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APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI vs UPS ERA PLUS 800

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 UPS ERA PLUS 800 at 3.9/10.

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.

The biggest difference is NAS and server integration, where the APC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MI scores 4/10 to the UPS ERA PLUS 800's 1/10.

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

UPS ERA PLUS 800

3.9/10verdict: skip

The ERA PLUS 800 suits someone who wants basic battery backup for a small, simple load with UK plugs. It is not aimed at servers, workstations or anything with an active PFC power supply. Buyers who need automatic NAS shutdown should check the interface question before ordering.

Typically about £59 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 BR1600MIUPS ERA PLUS 800
Topology and waveform25%5/105/10
NAS and server integration25%4/101/10
Capacity20%8/106/10
Runtime and battery15%7/104/10
UK outlets and build15%7/104/10
Overall6.0/103.9/10

Specifications

SpecAPC Back-UPS Pro BR1600MIUPS ERA PLUS 800
Capacity (VA / W)1600 VA / 960 W800 VA / 560 W (max computer power application 560 W; datasheet output table also shows 240 W active power, conflicting)
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-type outputs; 2 with blackout and child protection, one also with overvoltage protection; BS1363 input cable
Runtime at half load1 h 8 min at 100 W (manufacturer figure)10-40 min typical backup time (load not stated)
USB / network managementUSB port presentNo USB or network interface on the UK 800 datasheet (interface listed as "-")
BatterySealed lead-acid, 24 V nominal, replacement cartridge APCRBC166, user-replaceable without tools12V 7Ah sealed lead-acid, maintenance free

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 ›

UPS ERA PLUS 800

  • + Line-interactive with AVR and 2 ms typical transfer time
  • + Owners praise easy installation and quiet operation
  • + Noise listed below 40 dBA at 1 m
  • − UK datasheet lists no USB or network interface
  • − Modified sinewave; not suitable for active PFC supplies
  • − Only two outputs; capacity figures conflict on the datasheet

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need USB or network monitoring for automatic NAS or server shutdown
  • Anyone protecting servers, workstations, gaming PCs or other active PFC power supplies
  • Users who need more than two outlets or long runtime on heavier loads
Read the full UPS ERA PLUS 800 review ›

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