks around the house.
Its compact design, sufficient cable length, and integrated power switch make it a valuable addition to any home. While it may not be suitable for larger projects or professional use, it offers excellent value for money for home users who require a reliable and easy-to-use extension cable reel.
Extension Cord Reels Buying Guide
Now that we've gone through the top retractable extension cord reels in Australia, let's take a closer look at the factors you should consider when choosing the right one for your needs.
Cord length and gauge
When it comes to cord length and gauge, it's important to assess your needs. Will you be using the reel for small jobs around the house, or do you need a longer cord for professional applications? Typical cord lengths range from 10 to 25 meters, with longer cords offering more reach and versatility.
As for the gauge, this refers to the thickness of the cord and its ability to handle electrical current. A thicker cord (lower gauge number) can handle more power, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Retraction mechanism
Retractable extension cord reels come with three main types of retraction mechanisms:
Spring-loaded: The most common type, offering quick and easy retraction with a simple tug.
Manual hand crank: Requires a bit more effort, but can be more reliable and long-lasting.
Motorised: Effortless retraction at the push of a button, but typically more expensive.
Consider your preferences and budget when choosing a retraction mechanism.
Build quality and durability
The build quality of your retractable extension cord reel is crucial. Look for materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic, which can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Additionally, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer.
Safety features
Safety should always be a top priority. Look for retractable extension cord reels that come with built-in safety features like circuit breakers, ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and overload protection.These cords have a lot of volts running through them, good safety features can help prevent electrical accidents and ensure a safer working environment.
Additional features
Some retractable extension cord reels come with extra features, such as swiveling brackets, integrated outlets, and LED lights. While not essential, these features can add convenience and functionality to your reel. Like our Ultracharge pick in our buying guide, it can be mounted onto the wall with a swivel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions people ask when looking to buy a stud finder. If you have a specific question you need answered please contact us and we'll add it to the list.
What is the best method for coiling an extension cord?
To coil an extension cord without twisting, use the "over-under" technique, alternating between regular and reversed loops. This method prevents kinks and extends the cord's life. Continue looping until the entire cord is coiled, then secure with a strap or rope. The over-under technique ensures easy uncoiling and use when needed.
Is it safe to bend extension cord?
Bending an extension cord slightly is generally safe, but avoid sharp bends or kinks as they can damage the internal wiring and insulation. Excessive bending can lead to increased resistance, overheating, or even electrical shorts, posing safety hazards. To maintain safety and prolong the cord's lifespan, always coil and store it using the "over-under" technique.
Are thicker extension cords safer?
Thicker extension cords, with higher gauge numbers (lower AWG values), are generally safer as they can handle more current without overheating. Thicker cords reduce the risk of voltage drop, maintain consistent power delivery, and are more durable. Always choose an extension cord with the appropriate thickness, based on the power requirements of your devices, to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Sources
1. https://www.reddit.com/r/Tools/comments/lisb40/recommend_a_retractable_cord_reel_for_my_garage/
2. https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/recommendation-on-retractable-extention-cord-reels.460664/
3. https://sciencing.com/cable-length-vs-power-drop-12184174.html