Adding a personal touch to each build, RGB lighting takes your gaming setup to the next level, merging functionality with individual style. This is even more evident when it comes to power supply units (PSUs) – an essential part of any PC build.
A good PSU will not only ensure stable and reliable power to all your components but can also be an attractive centerpiece of your PC with its vibrant and customizable RGB lighting.
We’re going to explore some of the top RGB PSUs available on the market, scrutinizing their performance, efficiency, durability, and, of course, their unique lighting features. So, whether you’re building a new gaming rig or looking to add some flair to your existing setup, stay tuned as we illuminate your choices!
Top Picks
- Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB 750W A Fully Modular Power Supply stands out with its Smart Zero feature that ensures silent operation under light loads, and its 256-color RGB fan.
- Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow A fully Modular Power Supply with an 80 Plus Gold rating for high power efficiency, and customizable RGB lighting.
- Corsair CX750F RGB 750 Watt A fully Modular Power Supply which has an 80 Plus Bronze rating and a 120mm fan with 8 individually addressable RGB LED lights.
- Thermaltake Toughpower iRGB Plus 1200W Power Supply outshines others with its 1200-Watt output power and an 80 Plus Platinum rating.
- ASUS ROG Thor 850W Fully-Modular RGB Power Supply is unique with its OLED display that offers real-time power usage statistics and Aura Sync compatibility for RGB customization.
🏆 Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB 750W
The Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB 750W Fully Modular Power Supply is a remarkable offering in the power supply unit (PSU) market, particularly for gaming PC enthusiasts.
Boasting an output power of 750W, this PSU provides ample energy for high-performance components, including powerful graphics cards. This strength positions it well for any gaming build and even some workstations.
One of the key selling points is its RGB fan, capable of emitting up to 256 different colors. It’s not just about aesthetics, though; the fan performs functionally too. It operates silently under light loads thanks to the Smart Zero feature, which pauses the fan when the power load is less than 20%.
Fully modular, the Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB 750W PSU ensures a neat build with minimal clutter. You only connect the cables you need, leaving unused ones out of your system. This not only makes your PC look cleaner but can also help improve airflow and cooling.
For longevity, this PSU touts a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 120,000 hours, implying that it’s built to last. It operates at temperatures ranging between 0 and 50 degrees Celsius, making it adaptable to various climates.
The inclusion of 4 PCIe connectors and 9 SATA connectors offers a broad range of compatibility with various peripherals and components. The stylish flat cables are easy to route inside the case, further contributing to a neat build.
In terms of dimensions and weight, this PSU won’t significantly bulk up your PC build. At 5.9×3.34×6.3 inches and 4.43 pounds, it should fit comfortably in most standard ATX cases.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| High 750W power output suitable for high-performance components | May be overkill for low-power systems |
| RGB fan capable of 256 colors for aesthetics | RGB lighting may not appeal to all users |
| Smart Zero feature for silent operation under low loads | Fan control not as detailed as some competitor models |
| Fully modular for clean, clutter-free build | Some users may prefer semi-modular designs |
| High MTBF rating indicating longevity | Slightly heavier than some other models |
| Operates in a wide temperature range | May run hot under heavy load |
| Multiple PCIe and SATA connectors for broad compatibility | Limited to 4 PCIe connectors, some builds may require more |
| Stylish flat cables for easy routing | Cable quality may not match all user preferences |
| Compact dimensions to fit most ATX cases |
🥇 Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow
One of the standout features of the Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow is its fully modular design. This allows for greater flexibility when building your PC, as you only need to install the cables that are necessary for your specific components, thus reducing clutter and improving airflow within the PC case.
In terms of efficiency, the Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow has an 80 Plus Gold rating, signifying over 90% efficiency under certain load conditions. This feature not only reduces energy consumption but also contributes to the longevity of the PSU and other PC components by reducing unnecessary heat.
Where this power supply truly shines, though, is in its RGB capabilities. With an integrated RGB controller button, users can easily switch between different lighting modes or turn off the lighting entirely. This feature adds a touch of personalization to your PC build and can help match the aesthetic of your other RGB components.
Despite its robust performance, the Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow is not without its drawbacks. Its weight is on the heavier side compared to other models, which may be a factor for some users. The quality of the cables and the limited number of connectors might not meet the requirements of all users.
