In today's world, with so many different electronic devices to power, we need a lot of power. And this power comes from our electricity supply. But there are a lot of devices that we plug into our power supply when we're at home. With this in mind, it's important to know that the power supply you choose is a vital one, so it needs to be energy efficient and reliable.
Are you a passionate gamer who can't afford to lose your progress due to an unexpected power outage? You’re not alone! That’s why a reliable Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) for your gaming PC is a must. Here, we'll delve into some of the best UPS options that will literally save your game.
Why do Gamers Need a UPS?
A UPS isn't just a battery backup. It's a device that provides emergency backup power when the main supply fails, giving you enough time to save your game and shut down your gaming PC properly. Moreover, a UPS also protects your precious gaming PC from power surges that could damage its components.
Choosing the Right UPS for Your Gaming PC
When choosing a UPS, consider the power consumption of your gaming PC and any other devices you want to protect. Also, consider the battery runtime - it should be enough for you to save your game and shut it down safely.
Remember, a UPS is an investment in your gaming setup, protecting your hardware and ensuring your gaming sessions are never cut short by power issues.
What are the different types of UPS on the market?
There are two main types of UPSs on the market today:
Line-Interactive UPS
These are typically cheaper as they are designed to work as normal backup power supplies in the event of a power cut.
Intelligent UPSs
These are designed to work as a buffer in-between your power supply and the power grid, and they are usually more expensive. To choose the type of UPS for you and your budget, you need to consider how much you spend on the device each month.
How much should I spend on a UPS?
Depending on your budget and how many devices you need to power, you should be spending at least $100. It's good to think about what you need to power and how many devices per hour the UPS can handle.
If you're looking for a cheap UPS battery backup for your home, you can get one for around $50. But if you need a UPS to power your business, you should consider spending more than $100. You can also think about how much time the UPS will need to be able to power all your devices. The longer the UPS will need to be able to power all your devices, the more it will cost.
Conclusion
Power outages or fluctuations don't have to spell disaster for your epic gaming adventures. With a reliable UPS battery backup, you can your gaming PC with peace of mind, knowing that you have UPS, and the hardware, are safe.
With more and more devices plugged in, you'll need to push your backup power supply harder and ultimately, you'll find yourself with a dead power supply. This is why it's so important to buy a good quality UPS with long-life APC backups.
So, level up your gaming experience with a UPS and say goodbye to unsaved games!
Can we help? We've done the research for you and found the Best UPS for Gaming PC on Amazon.
Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Overall
Product information
For gaming PCs, workstations, network devices, and telecom equipment, a reliable UPS system is crucial. One such power backup solution is the 1500VA/1000W PFC Sine Wave Battery Backup UPS System. Designed to support both active PFC and conventional power supplies, it ensures your devices are always protected.
Outlets and Inputs
The UPS system features 12 NEMA 5-15R outlets, strategically divided into six battery backup & surge-protected outlets, and six surge-protected outlets. This ensures that your devices are not only powered but also protected from potential power surges. The input is designed with a NEMA 5-15P right-angle, 45-degree offset plug, accompanied by a five-foot power cord for easy connectivity. In addition, it includes 2 USB charge ports (1 Type-A, 1 Type-C), enabling quick charging for mobile phones and tablets.
Multifunctional Color LCD Panel
A unique feature of this UPS system is its multifunctional color LCD panel. This display offers immediate, detailed information on battery and power conditions. Its color display is designed to alert users of potential issues before they can affect critical equipment and cause downtime. For enhanced visibility, the screen tilts up to 22 degrees, providing an optimal viewing angle.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)
The UPS system comes equipped with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR). This feature corrects minor power fluctuations without switching to battery power, thereby extending the life of the battery. This means your devices remain powered during minor power inconsistencies, without draining your UPS battery.
