How to Choose PC Power Supplies: A Complete Buying Guide for 2026
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Choosing the right power unit ensures long-term system stability and component safety. This PC power supply buying guide helps you select the correct model for your build requirements in 2026. After reading, you will be able to decide the exact wattage capacity, physical form factor, and cable layout your setup requires. The guide walks you through critical hardware decisions, including calculating power headroom from 750W to 1000W, checking chassis clearances, and choosing between modular options.
You will also evaluate efficiency ratings such as 80 Plus Bronze and Gold, alongside modern ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards with dedicated 12V-2x6 power connections. The 8 recommended models on this list were chosen strictly from their published specifications, giving you direct comparisons based on verified technical data. With this information, you can match your power supply to your case dimensions and component demands.
Our top pick: MSI MAG 850W Fully Modular ATX Power Supply.
Key Factors for Choosing Power Supplies
Total Wattage Output
Wattage determines the maximum electrical output your power supply delivers to system hardware. Matching capacity to component demand prevents unexpected shutdowns and electrical instability during peak gaming or computational loads. A 750W or 850W unit suits standard mid-tier to high-tier gaming desktop assemblies with single high-performance graphics cards. If you build an elite workstation or high-draw setup featuring power-heavy processors and top-tier graphics cards, choose a 1000W model like the Corsair SF 1000W Fully Modular PSU. Selecting insufficient wattage causes shutdown issues during transient load spikes, while overspending capacity provides head space for hardware additions without practical power drawbacks. Total capacity does not dictate actual wall draw, as your system draws only required energy. Evaluate the combined requirements of your graphics card, processor, and peripheral storage drives before final selection. Securing adequate continuous wattage keeps components operating within safe parameters under full processing tasks.
- Continuous wattage rating that exceeds total calculated system requirements.
- A 1000W tier for high-end builds or 750W to 850W for balanced setups.
Energy Efficiency Certification
Efficiency ratings verify how much energy from the electrical socket reaches internal hardware versus energy lost as excess heat. Independent certifications like 80 Plus and Cybenetics measure conversion performance under standardized loads. A baseline 80 Plus Bronze rating, found on the Corsair CX-M Modular Power Supply, converts power reliably for basic systems where low-demand operation is standard. Stepping up to 80 Plus Gold or Cybenetics Gold certifications delivers higher efficiency curves, converting more electricity into functional power and generating less heat during operation. Less heat output means cooling fans spin slower and internal electrical parts experience less thermal stress over sustained periods. Higher efficiency ratings demand tighter engineering tolerances inside the power supply casing. If you run your computer for extended work hours or intense daily gaming, targeting Gold certification provides improved efficiency metrics over baseline tiers. Choose a tier that matches your system workload to keep internal temperatures managed effectively.
- 80 Plus Gold or Cybenetics Gold certification for lower operating heat.
- 80 Plus Bronze certification for standard, entry-level desktop power requirements.
ATX Version Compliance
The ATX standard defines electrical specifications and power excursion tolerances between your power supply and system components. Modern revisions, specifically ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1, are built to handle rapid power spikes generated by contemporary graphics hardware without triggering automatic safety cutoffs. Units matching ATX 3.1 standards, such as the MSI MAG 850W Fully Modular ATX Power Supply, follow updated thermal guidelines and refined power delivery mechanisms compared to older ATX standards. ATX 3.0 power units offer solid transient load handling, but ATX 3.1 introduces updated connector specifications that optimize pin engagement and improve safety thresholds during peak draw. If you plan to assemble a modern gaming desktop using high-draw hardware, picking an ATX 3.1 or ATX 3.0 supply prevents unexpected shutdowns caused by brief energy surges. Systems built on older ATX platforms lack these specialized surge tolerance guidelines and might require additional adapters. Choosing a verified ATX revision provides seamless compatibility with modern motherboards and graphics processors.
- ATX 3.1 standard compliance for updated excursion handling and safety margins.
