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6 Best Retractable Extension Cord Reels of 2025

By Eugene WilliamsLast update: 2024-12-23

A retractable extension cord reel isn’t a must in every homeowner’s arsenal but will truly be a time saver when rolling and unrolling cord. Not saying that it is a game-changer for people with weak arms or arthritis. So, here are the 6 best retractable extension cord reels for you to consider:

Here are the best retractable extension cord reels you can buy in 2025:

  • Lightweight: VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel
  • Best Budget Option: Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel
  • Sturdy: Flexzilla Retractable Extension
  • Easy To Mount: AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel
  • Best For Indoor Use: Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel
  • Best For Outdoor Use: CRST Extension Cord Reel
6 Best Retractable Extension Cord Reels
Lightweight
VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel
    Best Budget Option
    Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel
      Sturdy
      Flexzilla Retractable Extension
        Easy To Mount
        AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel
          Best For Indoor Use
          Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel
            Best For Outdoor Use
            CRST Extension Cord Reel

              Lightweight: VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel

              VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              Pros
              • Lightweight & handy to use – 13.4 pounds of weight
              • Weatherproof & durable - flame-retarded outer layer
              Cons
              • Wish the cord locking mechanism worked better

              Those retractable extension cord reels that are well-made and sturdy generally tend to be very heavy. If you want something lightweight, handy to use, and high-quality, we recommend the VIVOHOME.

              Engineered with an iron mounting base and PP case, it weighs 13.4 pounds.

              But don’t let that fool you, this model has flame-retarded outer layer that can resist low temperatures, ozone, UV rays, flame, and so on.

              It also can automatically turn off once detecting an open circuit or short-circuit for your safety, like most other retractable extension cord reels in this review list.

              VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel Specifications

              Materials

              Polypropylene, Metal

              Gauge

              14/3 AWG

              Length

              50 ft.

              Outlets

              Triple Tap Outlet

              Max Amps

              13A

              Highlight Features

              13.4 pounds of weight

              flame-retarded outer layer

              Verdict

              On the whole, the VIVOHOME Heavy-Duty 50-Foot Retractable Extension Cord Reel has the perfect balance of lightweight design and quality, making it one of our top picks for this year’s review list.

              Best Budget Option: Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel

              Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              Pros
              • 2x cheaper than most other retractable extension cord reels
              • Reliable – CSA-certified design & 3-year warranty
              • Come in handy whenever you want an outlet – 4 outlets & a 14AWG cable
              Cons
              • The cord is prone to spool off the reel

              Whether you’re a budget-conscious shopper or do not like to spend much on a retractable extension cord reel, this model from Black + Decker is an ideal option for you.

              It hits the perfect sweet spot of affordability and reliability, so you can buy with peace in mind.

              While the price is nearly 2x cheaper than other counterparts that we tested out there, it’s backed by the manufacturer’s 3-year warranty as well as the design meets CSA safety standards. It also offers up to 4 outlets plus a 14AWG cable.

              But take note there are still some certain drawbacks for a retractable extension cord reel at this incredibly low price point. A typical example is a cord that is prone to spool off the reel if you roll/unroll it too aggressively.

              Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel Specifications

              Materials

              Plastic & copper

              Gauge

              14AWG

              Length

              50 ft.

              Outlets

              4

              Max Amps

              13A

              Highlight Features

              2x cheaper than most other retractable extension cord reels

              CSA-certified design & 3-year warranty

              4 outlets & a 14AWG cable

              Verdict

              The Black + Decker Retractable Extension Cord Reel is the best budget option for people who want a cheap yet quality model and are also generous to some minor inconvenience.

              Sturdy: Flexzilla Retractable Extension

              Flexzilla Retractable Extension
              Flexzilla Retractable Extension
              Pros
              • Sturdy – strong swivel mounting bracket & high-quality polypropylene case
              • Offer spacious capacity - triple tap outlet
              • Able to keep cord at desired length - adjustable cord stopper
              Cons
              • Wish it included mounting hardware
              • The plugins are a little tight at first

              Our next option is for those who want a very sturdy and easy-to-operate retractable extension cord reel.

              The swivel mounting bracket works smoothly and holds up well while the case can resist sunlight, low temperatures, water, and oil. We also liked the triple tap outlet for spacious capacity as well as the handy adjustable cord stopper.

              About safety, this model is UL listed, so rest assured!

              Flexzilla Retractable Extension Specifications

              Materials

              Polypropylene

              Gauge

              14/3 AWG

              Length

              50'

              Outlets

              Triple Tap Outlet

              Max Amps

              13A

              Highlight Features

              strong swivel mounting bracket & high-quality polypropylene case

              triple tap outlet

              adjustable cord stopper

              Verdict

              For those who want a retractable extension cord reel that is sturdy and lasts long, our favorite pick is the Flexzilla.

              Easy To Mount: AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel

              AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel
              AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel
              Pros
              • Easy to mount – clear manuals & including a mounting bracket
              • Perfect for further reach or larger workplace – 65’ cord length
              • Heavy-duty
              Cons
              • The case material is a bit thin
              • Heavy

              This retractable extension cord reel is made for different uses: you can either transport it between off-site jobs or have it fixed in a wall of your workspace if wanted. It comes with a strong swivel bracket plus manuals – which is easy to mount.

              Unlike the three above, the cord length of this model is up to 65 feet for larger areas.

              But don’t worry, its retraction system is silky smooth and holds up well.

              AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel Specifications

              Materials

              Polypropylene

              Gauge

              12AWG

              Length

              65'

              Outlets

              triple 3-prong outlets

              Max Amps

              15A

              Highlight Features

              clear manuals & including a mounting bracket

              65’ cord length

              Verdict

              Unlike some similarly-priced counterparts, the AmazonCommercial Extension Cord Reel comes with mounting hardware and clear instructions, making it very easy to mount.