On balance, the Gamemax RGB 850 Rainbow offers a good mix of power, efficiency, and customization, making it a competitive option in the mid-to-high range PSU market. It is particularly well-suited for PC builders looking to add a bit of flair to their rig without compromising on performance.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| 850W output, suitable for high-performance components | Heavier than some comparable models |
| Fully modular design for flexible and clean installation | Quality of cables might not meet everyone’s expectations |
| 80 Plus Gold rating for high power efficiency | Limited number of connectors could be a constraint for some users |
| Integrated RGB controller for customization | May not be the best fit for builds without other RGB components |
| Over 90% efficiency at certain loads | |
| Robust construction for durability |
🥇 Corsair CX750F RGB 750 Watt
The Corsair CX750F RGB 750 Watt is an ideal option for PC gamers and builders who not only need reliable and efficient power supply but also love customization. With 750 watts of power, it is suitable for mid to high-end PC builds, providing stable energy to the components.
One of its notable features is the 120mm fan that has 8 individually addressable RGB LED lights. These lights can be customized using the Corsair iCUE software, which also allows synchronization with other compatible devices. It offers a plethora of color choices and patterns, adding an extra layer of aesthetic appeal to your gaming rig.
The 80 Plus Bronze certification assures its efficiency, with up to 88% energy conversion under normal loads. This feature is a major benefit for users seeking energy efficiency. The fan uses Rifle Bearing technology, which further contributes to the silent operation of this PSU, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter working environment.
This power supply is also fully modular, which means you only connect the cables that you need, improving airflow and reducing cable clutter in your case. This feature adds convenience during the installation process and ensures a clean and organized build.
However, some users may find the lack of a higher 80 Plus rating like Gold or Platinum a downside, especially if they want the utmost energy efficiency. Also, while the customization offered is excellent, users who do not plan on using the RGB features may find the extra cost unnecessary.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| 750 Watts output is ideal for mid to high-end builds | May lack the efficiency of Gold or Platinum 80 Plus rated units |
| Individually addressable RGB LED lights allow for high customization | RGB features may not be necessary for users not interested in PC aesthetics |
| Efficient operation with 80 Plus Bronze rating | |
| Fully modular design aids in neat installation and improved airflow | |
| Rifle Bearing technology in fan promotes silent operation | |
| High-quality, durable build with 100,000-hour MTBF |
🥇 Thermaltake Toughpower iRGB Plus 1200W
Its 80 Plus Platinum rating is a testament to its energy efficiency, meaning it will ensure minimal waste of power while delivering the required output. This translates into energy savings and a potentially cooler-running system.
A standout feature is its customizable RGB lighting. With 12 addressable RGB LEDs offering 16.8 million colors and seven lighting modes, it offers the potential for a visually stunning build that caters to your personal aesthetic preferences.
Its fully modular design is also a major plus. The option to connect only the cables you need results in a cleaner build and better airflow within the case, which can impact overall system temperatures.
The PSU uses sleeved cables which not only enhance its aesthetics but also add to the durability. The use of high-quality components, including Japanese capacitors, is evident in its impressive MTBF of over 120000 hours.
For cooling, it utilizes a 140mm fan with hydraulic bearings. The size of the fan is instrumental in ensuring effective cooling while keeping noise levels down. The PSU’s compatibility with the Thermaltake DPS G mobile app provides another layer of control, allowing for easy monitoring and control of various parameters, including fan speed and lighting.
Despite all these excellent features, it’s worth noting that a 1200W power supply may be overkill for the majority of builds. Its high price tag could be justified if you’re building a high-end workstation or gaming PC with multiple GPUs. But for less power-hungry setups, you might be better served by a lower-capacity, more cost-effective PSU.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| High power output of 1200W can support demanding components and builds | Might be overkill for less power-hungry builds |
| 80 Plus Platinum rating ensures high energy efficiency | High price tag might not be justified for budget or mid-range builds |
| Fully modular design aids in cleaner builds and improved airflow | Not all systems might fully utilize the benefits of the high output power |
| Customizable RGB lighting with multiple color options and modes | |
| Compatible with Thermaltake DPS G mobile app for easy monitoring and control of parameters | |
| High-quality components including Japanese capacitors contribute to a long lifespan | |
| Large, efficient fan aids in cooling while minimizing noise |
🥇 ASUS ROG Thor 850W Fully-Modular RGB
ASUS is a trusted brand in the gaming community, and the ASUS ROG Thor 850W Fully-Modular RGB Power Supply lives up to the name.