- ATX 3.0 certification to protect against sudden peak GPU power spikes.
PCIe Generation and Connectors
Modern graphics cards demand high-capacity power interfaces, making connector standards and PCIe versioning critical specifications. Recent hardware designs utilize specialized 16-pin power links capable of routing significant wattage over a single cable harness. The Corsair RM850x 850W Fully Modular ATX 3.1 PSU includes a native 12V-2x6 connector built to PCIe 5.1 specifications. This updated connection layout alters sense pin lengths to verify full mechanical seating before delivering high wattage, minimizing connection faults. Units configured for PCIe 5.0 typically utilize older 12VHPWR cables, which require strict routing angles to maintain stable electrical contact. Choosing a power supply equipped with native PCIe 5.1 cabling eliminates cumbersome multi-adapter splitters that clutter your case interior. However, if your components rely solely on standard 8-pin PCIe headers, native 12V-2x6 cables remain unused unless future upgrades demand them. Checking connector allocations guarantees your selected power supply natively supports your target graphics card interface without relying on aftermarket adapters.
- Native 12V-2x6 connector support conforming to PCIe 5.1 standards.
- Direct cable connections rather than third-party multi-plug splitters.
Cable Modularity Configuration
Cable modularity dictates how power leads connect to the main power supply chassis. A fully modular power supply lets you attach only the cables required for your specific motherboard, storage, and graphics hardware. The Corsair RM1000e 1000W ATX Power Supply features a fully modular layout, allowing you to leave unused lines in the packaging to maximize interior chassis airflow. Semi-modular or standard modular models feature permanently attached main motherboard cords while providing detachable accessory connectors for additional drives. Choosing semi-modular units simplifies building if you intend to use standard internal connections anyway, though you lose the ability to swap or remove core harnesses entirely. Fully modular units streamline installation inside compact cases because you can route individual wires through tight channels before plugging them into the power block. The primary trade-off involves plugging each individual harness securely into the power supply casing before completing installation. Selecting full modularity gives you neat internal cable management.
- Fully modular design to eliminate clutter and improve chassis airflow.
- Detachable cable sets suited for customized internal routing and spacing.
Physical Dimensions and Port Placement
Physical enclosure dimensions and connector terminal positioning dictate whether a power supply fits inside your computer case. Standard ATX power supplies locate all output ports on the rear face opposite the internal fan. However, innovative designs like the Corsair RM750x Shift White 750W ATX Power Supply relocate the modular interface to the side panel. Side-mounted connectors give you direct access to modular ports behind the motherboard tray, making cable installation and future hardware upgrades much easier. The trade-off is case clearance, as side-mounted layouts require sufficient space between the power unit and the side panel of the case. Power supplies also vary significantly in total length, ranging from compact lengths near six inches to extended frames over seven inches. Long casings can block bottom-mounted intake fans or obstruct drive cages inside compact mid-tower enclosures. You must confirm chassis clearance depth and side-panel clearance before choosing an unconventional layout or high-wattage power supply.
- Chassis depth clearance that accommodates the total length of the power supply.
- Side-panel clearance when selecting power supplies with side-facing modular connectors.
Common Types of Power Supplies
ATX 3.1 PCIe 5.1 Power Supplies
ATX 3.1 power supplies incorporate updated power delivery standards alongside dedicated 12V-2x6 connectors. This design routes dedicated high-wattage power lines directly to modern graphics cards, eliminating the requirement for multi-cable adapter bundles. You benefit from this type if you assemble a modern gaming computer with contemporary components that demand ATX 3.1 or PCIe 5.1 compliance. Units like the MSI MAG 850W Fully Modular ATX Power Supply supply this exact interface. The primary trade-off involves configuration overhead; older systems do not require 12V-2x6 connections, meaning these specialized high-wattage links remain unused on legacy motherboards and graphics cards.
