APC by Schneider Electric SMT3000RMT2U vs Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL: Specification Comparison
Both the APC SMT3000RMT2U and the Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL are 3 kVA, 208 V, 2U rackmount UPS units targeting server rooms, edge deployments, and network closets requiring protected power at the same voltage and form factor. This comparison evaluates them across UPS topology and efficiency, power capacity and connectivity, and management and environmental specifications — the three axes that most directly affect purchasing decisions in this class.
In This Guide
- Which UPS topology and efficiency model better fits your runtime and power-quality requirements?
- How do the two units compare on usable wattage, outlet configuration, and input plug type?
- Which unit offers broader management options and a more suitable operating environment for your installation?
- Which should you choose: the SMT3000RMT2U or the GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
Which UPS topology and efficiency model better fits your runtime and power-quality requirements?
The SMT3000RMT2U uses a Line Interactive topology with a sine-wave output and a 4 ms typical / 8 ms maximum transfer time to battery. This topology conditions voltage without constantly running through the inverter, which can be adequate for most IT loads but does introduce a brief transfer window during outages.
The GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL uses an On-line Double Conversion topology, meaning output power always passes through the inverter — transfer time to battery is effectively zero milliseconds because there is no transfer event. The Vertiv unit additionally specifies up to 98% efficiency in Active ECO Mode and up to 95% in standard on-line mode. No equivalent efficiency figure is provided in the APC spec sheet.
For loads that are sensitive to any voltage interruption or harmonic disturbance — precision medical equipment, high-density virtualization hosts, or storage arrays — the double-conversion topology of the GXT5 eliminates transfer-time risk entirely. The APC's rated harmonic distortion of less than 5% THD is a useful data point for line-interactive output quality, but no comparable THD figure is provided for the Vertiv.
How do the two units compare on usable wattage, outlet configuration, and input plug type?
Both units are rated at 3,000 VA. However, their watt ratings differ: the APC SMT3000RMT2U is rated at 2,700 W (90% power factor), while the Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL is rated at 3,000 W (100% power factor). For loads that draw close to the VA ceiling, the Vertiv provides 300 W more usable capacity.
Input connections also differ. The APC uses a NEMA L6-20P plug (20 A, 208 V), while the Vertiv uses an L6-30P plug (30 A, 208 V). This means the Vertiv requires a 30 A circuit, which may not be present in all existing rack deployments without panel or PDU changes.
On the output side, the APC provides 2× NEMA L6-20R receptacles. The Vertiv provides 2× L6-15R and 2× L6-30R receptacles — four outlets total versus two, and with a mix of 15 A and 30 A outputs. Buyers with multiple devices or higher-amperage loads will find the Vertiv's outlet variety more flexible. The APC's single 8 ft power cord is specified; the Vertiv's cord length is not stated in the provided specs.
Which unit offers broader management options and a more suitable operating environment for your installation?
The APC SMT3000RMT2U includes a multi-function LCD status and control console, audible alarms (on battery, low battery, configurable delays), and 1 free expansion slot. No network management card is listed as included; the spec notes the slot but does not specify what cards are compatible beyond its presence.
The Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL includes a full-color graphic LCD with gravity-sensing orientation, plus native USB, RS485, RS232, terminal block, and external battery connector interfaces. Network SNMP/web management is available via the optional Vertiv RDU101 card. The unit carries ENERGY STAR 2.0, UL1778, c-UL, RoHS2, and REACH certifications; no equivalent certification list is provided in the APC spec.
On operating environment, the APC is rated for 0–10,000 ft altitude and 0–95% relative humidity; operating temperature range is not explicitly stated in the provided spec. The Vertiv is rated for +32 to +122 °F (0–50 °C) operating temperature; altitude and humidity figures are not provided in the supplied spec. Storage conditions (temperature, altitude, humidity) are specified only for the APC. Buyers in high-altitude or high-humidity environments should verify the missing figures with each manufacturer before specifying.
Which should you choose: the SMT3000RMT2U or the GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL?
