Yes there is a big difference in some surge protectors. Most work by using varistors to short out higher voltage. The cheapest ones only have one across the hot and neutral. Better ones have 3 adding ones between the hot and neutral and ground. Varistors also vary on how much of a jolt they can take before failing.
Another, perhaps better technology, uses reluctors. They are coils that go series with the line. They are a dead short to 60 hz AC, but provide a high resistance to sudden voltage changes. See www.brickwall.com
Unfortunately, in today's society, there are those that will sell junk, and in the worst cases, slap a high price on it not giving you the additional value for the extra cost. The components that go into a quality surge protector might only run $5.
Another, perhaps better technology, uses reluctors. They are coils that go series with the line. They are a dead short to 60 hz AC, but provide a high resistance to sudden voltage changes. See www.brickwall.com
Unfortunately, in today's society, there are those that will sell junk, and in the worst cases, slap a high price on it not giving you the additional value for the extra cost. The components that go into a quality surge protector might only run $5.