              Best For Indoor Use: Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel

              Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel
              Pros
              • Ultra-safe for kids and pets - Auto Guide System and Slow Retraction Technology
              • Strong & quality - hard-impact spring-driven housing
              • Easy to use at low light conditions - LED connector
              Cons
              • Heavy

              This indoor retractable extension cord reel distinguishes itself from the rest for its top-notch durability. Thanks to the hard-impact spring-driven housing, it can prevent fading and wearing like a champ.

              The cord meanwhile can also resist sunlight, water, oil, and low temperatures nicely.

              We loved that its retraction system was added with Auto Guide System and Slow Retraction Technology for safety, especially for those families with pets and/or kids.

              The LED connector, on the other hand, comes in handy for night use.

              Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel Specifications

              Materials

              Polypropylene

              Gauge

              14/3 AWG

              Length

              50ft

              Outlets

              3

              Max Amps

              13 amps

              Highlight Features

              Auto Guide System and Slow Retraction Technology

              hard-impact spring-driven housing

              LED connector

              Verdict

              Designed with durability, safety, and convenience in mind, the Giraffe Retractable Extension Cord Reel is our top pick for indoor use.

              Best For Outdoor Use: CRST Extension Cord Reel

              CRST Extension Cord Reel
              CRST Extension Cord Reel
              Pros
              • Easy to transport
              • Able to work under extremes - high-strength materials
              • Safe & dependable - UL-listed design
              Cons
              • The recoil could be stronger

              The CRST Extension Cord Reel is recommended by the manufacturer for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to the UL-listed design and high-strength materials.

              It can work under extremes, including low temperature to -40 degrees F, acidic or alkaline conditions, water, and oil. It can be mounted on a wall within just 5 minutes or removed easily to transport between outdoor workplaces if needed.

              The retraction system works smoothly and no tangled cord issues were found. Highly recommended!

              CRST Extension Cord Reel Specifications

              Materials

              Plastic

              Gauge

              13A/SJTOW

              Length

              55+4FT

              Outlets

              triple-tap outlet

              Max Amps

              13A

              Highlight Features

              high-strength materials

              UL-listed design

              Verdict

              If you’re on the fence about purchasing the CRST Extension Cord Reel for its wonderful outdoor performance, then don’t hesitate and do it!

              How To Choose The Best Retractable Extension Cord Reel?

              Casing

              When it comes to the reel case, you should consider three elements: quality, compactness, and maneuverability.

              It should be easy to carry about and not take up a lot of space.

              Materials play a huge role in the quality of a retractable extension cord reel’s case. While cheap plastics may melt if exposed to high temperatures, polypropylene is more durable.

              Number Of Outlets

              Buying a multi-outlet cable reel may be recommended, which is acceptable if you simply want to use it at home.

              On the contrary, power tools and work lights may rapidly overburden a single power cable. Do we want that? No! If you're a professional, we suggest investing in a thick-wired extension cable reel.

              Amps

              If you are just using the cord around your home, the rating of 125 volts or 15 amps is fine as they can handle any household tools and appliances.

              But if you are a professional, don't regret investing in a contractor cord that is able to handle up to 300 volts.

              Cord Length

              When shopping for a retractable extension cord reel, the basic rule of thumb is to go for one that extends farther than your need. The flexibility of these cables makes them ideal for a wide range of applications.

              While a longer cord reel offers more options and versatility, the price and bulkiness inevitably go up as well.

              In the end, the length of the cable is entirely up to you. The usual distance is 50 feet. If you have a limited amount of room, you may go with the shorter option.

              Which Brands Make The Best Retractable Extension Cord Reel?

              VIVOHOME

              If you want to get the most comfortable shopping and product experience, don’t overlook VIVOHOME. The brand distinguishes itself from the rest for strict quality controls, cutting-edge design, and high-quality materials, making its products extremely durable.

              Black+Decker

              This being one of the longest-standing manufacturers of fastening systems, home improvement products, and more – since 1910. By steadfastly focusing on customer needs, they are the favorite stop of worldwide shoppers.

              Flexzilla

              This is a registered trademark of Weems Industries, Inc. They are specializing in manufacturing various home improvement products, including retractable extension cord reels. With rich expertise in the industry, they easily stand out from the rest.

              FAQs

              Are extension cord reels safe?

              Yes, they are. A retractable extension cord reel keeps just the amount of cable you need to be exposed, which helps reduce the chance of tripping.

              How do you install a retractable cord reel?

              To learn more about how to install a retractable cord reel, please watch this tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Al22npEXn98

              How does a retractable extension cord reel work?

              The way a retractable extension cord reel works is to hold the whole cord length in an enclosed storage area by two rotatable wheels.

              When you pull the cord, the ratchets lock automatically to keep the cable from rolling back to its original storage position.

              What are some of the safety rules associated with the use of extension cord reels?

              Here are some safety rules when using extension cord reels:

              • Not overload the retractable extension cords
              • Opt for a 3-prong plug cord
              • Inspect the operations
              • Make sure to choose the right cord length
              • Pick the cord that meets your needs

              Is a 16-gauge or 14-gauge extension cord better?

              A 16-gauge extension cord is better to be used within 50’ of your outlet while a 14-gauge one is perfect for >50’ of the distance from your outlet or for a higher amp.

              Conclusion

              If cord-rolling/unrolling is the largest obstacle between you focusing on your work, we emphatically recommend investing in the best retractable extension cord reel so you can save lots of time and effort on your work. Thanks for reading!


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