Warranty and Additional Features
Investing in this UPS system comes with the assurance of a 3-year warranty, which notably includes the battery. It also boasts a $500,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee, adding an extra layer of security for your devices. To top it off, it comes with FREE PowerPanel Management Software, enabling you to manage and monitor your UPS easily. Cumbersome and complex. The bot is close to useless!
Pure Sine-Wave Power Output: The CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD provides pure sine-wave power output, which is ideal for modern gaming PCs power supplies and sensitive electronics.
Quality Construction: The UPS housing is constructed from thick molded plastic, indicating the use of quality materials.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): The AVR feature adjusts high and low voltages to a safe level, which helps to preserve the life of the battery and protect connected devices.
GreenPower UPS™ Technology: Designed with GreenPower UPS™ Technology, this UPS system improves operating efficiency and minimizes energy consumption, leading to significant energy cost savings.
Lack of Configurable Load-Shedding Outlets: Unlike some more expensive solutions, the CP1500PFCLCD doesn't offer configurable load-shedding outlets.
Our Thoughts: The CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS System offers a balance between functionality and protection, making it an outstanding investment for anyone seeking reliable power protection for their devices.
Very Good
Product information
One reliable power solution is the 1500VA/900W Intelligent LCD Battery Backup UPS System. Designed to protect gaming PCs, workstations, networking devices, and home entertainment equipment, this system utilizes simulated sine wave output to provide consistent power.
Outlets and Inputs
This UPS system comes equipped with 12 NEMA 5-15R outlets. These are divided into six battery backup and surge-protected outlets, ensuring your devices are not only powered but also protected from potential power surges. The remaining six outlets offer surge protection. The system is designed with a NEMA 5-15P plug and includes a 6-foot power cord for easy connectivity. Additionally, it features USB charge ports (1 Type-A, 1 Type-C) for quick charging of mobile phones and tablets.
Multifunctional Color LCD Panel
A standout feature of the uninterruptible power supply system is its multifunctional color LCD panel. This display provides immediate, detailed information on battery and power conditions. With an alert system that warns users of potential issues before they can cause downtime, this color display ensures you can react promptly to power-related issues.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)
Equipped with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), this UPS system is capable of correcting minor power fluctuations without switching to battery power. This feature not only protects gaming PCs, and other devices from inconsistent power supply but also extends the life of the battery, making the system more efficient.
Warranty and Additional Features
Investing in this UPS system comes with the assurance of a 3-year warranty, including the battery. This investment also comes with a $500,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee, providing you with peace of mind. To enhance user experience, the system comes with FREE PowerPanel Personal Edition Management Software, allowing easy management and monitoring of your UPS.
Robust Power Protection: The CP1500AVRLCD3 provides comprehensive power protection, ensuring your devices like your gaming PC are safeguarded from damaging power surges and spikes.
Battery Backup: The uninterruptible power supply system offers battery backup using simulated sine wave output, providing essential power in case of outages and allowing you to properly shut down your electronics.
Intelligent LCD Interface: The integrated LCD panel displays immediate, detailed information about the battery and power conditions, alerting users to potential issues.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): The AVR feature adjusts high and low voltages to a safe level, which helps to preserve the life of the battery and protect connected devices.
Size: Some users may find the mini-tower form factor to be slightly bulky, especially in cramped workspaces.
Simulated Sine Wave Output: While the UPS provides sufficient power backup, it uses simulated sine wave output, which may not be as efficient or compatible as pure sine wave output with some sensitive electronics.
Our Thoughts: The CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System delivers robust power protection and user-friendly features, making it a worthy investment for anyone seeking reliable power protection for their devices.
Best Budget Choice
Product information
A reliable solution to surges is a protector with a 2630 Joules energy rating. This high energy rating ensures that your devices are well-protected from any potential power spikes.
Outlet Features and Power Cord
This robust surge protector boasts 11 outlets, providing ample space to connect multiple devices. Whether it's workstations, gaming PCs, or networking devices, this power strip has got you covered. Accompanying these outlets is an 8-foot power cord, designed with a flat-end 90-degree plug. This space-saving design allows for convenient placement of the power strip, even in tight spaces.
