X90-1S vs Vertiv APM2
The Xtreme Power X90-1S and the Vertiv Liebert APM2 are 480V three-phase UPS systems for data centers, industrial infrastructure, and facility-level power protection. This comparison evaluates the X90-1S against the APM2 cabinet platform scaling up to 120 kW — the typical deployment architecture for this system class — in 480V 3-wire configurations.
X90-1S vs Vertiv APM2 (120 kW cabinet) — 50–70 kW, 480V
| Feature | Xtreme Power X90-1S | Vertiv APM2 (120 kW cabinet) | X90-1S advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example models | X90-1S-50K480 · X90-1S-70K480 | APM2 120 kW frame (modular) | Direct comparison at the deployment level |
| Power range | 50–70 kW | Up to 120 kW per cabinet | Right-sized for mid-range deployments |
| Electrical configuration | 480V, 3-phase, 3-wire | 480V, 3-phase, 3-wire | Equivalent electrical topology |
| UPS architecture | Integrated UPS + batteries + bypass | Modular UPS with scalable power modules | Reduced system complexity |
| Form factor | Single integrated cabinet | Full-height modular cabinet | Simplified system layout |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 23.6 × 42 × 58 in | 23.6 × 40.5 × 78.7 in (cabinet) | Lower overall system height |
| Footprint (total system) | 6.9 sq ft (all-in-one) | Larger depending on modules and battery configuration | Reduced installed footprint |
| Power density | High (integrated system-level density) | High within cabinet, lower system-level density | More efficient use of space |
| Efficiency (online mode) | Up to 96.5% | Up to 97.5% | Comparable efficiency |
| Battery integration | Internal, hot-swappable modules; optional external cabinets | Internal modular batteries optional; external cabinets commonly used | Flexible architecture with integrated baseline |
| Runtime strategy | Internal, or extended via matching external battery cabinets | Internal modules plus external battery cabinets | Equivalent flexibility with fewer base components |
| Maintenance bypass | Integrated (standard) | Integrated within cabinet | Equivalent functionality |
| Service access | Front access only (no rear clearance) | Front and rear access required | Back-to-wall installation |
| Installation | Single-cabinet deployment | Modular cabinet with expandable components | Faster, simplified deployment |
How each platform is positioned
The X90-1S is a compact, fully integrated UPS platform designed for 480V 3-wire deployments where space efficiency, installation simplicity, and service access are the primary design drivers. It delivers a complete system in a single cabinet while still supporting extended runtime through optional external battery cabinets.
The Vertiv APM2 is a modular UPS platform designed for scalability. The 120 kW cabinet represents the full system frame, with capacity built using internal power modules and battery options. While flexible, this approach introduces additional system complexity as configurations expand.
Integrated vs. modular
The X90-1S consolidates UPS electronics, batteries, and maintenance bypass into a single enclosure, minimizing field connections and simplifying installation and long-term service. External battery cabinets can be added for extended runtime without fundamentally changing the architecture.
The APM2 builds capacity by adding power modules inside a full-height cabinet. Although internal batteries are available, many deployments incorporate additional battery cabinets as runtime requirements increase.
Floor space and install scope
In 50–70 kW 3-wire applications, the X90-1S can be deployed as a self-contained system with internal runtime, reducing floor space and simplifying installation. Its 58 in cabinet height is a key advantage in space-constrained environments — particularly beneficial in mobile and trailer-based deployments where vertical clearance and transport constraints are critical.
The APM2 120 kW cabinet uses a full-height frame at 78.7 in tall, with additional footprint required as battery modules or external cabinets are added.
Access and placement
The X90-1S supports front-only service access, allowing installation directly against a wall with no rear clearance required, improving accessibility and placement flexibility. The APM2 requires both front and rear access for service and airflow, increasing space requirements and limiting placement flexibility.
Where each is commonly selected
X90-1S is commonly selected for
- Industrial 480V 3-wire systems
- Edge data centers
- Medical imaging environments
- Mobile and trailer-based systems
- Retrofit and space-constrained installations
Vertiv APM2 is commonly deployed in
- Scalable data center environments
- Facilities requiring modular expansion
- Applications with evolving capacity requirements
Need more than 70 kW?
For higher capacity in a similarly compact footprint, the Xtreme Power X90-2S extends this integrated architecture from 50 kW up to 140 kW using modular power blocks — while keeping integrated system design and front-access service.
The bottom line
When compared against the full 120 kW Vertiv APM2 cabinet, the X90-1S delivers a more compact, deployment-efficient solution in 50–70 kW applications. It reduces footprint, simplifies installation, and improves service access through its integrated architecture, while maintaining flexibility for extended runtime through external battery cabinets. The APM2 provides scalability and higher maximum cabinet capacity, but introduces additional system complexity and space requirements as configurations expand.
Other X90-1S comparisons
Plan with confidence
Xtreme Power Conversion supports UPS sizing, runtime planning, and specification development for 480V facility UPS systems.