Searching for the best UPS to keep your modem and router running during power outages? The right backup power supply can prevent interruptions and protect your equipment. The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA stands out for its balance of capacity and usability, making it a top overall choice. The CyberPower SL700U offers a more affordable option with enough backup for smaller setups, while the GOLDENMATE 1000VA brings premium lithium-ion batteries for longer-lasting power. Tradeoffs in this category include capacity versus size, price versus features, and ease of use versus customization. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Capacity matters: higher VA and wattage ratings provide longer backup times for connected devices.
- Size and form factor influence placement: compact models suit small spaces; larger units offer more outlets and power.
- Battery technology impacts longevity: lithium-ion batteries like in the GOLDENMATE tend to last longer and charge faster.
- Surge protection varies: not all UPS units include comprehensive surge protection, which is crucial for device safety.
- Ease of setup and monitoring is key: models with LCD displays and simple interfaces reduce hassle and improve usability.
More Details on Our Top Picks
CyberPower ST425 Standby UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 425VA/260W, 8 Outlets
This model stands out for its compact size and energy-efficient design, making it ideal for protecting a few essential devices like a modem, router, or small home office equipment. Compared to the larger APC Back-UPS 1500VA, the ST425 offers a more affordable and space-saving solution, but its limited capacity of 425VA/260W means it can’t support multiple high-power devices simultaneously. Its standby (simulated sine wave) output is sufficient for most basic electronics but might be less ideal for sensitive networking gear. The absence of USB ports narrows its usefulness for charging mobile devices during outages. This UPS is perfect for users who need basic, reliable backup power in tight spaces and don’t require advanced features or longer runtime.
Pros:- Compact and energy-efficient design
- Includes 8 outlets with surge protection
- 3-year warranty including battery
Cons:- Limited to 425VA/260W capacity
- Only standby (simulated sine wave) output
- No USB charging ports
Best for: Home users or small office setups needing a compact backup for modem, router, and small electronics
Not ideal for: Users with multiple or high-power devices requiring longer runtime or pure sine wave output
- VA:425VA
- Wattage:260W
- Outlets:8
- Input:NEMA 5-15P
- Cord Length:5 feet
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This UPS works best for those who need a simple, space-saving backup for essential low-power network equipment.
CyberPower SL700U Standby UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 700VA/370W, 8 Outlets
The CyberPower SL700U offers a balanced mix of capacity and features, providing reliable backup power for multiple devices like a modem, router, and perhaps a small NAS or smart home hub. Compared to the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA, the SL700U is more affordable and takes up less space, but its capacity of 700VA/370W still limits it to low- to moderate-power setups. It includes USB charging ports, a feature missing in the smaller CyberPower ST425, which is a big plus for keeping mobile devices powered during outages. Its simulated sine wave output is similar to the ST425, so it’s not ideal for sensitive equipment. Widely spaced outlets accommodate larger plugs, making it practical for home and small office environments. This pick makes the most sense for users who want a slightly more capable backup without a hefty price tag.
Pros:- Provides reliable backup for multiple devices
- Includes 2 USB charging ports
- Energy-efficient design reduces power consumption
- Widely spaced outlets for larger plugs
Cons:- Limited to 700VA capacity, not suitable for high-power devices
- Simulated sine wave output may not be ideal for sensitive electronics
- No LCD display for detailed status
Best for: Small office or home users wanting reliable backup with USB device charging
Not ideal for: Power users with high-capacity or sensitive equipment that needs pure sine wave output
- VA:700VA
- Wattage:370W
- Outlets:8
- USB Ports:2
- Cord Length:5 feet
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: Ideal for users seeking a cost-effective, moderate backup solution with mobile device charging capabilities.
APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA UPS, 900W Battery Backup & Surge Protector, LCD Display
The APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA stands out for its high capacity and advanced features, making it suitable for protecting multiple networking devices, computers, and smart home gear. Its automatic voltage regulation ensures stable power delivery, reducing wear on connected electronics. This model surpasses smaller options like the CyberPower SL700U in capacity and has an LCD display for detailed status updates, which is helpful for monitoring backup performance. However, its bulkier size and higher price tag can be drawbacks for users with limited space or budget. The battery replacement process, requiring an additional purchase, can also be inconvenient. This UPS appeals most to users who need dependable, long-lasting backup support for sensitive, high-value equipment.