Side-Interface ATX Power Supplies
Side-interface power supplies position modular cable sockets on the side panel instead of the rear end. This design allows direct cable access from behind the motherboard tray, making cable additions and routing simpler after installation. You will find this type ideal if you use a compatible dual-chamber or modern mid-tower chassis with ample side cable clearance. The Corsair RM750x Shift White 750W ATX Power Supply serves as an example of this layout. The main trade-off centers on physical compatibility; you must have sufficient clearance between the unit and the case side panel, preventing installation in compact or traditional tight-clearance chassis.
Entry-Level Bronze Power Supplies
Entry-level bronze power supplies provide certified electrical delivery meeting baseline 80 Plus Bronze efficiency standards. These units feature modular cabling to keep interior cable clutter minimal during PC assembly. This type suits you if you assemble a standard desktop computer with modest power demands and do not run high-tier graphics cards. An example is the Corsair CX-M Modular Power Supply. The main trade-off is lower electrical efficiency and a restricted feature set. Bronze models generate more internal heat under sustained operation and omit newer 12V-2x6 interfaces, restricting compatibility with modern high-power hardware requiring modern ATX 3.1 connections.
Power Supply Mistakes to Avoid
Reusing modular cables from an older power supply unit
Pinouts on the PSU side are not standardized across manufacturers or even different product lines from the same brand. Swapping modular cables can route 12V lines into ground or 5V pins, permanently destroying connected storage drives and motherboards. Always use the exact cables bundled with your unit. Check manufacturer compatibility tables before using third-party replacements.
Treating 80 PLUS efficiency ratings as component quality
An 80 PLUS Gold or Platinum certification only measures AC-to-DC conversion efficiency under specified loads. The badge does not guarantee internal component quality, voltage regulation stability, or protection circuits. You must evaluate the presence of safety protections like OVP, OCP, and OTP, along with capacitor temperature ratings, rather than treating efficiency ratings as a general measure of build quality.
Pairing active PFC supplies with simulated sine wave UPS units
Pairing a modern active PFC power supply with an entry-level UPS that produces simulated stepped sine waves causes instability. Non-sinusoidal waveforms trigger safety cutoffs or overload internal PFC circuits during power transfers. You should select a line-interactive or online UPS that explicitly delivers pure sine wave output and supports your total system power draw under full peak load.
Selecting units rated for full wattage only at 25°C
Some units specify wattage output rated only at 25°C or 30°C ambient temperatures. Internal case temperatures often exceed 40°C during sustained operation. Heat reduces component capacity and forces premature shutoffs if the unit operates above its design limits. Verify the continuous operating temperature spec in the documentation, targeting designs certified for continuous full-wattage operation at 40°C or 50°C.
Using a single daisy-chained cable for multiple PCIe connections
Powering multiple high-draw graphics card sockets with a single split pigtail cable overloads the wire gauge. Drawing excessive wattage across one cable causes voltage sag and heats pins beyond safe limits. Run independent, individual power cables directly from the power supply sockets to each connector on your graphics card to ensure balanced current delivery and prevent terminal damage.
Quick picks
Our 8 picks
MSI MAG 850W Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
Best for: modern gaming rigs needing ATX 3.1 standards
- Wattage
- 850W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80+ Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.1
- PCIe Connector Type
- 12V-2x6
- Warranty
- 10 Year
This unit is an 850W ATX power supply built to the ATX 3.1 standard. It features a native 12V-2x6 connector for PCIe 5.1 hardware, fully modular cabling, and an 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating. Backed by a 10-year warranty, it suits your gaming build if you need clean cable management and direct power delivery for modern graphics cards without using external adapters.
Pros
- ATX 3.1 design with a native 12V-2x6 PCIe 5.1 connector
- Fully modular cable layout
- 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating
- 10-year warranty coverage
Cons
- 850W output ceiling limits extreme-draw components
- Gold efficiency rating ranks below Platinum and Titanium tiers
Good fit if
- You run modern hardware that uses a 12V-2x6 PCIe 5.1 connector.
