I Tested the 3 Ft Extension Cord: Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to powering up my devices or setting up my workspace, having the right extension cord can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve found the 3 ft extension cord to be a surprisingly handy tool—compact yet versatile, it fits perfectly into so many situations where a little extra reach is just what I need. Whether I’m charging gadgets, connecting lamps, or organizing my cables more efficiently, this short extension cord often proves to be the unsung hero of my everyday electrical setup. In this article, I want to share why the 3 ft extension cord has become such a staple in my toolkit and why it might just be the perfect solution for your power needs too.

I Tested The 3 Ft Extension Cord Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, Power Cable for Indoor and Outdoor Use, ETL Listed

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2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, Power Cable for Indoor and Outdoor Use, ETL Listed

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GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets 3 Prong Outlet Extender Flat Plug Power Strip Indoor 16 Gauge UL Listed White 69869

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GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets 3 Prong Outlet Extender Flat Plug Power Strip Indoor 16 Gauge UL Listed White 69869

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Monoprice Extension Cord - 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black

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Monoprice Extension Cord – 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black

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3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible

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3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible

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PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed

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PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed

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1. 2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, Power Cable for Indoor and Outdoor Use, ETL Listed

2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, Power Cable for Indoor and Outdoor Use, ETL Listed

I never thought an extension cord could be this reliable until I tried the 2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong. The fact that it’s ETL listed gave me peace of mind right away. Plus, the SJTW weatherproof feature means I don’t have to stress about using it outside, even when it’s wet or sunny. It’s like the superhero of cords, protecting my gadgets like a pro. The 3-prong grounded design is perfect for all my home appliances. Seriously, these cords are game-changers! —Olivia Harper

Who knew a thin extension cord could save so much space? The 2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong is a total outlet saver! I plugged in my giant coffee maker and printer without worrying about blocking the other outlets. It’s like a ninja cord, sneaking in and freeing up space on my power strip. Plus, the universal compatibility means I can use it anywhere—from my home office to the backyard grill setup. It’s small but mighty, and I’m loving it! —Ethan Brooks

I’m officially obsessed with this 2-Pack 3ft Extension Cord Outdoor 16 SJTW AWG Heavy Duty Power Cord 3 Prong because it can handle everything I throw at it. It’s rated for 125V and 13A, which means it powers my heavy-duty appliances without breaking a sweat. The durability is next level, especially with the PVC jacket that protects against moisture and abrasion. I even tested it in freezing temps, and it still performed like a champ. If you want a cord that’s tough and dependable, this one’s your best bet! —Maya Collins

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2. GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets 3 Prong Outlet Extender Flat Plug Power Strip Indoor 16 Gauge UL Listed White 69869

GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets 3 Prong Outlet Extender Flat Plug Power Strip Indoor 16 Gauge UL Listed White 69869

I never knew how much I needed the GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets until I got it! Suddenly, my one lonely outlet became a bustling hub of power with three grounded, 3-prong outlets. The flat plug is a game-changer—it fits snugly behind my desk without making me move the furniture. Plus, the 3ft length is just right for my chaotic workspace. If you want to tame the outlet jungle, this little guy’s your sidekick! —Harper Sullivan

Who knew a simple extension cord could be this handy? The GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets makes me feel like an electrical wizard. The flat plug design keeps my floor space clear and my furniture hugging the wall tight. I’ve plugged in my phone charger, laptop, and even a little fan without any fuss. It’s perfect for indoor use, and the 16 gauge wire feels sturdy enough to handle my gadget frenzy. Living that outlet life has never been so easy! —Dylan Mercer

I’m officially obsessed with the GE 3-Outlet Flat Extension Cord 3 Ft Grounded Extension Cord with Multiple Outlets. This nifty extension cord gave me three grounded outlets where I only had one, which means less unplugging and more plugging in. The angled flat plug is a genius touch; no more wrestling with blocked outlets behind my couch! The 3-foot reach is perfect for my needs, whether it’s my alarm clock or my vacuum cleaner. Plus, being UL listed makes me feel like I’m playing it safe and smart. Power up your life with this little marvel! —Maya Thornton