Pros:- High VA capacity with 900W output
- Automatic voltage regulation for stable power
- Multiple outlets with surge protection
- User-replaceable battery
Cons:- Bulkier size requiring more space
- Battery replacement involves extra purchase
- Higher cost compared to smaller models
Best for: Small to medium-sized home offices with critical equipment needing reliable power support
Not ideal for: Users with minimal space or those seeking a more affordable, basic backup solution
- VA Capacity:1500VA
- Wattage:900W
- Backup Runtime:Up to 19 minutes at 300W
- Outlets:10 (5 backup + 5 surge-only)
- Battery Type:Replaceable (APCRBC124)
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This model fits users who prioritize capacity and stability for vital devices and don’t mind the size or cost.
APC Back-UPS 425VA / 255W UPS Battery Backup Surge Protector, 6 Outlets, Small UPS for Router, Modem & Home Office, BE425M
This compact UPS is designed for small, low-power electronics like routers and modems, providing around 15 minutes of backup at 100W load. Compared to the larger APC Back-UPS 1500VA, the BE425M is much smaller and easier to fit into tight spaces, but its limited capacity restricts its use to very basic setups. The surge protection rating of 180 Joules adds a layer of safety against power spikes, while its simple design lacks advanced features like LCD displays or USB ports. It’s a straightforward choice for those who want a reliable backup without fuss, especially in environments where space or budget are limited.
Pros:- Compact and wall-mountable design
- Reliable backup power for essential devices
- Surge protection for added safety
- 3-year warranty coverage
Cons:- Limited to approximately 15 minutes runtime at 100W
- No USB charging ports
- Only suitable for low-power electronics
Best for: Users needing a small, dedicated backup for a single router and modem in limited space
Not ideal for: Users with multiple devices or higher power needs, as runtime and capacity are limited
- VA:425VA
- Wattage:255W
- Outlets:6
- Surge Protection Rating:180 Joules
- Input Voltage:120 Volts
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This UPS suits those who need a simple, space-saving backup for a single low-power device like a modem or router.
APC UPS 600VA / 330W Battery Backup & Surge Protector, 7 Outlets, USB Charging, BE600M1
The APC BE600M1 combines sufficient capacity with added convenience, supporting essential devices like routers, modems, and small electronics, while offering a USB port for mobile device charging. Compared to the smaller APC BE425M, it provides a higher wattage (330W), making it suitable for slightly more demanding setups, but still limited for high-power devices. Its 600VA capacity is enough for about 23 minutes of backup at 100W load, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The user-replaceable battery and clear indicators improve ease of maintenance. However, it’s still primarily designed for small electronics and may fall short if you have multiple or higher-powered devices. This UPS is ideal for those who want a balance of capacity, convenience, and affordability.
Pros:- Provides up to 23 minutes backup at 100W
- Includes a USB charging port
- Multiple outlets with surge and battery backup options
- User-replaceable battery
Cons:- Limited to 600VA / 330W capacity
- Battery replacement requires separate purchase
- Designed mainly for small electronics, not large appliances
Best for: Home users with small electronics and need USB charging during outages
Not ideal for: Power users with multiple high-power devices or requiring long backup durations
- VA:600VA
- Wattage:330W
- Outlets:7
- USB Charging:Yes
- Battery Charge Time:10 Hours
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: This UPS offers a balanced mix of backup support and convenience for small electronics and mobile device charging.
Amazon Basics UPS Battery Backup & Surge Protector, 400VA/255W, 6 Outlets, Compact Black
This Amazon Basics UPS offers a straightforward solution for protecting your modem and router during power outages, with a reliable 400VA/255W capacity. Compared to the larger GOLDENMATE 1000VA/800W, it provides significantly less runtime—around 2 minutes at full load—making it less suited for extended outages but perfect for brief interruptions. Its compact design makes it easy to place near your devices without clutter. The inclusion of surge protection on all six outlets safeguards against power surges, but the limited runtime and battery longevity mean it’s ideal for short-term power stability rather than long outages. The required software adds an extra step for setup. This pick is best for users who need simple, reliable backup for their home router and modem without complex features.
Pros:- Reliable backup power during brief outages
- Surge protection on all outlets
- Compact and easy to integrate into home setups
Cons:- Limited runtime of only a few minutes at full load
- Battery life may decrease over time, reducing runtime
- Power management software requires download and setup
Best for: Home users seeking an affordable, straightforward backup for their internet setup
Not ideal for: Those needing extended backup times or running multiple high-power devices simultaneously
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Battery Charge Time:8 Hours
- Form Factor:Compact
- Maximum Power:255 Watts
- Number of Outlets:6
- Runtime:2 minutes
Bottom line: This UPS is best for users who want a simple, budget-friendly backup for modem and router protection during short outages.