- You want fully modular cables to simplify your case interior.
Skip if
- You need 1000W or more for power-hungry workstation components.
- You require an efficiency rating higher than 80 Plus Gold.
Verdict: MSI MAG A850GL 850W ATX 3.1 Power Supply provides modern ATX 3.1 power delivery and a native 12V-2x6 connector in a fully modular format. It gives your system reliable 850W output backed by a 10-year warranty.
Corsair RM850x Shift 850W White ATX Power Supply
Best for: Modern high-end gaming builds
- Wattage
- 850W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.1
- PCIe Connector Type
- PCIe 5.1
- Dimensions
- 6.3 × 5.91 × 3.39 inches
View on Amazon: Corsair RM850x Shift 850W White ATX Power Supply
The Corsair RM850x Shift is a fully modular 850W power supply built for modern systems. It meets ATX 3.1 standards and supports PCIe 5.1 for next-gen graphics cards. The unit delivers 80 Plus Gold efficiency. It measures 6.3 inches long and weighs 3.75 pounds. This compact design helps you fit the unit into smaller cases while providing reliable power for high-end builds.
Pros
- ATX 3.1 compliance for latest hardware standards
- PCIe 5.1 support for new GPUs
- 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating
- Fully modular cable design
- Compact 6.3-inch length
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors at 3.75 pounds
- No app control or monitoring software listed
- Zero RPM fan mode limits cooling under heavy load
Good fit if
- You need ATX 3.1 support for future-proofing
- You have a compact case with tight clearance
- You want fully modular cables for clean builds
Skip if
- You require software monitoring or control
- You need silent operation at all times
- You prefer a lighter power supply under 3 pounds
Verdict: Corsair RM850x Shift ATX 3.1 fits builders who need modern ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 support in a compact form factor. It is ideal for high-end gaming rigs where space is limited but efficiency matters.
Corsair RM1000x 1000W ATX 3.1 PSU
Best for: High-wattage ATX builds needing PCIe 5.1 power
- Wattage
- 1000W
- Efficiency Rating
- Cybenetics Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.1
- PCIe Connector Type
- 12V-2x6
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.1
The Corsair RM1000x is an ATX power supply delivering 1000 watts of power. It meets ATX 3.1 specifications and supports PCIe 5.1 with a dedicated 12V-2x6 connector for modern graphics cards. The fully modular design allows you to attach only the cables you need for your build. It holds a Cybenetics Gold efficiency rating. This unit fits systems requiring high wattage and direct PCIe 5.1 power in standard ATX cases.
Pros
- 1000W power output suited for high-load systems
- ATX 3.1 compliance with PCIe 5.1 12V-2x6 connector support
- Fully modular cabling to reduce case clutter
- Cybenetics Gold efficiency certification
Cons
- Standard ATX form factor does not fit small form factor (SFX) enclosures
- Relatively heavy unit at 6.88 pounds
Good fit if
- You need 1000W of power for demanding hardware components.
- You require native ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 support via a 12V-2x6 connector.
- You want a fully modular power supply to connect only needed cables.
Skip if
- You are building a compact PC requiring an SFX power supply.
- You do not need high 1000W output for a lower-spec build.
Verdict: Corsair RM1000x 1000W ATX 3.1 Power Supply provides 1000W of fully modular power alongside ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards. Its Cybenetics Gold rating and 12V-2x6 connector make it a reliable match for power-hungry hardware.
Corsair CX-M Modular Power Supply
Best for: modular desktop builds needing Bronze efficiency
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 Plus Bronze
- Modularity
- Modular
The Corsair CX-M Series provides a modular power delivery setup designed for standard desktop builds. It features an 80 Plus Bronze efficiency certification to manage power loss and heat generation during operation. Its modular cable configuration allows you to connect only the leads your components require, keeping internal case clutter minimal. This renewed unit suits you if you need a dependable Corsair supply with baseline certified efficiency.
