An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a supplier of power with the help of batteries in the presence of a power outage. It is a more sophisticated device that contains many functions. The UPS also have an inverter module in its internal components. On the other hand, the inverter receives power from a DC source such as a battery or solar modules, converting it into an AC supply that is suitable for appliances. A UPS unit also performs power conversion, but it adds instant response and energy storage functions.

UPS VS Inverter:

The main difference between UPS and inverter is: 

Function: The major function of UPS is to store electrical power and provide the backup power with no interruption, whereas an inverter converts the AC power into DC power. UPS is an electrical unit that includes a rectifier to supply the backup power to the electrical network.

Response time: The UPS moves directly from the main supply to the battery during power outages while the inverters have a time delay.

Types: UPS types include offline, Online and Line interruptive, whereas Standby inverter and Grid-tie inverter are the two types of inverters. 

Voltage variations: The voltage fluctuations in UPS do not occur due to their input as they are independent of the output supply. They can also provide protection to the load against the spikes or noise. In contrast, the voltage variation exists in inverters and does not provide any protection to the load. 

Cost: UPS are more expensive as compare to inverters. 

Furthermore, UPS is considered to be more efficient than the inverter as it provides electric backup to the appliances without any delay and fluctuations. On the other hand, the inverters are a medium between the main power supply and the battery. The battery continues to conserve electricity, and amid power outage, it transforms the storage of AC to DC and transfers the power to the electrical inverter.