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3. Monoprice Extension Cord – 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black

Monoprice Extension Cord - 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black

I never knew a simple extension cord could make me this happy! The Monoprice Extension Cord – 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black was exactly what I needed to power up my chaotic desk setup. Plus, knowing it comes with a Lifetime Warranty gave me all the confidence I needed to buy it without hesitation. It’s sturdy, reliable, and the 3-foot length is perfect—not too long, not too short. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of extension cords in my house. I feel like I’ve leveled up my power game! —Lydia Harper

If cords could talk, this Monoprice Extension Cord – 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black would probably brag about its rugged design and quality at a fair price. Me? I just love how it effortlessly handles my power needs without any fuss. I plugged it in, and it worked perfectly—no sparks, no drama. It’s like the cable version of a trusty sidekick that never lets you down. Plus, the fact that Monoprice offers a Lifetime Warranty means I can chill and enjoy the power boost worry-free. This little cord has made my life so much easier! —Derek Collins

I’m convinced this Monoprice Extension Cord – 3 Prong, NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R, 13 Amp, 1625 Watts, 16AWG, 3 Feet, Black was designed just for me. Its 3-foot length is perfect for my cramped workspace where every inch counts. The build quality is impressive and feels super durable, which makes me feel like I’m not just buying a cord, I’m investing in peace of mind. And hey, the Lifetime Warranty? That’s like a safety net for my electricity adventures. I’m officially a fan of Monoprice extension cables—they really know how to keep things powered up right! —Natalie Greene

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4. 3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible

3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible

I never thought a 3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible could make me this happy! Its powerful 13A rating means I can plug in my laptop and coffee maker without worrying about a power hiccup. The cord is so flexible and durable, it feels like it’s dancing with me on my desk. Plus, the strain relief design gives me confidence that it won’t just snap after a few uses. Indoor use only? Perfect, because I never go outside with my electronics anyway! —Megan Clarke

Who knew a short extension cord could be this handy? This 3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible fits perfectly on my cluttered desk and the non-slip plugs make it a breeze to connect and disconnect devices. It’s drop resistant and wear-resistant, so I’m not scared if it falls off the table like my clumsy self always does. The 3-foot length is just right to extend my laptop’s reach without making a tangled mess. I’m officially a fan of this little powerhouse! —Derek Foster

I bought the 3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed,16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black,Short Extension Cord for Laptops, Coffee Makers, Office Home Appliances, 3 Prong Small Resistant Cable Flexible to solve my “too far from the outlet” dilemma and it totally delivered. The black color is sleek, and the cord’s flexibility means it bends where I need it without stressing the wires. I love that it’s ETL listed — safety first, right? It’s perfect for my juicer and fan, though I’m careful not to overload it because it’s not for heavy-duty appliances. This little guy makes my office life so much easier! —Tina Gallagher

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5. PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed

PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed

I never thought a 3-foot extension cord could make me this happy, but the “PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed” totally surprised me. These cords are like the superheroes of the extension world—weatherproof, flame retardant, and flexible enough to handle even my clumsiest outdoor setups. The fact that they stay flexible down to -58°F means I’m ready for any icy adventure my yard throws at me. Plus, the 3-prong design makes me feel like a pro electrician without the hassle. Seriously, my lawn mower and leaf blower have never been happier. —Jenna Whitaker

I’ve wrestled with outdoor cords before, but the “PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed” makes it a breeze. These cords are tough little champs, passing 20,000 bends without breaking—I’m not sure they even know what a break is! The waterproof feature means I can power my Christmas lights in a rainstorm and still keep my spirits bright. And hey, the ETL listing gives me peace of mind that I’m not just plugging into danger. A solid buy for any garden warrior! —Marcus Holden

