SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus vs SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power (2026): Key Differences
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This comparison covers the silverstone technology sst sx700 g 700w sfx vs technology 500w fixed units. Both supplies share 80 PLUS Gold efficiency and quiet 18 dBA fan operation. The main difference lies in their form factors and power delivery. One offers SFX compatibility with full modularity, while the other provides a TFX footprint with fixed cables. You need to match the chassis size and cable management needs to these specific designs for a proper build.
Key differences
| Aspect | SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus Gold Power Supply | SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | SFX | TFX |
| Wattage | 700W | 500W |
| Modularity | Fully Modular | Fixed Cable |
| Fan Size | 92mm | 80mm |
| Dimensions | 3.94 x 2.5 x 4.92 inches | 3.4 x 2.6 x 6.9 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus Gold Power Supply if
- You need higher continuous power for demanding components
- You want to manage cables cleanly in a tight case
- Your chassis supports the SFX mounting standard
Choose SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power Supply if
- You are building in a compact case requiring TFX dimensions
- You prefer a simpler installation without modular connectors
- Your system power draw stays under 500 watts
Verdict: The 700W SFX unit suits builders needing flexibility and higher power. The 500W TFX model is better for smaller cases with lower power requirements. Choose based on your case size and cable management preferences.
Power, Form Factor, and Cables Compared
Form Factor
The SilverStone 700W SFX unit uses the standard SFX form factor, measuring 3.94 inches wide, 2.5 inches high, and 4.92 inches long. It supports standard SFX mounting holes but is not compatible with ATX power supply mounting holes. The SilverStone 500W Gold TFX unit follows the standard TFX form factor, measuring 3.4 inches wide, 2.6 inches high, and 6.9 inches long. These dimensions mean they fit different chassis types. You must check your case compatibility before choosing between the SFX and TFX designs, as the mounting profiles and physical footprints are distinct for each standard.
Wattage
Power output differs significantly between these two units. The SilverStone 700W SFX model provides 700 watts of continuous power. This higher output suits systems with more demanding components or future upgrade paths. The SilverStone 500W Gold TFX model provides 500 watts of continuous power, rated for 24/7 operation at 50°C operating temperature. This rating ensures stability under sustained loads. If your build requires more than 500 watts, the SFX unit is the only viable option. The 200-watt difference impacts which GPUs and CPUs you can support.
Modularity
Cable management is a key difference. The SilverStone 700W SFX unit is fully modular, meaning you connect only the cables you need. It includes 100% modular cables with flexible flat arrays, which can help with airflow and fitting into tight spaces. The SilverStone 500W Gold TFX unit features fixed cables. This means all cables are permanently attached to the unit. Fixed cables can simplify installation but offer less flexibility for cable routing. If you want to customize your cable setup, the fully modular SFX unit is the better choice.
Fan Size
Both units prioritize silent operation with minimum noise levels of 18 dBA. However, the cooling hardware differs. The SilverStone 700W SFX unit uses a 92mm FDB fan. The larger fan size can potentially move more air at lower speeds. The SilverStone 500W Gold TFX unit uses an 80mm fan. Smaller fans may spin faster to achieve the same airflow, though both are rated for quiet running. The 92mm fan in the SFX unit offers a slight mechanical advantage in terms of potential airflow efficiency compared to the 80mm fan in the TFX unit.
Voltage Regulation
The SilverStone 700W SFX unit specifies strict 3% voltage regulation and low ripple & noise, supported by a class-leading single +12V rail. This ensures stable power delivery to your components. The SilverStone 500W Gold TFX unit lists multiple protection circuitry but does not explicitly state its voltage regulation percentage or ripple specs in the provided data. Without specific regulation numbers for the TFX unit, the SFX unit offers more transparent data regarding power stability and quality for sensitive components.
Which PSU fits your build best
Users needing high power in small cases
You need 700 watts of continuous power. This SFX unit delivers that output in a compact 3.94 by 2.5 by 4.92 inch frame. It fits standard SFX mounting holes, making it ideal for small form factor builds that require more energy than typical low-wattage supplies provide.
Users with standard TFX chassis constraints
Your case uses the TFX form factor. This 500W supply measures 3.4 by 2.6 by 6.9 inches, ensuring proper fit. It features fixed cables, which simplifies installation in tight spaces where modular cable management might be difficult. It supports 24/7 operation at 50°C.
Users wanting flexible cable management
You prefer fully modular cables for cleaner builds. This unit includes 100% modular cables with flexible flat arrays. This design reduces clutter and improves airflow inside your case. The 92mm fan ensures quiet operation at 18 dBA, complementing the clean aesthetic you want for your system.
