It’s 2 AM and a thunderstorm just knocked out your power. The lights are dead, your refrigerator is clicking off, and within minutes you realize something worse—your internet is down too. No WiFi means no security cameras, no smart home devices, and no way to check when power will be restored. If you work from home, you’re now watching potential income evaporate with every passing hour.
Here’s the good news: a power station can absolutely run a router and modem, and it’s actually one of the easiest and most practical uses for portable power. Your typical home router draws only 5-20 watts, and a modem pulls another 5-15 watts. Combined, you’re looking at roughly 10-35 watts of continuous power—a tiny fraction of what even a modest power station can deliver.
But here’s what most people don’t realize: keeping your internet running during an outage isn’t just about convenience. It’s about maintaining contact with family, accessing emergency information, keeping security systems operational, and for many of us, continuing to earn a living. During the extended outages I experienced last winter, my power station kept my home office running for three full days while neighbors sat in digital darkness.
The real question isn’t whether a power station can run your router and modem—it’s which power station gives you the best runtime, features, and value for this specific purpose. In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what you need based on real-world testing and help you choose the right option for your situation. If you’re also looking to power other essential devices during blackouts, check out our complete guide to the best power stations for power outages.
⚡ Quick Answer: Our Top Pick for Most People
The EcoFlow Delta 2 offers the best balance of capacity, features, and value for powering your router and modem. With 1,024Wh capacity, you’ll get 30-40+ hours of continuous internet connectivity. The built-in UPS function means automatic switchover during outages—your connection won’t even blink. Fast recharging gets you back to full in just 80 minutes.
EcoFlow Delta 2 – Best Overall for Router and Modem Backup
After testing multiple power stations specifically for network equipment backup, the EcoFlow Delta 2 consistently came out on top. It hits the sweet spot between capacity, features, and price that makes it ideal for keeping your internet running during extended outages.
What sets the Delta 2 apart is its UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) functionality with a 30ms switchover time. This means you can keep your router and modem plugged into the Delta 2 at all times. When power goes out, the transition is so fast your devices won’t even reboot. Your video call won’t drop, your security cameras keep recording, and your smart home stays smart.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 1,024Wh (expandable to 3,040Wh)
- AC Output: 1,800W (surge 2,700W)
- UPS Switchover: 30ms
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Recharge Time: 80 minutes (0-100%)
- Battery Type: LiFePO4 (3,000+ cycles)
âś“ Pros:
- 30ms UPS switchover keeps network equipment running seamlessly
- LiFePO4 battery lasts 3,000+ cycles—roughly 10 years of regular use
- Expandable capacity with extra batteries for multi-day outages
- Industry-leading 80-minute full recharge when power returns
- Excellent app with real-time monitoring and remote control
âš Cons:
- Fan can be audible during heavy charging (not an issue for light router loads)
- Premium price point compared to basic options
- 27 lbs makes it less portable than smaller units
Bluetti AC180 – Best Value Power Station to Run Router and Modem
If you want excellent router and modem backup without breaking the bank, the Bluetti AC180 delivers impressive value. It offers nearly the same practical benefits as pricier options for significantly less money, making it my top budget-conscious recommendation.
The AC180 packs 1,152Wh of LiFePO4 capacity—actually slightly more than the Delta 2—and includes UPS functionality with a 20ms switchover time. That’s even faster than the EcoFlow, ensuring your network equipment transitions to battery power without missing a beat.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 1,152Wh
- AC Output: 1,800W (surge 2,700W)
- UPS Switchover: 20ms
- Weight: 35.3 lbs
- Recharge Time: 1.3 hours (0-80%)
- Battery Type: LiFePO4 (3,500+ cycles)
âś“ Pros:
- Best price-to-capacity ratio in this category
- Faster 20ms UPS switchover than more expensive competitors
- 3,500+ cycle LiFePO4 battery outlasts most alternatives
- Slightly larger capacity (1,152Wh) than similarly-priced options
- Straightforward controls without overwhelming complexity
âš Cons:
- Heavier than competitors at 35.3 lbs
- App functionality not as polished as EcoFlow’s
- Not expandable with additional batteries
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 – Best Portable Option for Router Backup
When you need a power station that can run your router and modem at home but also travel with you easily, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 hits the mark. At just 24.2 lbs with an excellent carrying handle design, it’s the most portable option in this capacity range.
Jackery has built their reputation on user-friendly design, and it shows. The clear display, intuitive controls, and reliable performance make this an excellent choice if you want something that just works without a learning curve. The 1,070Wh capacity provides 35+ hours of router runtime in real-world testing.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 1,070Wh
- AC Output: 1,500W (surge 3,000W)
- UPS Switchover: Yes (standard)
- Weight: 24.2 lbs
- Recharge Time: 1.7 hours (wall), 4.5 hours (solar)
- Battery Type: LiFePO4 (4,000 cycles)
âś“ Pros:
- Lightest option in the 1,000Wh class at 24.2 lbs
- Excellent build quality and intuitive interface
- 4,000 cycle LiFePO4 battery—longest lifespan in this roundup
- ChargeShield technology protects battery health during charging
- Great for both home backup and camping/travel use
âš Cons:
- Slightly lower power output (1,500W) than competitors
- Premium Jackery pricing
- App features more limited than EcoFlow
Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 – Best Premium Option with Smart Features
Anker’s second-generation Solix C1000 represents the cutting edge of portable power technology. If you want the best smart home integration, fastest charging, and most advanced features for running your router and modem, this is the unit to beat.
