Summary of "Steckdosenleisten im Test: Kopp vs Bachmann"
Video topic — overview
Comparison test of two power strips (Steckdosenleisten): Bachmann and Kopp (referred to as “head” in the subtitles). The reviewer measures electrical parameters, opens the units to inspect internals, and comments on design, safety and usability.
Test method and key measurements
- Contact/loop resistances were measured at multiple points on each strip; measurements were repeated to check stability.
- Measurements were done with a low test current (so some inaccuracy is possible), but repeated readings were stable.
- Example measured values (approximate):
- ~0.39 Ω (if housing grounded)
- ~0.52 Ω (another measured value)
- Several measured pairs reported (examples): ~0.57 Ω and ~0.41 Ω; differences between sockets were minimal and within measurement accuracy.
- Estimated short‑circuit current from the measured resistance: ~64 A — sufficient to trip typical breakers.
Main features observed
- Electrical ratings printed on units: 16 A, IP20 (typical consumer strip rating).
- Third‑party marks (e.g., TÜV) were missing on some strips — noted but not taken as automatically disqualifying.
- Child safety shutters present on some models; others had none.
- Switches: some strips include an on/off switch (generally single‑pole), others do not.
- Internal construction variants observed:
- Screw/clamp terminals, soldered joints, plug‑in inserts
- Additional PE (protective earth) terminal blocks or multiple PE connections
- Strain relief present and inspected; cable cross‑section markings were inconsistent (some cables lacked cross‑section info).
- Some designs are modular or allow extension/chaining (compared to Brennenstuhl style).
Build quality and internals
- Bachmann unit left a positive impression: roomy sockets, sturdy contact strip, decent contact height/spacing, adequate mechanical strength, and acceptable strain relief.
- Some units used soldered joints and multiple PE connections. The reviewer found some solder/welds in other units suspicious, while Bachmann’s looked solid.
- Screws and assembly: some screws had noticeable play; torque/fastening were inconsistent across sockets.
- Inserts and child locks can be removed during disassembly (reviewer demonstrates removal but repeatedly warns against imitating this).
Pros
- Low, stable contact resistances (fault currents would be high enough to trip breakers).
- Bachmann: well thought‑out design with strong contacts and good mechanical robustness.
- Roomy sockets accept bulky plugs and provide good plug retention force.
- Some models offer modular/extendable designs useful for professional use.
- Measurement repeatability across sockets was stable.
Cons / concerns
- Child safety locks: reviewer dislikes them and demonstrates removal (unsafe; voids approvals).
- Some screws/terminals show play or could be tightened further by hand — potential long‑term contact reliability concern.
- Soldered or unusual welds in some units looked unreliable to the reviewer.
- Cable marking inconsistencies: some cables lacked cross‑section information.
- Switches are typically single‑pole (do not improve contact resistance, add small standby consumption; two‑pole switching would be safer).
- Missing TÜV marking on some units (not decisive, but noted).
- Disassembly or removal of safety parts voids approvals and is dangerous.
User recommendations and practical notes
- If you don’t need a switch, choose a strip without one to avoid extra standby consumption and limited safety benefit.
- Prefer designs with robust connectors (reviewer prefers Wago‑style connectors) and clear cable cross‑section markings.
- Do not tamper with or remove child locks or internal parts — the reviewer demonstrates removal but repeatedly warns not to imitate.
- Power strips are appropriate for temporary use; they do not replace permanent electrical installations.
- For heavy or long‑term (tradesman) use, choose strips with reconnection/robust terminal design.
Comparisons and relative conclusions
- Bachmann generally left a better impression than the other tested unit (Kopp / “head”): better spacing, stronger contacts, and a more sensible internal layout.
- Measured electrical resistance differences between tested strips were minimal and within measurement accuracy — electrical performance was comparable.
- Some cheaper or other brands may have less reliable welds or contact geometry; Bachmann appeared more carefully built.
Safety warnings
Mains voltage is life‑threatening — do not imitate the disassembly or testing shown in the video. Removing safety parts voids approvals and is dangerous; do not do it.
Ratings / numerical scores
- No explicit star ratings or subjective numeric scores were given.
- Numerical data provided: contact resistances (examples ~0.39–0.57 Ω) and an estimated short‑circuit current (~64 A) based on those measurements.
Verdict (concise)
Both tested strips are electrically acceptable — low, stable contact resistances that would allow fault currents sufficient to trip breakers. Bachmann scored better on build quality, layout and perceived robustness. Choose a strip without an unnecessary switch to avoid standby consumption, and prefer models with clear cable ratings, solid terminal/strain relief design, and well‑implemented child‑safe shutters. Do not disassemble or tamper with safety features.
All unique points mentioned
- Two brands compared: Bachmann vs Kopp (referred to as “head”).
- Measured contact/loop resistances; example values ~0.39 Ω and ~0.52 Ω.
- Short‑circuit estimate ~64 A from measured resistance.
- Low‑current measurement has accuracy limits; measurements were repeated for stability.
- Child safety locks present on some models; reviewer dislikes them and shows removal (dangerous).
- Some units lack third‑party markings (TÜV), but that alone isn’t decisive.
- Switches are often single‑pole; they add small standby consumption and are less safe than two‑pole switching.
- Sockets have roomy openings (accept bulky plugs).
- Screws used; some play/torque inconsistency noted.
- Reviewer prefers Wago connectors over clamp/soldered connections.
- Some units had soldered wires; multiple PE connections/terminal blocks observed.
- Strain relief generally OK on tested units.
- Cable marking inconsistencies (missing cross‑section information on some).
- Modular/chaining possibility on some designs (compared to Brennenstuhl).
- Some internal welds/soldering in other brands looked untrustworthy; Bachmann looked better.
- Plug retention force good on tested units.
- IP20, 16 A rating printed on units.
- Reviewer’s practical advice: avoid unnecessary switches, do not tamper, temporary use only for strips.
Category
Product Review
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