Pros
- Modular cable layout for selective routing
- 80 Plus Bronze certified electrical efficiency
- Corsair CX-M series platform
Cons
- 80 Plus Bronze efficiency rates below Gold or Platinum standards
- Renewed product status rather than factory new
Good fit if
- You want modular cabling to minimize unused cables in your chassis.
- You need baseline 80 Plus Bronze efficiency for a standard PC setup.
Skip if
- You require an 80 Plus Gold or higher efficiency rating.
- You prefer an original factory-sealed unit over renewed hardware.
Verdict: Corsair CX-M Series Modular Bronze PSU delivers modular cabling and baseline 80 Plus Bronze efficiency for standard desktop systems. It provides essential certified power distribution if you do not require higher efficiency tiers.
Corsair RM750x Shift White 750W ATX Power Supply
Best for: mid-tier builds needing side-mounted cable access
- Wattage
- 750W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.1
- Fan Size
- 140mm
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.1
View on Amazon: Corsair RM750x Shift White 750W ATX Power Supply
The Corsair RM750x Shift 750W ATX Power Supply provides 750 watts of 80 Plus Gold power in a white chassis. It features side-mounted Type 5 micro-fit modular connectors, ATX 3.1 compliance, and PCIe 5.1 support for modern hardware. A 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan handles cooling with a Zero RPM mode. This unit suits you if you want accessible modular cabling and current standard compliance for a mid-tier build.
Pros
- Side-mounted modular panel provides direct cable access
- Intel ATX 3.1 certified with PCIe 5.1 support
- 100% 105°C Japanese electrolytic capacitors
- 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan with Zero RPM mode
Cons
- Side connector layout requires specific clearance behind case side panels
- 750W capacity limits headroom for dual-GPU or high-wattage components
Good fit if
- You want side-oriented modular ports to simplify cable management
- You need ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 compliance for modern components
- You are assembling a white-themed system requiring up to 750W
Skip if
- You require more than 750W for higher-power hardware
- You use a PC chassis that lacks side clearance for modular plugs
Verdict: Corsair RM750x Shift 750W ATX Power Supply delivers modern ATX 3.1 power with side-mounted connections that simplify routing. It provides reliable 80 Plus Gold performance for builds requiring up to 750 watts.
MSI MAG ATX 3.0 Modular Power Supply
Best for: RTX 40 series gaming builds
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity
- Full Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.0
- PCIe Connector Type
- PCIe 5.0
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Recommended Use
- Gaming
This MSI MAG A750GL is a fully modular ATX 3.0 power supply with 80 Plus Gold efficiency. It features a native PCIe 5.0 connector for modern graphics cards. The unit uses a 120mm fan and includes industrial-level protections like OVP and OCP. It measures 11.8 inches long and weighs 3.97 pounds. It suits gamers needing reliable power for RTX 40 series builds.
Pros
- ATX 3.0 compatible with native PCIe 5.0 connector
- 80 Plus Gold certified for high efficiency
- Full modular design with flat cables
- Active PFC and industrial protection circuits
Cons
- Renewed condition rather than new
- 120mm fan may be louder than larger units
- 750W output may limit high-end GPU builds
Good fit if
- You need native PCIe 5.0 support for RTX 40 series
- You want 80 Plus Gold efficiency in a standard ATX size
- You prefer full modularity for clean cable management
Skip if
- You require a brand new unit with full manufacturer warranty
- You need more than 750W for extreme overclocking
- You prefer a 135mm or larger fan for silent operation
Verdict: MSI MAG A750GL Gold ATX 3.0 fits gamers building mid-range systems with modern NVIDIA graphics. It delivers essential ATX 3.0 features in a standard form factor.