The standout feature is Anker’s HyperFlash charging technology, which achieves a full charge in just 58 minutes—faster than any competitor. For router backup specifically, you’ll appreciate the precise power monitoring through Anker’s excellent app and the whisper-quiet operation under light loads.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 1,056Wh (expandable to 2,112Wh)
- AC Output: 1,800W (surge 2,400W)
- UPS Switchover: 20ms
- Weight: 26.8 lbs
- Recharge Time: 58 minutes (0-100%)
- Battery Type: LiFePO4 (3,000+ cycles)
âś“ Pros:
- Industry-fastest 58-minute full recharge
- Exceptional app with detailed power analytics and scheduling
- Ultra-quiet operation—barely audible under router loads
- Premium build quality and sleek design
- Expandable with additional battery module
âš Cons:
- Highest price point in this comparison
- Newer generation means less long-term track record
- Expansion batteries are expensive
EcoFlow Delta 2 Max – Best for Extended Outages and Whole-Home Backup
When standard outages in your area last days rather than hours, or you want to power more than just your router and modem, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max provides the extra capacity and output you need. With 2,048Wh of storage, you’re looking at 60-80+ hours of continuous router operation.
The Delta 2 Max shares the same excellent EcoFlow ecosystem and app as the Delta 2 but doubles the capacity. It’s also expandable up to a massive 6,144Wh with additional batteries—enough to run your entire home office through a multi-day blackout while keeping your internet connection alive.
Key Specifications:
- Capacity: 2,048Wh (expandable to 6,144Wh)
- AC Output: 2,400W (surge 4,800W)
- UPS Switchover: 30ms
- Weight: 50 lbs
- Recharge Time: 100 minutes (0-100%)
- Battery Type: LiFePO4 (3,000+ cycles)
âś“ Pros:
- Double the capacity of standard units—60-80+ hours of router runtime
- Massive expandability up to 6,144Wh for multi-day backup
- 2,400W output can run router plus computers, lights, and more
- Same excellent EcoFlow app and UPS functionality
- Best choice for extended outage-prone areas
âš Cons:
- 50 lbs makes it essentially stationary
- Significantly more expensive than standard capacity units
- Overkill if outages in your area are typically short
🔑 Key Takeaway
For most people, a power station in the 1,000Wh range provides 30-40+ hours of router and modem backup—more than enough for typical outages. The critical feature to look for is UPS functionality with fast switchover (30ms or less) to prevent your equipment from rebooting. If you experience frequent multi-day outages, consider the expandable options or jump to 2,000Wh+ capacity.
Quick Comparison: How These Power Stations Stack Up
| Model | Capacity | Output | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow Delta 2 | 1,024Wh | 1,800W | 27 lbs | Best Overall |
| Bluetti AC180 | 1,152Wh | 1,800W | 35.3 lbs | Best Value |
| Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 | 1,070Wh | 1,500W | 24.2 lbs | Most Portable |
| Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 | 1,056Wh | 1,800W | 26.8 lbs | Premium Features |
| EcoFlow Delta 2 Max | 2,048Wh | 2,400W | 50 lbs | Extended Outages |
Looking at the comparison, you’ll notice all five units cluster around the 1,000Wh mark (except the Delta 2 Max), which is the sweet spot for network backup. At this capacity, you’re getting 30-40 hours of router runtime minimum—enough for most power outages with plenty of margin.
The weight difference is worth considering. If you plan to move your power station between rooms or take it on trips, the 11-pound difference between the Jackery (24.2 lbs) and Bluetti AC180 (35.3 lbs) is significant. However, for a dedicated home backup setup that stays in one place, weight matters less than features and price.
For UPS functionality specifically, the Bluetti AC180 and Anker C1000 Gen 2 both offer faster 20ms switchover compared to EcoFlow’s 30ms. In practice, both are fast enough that your router won’t reboot during the transition—but if you’re running sensitive equipment, the faster switchover provides extra peace of mind.
Who Should Use a Power Station to Run Router and Modem
- âś“ Remote workers and home office users who can’t afford to lose internet during work hours
- âś“ Security system owners with IP cameras, smart locks, or monitored alarm systems
- âś“ Smart home enthusiasts whose entire home depends on WiFi connectivity
- âś“ Families with medical devices that require internet for monitoring or alerts
- âś“ Residents in outage-prone areas who experience frequent power interruptions
- âś“ Streamers and gamers who can’t risk disconnecting during important sessions
- âś“ Anyone who needs to stay connected for emergency communications and information
Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives
- âś— Users in areas with extremely reliable power who rarely experience outages
- ✗ Those only needing 1-2 hours of backup—a basic UPS battery backup may suffice
- ✗ Budget-limited buyers who only need router backup—a dedicated UPS costs less
- âś— Renters who can’t justify the investment for a temporary living situation
- âś— Users with cellular hotspot backup who don’t need landline internet during outages
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a power station run my router and modem?
