Best UPS Overall
A UPS (uninterruptible power suppy) provides battery backup for your PC and peripheals, giving you time to safely shut down in the case of a power failure and prevent file loss or damage. Additionally, most UPS units include software that can be configured to automatically shut down your equipment. The other benefit is that a UPS doubles as a surge protector, providing protection against voltage sags, spikes, brownouts, and other power abnormailities. We've selected the best overall based on a combination of performance, value, and features. Your battery backup needs depend on your PC setup (e.g., entry-level, midrange, or performance), so we've included the top picks for each requirement.
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Why it's best:
A sleek, powerful UPS that provides ample protection for midrange and performance PCs. This unit includes 4 battery + surge outlets and 4 surge-only outlets. With a 500-watt load (typical performance PC and 19” monitor, the Cyberpower CP1500 provides around 9 minutes o...read full review
Price Range:
$146.66 - $199.99
See all sellers ››Available From:
PC Connection Express $174.95
STAPLES $199.99
Why it's a best pick:
The APC BR1500LCD performs similar to the Cyberpower CP1500 and carries a similar price tag, but it’s not as sleek and weighs a bit more (30 lbs compared to 25 lbs). One advantage is that this unit has 6 battery + surge outlets and 2 surge-only outlets, so if you need ... read full review
$183.73 - $301.34
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PC Connection Express $199.95
pcRUSH.com $197.96
Why it's a best pick:
This compact UPS is packed with 10 outlets – 5 for battery + surge and 5 surge-only. With 450-watts, it’s ideally suited for midrange PCs, providing a couple minutes of backup time at full load. The APC BE750G is easy to setup and includes software for configurin... read full review
$79.99 - $102.00
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CtiStore $102.00
CompUSA $79.99
Why it's a best pick:
The APC Back-UPS ES 8 is an affordable battery backup solution that’s suitable for most basic needs. It’s equipped with 4 battery + surge outlets and 4 surge-only outlets. Since most users will only want to connect a desktop tower, monitor, router, and modem to t... read full review
$49.99 - $74.99
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STAPLES $59.99
Barcode Giant $59.99
Why it's a best pick:
The Cyberpower CP550SL UPS performs similarly (and is priced similarly) to the APC ES 8. For basic PCs, this 330 watt unit provides enough backup time to safely shutdown. It also includes software for auto-shutdown. Just like the ES 8, it’s a great value and suitable f... read full review
Amazon.com $43.97