Corsair RM850x 850W Fully Modular ATX 3.1 PSU
Best for: modern ATX builds needing PCIe 5.1 power
- Wattage
- 850W
- Efficiency Rating
- Cybenetics Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.1
- PCIe Connector Type
- 12V-2x6
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.1
View on Amazon: Corsair RM850x 850W Fully Modular ATX 3.1 PSU
The Corsair RM850x is a fully modular ATX power supply rated for 850 watts. It complies with ATX 3.1 standards and features native PCIe 5.1 support via a dedicated 12V-2x6 connector. The unit holds a Cybenetics Gold efficiency rating to manage heat and power waste. This capacity and connector configuration suit you if you build a modern system using current-generation graphics hardware.
Pros
- ATX 3.1 compliant with PCIe 5.1 support
- Dedicated 12V-2x6 power connector
- Cybenetics Gold efficiency rating
- Fully modular cable design
Cons
- 850W limit provides less headroom than 1000W models
- Standard ATX size does not fit small form factor SFX cases
Good fit if
- You need native ATX 3.1 support with a 12V-2x6 connector.
- You want fully modular cables to simplify interior case wiring.
- You run hardware that operates within an 850W power target.
Skip if
- You need 1000W or higher capacity for heavier power loads.
- You are building inside a compact case that requires an SFX unit.
Verdict: Corsair RM850x 850W ATX 3.1 Power Supply delivers PCIe 5.1 connectivity and Cybenetics Gold efficiency for modern desktop hardware. It provides full modularity and balanced 850W capacity in a standard ATX enclosure.
Corsair RM1000x Shift 1000W Power Supply
Best for: high-wattage builds needing side-mounted cable access
- Wattage
- 1000W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- ATX Version
- ATX 3.0
- Dimensions
- 7.09 × 5.91 × 5.08 inches
- Weight
- 4.2 pounds
The Corsair RM1000x Shift 1000W ATX Power Supply is a high-output unit built for modern hardware. It delivers 1000W of power with an 80 Plus Gold efficiency certification, fully modular cabling, and a side interface for connecting cables. Compliance with ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 ensures standard power delivery for current-generation graphics cards. You will find this unit suits power-heavy builds installed in cases with adequate side clearance.
Pros
- 1000W continuous output capacity
- 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating
- ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 compliant
- Fully modular side interface connection
Cons
- 7.09-inch length requires an extended chassis compartment
- Built to ATX 3.0 standard rather than ATX 3.1
Good fit if
- You need 1000W of capacity for power-demanding hardware.
- You want side-mounted modular connectors for easier cable access.
- You require ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
Skip if
- You have a compact case that cannot accommodate a 7.09-inch unit.
- You prefer the newer ATX 3.1 specification.
Verdict: Corsair RM1000x Shift 1000W ATX Power Supply delivers 1000W of 80 Plus Gold power using a side-mounted modular layout. It provides ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 compliance for systems with sufficient chassis clearance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI MAG 850W Fully Modular ATX Power Supply | Corsair RM850x Shift 850W White ATX Power Supply | Corsair RM1000x 1000W ATX 3.1 PSU | Corsair CX-M Modular Power Supply | Corsair RM750x Shift White 750W ATX Power Supply | MSI MAG ATX 3.0 Modular Power Supply | Corsair RM850x 850W Fully Modular ATX 3.1 PSU | Corsair RM1000x Shift 1000W Power Supply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 850W | 850W | 1000W | not specified | 750W | not specified | 850W | 1000W |
| Efficiency Rating | 80+ Gold | 80 Plus Gold | Cybenetics Gold | 80 Plus Bronze | 80 Plus Gold | 80 Plus Gold | Cybenetics Gold | 80 Plus Gold |
| Modularity | Fully Modular | Fully Modular | Fully Modular | Modular | Fully Modular | Full Modular | Fully Modular | Fully Modular |
| ATX Version | ATX 3.1 | ATX 3.1 | ATX 3.1 | not specified | ATX 3.1 | ATX 3.0 | ATX 3.1 | ATX 3.0 |
| PCIe Connector Type | 12V-2x6 | PCIe 5.1 | 12V-2x6 | not specified | not specified | PCIe 5.0 | 12V-2x6 | not specified |
