AmazonBasics 400VA UPS OK for basic computer usage?

[rpeters83]

Would this model, https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Standby-UPS-800VA-Outlets/dp/B073Q48Z95, be fine for giving me at least a few minutes for a regular PC and single monitor? I don't need special features or a long length of time - just something to get through brown/blackouts. I'm working at home so I'll be there to turn it off.

Also, would the Amazon brand be better or worse than the APC model? https://smile.amazon.com/APC-Battery-Protector-Back-UPS-BE425M/dp/B01HDC236Q

I ask because I thought not all UPS work with computers due to "sine wave", or something about how it delivers power? I don't entirely know, but wanted to confirm. Thanks.

 

[Dan_D]

Would this model, https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Standby-UPS-800VA-Outlets/dp/B073Q48Z95, be fine for giving me at least a few minutes for a regular PC and single monitor? I don't need special features or a long length of time - just something to get through brown/blackouts. I'm working at home so I'll be there to turn it off.

Also, would the Amazon brand be better or worse than the APC model? https://smile.amazon.com/APC-Battery-Protector-Back-UPS-BE425M/dp/B01HDC236Q

I ask because I thought not all UPS work with computers due to "sine wave", or something about how it delivers power? I don't entirely know, but wanted to confirm. Thanks.

You can't use a UPS with lower output than what the PC will draw from it. The 400VA unit outputs 255 watts. You'll be OK at idle, but unless it's a relatively low end machine it's going to cause the UPS to shutdown under load. It won't be graceful about it either.

 

[rpeters83]

You can't use a UPS with lower output than what the PC will draw from it. The 400VA unit outputs 255 watts. You'll be OK at idle, but unless it's a relatively low end machine it's going to cause the UPS to shutdown under load. It won't be graceful about it either.

Makes perfect sense. I'll look into a higher-wattage version.

What about AmazonBasics vs ADP as far as quality? Any reason to get one over the other? Thanks.

 

[BlueLineSwinger]

No idea on the overall quality of the Amazon unit. If you can figure out who the OEM is that's go a long way towards the info you're looking for (the case looks Tripp-Lite or CyberPower to me, but that's just a guess). APC is generally known as a good brand.

As far as weathering brown-outs and the like for a PC, you definitely want a line-interactive unit as opposed to standby (link). Both linked are the latter. (It's unlikely you'll find an online unit for a reasonable price.) Also, the APC's spec page lists it as square-wave output, probably OK for a modern PC but not ideal (at least the Amazon is stepped/simulated-sine). The APC is really meant for small, low-power devices such as basic home network gear.

Also, look for something with a user-replaceable battery.