12 best power supplies for your computer

You can buy the best video card, the most powerful processor, the fastest RAM and modern storage devices for your computer. But they won't make any sense if the system is not complemented by a good power supply. Moreover, an important role in its choice is played not only by the power and available connectors, but also by the protective systems. Please note that failure of the power supply as a result of power surges or thunderstorms can lead to damage to other components. Therefore, it is not worth saving, and it is better to immediately choose a reliable device. Which one? Our TOP, which contains the best power supplies for a computer, will tell you.

Which power supply is better

The choice of PC components can begin either by considering their characteristics or by choosing a manufacturer. If you prefer the second option, then you are probably curious about the manufacturers of power supplies. We decided to compile our own TOP of companies producing reliable PSUs in all popular categories:

1. Chieftec... Taiwanese brand that started its work in 1990. Like most companies, Chieftec manufactures its products in China. But this does not prevent the production of high-quality power supplies at all. In addition, the manufacturer focuses on the production of a narrow category of devices, which also guarantees their quality.
2. AeroCool... A relatively young brand, founded at the beginning of this century. Initially, the company produced only cooling systems, but then the product range has expanded significantly. Among the AeroCool power supplies, both inexpensive solutions for undemanding buyers and gaming models are available.
3. Corsair... The manufacturer produces a variety of products, mainly focusing on gamers. The assortment of the company includes peripherals, cases, storage devices and even computer chairs. But the brand is especially famous for its quality power supplies, which, as a rule, are not too cheap.
4. Thermaltake... Another firm, originally from Taiwan, but with a California branch. The manufacturer has repeatedly received prestigious awards for the reliability and durability of its products. Thermaltake PSUs are always supplied with detailed manuals in several languages ​​to simplify the assembly for the buyer.
5. Deepcool... In almost any popular market segment, you can find a brand of Chinese origin that offers similar capabilities, but at a lower cost. In our review of power supplies, Deepcool became such a brand. Low price, high quality and a large assortment are the main advantages of the company.

Best 500-600W PSUs

Power for most users. A high-quality 500-600 Watt power supply unit can power both an office computer and a basic gaming machine, and even productive gaming PCs that use an RTX 2070 paired with the current Ryzen 7 on the Zen 2 microarchitecture. inexpensive solutions that offer optimal performance at a low price, and more expensive options that are distinguished by increased reliability or unique features.

1. AeroCool VX Plus 500W

The power supply that opens our rating is perfect for a budget computer. Buy VX Plus for 500 watts cheaper 28 $which is a great deal on a tight budget. The device delivers 456 watts over a 12-volt line, which is over 90% of its total power. On the back of the case there is a socket for connecting the mains power supply, as well as a two-position on / off button. The inexpensive power supply is protected against short circuits, overloads and overvoltages.But their implementation is not as good as in more expensive solutions, and it is better to turn off the PC during a thunderstorm. The VX Plus 500W has 6 + 2 pin connectors to power the video card.

Advantages:

• cable length;
• stability in work;
• low cost;
• good cooling;
• well protected.

Disadvantages:

• noisy fan.

2. Deepcool DA500 (DP-BZ-DA500N) 500W

Excellent model from Deepcool with 80 Plus Bronze Certification. This power supply unit is cooled by a not too noisy 120 mm fan. As noted earlier, the company's headquarters are located in China, so all production facilities are located there. The unit is delivered in a box made of simple two-color cardboard, where its main characteristics are indicated in English.

The DA500 has two sets of 6 + 2 pin connectors, so it can be used for SLI and Crossfire systems. Of course, 500W is not enough power for top-end cards, so a different power supply is required to use them simultaneously.

One of the best computer power supplies in its category is supplied as standard for available solutions: a power cable 140 cm long, a device placed in a bag with bubble protection, as well as a warranty card and screws for fastening in the case. DA500 cables do not have a braid, but they are made of sufficient quality. There is a removable grill above the power supply fan. At the back - perforation, power socket and button.

Advantages:

• reliable and neat assembly;
• effective power;
• bronze certification;
• stability in work;
• we practically do not hear.

3. Thermaltake Smart RGB 600W

Today, computer component manufacturers add backlighting to almost all of their products. Power supplies also did not stand aside, although this model is not as common here as among video cards or gaming peripherals. In this category, we have decided to give preference to the 600 Watt Smart RGB from Thermaltake. The same line includes solutions for 500 and 700W.

One of the key benefits of a reliable Thermaltake power supply is the warranty period. The company itself claims 5 years, but some stores have completely different information. Moreover, the terms can be longer or shorter, therefore, everything should be clarified with the seller before buying. As for the backlight, it has 15 modes, 256 colors and uses the entire area of ​​the transparent fan.

Features:

• braided wires;
• beautiful lighting;
• excellent build;
• high level of efficiency;
• voltage stability;
• quiet fan;
• long warranty.

4. Chieftec GDP-550C 550W

If we talk about which power supply is the best in the budget category, it is difficult to choose something more interesting than the GDP-550C from Chieftec. This is the youngest model in the A-90 series, where 650 and 750 W variants are also available. The manufacturer claims a power of 540 watts over the 12V line, which is an excellent ratio on the + 12VDC bus and the overall productivity of the device. The unit cables are braided and have an average length of 55 cm.