USB Ports
In addition to the 11 outlets, the surge protector also features two uninterruptible power supply ports. These ports provide 2.4 Amps of charging power, allowing for quick and efficient charging of mobile phones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices. With this feature, you can keep your devices powered up without needing additional adapters.
Lifetime Warranty
One of the standout features of this surge protector is its lifetime warranty. This means that the manufacturer stands behind the product's quality and durability for its entire lifespan. This assurance gives users peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.
Connected Equipment Protection Policy
Alongside the lifetime warranty, the surge protector comes with a $250,000 connected equipment protection policy. This gives users assurance that not only is their surge protector covered, but so are the devices connected to it.
Multiple Outlets: With 11 outlets, including five regular and six transformer-spaced outlets for oversized plugs, the APC P11U2 ensures you can connect and protect multiple devices simultaneously. This feature is especially beneficial in high-tech environments with numerous electronic devices.
USB Charging Ports: The APC P11U2 surge protector includes two USB charging ports, offering a combined 2.4 amps. This allows you to conveniently charge tablets, smartphones, and other USB-enabled devices.
High Surge Protection Rating: With a 2880 Joules rating, this surge protector can effectively safeguard your electronics from damaging power surges and spikes, providing peace of mind.
LED Status Lights: The LED status lights indicate Power-On and Wiring Fault statuses, ensuring you're constantly updated on the system's operation and safety.
USB Charging Limitations: While the inclusion of USB ports is commendable, they share a total output of 2.4A. This might result in slower charging if multiple devices are connected simultaneously.
Our Thoughts: The APC Performance Surge Protector with USB Ports, P11U2, is a versatile power strip offering 11 outlets and 2880 Joule surge protection. Designed to safeguard your electronics and conveniently charge your mobile devices, it's an excellent addition to any home office or entertainment setup.
Good
Product information
The APC back ups UPS 1500VA / 900W battery backup power supply is an exemplary solution that ensures all devices like gaming PCs are always powered. With a 60 Hz +/- 3 Hz input frequency and a 15 A switching current capacity, this UPS syncs to mains at 60 Hz, providing consistent and efficient power.
Outlets and Surge Protection
This power supply boasts 10 outlets (NEMA 5-15R), effectively catering to various devices. It intelligently distributes these outlets into five surge protectors with battery backup and five outlets solely for surge protection. This arrangement not only powers your devices but also shields them from potential power surges, enhancing their lifespan.
Network Data Line Protection and Power Cord
The APC back ups UPS also provides 1 GB network data line protection, safeguarding your data during power fluctuations. It includes a 6-foot power cord fitted with a right-angle 3-prong wall plug (NEMA 5-15P). Additionally, it offers free Windows PC power-management software, while Mac OS users can utilize native "Energy Saver" settings, facilitating efficient power management across platforms.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)
Equipped with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), this UPS instantly corrects low/high voltage fluctuations without discharging the battery. Furthermore, it is Active PFC compatible, enhancing its efficiency and making it a reliable power source for your gaming PC and various other devices.
Replaceable Battery and Energy-Star Certification
The UPS features a replaceable battery, allowing for easy maintenance and longevity. It is compatible with the APC replacement battery model APCRBC124 (sold separately). Notably, this UPS meets the Energy Star Requirements for product specification in Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), asserting its energy efficiency.
Reliable Power Backup: The APC BX1500M offers an impressive 1500VA/900W power backup capacity. In the event of a power outage, this system provides sufficient power to allow for the safe shutdown of connected electronics.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): The AVR feature adjusts high and low voltages to a safe level, helping to preserve the life of the battery and protect connected devices.
Dataline Protection: This feature protects connected equipment from power surges traveling through data lines, providing an additional layer of security.
User-replaceable Battery: This extendable feature allows users to replace the battery, prolonging the life of the UPS.