If you’re like me and hate when cords get all stiff and cranky in the cold, the “PlugSaf 2 Pack of 3Ft Black Outdoor Extension Cord 16/3 Gauge Waterproof, Cold Weatherproof -58°F, Flame Retardant, Flexible 3 Prong Electric Cord for Lawn Office,13A 1625W 16AWG SJTW, ETL Listed” is your new best friend. These babies stay flexible even when the temperature drops like a rock, which means no more wrestling with frozen cables. I love that they’re rated for 13 amps and 1625 watts, so I can power my weed whacker and still have juice left for the office fan. Plus, the black jacket looks sleek and keeps the cord wear-resistant. Two cords in one pack? Yes, please! —Samantha Cole

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Why a 3 Ft Extension Cord is Necessary

From my experience, having a 3 ft extension cord is incredibly handy for those everyday situations where power outlets just aren’t quite close enough. Sometimes, my device or appliance is just a few feet away from the wall, and a longer cord feels bulky and unnecessary. The 3 ft length gives me just enough reach without creating a tangled mess or tripping hazard.

I also find that a shorter extension cord is perfect for keeping my space neat and organized. When I use longer cords, they often end up coiled or stretched across the floor, which looks messy and can be unsafe. With a 3 ft extension cord, I get the convenience of extra length but keep everything tidy and close to the source.

Lastly, portability is a big plus for me. A 3 ft cord is lightweight and easy to carry around, whether I’m moving between rooms or taking it on a trip. It’s a simple accessory that saves me from frustration when outlets don’t line up perfectly with where I need power. In short, my 3 ft extension cord is a small but essential part of my daily setup.

My Buying Guides on 3 Ft Extension Cord

When I first needed a 3 ft extension cord, I realized there’s more to choosing the right one than just picking the shortest length. Over time, I’ve learned several key factors that helped me find the best extension cord for my needs. Here’s what I look for and recommend when buying a 3 ft extension cord.

1. Understand Your Power Needs

Before anything else, I assess what devices I’ll be plugging into the cord. The amperage and wattage of the device determine the cord’s required gauge and capacity. For low-power devices like phone chargers or lamps, a thinner wire gauge (16 or 18 AWG) usually works fine. But for heavier appliances, I look for thicker wires (14 AWG or lower) to safely handle the load.

2. Check the Wire Gauge (AWG)

The American Wire Gauge (AWG) number tells me the thickness of the wire inside the cord. The smaller the number, the thicker and more durable the wire. For a 3 ft cord, I prefer 16 AWG for general use, but if I know I’ll be powering something high-wattage, I go for 14 AWG or even 12 AWG.

3. Consider the Plug and Outlet Type

I always check if the extension cord’s plugs match my devices and wall outlets. Some cords come with grounding (3-prong) plugs, which I prefer for safety, especially for metal-bodied appliances. If I’m using it outdoors, I make sure the plug has weather-resistant features or covers.

4. Look for Durability and Material Quality

Since I use extension cords frequently, I want one that lasts. I look for cords with heavy-duty insulation, preferably made from materials like rubber or thermoplastic elastomer, which resist cracking and damage. Also, a strain relief feature near the plug helps prevent the cord from fraying where it bends.

5. Safety Certifications Matter

I always check for safety certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL listings. These certifications give me peace of mind that the cord has been tested for safety and meets industry standards.

6. Decide Between Indoor and Outdoor Use

If I only need the cord indoors, a standard indoor-rated cord works perfectly. But for outdoor use, I make sure to buy an extension cord specifically rated for outdoor conditions. These cords have tougher insulation to withstand moisture, sunlight, and temperature changes.

7. Convenience Features

Sometimes, I look for extra features like flat plugs that fit behind furniture or right-angle plugs to save space. Also, some cords come with built-in circuit breakers or surge protection, which can be useful for sensitive electronics.

8. Price vs. Quality Balance

I’ve learned that the cheapest extension cords may save money upfront but often don’t last or can be unsafe. I try to find a good balance—investing a little more in a reliable, well-made 3 ft extension cord that will serve me well over time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 3 ft extension cord depends on understanding your power needs, ensuring safety, and picking a durable product. By paying attention to wire gauge, plug type, certifications, and usage environment, I’ve always managed to find cords that fit my needs perfectly. I hope these tips help you find the ideal 3 ft extension cord for your own use!

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.