Power taps are for outlets. Extension cords are for distance.

Simple: a power tap adds outlets in the same spot; an extension cord moves power somewhere else.

A power tap (often called a surge protector or power strip) is designed to sit near a wall outlet and give you more plugs. It’s usually short—like 6 feet—and meant for things that stay put: your computer setup, TV, desk lamp. Most have surge protection, which is nice for electronics.

An extension cord is built for reach. It’s longer—10, 25, 50 feet—and has a single outlet on the end (or sometimes two). You use it when the wall outlet is too far: power tools in the yard, lights across the room, a vacuum that can’t quite hit the corner. The wire gauge matters more here because distance + load = voltage drop and fire risk.

Don’t daisy-chain them. Plugging an extension cord into a power tap (or vice versa) is how breakers trip and things melt. Use the right tool for the job the first time.

Your living room doesn’t need a 50-foot extension cord. Your shop doesn’t need a power strip.