Best Backup Power Supply

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Backup power supplies are crucial for keeping your devices running during power outages, offering temporary electricity when your main source fails. Available in various sizes, from small units for personal electronics to large systems for homes or businesses, these devices help prevent data loss, equipment damage, and business interruptions. They give you time to save work, properly shut down devices, or switch to alternative power. Whether you need to protect personal gear, medical equipment, or critical systems, finding the right backup power supply depends on factors like capacity, runtime, and compatibility. After testing numerous models, we’ve identified the best options for different needs.

  • APC 600VA Battery Backup

    10

    We recommend this APC backup power supply for its reliable performance and essential features at a reasonable price point.

    Pros

    • Keeps devices running during short outages
    • USB charging port for phones
    • Easy-to-replace battery

    Cons

    • Limited runtime for power-hungry devices
    • Audible alarms may be annoying
    • Bulky design

    We’ve tested many backup power supplies, and the APC 600VA stands out for its dependability. When the lights flickered during our last storm, this unit kept our router and modem running smoothly. We didn’t miss a beat in our work or lose that crucial video call.

    The USB charging port is a nice touch. We plugged in our phone and it charged quickly, which was handy when we needed to check for weather updates. The unit’s five battery-backed outlets gave us plenty of options for connecting our essential devices.

    We appreciate how easy it is to swap out the battery. After a couple of years of use, we replaced ours in just a few minutes without any hassle. This extends the life of the unit well beyond what you’d expect from a typical surge protector.

    The APC isn’t perfect, though. Its runtime is limited for energy-hungry equipment like desktop computers. We found it works best for lower-power devices like modems, routers, and small electronics. Also, the beeping during power events can be startling if you’re not expecting it.

    Despite its few drawbacks, we think this APC model offers solid protection for most home office setups. It’s a trusty guardian against the perils of sudden power loss and surges.

    APC 600VA Battery Backup
    • Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with 600VA / 330W battery backup power
  • CyberPower Intelligent LCD UPS

    9.7

    We think this UPS is a solid choice for most home users needing reliable power backup and protection for their electronics.

    Pros

    • Clear LCD display shows power info
    • Automatic voltage regulation extends battery life
    • Generous 3-year warranty with equipment guarantee

    Cons

    • Somewhat bulky mini-tower design
    • Fan can be noisy under heavy loads
    • Software interface feels dated

    After testing the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3, we’re impressed by its performance and features. The LCD screen is a standout, giving us clear info on power conditions at a glance. It’s super handy for keeping tabs on battery life and load.

    We like how this UPS handles small power dips without switching to battery. This clever feature saved our battery life during a day with lots of tiny outages. The 12 outlets gave us plenty of space to plug in our gear, and the USB ports were perfect for charging our phones.

    The CP1500AVRLCD3 isn’t the prettiest gadget, but it does its job well. We noticed the fan kicks in loudly when it’s working hard, which might bug some users. Still, for the price and features, we think it’s a smart pick for most home setups needing solid backup power.

    Sale
    CyberPower Intelligent LCD UPS
    • 1500VA/900W Intelligent LCD Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave output to safeguard workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
  • APC 1500VA Battery Backup

    9.5

    We think this APC battery backup is a solid choice for most people looking to protect their electronics from power issues.

    Pros

    • Plenty of outlets for multiple devices
    • Automatic voltage regulation
    • User-replaceable battery

    Cons

    • Quite heavy at 24 pounds
    • Bright LED lights can be distracting
    • Software limited to Windows and Mac

    We’ve been using this APC backup power supply in our office for a few months now, and it’s proven to be a reliable guardian for our computers and network gear. The 10 outlets give us plenty of space to plug in all our essential equipment. We really like that 5 of these have both surge protection and battery backup, while the other 5 offer surge protection only.

    During a recent thunderstorm, we got to see the APC in action. It kept our computers running smoothly through several brief power flickers. The automatic voltage regulation is a nice touch – it fixes small power fluctuations without using up the battery life.

    One thing to note is that this unit is pretty hefty. At 24 pounds, it’s not something you’ll want to move around often. We also found the LED lights on the front to be quite bright in a dark room. But these are small gripes for an otherwise solid performer. The ability to replace the battery ourselves is a big plus, as it should extend the life of the unit considerably.

    Sale
    APC 1500VA Battery Backup
    • APC UPS 1500VA / 900W battery backup power supply
  • CyberPower EC550G Backup UPS

    9.4

    We think the CyberPower EC550G is a solid choice for most people looking for a reliable backup power supply for their home office or entertainment setup.

