When you're setting up or refreshing a UPS critical power setup, one of the biggest decisions is whether to prioritize performance or practicality. Two used no-battery units-the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT and the CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua-show how different those priorities can be. Both are black, both are used, and both require you to add batteries. But that's where the similarities end.
Quick verdict
The CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua is the price winner at $82.50, while the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT sits at $175. That's a $92.50 spread, and it's the clearest signpost in this head-to-head. If your budget is the main constraint, the CyberPower is the straightforward choice. If you're willing to pay more, the Tripp Lite becomes the compelling option.
Comparison at a glance
| Product | Price | Form Factor | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT | USD 175.00 | Tower/Rack Mountable | 900W | 1500VA | 10 outlets | LCD |
| CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua | USD 82.50 | 1U rackmount | AVR | LED display | audible alarm | remote monitoring |
Both units are designed to protect critical equipment. The bigger consideration is how you plan to use the UPS. Think about how many devices you need to protect. The answers will tell you which unit is the right match.
Where each product wins
- Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT: Wins for output capacity.
- CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua: Wins for automatic voltage regulation and remote monitoring.
Product notes
Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT
The SMART1500LCDT is a UPS with a front-panel LCD that makes status checks easy. It provides ten outlets, which is plenty for a typical desktop computer, monitor, printer, and network gear, all powered through a single protected unit. With that many outlets, you can consolidate multiple devices under one backup umbrella. That kind of consolidation is especially useful if you have a PC, monitor, and network switch within reach. The black housing fits into an office setup without drawing attention. The obvious limitation is in the title: no batteries are included. You'll need to purchase replacement batteries before relying on it for backup power. If you already own compatible batteries or are ready to source them, this model gives you a solid foundation for a more extensive setup.
CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua
The OR500LCDRM1Ua is a UPS with an LED display and an audible alarm, so you get both visual and audio cues for power events. The display shows key status information, and the alarm alerts you when the unit needs attention. This makes it easy to monitor without adding extra software. Two caveats apply: the rack mounting brackets are not included, and the power button cover does not fully close. You'll need to pick up brackets separately, and the cover issue is cosmetic rather than functional. If those trade-offs are acceptable, this is a solid CyberPower choice for protecting a few essential devices.
Final choice by use case
Let your equipment list be the guide. The Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDT is the pick when you need to support a larger collection of devices. The CyberPower OR500LCDRM1Ua is the pick when you need a straightforward unit for a smaller collection. Both are used, so plan accordingly.