Limited Outlet Number: With a total of 10 outlets, some users may find the number of available outlets insufficient for their needs.
Lack of USB Ports: Unlike some other models, the BX1500M does not include USB ports for charging mobile devices.
Our Thoughts: The APC UPS 1500VA UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, BX1500M, is a robust and reliable choice for anyone looking for power protection for their devices. However, the limited number of outlets and lack of USB ports may be a point of consideration for some users.
Good
Product information
In a world where technology rules, having an uninterrupted power supply is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The 1500VA / 900W Pure Sine Wave UPS battery backup is a prime solution that guarantees a steady stream of power to gaming PCs and other devices. This power supply system ensures your digital world never comes to a halt due to power issues.
Input and Output Specifications
The UPS is designed with a NEMA 5-15P input and eight NEMA 5-15R outputs. This configuration allows for seamless connection of multiple devices, providing them with a reliable power source. Whether it's for a home office setup or a comprehensive entertainment system, this uninterruptible power supply system can cater to all.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)
This UPS system comes equipped with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR). This feature actively adjusts high and low voltages to a safe level, helping to preserve the life of the battery. It ensures gaming PCs and other devices are protected from voltage fluctuations, enhancing their lifespan and performance.
APC SmartConnect Feature
The APC SmartConnect feature is an easy-to-use remote monitoring tool accessible via a secure portal. It provides automatic notifications, firmware updates, and advanced support services, promoting an effortless user experience. For units purchased and/or registered after August 1, 2023, users will be offered a 6-month free trial of SmartConnect.
Warranty and Protection Policy
APC offers a 2-year repair or replacement warranty for the UPS, excluding the battery, which has its own separate 2-year warranty. Additionally, APC provides a $150,000 Connected Equipment Protection Policy, reflecting its commitment to protect your investment.
Additional Battery Warranty
By connecting and registering the APC UPS with the SmartConnect App, you receive an additional 1 year of battery warranty for free. This feature ensures longer protection for your battery, extending the overall lifespan of your UPS system.
Energy-Star Certification
This UPS system is Energy-Star Certified, meeting the program requirements for UPS product specification. This certification highlights its energy efficiency, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
Reliable Power Backup: The SMC1500C offers an impressive 1500VA/900W power backup capacity, ensuring your devices are safeguarded during power outages.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): The AVR feature adjusts high and low voltages to a safe level, helping to preserve the life of the battery and protect connected devices.
Pure Sinewave Output: This feature ensures compatibility with Active PFC power supplies and sensitive electronics.
SmartConnect Feature: APC SmartConnect is a cloud-enabled feature that allows users to view the status of the UPS via a secure portal.
Limited Outlet Number: With a total of 8 outlets, some users may find the number of available outlets insufficient for their needs.
Price: Some users may find this UPS a bit expensive considering there are cheaper alternatives.
Our Thoughts: The APC 1500VA Smart-UPS with SmartConnect, SMC1500C, provides robust power protection, making it a reliable choice for anyone looking for a UPS system.
Good
Product information
The 700VA/370W Slim Profile Standby Battery Backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System is a top-tier solution that ensures gaming PCs and other devices never run out of power. Using simulated sine wave output, this UPS system safeguards your home office and entertainment needs, protecting devices like computers, gaming consoles, and broadband routers.
Outlets and Plug Features
This UPS system features eight NEMA 5-15R outlets, intelligently distributed to cater to various power needs. Five of these outlets provide both battery backup and surge protection, while the remaining three offer surge protection only. Two of these outlets are widely spaced to accommodate larger plugs, providing flexibility for different device requirements. The system also includes an input NEMA 5-15P plug with a five-foot cord, ensuring easy installation and connectivity.
USB Charging Ports and LED Status Lights
The UPS system comes equipped with two USB charging ports. These ports share 2.4 amps of power, capable of charging and powering tablets, smartphones, MP3 players, and other mobile devices efficiently. In addition, the system features LED status lights that indicate Power-On and Wiring Faults, providing real-time updates on the system's status and ensuring safe operation.