| Fan Size | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 140mm | 120mm | not specified | not specified |
| Warranty | 10 Year | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX | not specified | ATX | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 5.1 | PCIe 5.1 | PCIe 5.1 | not specified | PCIe 5.1 | not specified | PCIe 5.1 | not specified |
| Recommended Use | Gaming | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gaming | not specified | not specified |
| Connector | 12V-2x6 Connector | not specified | 12V-2x6 Connector | not specified | not specified | not specified | 12V-2x6 Connector | not specified |
| Size | 850W (PCIE 5) | 850W | 1000W | not specified | 750W | not specified | 850W | 1000W |
| Dimensions | 12 × 8.75 × 4.92 inches | 6.3 × 5.91 × 3.39 inches | 2.3 × 3.39 × 5.91 inches | not specified | 6.3 × 5.91 × 3.39 inches | 11.8 × 7.9 × 3.9 inches | 2.3 × 3.39 × 5.91 inches | 7.09 × 5.91 × 5.08 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 3.75 pounds | 6.88 pounds | not specified | 3.75 pounds | 3.97 pounds | 3.9 pounds | 4.2 pounds |
| Color | not specified | White | Black | not specified | White | not specified | Black | Black |
| Model | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | CP-9020273-NA | not specified | not specified | not specified |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 power supplies?
ATX 3.1 updates the power delivery standard to support PCIe 5.1 graphics cards with native 12V-2x6 connectors. This eliminates the need for adapter cables and ensures stable power for modern GPUs. While ATX 3.0 introduced the connector, ATX 3.1 refines the specifications for newer hardware requirements and improved efficiency in high-end gaming builds.
Why is a fully modular power supply better for PC building?
A fully modular power supply allows you to connect only the cables your system actually uses. This reduces clutter inside your case and improves airflow. It also makes cable management easier, as you can route only the necessary wires. This is particularly useful for compact builds or cases with limited space behind the motherboard tray.
How do I know if my power supply fits my computer case?
You must check the physical dimensions of the power supply against your case specifications. Most standard ATX power supplies measure around 5.91 inches in width and 6.3 inches in length. However, compact models like the Corsair RM Shift series are significantly smaller. Always verify the maximum length your case supports before purchasing to ensure proper installation.
What does 80 Plus Gold efficiency mean for my electricity bill?
80 Plus Gold certification indicates that the power supply converts at least 87% of AC power to DC power at typical loads. This reduces energy waste as heat compared to lower efficiency ratings like Bronze. Higher efficiency means your system draws less power from the wall for the same performance, which can lower overall electricity consumption during heavy use.
Can I use an ATX 3.1 power supply with an older graphics card?
Yes, an ATX 3.1 power supply is backward compatible with older PCIe 4.0 and 3.0 graphics cards. You can use standard PCIe power cables or adapters to connect legacy hardware. The unit will still deliver stable power within its rated wattage. This flexibility allows you to upgrade your GPU later without replacing the entire power supply unit.
What is the purpose of the 12V-2x6 connector on modern power supplies?
The 12V-2x6 connector provides a single, secure connection for high-power graphics cards requiring up to 600 watts. It replaces the older 8-pin or 12-pin adapter setups, reducing the risk of loose connections. This native connector simplifies installation and ensures consistent power delivery to modern NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards that support the latest PCIe power standards.
Is a 750W or 850W power supply sufficient for most gaming PCs?
A 750W or 850W power supply is sufficient for most mid-range to high-end gaming systems. These capacities handle modern CPUs and graphics cards without straining the unit. For extreme setups with multiple high-end GPUs, you might need 1000W or more. Always leave some headroom to ensure stable operation during peak loads and future upgrades.