The Masterplug BFG5N delivers four unswitched sockets and 5 metres of cable at £7-10, making it one of the most affordable extension leads on the market from a trusted 75-year-old British brand. Manufactured to BS1363-2 safety standards with shuttered sockets and a 13A fuse, it safely handles up to 3,120W at 240V for multiple devices simultaneously. Customers praise its compact and lightweight design that “fits into fairly tight spaces” and its solidly made construction that “saves space a large extension lead would take up.” However, the unswitched design means you’ll need to unplug devices to cut power completely, and the basic white plastic appearance lacks the premium feel of surge-protected alternatives. For straightforward power distribution without bells and whistles, this represents exceptional value, though those needing individual switches or surge protection should spend £3-5 more.
Rating: 4/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Build Quality and Practical Design
The slimline rounded profile measures just 28mm high × 243mm wide × 55mm deep, allowing it to slide behind furniture or mount on walls using the integrated fixing holes on the rear. The 5-metre cable extends reach significantly beyond typical 2m leads, with customers noting it’s “impressive” for home and office applications where outlets are distant from workstations. The non-rewireable design with moulded plug ensures durability—you can’t accidentally strip internal connections during moves or cable management. Safety shuttered sockets protect against accidental contact with live terminals, crucial for homes with children. The white colour blends seamlessly with most décor, though it shows dirt more readily than black alternatives.
Value Highlights:
- Exceptional price-to-performance ratio – At £7-10, customers describe it as “exceptional value for your power needs” from a recognisable brand that’s “been at the forefront of Portable Power for many decades,” undercutting no-name alternatives while maintaining British safety certifications
- Wall-mounting flexibility – The fixing capability allows permanent installation in workshops, garages, or behind desks, freeing floor space and preventing tripping hazards that loose cables create
Notable Limitations:
- No individual switches – Unlike switched models (£10-15), you must unplug devices entirely to cut phantom power draw, making it less convenient for controlling multiple appliances and potentially wasting standby electricity
- No surge protection – Lightning strikes or power spikes pass directly through to connected devices; Masterplug’s surge-protected equivalent (SRG4210N) costs only £3-5 more and includes LED indicators for peace of mind
Comparison and Purchase Guidance
| Feature | Masterplug BFG5N | Masterplug SWSRG4210N | Amazon Basics 4-Gang |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £7-10 | £12-15 | £10-13 |
| Cable length | 5m | 2m | 1.5m |
| Switches | None | Individual per socket | None |
| Surge protection | No | Yes (LED indicators) | No |
| BS1363-2 certified | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wall mountable | Yes | Yes | No |
| Best for | Basic power distribution | Premium protection | Short-reach needs |
Who should buy this: Home users needing to power low-risk devices like lamps, phone chargers, fans, or kitchen appliances where surge protection isn’t critical and the 5m cable eliminates outlet proximity issues. Students furnishing dorm rooms on tight budgets, landlords equipping rental properties with cost-effective essentials, or DIY enthusiasts requiring workshop power distribution will appreciate the “good and quick delivery” and reliable Masterplug quality. The wall-mounting capability makes it ideal for permanent installations in garages, sheds, or home offices where floor space is premium. One customer bought multiple units, confirming satisfaction with reliability and value.
Who should avoid this: Anyone connecting expensive electronics (TVs, gaming PCs, hi-fi equipment) should invest in surge-protected models to prevent damage from voltage spikes that could destroy hundreds of pounds worth of equipment. Those who regularly power cycle devices for energy savings need individual switches—unplugging multiple devices daily becomes tedious. If you require cable lengths shorter than 5m, consider the 1m (BFG110N) or 2m variants to reduce cable clutter, or if you need longer than 5m, step up to cable reels. The basic appearance won’t impress in visible locations where aesthetics matter, making premium-finish alternatives worth considering for living rooms or offices.
Need simple, reliable power distribution without breaking the bank? This Masterplug extension delivers British-certified safety from a trusted brand at unbeatable prices. What’s your go-to budget extension lead?