With a maximum output of 850W, the ROG Thor caters to high-performance gaming PCs that need substantial power to run smoothly. It boasts an 80 Plus Platinum rating, indicating that it provides excellent energy efficiency—90%, 92%, and 89% at 20%, 50%, and 100% load, respectively. This efficiency means less energy is wasted as heat, reducing the overall running cost.
One of the unique features of the ROG Thor is its OLED display, which provides real-time information about power usage. This feature is not only functional but also adds to the aesthetics of the unit. Speaking of aesthetics, the customizable RGB lighting, which is compatible with Aura Sync, allows users to personalize their builds to their liking.
Fully modular design makes cable management easy, leading to cleaner and more organized builds. This feature also contributes to better airflow, which helps to keep temperatures low and maintain performance.
On the downside, the ROG Thor is quite expensive, which could put it out of reach for some budget-conscious gamers. However, given the quality and features of this power supply, it is a worthwhile investment for those who can afford it.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| High power output of 850W suitable for high-performance gaming PCs | Quite expensive compared to other models |
| Excellent energy efficiency with an 80 Plus Platinum rating | May be overkill for less demanding PC builds |
| OLED display providing real-time power usage information | The weight (9.09 pounds) may be a bit heavy for some builds |
| Customizable RGB lighting compatible with Aura Sync | |
| Fully modular design for easy cable management and cleaner builds | |
| High-quality components, including 100% Japanese capacitors, for reliable performance |
Buyer’s Guide
In the world of computer hardware, there are countless options to choose from when it comes to power supply units. And one type of PSU that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the ones with RGB lighting. But what exactly is an RGB PSU and what factors should you consider before buying one? In this comprehensive buyer’s guide, we will dive deep into the world of RGB PSUs to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Basics of RGB PSUs
Before we delve into the factors to consider when buying an RGB PSU, let’s first understand the basics. So, what exactly is an RGB PSU? Well, an RGB PSU is a power supply unit that comes equipped with RGB lighting. It adds a touch of style and customization to your PC build by allowing you to choose different lighting effects and colors.
RGB, which stands for Red, Green, and Blue, refers to the primary colors of light. By combining these colors at different intensities, an RGB PSU can produce a wide range of colors to suit your personal taste and match your PC’s aesthetics. The RGB lighting can be a subtle accent or a vibrant display, depending on your preference.
Now that we know what an RGB PSU is, let’s take a closer look at how it works. An RGB PSU typically comes with built-in RGB lighting effects and connectors. These connectors allow you to connect the PSU to your motherboard or a separate RGB controller. Once connected, you can use software or hardware controls to customize the RGB lighting according to your preferences.
When it comes to controlling the RGB lighting on your PSU, there are several options available. Some PSUs come with their own software that allows you to control the lighting effects directly from your computer. This software often provides a user-friendly interface where you can choose from a variety of pre-set lighting effects or create your own custom patterns.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can opt for a PSU that comes with a physical RGB controller. This controller is usually mounted inside your PC case and allows you to adjust the lighting effects and colors with the push of a button. It provides a convenient way to change the lighting on the fly without having to rely on software.
Furthermore, many RGB PSUs are compatible with popular motherboard lighting control software, such as ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, or Gigabyte RGB Fusion. This compatibility allows you to synchronize the RGB lighting on your PSU with other RGB components in your system, creating a cohesive and visually stunning lighting display.
It’s worth noting that RGB PSUs not only add a visual element to your PC build but also serve the primary function of providing power to your components. When choosing an RGB PSU, it’s important to consider its power rating, efficiency, and overall reliability. These factors ensure that your system receives a stable and efficient power supply while still enjoying the benefits of RGB lighting.
Factors to Consider When Buying an RGB PSU
Now that we have a good understanding of what an RGB PSU is and how it works, let’s explore the factors you need to consider before making a purchase.
When it comes to choosing the right power supply unit (PSU) for your computer, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Whether you’re building a new gaming rig or upgrading your current system, the PSU plays a crucial role in ensuring stable and reliable power delivery to all your components. In this article, we will focus specifically on RGB PSUs and the key considerations you should take into account before making a decision.
