Do you need an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?

If you have important electronics that have to keep running when the power's out, you'll need an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). We've reviewed our recommendations and are confident these are still the best UPS devices you can buy. Many smart devices have built-in battery packs, with modern laptops packing enough cells to last a whole day.

What is an uninterruptible power supply?

Read more about our editorial standards. An uninterruptible power supply, or UPS, is basically a surge protector, battery, and power inverter—which turns the battery’s stored energy into usable power—wrapped into one unit.

What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS battery backup)?

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (aka a UPS Battery Backup) protects vital connected equipment -- computers, servers, and telecommunications equipment -- from power outages. During an outage, that small UPS Battery Backup under your desk at work gives you enough time to save your spreadsheet and properly shut down your computer.

Are uninterruptible power supply standards sustainable?

Modern uninterruptible power supply standards now place a heavy emphasis on energy efficiency, not just safety and reliability. This aligns with global sustainability goals and can lead to substantial cost savings over time.

Who is responsible for enforcing uninterruptible power supply standards?

Multiple global and regional organizations are responsible for developing and enforcing uninterruptible power supply standards. Each body brings a unique focus, often catering to specific industries or geographies.

Is a 1000W ups good enough?

A sub-1000W UPS should be good enough for most appliances, but if you have really powerful systems like a gaming rig, you might want to look beyond the 1000W mark. Once you've sorted the capacity, you need to evaluate the devices you'd be connecting to the UPS, specifically their sensitivity to signal fluctuations.