Green Power-UPS High-Efficiency Design
The 700VA/370W UPS system uses a Green Power-UPS High-Efficiency Design. This design reduces power consumption by utilizing a compact charger and power inverter to create an ultra-efficient backup power system. It's ideal for both home and office use, offering an eco-friendly solution to your power needs.
Warranty and Connected Equipment Guarantee
The UPS system comes with a 3-year warranty, covering even the battery. This reflects the manufacturer's confidence in its product and commitment to customer satisfaction. Additionally, it offers a $100,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee and free PowerPanel Personal Software, providing users with peace of mind and easy management of their power supply.
Reliable Power Backup: The SL700U provides a dependable power backup of up to 370 watts/700 volt-amperes (VA), enough to provide standby power for various devices.
Compact and Slim Profile: The relatively compact unit and slim profile make it a versatile UPS for any home or small office, even where space is limited.
Sufficient Outlets: With eight outlets, four of which feature both surge protection and battery backup, the SL700U offers ample connectivity for multiple devices.
For the CyberPower SL700U Standby UPS System, potential buyers might want to consider factors such as the specific power requirements of their devices and whether the power backup capacity of 700VA/370W is sufficient for their needs.
Our Thoughts: The CyberPower SL700U Standby UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) System delivers reliable power protection in a compact and slim profile, making it a worthy investment for anyone seeking a dependable UPS solution.
FAQs
Do I need to keep my UPS plugged in all the time?
The short answer is yes. A UPS is meant to be left plugged in 24/7 to maintain the charge in the backup battery. Unplugging the UPS, especially at night, can shorten the life expectancy of its batteries due to self-discharge.
To increase the lifespan of a UPS, it's a good idea to keep it turned on unless you use it infrequently. The number of discharges and the amount of discharge can impact the lifespan of the uninterruptible power supply more than anything else.
Moreover, UPS units should be left turned on at all times as powering off the UPS each day can cause the battery to age. Even after you shut down your computer, it's recommended to leave the UPS on.
It's also perfectly fine to leave a powered-off PC plugged into a UPS 24/7. If you insist on turning it off, ensure it stays on for several hours during the day so that the battery keeps a float charge.
What's the minimum size UPS needed for a gaming PC?
The minimum size of the UPS you need for your gaming PC depends largely on your PC’s power consumption. However, according to various sources, at the bare minimum, a gaming PC UPS should have at least 350W of rated output1. This is enough to power most budget gaming PCs.
Some experts recommend a UPS with a bit more power, suggesting a 500-watt UPS for a computer that uses 300 watts or less. This ensures the UPS will still provide adequate power even as the computer's power needs increase over time.
For more powerful gaming PCs, you might need a higher-capacity UPS. Some sources suggest using a 1200VA UPS, while others recommend a UPS with power 1.5 times that of your PSU.
What shouldn't I plug into my UPS?
While a UPS is beneficial for most electronic devices, there are certain items you should not plug into a UPS.
Surge Protectors: Plugging a surge protector into a UPS is not advisable. The surge protector may trigger an overload as the connected device may draw more power from the UPS than it can handle.
Extension Cords: It's generally recommended not to plug your UPS into an extension cord. Doing so could void the warranty of your UPS and the equipment it protects.
Highly Power-Consuming Devices: Avoid plugging in devices with high power consumption, such as large printers, refrigerators, or heaters, into your UPS. These devices can quickly drain the UPS' battery, reducing the backup time available for other important devices like your computer.
Devices With Active PFC Power Supplies: Some devices with Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) power supplies may not be compatible with certain UPS systems. Check your device's manual to verify compatibility with your UPS.
Power Strips: Similar to surge protectors, it's not recommended to plug a power strip into a UPS. This could potentially cause an overload and may also pose a safety risk.