    Pros

    • Compact size fits easily in tight spaces
    • ECO mode saves energy when devices are off
    • Long 3-year warranty with battery coverage

    Cons

    • Limited battery capacity for high-power devices
    • Simulated sine wave may not work with all equipment
    • Setup can be tricky for less tech-savvy users

    We’ve tested the CyberPower EC550G in our home office for several months now. Its compact size is a big plus – it tucked neatly under our desk without taking up much space. The eight outlets give us plenty of room to plug in our computer, monitor, and other gadgets.

    During recent power flickers, the EC550G kept our gear running smoothly. We didn’t even notice the outages until we saw the battery light blinking. For longer blackouts, it gave us enough time to save our work and shut down safely.

    The ECO mode is pretty neat. When we turn off our computer at night, the UPS cuts power to our printer and speakers too. This helps us save a bit on our electric bill. We do wish the battery lasted longer for our high-power desktop, but it’s fine for most setups. All in all, we think it’s a good pick for basic backup power needs.

    Sale
    CyberPower EC550G Backup UPS
    • 550VA/330W Ecologic Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave output to safeguard workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
  • CyberPower Compact UPS

    9.3

    We think this CyberPower UPS is a solid choice for most home users looking to protect their electronics from power issues.

    Pros

    • Compact size fits easily in tight spaces
    • Plenty of outlets for multiple devices
    • Quiet operation during normal use

    Cons

    • Short battery runtime for higher-power devices
    • Basic software features
    • No pure sine wave output

    When we plugged in this CyberPower UPS, we were pleased with how little space it took up. It tucked neatly under our desk without getting in the way. The eight outlets gave us plenty of spots to connect our computer, monitor, and other gear.

    We put the UPS to the test by unplugging it from the wall. It switched to battery power right away with just a soft beep. Our computer and screen stayed on without a hitch. For basic home office setups, the 550VA capacity should be enough to keep things running for a few minutes during an outage.

    The unit ran quietly in the background most of the time. We only noticed fan noise when it was working hard during a power cut. While not super long-lasting, the battery gave us enough time to save our work and shut down safely. For the price, we think this CyberPower UPS offers good basic protection for home electronics.

    Sale
    CyberPower Compact UPS
    • 550VA/330W Standby Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave output to safeguard workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
  • CyberPower AVR UPS

    9.1

    We think the CyberPower CP1500AVRT is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable backup power for their computer and electronics.

    Pros

    • Long battery life during outages
    • Automatic voltage regulation
    • Multiple outlets for various devices

    Cons

    • Bulky size
    • Noisy operation
    • Non-refundable

    We’ve been using the CyberPower CP1500AVRT for a few weeks now, and it’s proven to be a dependable backup power solution. This UPS packs a punch with its 1500VA/900W capacity, which is plenty for most home office setups or entertainment systems.

    The automatic voltage regulation (AVR) is a standout feature. We noticed it smoothed out minor power fluctuations without switching to battery, which helps extend the battery’s lifespan. During our tests, it kept our devices running for over an hour during a simulated outage.

    One thing to keep in mind is its size. At 13.7 x 3.9 x 9.8 inches, it’s not small. We had to rearrange our desk a bit to fit it comfortably. The beeping during power events can also be loud, and we couldn’t find a way to mute it completely.

    Sale
    CyberPower AVR UPS
    • 1500VA/900W AVR Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave technology to safeguard desktop computers, workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
  • CyberPower Compact UPS

    9

    We think this CyberPower UPS is a solid choice for most people looking to protect their electronics from power issues.

    Pros

    • Plenty of outlets for multiple devices
    • Compact size fits well in tight spaces
    • Automatic voltage regulation extends battery life

    Cons

    • Initial charge time is lengthy
    • Large power adapters may not fit all outlets
    • Simulated sine wave output not ideal for some equipment

    After testing the CyberPower AVRG750U, we found it to be a reliable backup power supply for home offices and entertainment systems. Its 12 outlets give us plenty of space to plug in our computer, monitor, router, and other gear. Six of these outlets offer both surge protection and battery backup, while the other six provide surge protection only.

    We like how this UPS uses automatic voltage regulation to smooth out minor power fluctuations. This feature helps extend the battery life by not switching to battery power for small voltage changes. During our tests, we noticed it handled brief power dips without a hitch, keeping our devices running smoothly.

    The compact design is a big plus. We tucked it neatly under our desk without taking up much space. Just be aware that the initial 8-hour charge time might be a bit of a wait if you need protection right away. Also, some bulky power adapters might not fit side-by-side on the outlets. But for most setups, we think this CyberPower UPS strikes a good balance between features and value.

