When your rack carries equipment that can't afford an unplanned shutdown, the UPS choice comes down to a trade-off: how much backup power do you need, and how much condition risk are you willing to accept? Two rackmount units in this price range highlight that tension perfectly. The Eaton 5P is a brand-new, slim unit with a moderate output, while the APC SRT3000RMXLA is a pre-owned high-capacity unit sold without batteries and with visible damage. Both can handle a critical power role, but they suit very different situations.
Quick Verdict
If you want a ready-to-install UPS with a clean slate, the Eaton 5P is the straightforward pick. If your load is heavier and you're comfortable sourcing your own batteries and working around a few defects, the APC SRT3000 gives you substantially more output.
At a Glance
| Feature | Eaton 5P 1550VA/1100W | APC SRT3000 3000VA/2700W |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 289.99 | USD 203.62 |
| Condition | New | Used, re-boxed |
| Rack form factor | 1U | 2U |
| Output capacity | 1100 W | 2700 W |
| Included extras | Six C13 outlets, DB9 serial adapter, plastic front trim panel | No batteries; damaged front bezel clips; defective rear USB port |
Where Each Product Wins
Eaton wins when you want a no-surprises, ready-to-go UPS for a lighter rack. APC wins when you need to feed heavier equipment and can handle a project unit.
Product Notes
Eaton 5P 1U Rackmount 1550VA/1100W UPS
The Eaton 5P is the unit to pick when you want a new, ready-to-run UPS in a 1U height. It supplies 1100W through six C13 outlets, supports 50/60 Hz and a wide input frequency tolerance, and can reach over 95% efficiency in its high-efficiency mode. The included DB9 serial adapter and plastic front trim panel mean you can get it connected and mounted without chasing extra parts. The trade-off is that 1100W is modest compared with the APC's output, and the $289.99 price is the higher of the two. If your rack gear needs more than that, this unit will force you to add a second UPS or rethink the load. It's a clean, no-surprises solution for lighter racks.
APC SRT3000RMXLA Smart-UPS 3000VA Rackmount UPS (No Batteries)
The APC SRT3000RMXLA is the capacity play. It's rated for 2700W in a 2U rackmount form factor, giving you a lot more headroom for heavier equipment. The lower price of the two makes it attractive when your load demands more than the Eaton can provide. But this is a used, re-boxed unit with no batteries, and the condition notes list damaged front bezel clips and a defective rear USB port. You'll need to source your own batteries and work around or repair those issues. That puts it in the hands of someone comfortable with refurbishing gear, not someone who wants to unpack and plug in immediately. For the right buyer, the extra capacity is worth the extra effort.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the Eaton 5P when you need a straightforward UPS in a compact footprint and your load sits comfortably within its rated capacity. It's the lower-stress option.
Choose the APC SRT3000 when you need serious wattage for a dense rack, have a source for replacement batteries, and are willing to accept a pre-owned unit that will require some attention. It gives you the most power for your money if you can bring the missing pieces.