The products compared
SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus Gold Power Supply
Best for: small form factor builds needing 700W
- Wattage
- 700W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 PLUS Gold
- Modularity
- Fully Modular
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- Form Factor
- SFX
- Dimensions
- 4.92 × 3.94 × 2.5 inches
View on Amazon: SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus Gold Power Supply Affiliate link
This SilverStone unit delivers 700W of power in a compact SFX form factor. It carries an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating and uses a fully modular cable design. The build includes Japanese capacitors and a 92mm fan for quiet operation at 18 dBA. It features a single +12V rail with strict voltage regulation. This power supply suits users needing high wattage in a small chassis.
Pros
- 700W output capacity
- 80 PLUS Gold efficiency
- Fully modular cabling
- Quiet 92mm FDB fan
Cons
- SFX form factor limits compatibility with standard ATX cases
- Heavier at 3.09 pounds compared to smaller units
- Fixed 92mm fan size may limit airflow options in tight builds
Good fit if
- You need 700W in a small SFX case
- You want fully modular cables for clean builds
- You prioritize high efficiency ratings
Skip if
- You require an ATX form factor
- You need a TFX power supply
- You prefer a non-modular design
Verdict: SilverStone 700W SFX Gold PSU offers high wattage and efficiency for small form factor builds. It fits users who need modular flexibility and quiet operation in a compact SFX chassis.
SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power Supply
Best for: compact TFX builds with moderate power needs
- Wattage
- 500W
- Efficiency Rating
- 80 PLUS Gold
- Modularity
- Fixed Cable
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Form Factor
- TFX
- Dimensions
- 6.9 × 3.4 × 2.6 inches
View on Amazon: SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power Supply Affiliate link
This SilverStone unit delivers 500W of continuous power in a TFX form factor. It features 80 PLUS Gold efficiency and a silent 80mm fan. The fixed cables suit users who prioritize compact size and high efficiency over modular flexibility. It is designed for 24/7 operation and includes multiple protection circuits. This model fits builds where space is tight but power needs are moderate.
Pros
- 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating
- 500W continuous output at 50°C
- Silent 80mm fan operation
- TFX form factor compatibility
Cons
- Fixed cables limit cable management
- Lower wattage than 700W alternatives
- Smaller 80mm fan size
Good fit if
- You need a compact TFX power supply
- You want high efficiency for lower heat
- You have moderate power requirements
Skip if
- You require modular cable management
- You need more than 500W of power
- You prefer larger 120mm fans for silence
Verdict: SilverStone 500W Fixed TFX Gold PSU is a compact, efficient choice for small builds. It fits users who value space savings and efficiency over modular flexibility. This unit is ideal for systems that do not demand high wattage.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SilverStone 700W SFX 80 Plus Gold Power Supply | SilverStone 500W Gold TFX Power Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 700W | 500W |
| Efficiency Rating | 80 PLUS Gold | 80 PLUS Gold |
| Modularity | Fully Modular | Fixed Cable |
| Fan Size | 92mm | 80mm |
| Form Factor | SFX | TFX |
| Size | 700W | 500W |
| Dimensions | 4.92 × 3.94 × 2.5 inches | 6.9 × 3.4 × 2.6 inches |
| Weight | 3.09 pounds | not stated |
| Color | Black?Lead-Free Paint? | black (lead-free paint) |
| Model | SST-SX700-G | SST-TX500-G |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 700W SFX in a TFX case?
No, the form factors are not interchangeable. The 700W unit measures 3.94 by 2.5 by 4.92 inches and uses SFX mounting holes. The TFX case requires a 3.4 by 2.6 by 6.9 inch unit. You must match the physical dimensions and mounting standards to ensure proper installation.
Does the 500W TFX have modular cables?
The 500W TFX model is a fixed cable design. It does not offer modular flexibility. You will need to use the built-in cables for all connections. This choice saves space but offers less customization than the fully modular 700W SFX alternative.
Which unit is better for a 700W build?
The 700W SFX unit is the correct choice for high power needs. It delivers 700 watts of continuous output. The 500W TFX only provides 500 watts. If your system requires more power, the TFX model will not meet your demands.
Are both units 80 Plus Gold certified?
Yes, both supplies share the 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating. This means they convert AC power to DC power with high efficiency. You get reduced heat generation and lower energy waste in both models. The certification applies to both the SFX and TFX versions.
What are the exact dimensions of the TFX PSU?
The 500W TFX unit measures 3.4 inches wide, 2.6 inches high, and 6.9 inches long. These specific dimensions define the TFX standard. You must verify your case supports this size. The SFX unit is significantly shorter in length.
Is the 700W SFX fully modular?
Yes, the 700W SFX model is fully modular. You can connect only the cables you need. This reduces clutter inside your case. The 500W TFX unit uses fixed cables, so you cannot remove any connectors from the power supply.
Do I need a special bracket for the SFX unit?
The 700W SFX fits standard SFX mounting holes. You do not need a special bracket if your case supports SFX. The TFX unit uses different mounting points. Ensure your chassis supports the specific form factor you choose before purchasing.