The 10 Best AC to DC Power Converters

With an IP67-rated construction, the Jianyi Driver (about $60) can withstand moisture that would cause other units to fail immediately. It's perfect for applications in or around water, such as pool lighting, pond features, and general outdoor use in wet climates.

If you're not looking for a ton of current, the Sout Socket (about $11) may be all that you need, and it's small enough to pocket and take anywhere at a moment's notice. It's compatible with 110 and 220 volts, either of which comes out of the main socket stepped down to 12.

Considerably beefier than most, the Progressive Dynamics Inteli-Power (about $244) acts as a DC station and charger for devices and batteries inside your motor home. It protects your investments by no longer feeding connected cells when it detects their capacity to be full.

The Samlex SEC-1235M (appx. $130) looks and feels like a professional-grade unit, and it performs at much the same level. It accepts both single- and dual-phase inputs, though you'll have to access an internal jumper to select the appropriate one.

A wealth of useful features makes the TekPower TP50SW (appx. $176) one of the highest-performing models available. It has a dual-mode, switchable analog meter, allowing you to keep an eye on the flow, and its overload protection circuit will prevent disaster in the event of a surge.

Consisting of an on-off switch, two posts, and a selector knob, the Pro-Elec Battery Eliminator (around $40) is extremely simple, but for low-power needs, it does a great job. This is partially due to its high-quality regulator, which is nearly on a par with high-end, benchtop units.

Ideal for many handheld appliances originally built for in-car use, the VacPlus Adapter (appx. $22) comes in 6- and 10-amp versions, both equipped with a convenient, 7-foot-long cord. It's not just versatile, though; it's also one of the most affordable.

Built with small electronics in mind, the Belker Universal (around $13) comes with 8 interchangeable plugs: 7 of the barrel variety, and one micro USB. At under twenty dollars, it's a cost-effective way to replace lost or damaged wall warts.

While it's marketed to ham radio operators, the TekPower TP30SWII (about $120) can fill many different roles, thanks in part to its variable output. The socket maxes out at 10 amps, but the unit can push a whopping 30 amps through its bare wire connectors.

Capable of handling more current than almost anything else its size, the Roypow C180 (appx. $40) is highly reliable, and it doesn't even cost very much. It can drive high-energy devices that most cannot, including portable refrigerators and air compressors.