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APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI vs Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

both judged against UPS units at a similar price

The APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI scores 6.0/10 overall, ahead of the Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK) at 4.9/10.

The APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI leads on NAS and server integration, capacity, runtime and battery and UK outlets and build.

They score the same on topology and waveform.

APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI

APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI

6.0/10verdict: wait for deal

The APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI is a 1600 VA / 960 W line-interactive UPS for people who want to protect a NAS, router and switch. It suits buyers who want a battery they can swap themselves and six backed-up outlets. It is a weaker fit if automatic shutdown over USB is essential, because compatibility is unconfirmed.

Typically about £370.76 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)

Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)

4.9/10verdict: skip

The Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK is for people who want a small line-interactive UPS with UK sockets to cover a few devices. It suits a small, simple load where a short ride-through and basic mains regulation are the goal. It is a weaker fit for anyone who needs documented NAS or NUT shutdown support.

Typically about £82.84 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightAPC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MITecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)
Topology and waveform25%5/105/10
NAS and server integration25%4/103/10
Capacity20%8/107/10
Runtime and battery15%7/105/10
UK outlets and build15%7/105/10
Overall6.0/104.9/10

Specifications

SpecAPC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MITecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)
Capacity (VA / W)1600 VA / 960 W1200 VA nominal; 840 W active power (datasheet also shows a conflicting 360 W figure)
TopologyLine-interactiveLine interactive with stabiliser (AVR)
Output waveformnot listedModified sinewave
Outlets8 IEC C13: 6 with battery backup and surge, 2 surge-only; input IEC C142 UK outlets plus one fixed UK BS13 input cable
Runtime at half load1 h 8 min at 100 W (manufacturer figure)10-40 min typical (load not stated by manufacturer)
USB / network managementUSB port presentOne USB port; included TecnoManager software; USB reports mains failure and low battery to a computer
BatterySealed lead-acid, 24 V nominal, replacement cartridge APCRBC166, user-replaceable without toolsSealed lead-acid, maintenance free, 12V 9Ah, replaceable

Strengths and weaknesses

APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI

  • + 960 W / 1600 VA rating with six battery-backed outlets
  • + Battery is user-replaceable without tools
  • + Six battery-backed IEC C13 outlets plus two surge-only
  • − No confirmed USB HID or NUT support for NAS shutdown
  • − Waveform is disputed between retailers and unstated by APC
  • − Half-load runtime is not published

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need confirmed automatic NAS shutdown over USB HID or NUT
  • Buyers with equipment that requires a confirmed pure sine waveform
  • Buyers who need a published runtime at half load
Read the full APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI review ›

Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK)

  • + 840 W active power rating on a 1200 VA unit
  • + Replaceable 12V 9Ah sealed lead-acid battery
  • + Owners describe it as reliable and quiet
  • − Modified sinewave output
  • − NAS and NUT compatibility not published; owners report USB recognition problems
  • − Only two UK outlets

Skip it if:

  • Anyone who needs documented Synology, QNAP, TrueNAS or NUT automatic shutdown support
  • Buyers powering servers or workstations with active-PFC power supplies
  • Anyone who needs more than two outlets or wants a pure sine output
Read the full Tecnoware ERA PLUS 1200 UK (FGCERAPL1202UK) review ›

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