An important plus of the GDP-550C is the partially modular connection system. That is, if necessary, you can disconnect all cables here, except for the power supply to the motherboard and processor. But the use of only angular SATA connectors will not appeal to all buyers, since it can cause inconvenience during assembly. But there are no questions about cooling, which is the responsibility of a 140mm fan from Yate Loon. In operation, it is quite quiet and efficient (speed up to 1400 rpm).

Advantages:

• partial modularity;
• decent build quality;
• not audible under medium load;
• a good indicator of efficiency;
• 80 Plus Gold compliance.

Disadvantages:

• the shape of the SATA power connectors.

The best computer power supplies price-quality 700-850W

If you have the most advanced hardware available on the market, then you should get a good power supply as well. Typically, up to 850 watts of power for modern gaming systems capable of delivering high performance at 4K will suffice even with a small margin. It makes no sense to take a decision from the higher segments.Better to spend the money saved on buying a PSU with the same wattage, but equipped with better components that guarantee reliability.

1. Deepcool DA700 700W

Manufacturers are trying in every possible way to surprise buyers, but in the current economic conditions, the latter primarily vote with their wallet. And Deepcool understands this very well, offering consumers such good and affordable products as the DA700 power supply. Like the junior model discussed above, it meets the 80 Plus Bronze standard. The scope of delivery and design also do not differ. Unless the cables are here enclosed in a braid, which is an important plus. On the 12-volt line, the unit can deliver 648 watts, and the combined power on the low-voltage channels is 130 watts.

Advantages:

• power supply for two video adapters;
• braided cables;
• affordable cost;
• the optimal price for its power;
• quiet fan operation under load;
• efficiency 85% of the nominal.

Disadvantages:

• short wires;
• over time the fan starts to make noise.

2. AeroCool KCAS PLUS 750M 750W

The main advantage of KCAS power supplies from AeroCool is an excellent combination of price and quality and their 80 Plus certification. In more expensive modifications with the GM label, Gold certification is declared, and in cheaper solutions - Bronze. The letter "M" in the title denotes, by the way, a modular design.

KCAS PLUS 750M is equipped with a 140mm fan with intelligent speed control. Thus, the cooling system of the power supply unit from AeroCool remains completely silent until the load reaches 60%.

As the name implies, the monitored model stands out with a power of 750 watts, and the device can produce 744 watts through the 12 volt line. If necessary, four 6 + 2 pin connectors for video cards can be connected to the unit at once. There is also an active power factor correction (APFC) module. It guarantees stable operation during short-term voltage surges and almost completely eliminates network disturbances.

Advantages:

• partial modularity;
• power on the 12V line;
• effective cooling;
• almost silent;
• high-quality element base;
• attractive price tag.

3. GIGABYTE G750H 750W

The next line in the ranking of the best power supply models was taken by the Taiwanese brand Gigabyte. It is known to customers not only for its components, but also for its various peripherals. Moreover, in each of the directions, the manufacturer demonstrates good success, focusing on the high quality of its products. The G750H supports multiple video card configurations, comes with durable Japanese capacitors and is cooled by a quiet 140mm fan.

If you are not ready to give from above 84 $ for such a computer component, but you need high power and reliability, then you can choose the B700H model. It has a power of 700 watts versus 750 for the older model, bronze certification instead of gold and the price tag is about fifteen hundred less. Both PSUs are packed in a colorful box, where they are protected from impacts by polypropylene foam. The complete set of power supplies also justifies their price - detachable cables, a bag for their storage, and a set of reusable cable ties for convenient cable management.

Features:

• rich equipment;
• high efficiency (about 90%);
• voltage stabilization;
• easily withstands high loads;
• partial modularity;
• moderate cost;
• quiet in any mode.

What did not like:

• a small number of connectors for peripherals.

4. Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB Gold (Fully Modular) 850W

Another power supply from Thermaltake, which also has a customizable backlight. A total of 3 models are available in the Toughpower Grand RGB line, and in addition to 850W, there are also 650 and 750W solutions. As the name suggests, this is a fully modular PSU, which puts it on a level above any competitor. The device is delivered in a beautiful box, where, in addition to information about the main characteristics, you can also find out the warranty period (here it is 10 years) and see an inscription indicating the use of exclusively Japanese capacitors.

Advantages:

• great design;
• compact size;
• complete modularity;
• 10-year warranty;
• noiseless operation;
• high degree of security and reliability;
• stability of power lines;
• many cables included.

The best power supplies from 1000W

Despite the constant increase in power consumption of modern components, most often users do not need power supplies with a power of 1 kW, or even more. Of course, you can select components with a reserve for future upgrades. But even in this case, you will not be able to "squeeze" the maximum out of your power supply for a long time, so it will soon become obsolete and still require replacement with a new one. This power would be appropriate in systems with multiple video cards, which are known to consume the most power. That is, we are talking about PCs used for rendering or similar tasks.

