CE vs UL Power Strips: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever tried to export or import power strips, you’ve probably seen two little marks everywhere—CE and UL. But what do they really mean? And how do they affect your ability to sell legally and safely?

CE and UL certification¹s are essential safety approvals for power strips, but they apply to different markets. CE is required in Europe, while UL is necessary for the U.S. Each comes with unique testing standards and compliance responsibilities.

Let’s walk through the differences—and why choosing the right certification matters more than you think.

What Does CE Certification Mean for Power Strips in the European Market?

For any product sold in Europe—including power strips—CE marking is mandatory. But don’t mistake it for just a label. It’s a sign that the product complies with EU safety, health, and environmental protection legislation.

CE certification² for power strips ensures compliance with the Low Voltage Directive³ (LVD), Electromagnetic Compatibility⁴ (EMC), and RoHS regulations⁵. It’s the legal passport for entering EU markets.

Core CE Directives for Power Strips:

• LVD (2014/35/EU): Electrical safety for devices operating between 50–1000V AC
• EMC (2014/30/EU): Prevents interference with other electronic devices
• RoHS (2011/65/EU): Limits hazardous substances like lead or mercury

For DIY stores or wholesalers targeting Germany, France, or Spain, CE is non-negotiable. And remember: the CE mark is self-declared, but you’ll need test reports from certified labs to back it up.

What Is UL Certification and Why It’s Crucial for Selling in the U.S.

In the U.S., UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is the gold standard for product safety—especially when it comes to electrical goods like power strips.

UL certification¹ means the product has been tested by an independent lab to meet stringent safety standards—especially fire resistance, insulation strength, and overload protection. It’s widely recognized by retailers, inspectors, and insurance companies.

UL Testing Focus Areas:

• Overload protection
• Heat resistance and fire safety
• Grounding reliability
• Socket tension and plug safety

Unlike CE, UL is not self-declared—you need to apply and be audited regularly. It’s more expensive and time-consuming, but essential if you’re targeting Home Depot, Amazon U.S., or U.S. retail chains.

Key Differences Between CE and UL Standards for Power Strip Safety

At a glance, CE and UL may seem similar—both are about safety. But their structure, enforcement, and testing methods are quite different.

CE is more of a legal requirement across the EU, while UL is a deeply trusted safety standard for U.S. consumers. CE compliance can be declared by the manufacturer, but UL requires third-party testing.

So when someone asks, “Is UL better than CE?”—the real answer is: they’re just made for different rules and buyers.

Which Certification Should You Choose Based on Your Target Market?

This is the most important question to ask before ordering production. Where are your power strips going?

If your target market is Europe (Germany, France, Italy, etc.), you must go for CE. If you’re selling in the United States or Canada, UL is the safer and more acceptable route.

Consider These Buyer Preferences:

• European DIY chains will ask for CE, EMC, RoHS reports
• U.S. online retailers (like Amazon or Walmart) will require UL/ETL listing
• Australian markets need RCM or SAA certifications
• Middle East or Africa may accept CE but prefer third-party verification

And if you’re building a global brand? You might need both—just make sure your factory is up to the task.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a retailer, importer, or launching your own power strip line, understanding CE vs UL isn’t just about compliance—it’s about trust. Knowing which certification fits your market protects your brand and your customers. And if you need a factory that knows both systems inside and out? You know where to find me.