SKE DC20000 Plus Altair Mini DC UPS 20000mAh Battery Backup & Surge Protector for Router & Modem
The SKE DC20000 Plus Altair stands out for its portability and multi-device support, offering a 20,000mAh battery capable of powering a router or modem for extended periods, especially in emergency situations. Unlike the larger GOLDENMATE 1000VA, which is designed for continuous indoor use, this model is perfect for travelers, campers, or emergency kits. Its support for multiple output voltages (5V, 9V, 12V) and USB ports means it can handle various devices, but it’s limited to low-power electronics and cannot power high-consumption devices. Its safety features, including built-in AVR and protections, add peace of mind. This product is best suited for individuals who need reliable, portable backup power on the go.
Pros:- Highly portable and space-efficient
- Supports multiple device voltages and types
- Built-in safety protections for reliable use
Cons:- Limited to low-voltage, low-power devices
- Battery life depends on device load
- Not suitable for long-term backup needs
Best for: Travelers, RV owners, or emergency preparedness kits needing portable internet backup
Not ideal for: Users requiring continuous power for high-consumption devices or long-duration outages
- Battery Capacity:20000mAh
- Outputs:5V, 9V, 12V DC, USB, Type-C
- Protection Features:Built-in AVR, safety protections
- Design:Compact, portable
- Indicators:Battery status LED
- Battery Life:Varies with load
Bottom line: This backup is ideal for users seeking a compact, versatile power source for modem and router during travel or emergencies.
Shanqiu Mini UPS Battery Backup for Router, Modem, Security Camera, and More
The Shanqiu Mini UPS offers a compact and versatile backup solution for small devices like routers, modems, and security cameras. Its 37Wh battery supports up to 60W of power, making it suitable for basic networking needs but less capable of supporting larger or multiple high-power devices compared to the GOLDENMATE 1000VA. Its dual role as a portable power bank and UPS makes it convenient for quick power outages and outdoor use. While it lacks standalone lithium batteries and requires an external power source for charging, its smart protections and simple interface make it user-friendly. This model is best for those wanting a lightweight, multi-purpose backup device for small electronics.
Pros:- Compact and lightweight for portability
- Supports multiple device types and voltages
- Includes safety protections and smart features
Cons:- Limited to 60W output, restricting larger devices
- Requires external power source to recharge
- No standalone lithium battery included
Best for: Small home networks, security camera setups, or portable outdoor device protection
Not ideal for: Power users needing longer backup duration or higher wattage support
- Input:100-240V AC
- Output Power:up to 60W
- USB Output:5V 2A
- DC Output:5V, 9V, 12V 2A
- Battery Capacity:37Wh (10000mAh)
- Additional Features:Smart protections, portable power bank
Bottom line: This UPS is perfect for users who need a small, portable backup for basic devices and outdoor applications.
GOLDENMATE 1000VA/800W Lithium UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector with LiFePO4 Batteries, 8 Outlets, LCD Display
The GOLDENMATE 1000VA/800W excels with its durable LiFePO4 battery, offering over 10 years of lifespan and more than 5000 charge cycles. It surpasses the Amazon Basics in runtime and capacity, making it suitable for longer outages and multiple devices. Its eight outlets with surge protection, combined with an LCD display for real-time system monitoring, make it a comprehensive choice for home or office networks. The cooling system and safety features support continuous operation without overheating or overload concerns. The main tradeoff is its higher price and the need for careful cable management due to more outlets. This UPS is best for users seeking a high-capacity, long-term backup solution that handles multiple devices reliably.
Pros:- Long-lasting LiFePO4 battery with over 10 years lifespan
- Multiple outlets supporting various devices
- Real-time LCD display for system monitoring
- Efficient cooling system reduces noise
Cons:- Higher cost compared to smaller UPS options
- Requires careful handling of power cables due to multiple outlets
- Cooling fan may activate during heavy use, producing noise
Best for: Home or small office users needing extended backup for multiple network devices
Not ideal for: Users with limited space or those who prefer simple, plug-and-play solutions without monitoring features
- Capacity:1000VA/800W
- Battery Type:LiFePO4
- Battery Capacity:230.4 Wh
- Lifespan:Over 10 years
- Number of Outlets:8
- Cooling System:Built-in fan
Bottom line: This UPS is ideal for users who want a durable, high-capacity backup with smart monitoring for multiple devices over long periods.