1. Chieftec BDF-1000C 1000W

Ideal value for money. Reliable components and efficient cooling system with quiet 140mm fan. Choice of buyers. But what is really there, in our edition, many have chosen Chieftec from the Proton series. By the way, within the framework of this line, not only the BDF-1000C kilowatt is available, but also models with lower power, so you can choose the best option for yourself.

At a cost of about 84 $ the manufacturer offers Japanese components and fully modular cable connections. Unfortunately, the official warranty for this model is only 2 years. But as practice shows, the device lasts much longer than this period, and if a factory defect is found, which happens extremely rarely, then the provided warranty period is quite enough for replacement.

Advantages:

• current 83A on the 12V line;
• complete modularity;
• length and flexibility of cables;
• quiet cooling system;
• an excellent combination of cost and capabilities;
• reasoned cost.

2. AeroCool KCAS PLUS 1000GM 1000W

And again AeroCool. By the way, this is the only brand that is presented in three categories of our review at once. KCAS PLUS 1000GM belongs to the premium line. This model is 80 Plus Gold certified. With a power of 1 kW, the unit provides 960W on the 12V line, as well as a total of 120W on the 3.3 and 5 Volt lines. Like the lower-end model described above, the 1000GM has a partially modular cable connection. The current strength on the 3.3 and 5V lines is 20 amperes, and on the 12-volt one - 80. The device is cooled by a quiet 140 mm fan of our own production.

Advantages:

• automatic fan speed control;
• the cooling system is not audible up to a load of 60%;
• ease of installation;
• high power on the main line of 12 volts;
• block certification according to the gold standard.

Disadvantages:

• slightly stiff cables.

3. Corsair RM1000x 1000W

The next model could well become the leader of our review, if not for its very immodest cost in 168–182 $... Yes, this is a lot, but in the reviews, the Corsair RM1000x power supply unit is praised in every possible way, even with such an impressive price tag. But this is not at all in vain, since this model is really flawless.

If you don't need that much power, but are impressed with the capabilities and quality of the Corsair PSU, then take a look at the other modifications in the lineup. In total, the manufacturer has released 8 devices from 650 W to 1 kW.

The PSU is delivered in a beautiful box, which contains the unit itself in a branded bag, as well as cables (all of them are removable here) in a separate bag. Also included is a good set of ties. The block is weighty and beautiful, its edges are beveled. The screws holding the fan are hexagonal here. The 135 mm turntable itself is very quiet.

Advantages:

• fully modular design;
• a lot of cables and ties included;
• excellent build, quality components;
• stability of work;
• quiet and efficient cooling fan;
• advanced and reliable defense systems.

Disadvantages:

• pretty impressive cost.

4. COUGAR CMX1200 1200W

And finally, the best computer power supply in the ranking is the COUGAR CMX1200. This option is suitable for very productive systems that require reliability and maximum stability. The stylish design of the case, which has a black and orange color, will adorn cases with transparent walls. The main slot in this model is 20 + 4 pins. A single 4 + 4 is provided for the processor, and two 6 + 2 pins are available for the video card at once.The power supply supports modular cable connections, which are flattened for easy, discreet routing throughout the chassis.

Advantages:

• materials and element base do not raise any questions;
• price / power ratio;
• high degree of security;
• the main components of Japanese production;
• modular cable connection.

Which power supply to choose for a computer

You can choose a power supply based on reviews, you can according to popularity, but it is better to do this with an emphasis on its characteristics, deciding on what suits you better:

1. Power... We have already explained everything above, so we will briefly summarize. Modern computers rarely require more than 600-700 watts, and instead of a power reserve, you should choose a more reliable model with better quality components.
2. Efficiency... 80 Plus standard, according to which any self-respecting company certifies its products. It is divided into 6 categories from Standard (80% efficiency at full load) to Titanium (91%). That is, in the first case, a 500 W power supply unit will consume 625 W to deliver such energy to the computer, of which 125 will go for heating.
3. Component quality... Everything is simple here - you should choose well-known manufacturers who prefer expensive capacitors in their power supplies.
4. Modularity... Does not affect either the efficiency or the durability of the device. But on the other hand, it is more convenient to connect and lay cables with their modular connection.
5. Line power... The power supplies have 3.3 and 5V, which are necessary to power the system logic, as well as IDE and most PCI devices, and 12 volts. The last line is the most loaded, as it powers the processor and the video card.
6. Rpower supply connectors... It is important that you have enough connectors to power all components, especially when installing multiple video cards and drives.
7. Form factor... The most common are ATX. Also on the market are offered compact power supply units of standard sizes SFX, CFX, TFX. But it is advisable to choose them if you plan to assemble an extremely compact system.

Which computer power supply to buy

If you are focusing on low cost, then models from AeroCool are an excellent choice. A worthy competitor to this manufacturer is the Chinese brand Deepcool. If you are looking for the best PSU with a reasonable price, excellent performance and reliable components, then we advise you to take a closer look at Chieftec products. Those users who cannot live without RGB backlighting should buy one of the power supplies discussed in the review from the popular Thermaltake brand.