Our take: The GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL is the stronger choice when zero transfer time, higher usable wattage, and broader native connectivity are required. Its on-line double-conversion topology eliminates the 4 ms–8 ms transfer gap present in the APC's line-interactive design — a critical distinction for sensitive or always-on loads. Its 3,000 W output rating exceeds the APC's 2,700 W by 300 W, and its four output receptacles (2× L6-15R, 2× L6-30R) outpace the APC's two L6-20R outlets for multi-device rack configurations. Its ENERGY STAR 2.0 certification and up to 98% ECO-mode efficiency are also absent from the APC spec. Conversely, the SMT3000RMT2U is the pragmatic pick for installations already wired for L6-20 circuits, where a 30 A input circuit is not available, budget favors line-interactive pricing, and the 4 ms transfer window is acceptable for the connected load profile. Confirm altitude, humidity, and network card compatibility with each manufacturer before final specification.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | APC by Schneider Electric SMT3000RMT2U | Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL |
|---|---|---|
| UPS Topology | Line Interactive | On-line Double Conversion |
| VA Rating | 3,000 VA | 3,000 VA |
| Watt Rating | 2,700 W | 3,000 W |
| Input Plug | NEMA L6-20P (20 A) | NEMA L6-30P (30 A) |
| Output Receptacles | 2× NEMA L6-20R | 2× L6-15R, 2× L6-30R |
| Transfer Time | 4 ms typical / 8 ms max | Zero (double conversion) |
| Efficiency | — | Up to 98% ECO / 95% on-line |
| Waveform Output | Sine wave | — |
| Harmonic Distortion | < 5% THD | — |
| Form Factor | 2U Rackmount | 2U Rack/Tower |
| Weight | 97.62 lb (44.28 kg) | 65.1 lb |
| Operating Temperature | — | +32 to +122 °F (0–50 °C) |
| Operating Altitude | 0–10,000 ft | — |
| Display | Multi-function LCD | Full-color graphic LCD (gravity-sensing) |
| Native Interfaces | — | USB, RS485, RS232, terminal block, ext. battery |
| Certifications | — | ENERGY STAR 2.0, UL1778, c-UL, RoHS2, REACH |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the SMT3000RMT2U or the GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL?
The GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL is the stronger choice when zero transfer time, higher usable wattage, and broader native connectivity are required. Its on-line double-conversion topology eliminates the 4 ms–8 ms transfer gap present in the APC's line-interactive design — a critical distinction for sensitive or always-on loads. Its 3,000 W output rating exceeds the APC's 2,700 W by 300 W, and its four output receptacles (2× L6-15R, 2× L6-30R) outpace the APC's two L6-20R outlets for multi-device rack configurations. Its ENERGY STAR 2.0 certification and up to 98% ECO-mode efficiency are also absent from the APC spec. Conversely, the SMT3000RMT2U is the pragmatic pick for installations already wired for L6-20 circuits, where a 30 A input circuit is not available, budget favors line-interactive pricing, and the 4 ms transfer window is acceptable for the connected load profile. Confirm altitude, humidity, and network card compatibility with each manufacturer before final specification.
Does the Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL include a network management card, or is that extra?
Based on the provided specifications, network SNMP and web management on the GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL require the optional Vertiv RDU101 communications card — it is not included in the base unit. The unit does natively include USB, RS485, RS232, and terminal block interfaces without any add-on card.
Can I plug either UPS into a standard 20 A, 208 V circuit in my existing rack?
The APC SMT3000RMT2U uses an L6-20P input plug and is compatible with a 20 A, 208 V circuit. The Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL uses an L6-30P input plug and requires a 30 A, 208 V circuit. If your rack only has 20 A feeds available, the APC is the compatible choice without electrical panel changes.
Which unit gives me more usable power for high-density server loads?
The Vertiv GXT5-3KL630RT2UXL is rated at 3,000 W output, while the APC SMT3000RMT2U is rated at 2,700 W — a 300 W difference at the same 3,000 VA rating. If your connected load approaches or exceeds 2,700 W, the Vertiv provides additional headroom. The Vertiv also offers four output receptacles versus the APC's two, accommodating more devices directly.
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