The Best Computer Uninterruptible Power Supply Units
We compared seven UPS units on owner ratings, specs, and price. The CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD is our top pick for its sinewave output and robust features.
Updated
The bottom line
The CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD is our top pick for a computer UPS, thanks to its sinewave output, which is gentler on sensitive electronics, and its comprehensive feature set including an LCD panel and AVR. Priced at $239.95, it offers competitive value for its class. The APC BX1500M is a close runner-up at $189.99, offering similar capacity and features but with a slightly lower VA rating. For a budget pick, the APC BE425M at $62.5 provides reliable backup for smaller electronics, though with less capacity and features.
CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector $239.95
Best overall UPS for computers
The CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD has a sinewave output, crucial for sensitive electronics, and includes an LCD panel and AVR. Priced at $239.95, it offers competitive value for its features. The tradeoff is its higher price point, which may not be necessary for users with less demanding setups.
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APC BX1500M UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector for Computers, Electronics $189.99
Strong balance of features and price
The APC BX1500M offers a strong balance of features and price at $189.99. It provides 68 minutes of backup runtime at 100W load and includes an LCD display for real-time status monitoring. The main tradeoff is its slightly lower VA rating compared to the top pick.
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APC BE425M UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector for Small Electronics $62.50
Affordable UPS for small electronics
The APC BE425M is a compact and affordable option at $62.5, suitable for small electronics like routers and modems. It provides 15 minutes of backup power and includes a 3-year warranty. The tradeoff is its lower capacity and fewer features compared to higher-end models.
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- CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector Best for sensitive electronics with sinewave output. 9.0/10 $239.95 Amazon
- APC BX1500M UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector for Computers, Electronics Great balance of features and price. 8.5/10 $189.99 Amazon
- APC BE425M UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector for Small Electronics Affordable option for small electronics. 8.0/10 $62.50 Amazon
- CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS Battery Backup Good features but slightly overpriced. 7.5/10 $199.95 Amazon
- CyberPower EC850LCD Ecologic UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector Solid mid-range option with ECO mode. 7.0/10 $119.95 Amazon
- CyberPower ST425 Standby UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector Basic UPS with limited features. 6.5/10 $59.95 Amazon
- APC UPS 600VA/330W Battery Backup for Computer, Router, NAS Entry-level UPS with reliability issues. 6.0/10 $83.99 Amazon
Who should buy which
Users with sensitive electronics like gaming PCs or home theaters should opt for the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD for its sinewave output. Those looking for a balance of features and price should consider the APC BX1500M. For small electronics and a tight budget, the APC BE425M is a suitable choice.
Owner complaints
Some owners of the APC UPS 600VA/330W reported durability issues, with one user mentioning a failure after a short period. The APC BX1500M has had reports of unexpected alarms during self-testing mode. These issues are not widespread but worth noting for potential buyers.
Also-rans
The CyberPower ST425 and APC UPS 600VA/330W, while reliable, lack the features and capacity of the top picks. The CyberPower EC850LCD and CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 offer good features but are slightly overpriced compared to their performance.