Wattage Requirements
One of the most crucial factors to consider when buying a PSU, regardless of whether it’s an RGB PSU or not, is the wattage requirements of your system. You need to ensure that the PSU you choose can adequately power all your components. Make sure to consider the power draw of your CPU, GPU, and other peripherals to determine the appropriate wattage.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that having some headroom in terms of wattage is always a good idea. This allows for future upgrades or additions to your system without having to replace the PSU. It’s recommended to choose a PSU with a wattage rating that exceeds your current requirements by at least 20-30%.
RGB Lighting and Aesthetics
Since we are talking about RGB PSUs, it’s essential to consider the lighting and aesthetics. Different PSUs offer varying RGB lighting effects, from simple static colors to vibrant multi-color effects. Consider your build’s theme and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve when choosing an RGB PSU.
Some PSUs even come with customizable lighting options, allowing you to synchronize the RGB effects with other components in your system, such as RGB fans or RAM modules. This can create a visually stunning and cohesive look for your build.
Noise Levels
No one wants a loud and annoying PSU fan ruining their gaming or work experience. That’s why it’s important to consider the noise levels of the RGB PSU you are planning to buy. Look for PSUs that have efficient cooling systems and fans with low noise levels. This way, you can enjoy a quiet and peaceful computing experience.
Some PSUs also feature fanless modes, where the fan only spins up when the system reaches a certain temperature threshold. This can further reduce noise levels during idle or low-load situations.
Efficiency Ratings
Efficiency is another crucial factor to consider. PSUs with higher efficiency ratings not only save power but also generate less heat. Look for PSUs that are certified by reputable organizations such as 80 PLUS. Higher efficiency will not only reduce your electricity bill but also contribute to better system stability and longevity.
Furthermore, higher efficiency means that less power is wasted as heat, reducing the strain on the PSU’s cooling system. This can result in quieter operation and potentially longer lifespan for the PSU.
Modularity
If you are someone who values cable management and tidy builds, then modularity is something you should consider. Modular PSUs allow you to connect only the cables you need, reducing cable clutter inside your case. This not only improves airflow but also makes cable management a breeze.
With a modular PSU, you can easily add or remove cables as necessary, resulting in a cleaner and more organized build. This can also make future upgrades or maintenance tasks much easier, as you won’t have to deal with excess cables getting in the way.
Overall, when buying an RGB PSU, it’s important to consider factors such as wattage requirements, RGB lighting and aesthetics, noise levels, efficiency ratings, and modularity. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose the right PSU that not only meets your power needs but also enhances the overall look and performance of your system.
Conclusion
By considering the factors mentioned above and exploring the offerings from top brands, you can find the perfect RGB PSU that meets your requirements and enhances the aesthetics of your PC build. So go ahead, let your creativity shine with an RGB PSU.
RGB PSU FAQs
Is RGB power supply worth it?
Yes, an RGB power supply can be worth it if aesthetics and personalization are significant factors for you. RGB PSUs provide the same functionality as regular power supplies, but with the added bonus of customizable lighting. This allows you to match your PSU to your system’s overall color theme, adding a visual flair to your build. However, it’s essential to ensure that the PSU also meets your power and performance requirements.
How do I connect my RGB PSU to my motherboard?
To connect an RGB PSU to your motherboard, you typically need an RGB header on your motherboard. This is a small interface where the RGB cable from your power supply connects. If your PSU has an RGB controller, you can control the lighting directly from there. However, if you wish to synchronize your PSU lighting with your other components, you need to connect it to the RGB header on your motherboard and use the motherboard’s software for lighting control.
What is an RGB connector?
An RGB connector is a cable used to connect RGB devices such as power supplies, fans, or LED strips to an RGB header on a motherboard or an RGB controller. The connector allows the RGB device to receive power and signal for controlling the color and lighting effects. There are different types of RGB connectors, including 4-pin and 3-pin, which correspond to different types of RGB lighting (standard RGB and addressable RGB, respectively).
What is Corsair cx650f RGB?
The Corsair CX650F RGB is a power supply unit from Corsair that has an integrated RGB lighting system. It’s a 650-Watt PSU, making it suitable for a wide range of mid to high-end PC builds. The unit features a 120mm RGB fan that can display multiple colors and effects, which can be controlled using Corsair’s iCUE software. Besides its aesthetic appeal, the CX650F is also 80 PLUS Bronze certified, ensuring efficient power delivery to your components.