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on performance, build quality, capacity, and usability specific to modem and router backup needs. Priority was given to units that offer reliable power, sufficient runtime, and ease of installation since these factors directly affect daily use. We also considered price-to-value ratios, longevity of batteries, and additional features like surge protection or USB charging. The ranking reflects a balance of these factors, highlighting options suitable for different budgets and technical preferences while avoiding overly complex or underpowered models.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best UPS For Modem And Router Backup
Choosing the best UPS for your modem and router involves understanding several key factors. Capacity determines how long your devices stay powered during outages, while size and placement influence convenience. Battery technology affects longevity and recharge times, and additional features like surge protection can safeguard your equipment. Consider your usage scenario—whether you need a compact solution for a small space or a high-capacity unit for extended outages. Being aware of common pitfalls, such as underestimating power needs or prioritizing features over reliability, helps ensure you pick a device that truly meets your expectations.Capacity and Runtime
The primary consideration for a UPS meant for modem and router backup is capacity, measured in volt-amps (VA) and watts. Higher ratings typically mean longer runtime, allowing your network to stay online through power interruptions. However, overestimating your needs can lead to unnecessary costs and size. To avoid this, calculate the power draw of your devices and select a UPS that offers at least 20-30% extra capacity. Remember, the actual runtime depends on how many devices are connected and their power consumption.
Size and Placement
Size matters when integrating a UPS into your space. Compact models are easier to place near your router or in tight spaces, but they often have fewer outlets and lower capacity. Larger units provide more outlets and longer backup times but can be bulkier and more conspicuous. Consider where you’ll position the UPS and whether it fits your setup without cluttering. Also, think about cable management—shorter cords reduce clutter and improve safety.
Battery Technology and Longevity
The type of batteries used impacts how long your UPS remains effective over its lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries, like those in the GOLDENMATE, charge faster, last longer, and are lighter, making them a premium choice. Lead-acid batteries, common in many budget models, are more affordable but tend to degrade faster and require replacement sooner. When choosing a UPS, consider how often you’ll need to replace the batteries and whether the device offers easy replacement options.
Surge Protection and Additional Features
While backup power is essential, surge protection is equally important to shield sensitive electronics from voltage spikes. Not all UPS units include comprehensive surge protection—some only offer basic power backup. Look for models with integrated surge suppression, especially if you live in an area prone to lightning strikes. Additional features like LCD displays, USB charging ports, or user-friendly interfaces add convenience but may come at a higher cost. Prioritize features that match your technical comfort level and safety needs.
Price and Value
Cost varies widely among UPS options, often reflecting capacity, build quality, and features. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest model, underpowered or unreliable units could lead to data loss or equipment damage. Conversely, investing in a higher-capacity or more durable unit offers peace of mind and longer-term savings. Balance your budget with the expected runtime and features, and avoid overspending on unnecessary extras. Focus on models that offer the best value for your specific backup needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a UPS keep my modem and router running during a power outage?
The backup duration depends on the UPS’s capacity and the power consumption of your devices. Most small to medium UPS units provide between 15 minutes to over an hour for typical modems and routers in optimal conditions. To improve runtime, consider a model with higher VA ratings or connect only essential devices. Keep in mind that actual runtimes can vary based on the load and battery health, so it’s wise to select a UPS with some margin above your estimated needs.
Should I prioritize capacity or size when choosing a UPS for my modem and router?
Prioritizing capacity is generally more important because it directly influences how long your devices stay powered during outages. Size becomes a secondary concern unless space is extremely limited. Compact models are appealing for small spaces but often compromise on runtime and outlets. If extended backup time is a priority, opting for a slightly larger unit with higher capacity makes more sense, even if it takes up more room.
Are lithium-ion UPS batteries worth the extra cost?
Yes, lithium-ion batteries tend to offer longer lifespan, faster charging, and lighter weight compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. They also maintain their capacity better over multiple charge cycles, reducing replacement frequency. For users seeking a durable, low-maintenance solution, investing in a lithium-ion UPS can provide better overall value, especially if you experience frequent outages or want a more reliable backup system.
Can I connect my other devices to a UPS used for my modem and router?
While some UPS units have multiple outlets suitable for additional devices like printers or external drives, it’s best to connect only essential equipment to maximize runtime for your modem and router. Overloading the UPS can reduce backup duration and strain the system. Ensure your total power draw remains within the unit’s rated capacity, and consider dedicated backup solutions if you plan to run multiple high-power devices during outages.
How often should I replace the batteries in my UPS?
The lifespan of UPS batteries varies depending on usage, environment, and battery type. Typically, lead-acid batteries last 3-5 years, while lithium-ion batteries can last 8-10 years. Regular maintenance, such as testing and keeping the unit in a cool, dry place, helps prolong battery life. When you notice reduced runtime or the UPS fails to hold a charge, it’s time to replace the batteries or consider a new unit if replacements aren’t easy or cost-effective.