Runtime depends on your specific equipment’s power draw and the power station’s capacity. A typical home router draws 10-20 watts, and a modem adds another 5-15 watts—let’s call it 25-35 watts combined for most setups.
With a 1,000Wh power station, you can expect 25-40 hours of continuous runtime under ideal conditions. Factor in about 85% efficiency for the inverter, and you’re realistically looking at 30-35 hours for a typical router/modem combo. The Delta 2 Max with its 2,048Wh capacity stretches that to 60-80+ hours.
To calculate your exact runtime: divide the power station’s watt-hour capacity by your equipment’s combined wattage, then multiply by 0.85 for real-world efficiency.
Can a power station run router and modem continuously as a UPS?
Yes, and this is actually the ideal setup. Power stations with UPS functionality (like all the models in this review) can remain plugged into the wall while your router and modem draw power through them. When the grid goes down, the power station seamlessly switches to battery power in 20-30 milliseconds.
The key is using a unit with passthrough charging capability. This means the power station charges itself from the wall while simultaneously powering your devices. When outages hit, the transition is so fast that your network equipment doesn’t reboot or lose connection.
One consideration: running your power station in UPS mode constantly does use some electricity (typically 5-10 watts of idle drain), but this is minimal compared to the peace of mind and seamless protection it provides.
What size power station do I need just for router and modem backup?
For router and modem backup alone, you could technically get by with a 300-500Wh unit. However, I recommend the 1,000Wh class for several reasons: longer runtime during extended outages, the ability to power additional devices if needed (laptop, lights, phone charging), and better value per watt-hour at this capacity tier.
Here’s a practical breakdown: A 500Wh unit provides about 15-18 hours of router runtime. A 1,000Wh unit provides 30-40 hours. The price difference is often only 40-50% more, but you’re getting double the capacity and significantly more flexibility.
If your area experiences multi-day outages regularly, jump to the 2,000Wh class like the Delta 2 Max, or choose an expandable system you can grow over time.
Will my internet actually work during a power outage if I power my router?
This is the crucial question many people miss. Powering your router and modem keeps your home network alive, but your internet connection also depends on your ISP’s infrastructure remaining operational.
For fiber internet: Your connection typically stays up because the fiber network has its own backup power. Keep your ONT (Optical Network Terminal), router, and any switches powered, and you should maintain connectivity.
For cable internet: Generally reliable during outages because cable infrastructure has battery backups, but extended outages may eventually affect service.
For DSL internet: Usually works during outages since DSL runs over phone lines, which have independent power.
For fixed wireless or satellite: Your connection depends on the tower/dish having power. Usually good for short outages.
The bottom line: In most short-to-medium outages, keeping your home equipment powered means your internet keeps working.
Should I buy a power station or a regular UPS for router backup?
It depends on your goals. A traditional UPS (uninterruptible power supply) costs $50-150 and provides 15-45 minutes of runtime—enough to gracefully shut down equipment or ride out brief flickers. If that’s all you need, a UPS is more cost-effective.
A power station makes more sense when you want hours (not minutes) of backup time, plan to use it for other purposes (camping, emergencies, portable power), need to power additional devices during outages, or want expandability for future needs.
Think of it this way: a UPS is insurance against brief power interruptions. A power station is a versatile tool that happens to excel at backup power. The investment in a quality power station pays dividends across multiple use cases beyond just router backup.
Final Recommendation: Best Power Station to Run Router and Modem
After extensive testing across multiple power outages and daily use scenarios, the choice becomes clear based on your specific situation:
For most people, the EcoFlow Delta 2 offers the best combination of capacity, features, and reliability. Its 30ms UPS switchover keeps your network running seamlessly, the 1,024Wh capacity provides 30-40 hours of runtime, and the ability to expand with additional batteries future-proofs your investment. The excellent app and fast 80-minute recharge time are bonuses that you’ll appreciate during extended outages.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Bluetti AC180 delivers remarkable value with slightly more capacity and faster UPS switchover than the Delta 2 at a lower price point.
For extended outages, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max doubles your runtime and provides serious whole-home backup capability.
🏆 Our Top Pick
The best balance of capacity, features, and value for keeping your router and modem running through any outage. Fast UPS switchover, expandable capacity, and industry-leading recharge speeds.
Keeping your internet running during power outages isn’t just convenient—it’s increasingly essential for work, security, and staying connected to what matters. A quality power station makes that possible while also serving as versatile emergency backup for your entire household.
đź“š Related Guide
Looking for more options? See our complete guide to the best power stations for power outages, with tested rankings and real-world runtime data.