While both devices offer protection, they address different types of power issues. A surge protector's main function is to divert sudden, high-voltage spikes (like those from a lightning strike or a power grid switch) away from your equipment. In contrast, a power line conditioner provides more comprehensive protection. It not only includes basic surge protection but also actively regulates voltage levels and, most importantly, filters out continuous electrical noise and interference that can degrade performance over time. Think of a surge protector as a single-purpose shield against extreme events, while a power conditioner is a constant guard that cleans and stabilizes the power flow.