Choosing a rackmount UPS for critical power often comes down to one trade-off: do you want more wattage on a standard 120V circuit, or do you need a new unit for a higher-voltage rack? This head-to-head pairs the used APC Smart-UPS X 1500VA 1200W with the new Eaton 5P 1550VA/1100W, and the two are separated by $90 on price and by very different voltage requirements.
Quick Verdict
If your gear runs on 120V circuits and you want stronger wattage for less than $200, the APC Smart-UPS X 1500VA is the practical pick. If you need a new UPS with six C13 outlets for higher-voltage racks, the Eaton 5P 1550VA is worth its higher $289.99 price.
Comparison at a Glance
| Spec | APC Smart-UPS X 1500VA | Eaton 5P 1550VA |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | $199.99 | $289.99 |
| Condition | Used | New |
| Power rating | 1500VA / 1200W | 1550VA / 1100W |
| Input voltage | 120V | 208V/240V (200-240V compatible) |
| Form factor | 2U rackmount/tower | 1U rackmount |
Where Each Product Wins
- The APC wins for standard-voltage installations and heavier loads, since it pairs more wattage with a lower listed price.
- The Eaton wins for higher-voltage racks and a slimmer rack profile, especially when you want a new unit.
Product Notes
APC SMX1500RM2UNC Smart-UPS X 1500VA 1200W 120V Rackmount Tower 2U NMC
This used APC unit is a Grade B working UPS that powers on, shows display functions, and charges batteries. The catch is that no internal battery is included, so you will need to add a compatible battery before it can actually protect your equipment. For a rack or tower setup, this unit delivers 1500VA / 1200W, which gives it a solid power ceiling for heavier loads. The 2U form factor is taller, but it works in both rackmount and tower orientations, adding placement flexibility. Expect normal wear and tear from prior use, so review the photos carefully before buying.
Eaton 5P 1U Rackmount 208V/240V 1550 VA/1100W Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS
The Eaton 5P arrives new in a factory-sealed original box, making it the cleaner out-of-the-box option. At just 1U, it fits into standard 19-inch racks without taking much vertical space, and it comes with six C13 outlets for connecting servers and network gear, plus a front trim panel and DB9 serial adapter. The trade-off is power: it supplies 1100W, which is 100W less than the APC's 1200W, so it is better suited to lighter loads. Its higher-voltage input range makes it a natural fit for racks that don't run on standard 120V, even though that voltage detail matters most when you're matching it to your existing power distribution.
Final Choice by Use Case
If you want the lower-priced option with more wattage for standard-voltage racks, choose the APC Smart-UPS X 1500VA. If you want a brand-new, space-saving rackmount UPS for a higher-voltage environment, choose the Eaton 5P 1550VA.
