Lisasie

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Jan 22, 2023
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Hi everyone!
I’m a student so on a very limited budget but trying to put together a system that will at least run my laptop charger (60w) and my monitor, and ideally my tv (42 inch HD - Google says average 120W) but I can even go without the tv. I’m not looking at more than 200w/250w at a time, or even closer to 150w without the tv.

What would be the best option? I’ve looked at the portable power stations like Eco Flow and Gizzu, and also the inverter trolleys and I know lithium ion is better, although I really don’t know that I can afford it now. How long would a lead acid battery last me before I have to replace it? I know it’s more expensive long term but I don’t have the cash to pay for the quality up front.

I’m quite tech and DIY savvy - does it work out cheaper to get an inverter and battery and connect them yourself? Where would one suggest buying these? I really have to put affordability first at this stage, before brand names. I could possibly buy one battery now and another in a few months if that’s an option. I’d love a system that can stay plugged in without damaging it - but that’s probably being demanding when I don’t have a budget to support demanding

Basically, what’s the cheapest way to get at least 4 hours of backup for approx 100w? And how much more would it cost for 250w? Unfortunately I run very cpu-heavy programs so my laptop won’t last anywhere near that long without backup.
 
A unit like this could maybe work for your laptop?

It definitely could. I’d prefer to have an AC solution so I can use the monitor as well but this is definitely an option. I can probably afford to spend R5k ish…
 
What about this?
RCT MP-UPS80AC
RCT MegaPower Lithium UPS 80000 mAh 250W; 2 x 230V AC Outlet

Not sure how long it will last with your load?
 
What about this?
RCT MP-UPS80AC
RCT MegaPower Lithium UPS 80000 mAh 250W; 2 x 230V AC Outlet

Not sure how long it will last with your load?
If they are using 250w, more then likely an hour
 
Sell your laptop and monitor plus the 5K and try get a secondhand Macbook m1. It can do like 23 hours 4k video playback.
 
A unit like this could maybe work for your laptop?

If it's just for a laptop i think this would be the most economical option.
 
I'm looking at this option too for budget use, but not sure if it's any good.
 
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