    Sale
    CyberPower Compact UPS
    • 750VA/450W AVR Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System uses simulated sine wave output to safeguard desktop computers, workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment
  • APC BE425M Backup Battery

    8.7

    We highly recommend this compact APC battery backup for keeping small electronics powered during outages.

    Pros

    • Reliable power for routers and small devices
    • Compact size fits easily on desks
    • User-friendly with clear status indicators

    Cons

    • Limited runtime for larger electronics
    • Beeping during outages can be annoying
    • Slightly pricey compared to basic surge protectors

    The APC BE425M has become our go-to backup battery for home networks and small electronics. Its 425VA/225W capacity is perfect for keeping routers, modems, and smart home hubs running during short blackouts. We love how it takes up minimal space on our desks or shelves.

    In our tests, this APC unit kept our WiFi up and running for over an hour during a recent storm. The four battery backup outlets gave us peace of mind for our critical devices. We also liked having two extra surge-only outlets for less essential gear.

    Setting up the BE425M was a breeze. We just plugged it in, connected our devices, and it was ready to go. The LED indicators clearly show battery and surge protection status at a glance. While it won’t power a whole office, we found it ideal for keeping us online when the lights go out.

    Sale
    APC BE425M Backup Battery
    • 425VA / 225W battery backup power supply
  • AmazonBasics UPS 600VA

    8.7

    We recommend this UPS for its reliable power backup and surge protection at an affordable price.

    Pros

    • Compact design fits easily in small spaces
    • 8 outlets with both surge protection and battery backup
    • Affordable price point for basic protection

    Cons

    • Limited battery capacity for extended outages
    • Basic features compared to higher-end models
    • Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives

    When we tested the AmazonBasics UPS 600VA, we were impressed by its compact size. It tucked neatly under our desk without taking up much space. The unit has 8 outlets total, which gave us plenty of options for plugging in our devices.

    We found the 600VA / 360W capacity sufficient for our desktop computer and router during short power outages. It kept our internet connection alive and gave us enough time to save our work and shut down properly. For longer outages, you might want something beefier.

    The surge protection worked well in our tests, safeguarding our electronics from voltage spikes. While it’s not packed with fancy features, we think it offers good value for basic home office setups or entertainment systems. Just keep in mind that its plastic body might not stand up to rough handling as well as some pricier metal-cased options.

    AmazonBasics UPS 600VA
    • Standby uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with 600VA / 360W battery backup; ideal for desktop computers, home networks, IoT devices, and home entertainment devices
  • CyberPower PFC Sinewave UPS

    8.6

    We recommend the CyberPower PFC Sinewave UPS for its reliable performance and advanced features that protect your devices from power issues.

    Pros

    • Pure sine wave output for sensitive electronics
    • Color LCD display for easy monitoring
    • Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) to handle minor fluctuations

    Cons

    • Relatively heavy at 24.9 pounds
    • May be overkill for basic home setups
    • Fan can be noisy under heavy loads

    We’ve been using the CyberPower PFC Sinewave UPS in our office for a few months now, and it’s proven to be a solid choice for keeping our gear safe. The pure sine wave output is a big plus, as it helps our computers and other sensitive devices run smoothly during power issues.

    One thing we really like is the color LCD screen. It’s easy to read and tilts up, so we can check the status even when it’s tucked under a desk. The screen shows us important info like battery life and power conditions at a glance.

    The Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) is a handy feature we’ve come to count on. It fixes small power changes without switching to battery, which helps the battery last longer. We’ve noticed fewer switches to battery power compared to our old UPS, which is great for keeping our work going without breaks.

    Sale
    CyberPower PFC Sinewave UPS
    • 1500VA/1000W PFC Sine Wave Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System designed to support active PFC and conventional power supplies; Safeguards computers, workstations, network devices, and telecom equipment

uying Guide

When shopping for a backup power supply, we recommend focusing on a few key factors:

Capacity

Look for a unit with enough wattage to run your essential devices. Make a list of what you need to power and add up their wattage requirements.

Runtime

Consider how long you need backup power to last. Larger capacity units generally provide longer runtimes.

Outlets

Count how many devices you’ll need to plug in. Choose a unit with enough outlets for your needs.

Pure Sine Wave vs. Modified Sine Wave

Pure sine wave inverters are best for sensitive electronics. Modified sine wave models work for most basic appliances.

Portability

Think about whether you need a stationary or portable unit. Portable models offer flexibility but may have less capacity.

Noise Level

Check the decibel rating if noise is a concern. Some units are quieter than others.

Fuel Type

For generators, decide between gas, propane, or dual-fuel models based on fuel availability and storage.

Safety Features

Look for overload protection, surge protection, and automatic voltage regulation.

We suggest comparing models across these categories to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Remember to factor in long-term costs like fuel or battery replacements.