Comparing two PSUs ?
Comparing two PSUs ?
I don't grasp the distinction between these models clearly.
The MSI MAG A850GL and MSI MAG A850GL are essentially the same product, just listed under different names.
The MSI MAG A850GL with PCIE5 II and 80 Plus Gold is priced lower, but it's still the same model.
If PCIE5 II is considered newer, why is it cheaper? I'm confused about the differences.
Also, I understand that Corsair RM850x is great and safe to buy, but I'm unsure about its exact release year.
Why would you think about a lower quality PSU?
🤔
Is it really worth €20 for a worse power supply?
I’d say yes: Thermaltake GF1 or Corsair RMx are both Tier A+ units. They’re top-notch and should last you about ten years.
Here’s the PSU tier list (the link was omitted before):
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...aS...973454078#
The main difference is that one model is PCI-E 5 version 1, while the other is PCI-E 5 version 2.
Comparison links:
https://www.msi.com/Power-Supply/Pr...NT...lFNS1JSQ==
What the real distinction is hard to judge. The cheaper one seems newer, but why would MSI make that choice?
Unless...
🤔
the A850GL PCI-E 5 II is the cheaper version of the original line. So it makes sense that it’s priced lower. But if that’s true, it could be problematic—because a poor-quality PSU at the start is even worse.
This has happened before. Manufacturers often release better versions and then follow up with cheaper, inferior ones. Consumers usually don’t notice the difference.
One notable example is Gigabyte’s MoBo revisions. More info here:
https://web.archive.org/web/2015022...hi...far,3.html
Personally, I’d steer clear of the cheaper A850GL PCI-E 5 II. If it’s really just a cost-down model for the original A850GL (which is Tier B), then this “newer” unit might end up being even worse—possibly Tier C or worse. After all, there are no reviews to confirm otherwise.
I think people have very different ideas about what counts as “good quality.”
🙄
Don’t label a PSU with poorly adjusted protections, weak transient response, and a low-quality fan as “very good quality.”
If you consider A850GL as high quality, what about the Seasonic PRIME TX-1600 Noctua Edition?
(Review) “Divine immanence”?
Something else?
Yes, both PSUs are reliable. Corsair stands out for better availability and strong customer service (I've used it multiple times). I'm not sure about Thermaltake's support, but personally I prefer Corsair. The extra €20 for better service makes a big difference.
There are several concerns regarding the Toughpower you're considering. It's unclear exactly which version you'll receive after placing your order. The model that consistently receives high ratings is the 2019 or similar version from the older line. However, the GF1 model was recently updated in 2024 and is likely a completely different power supply unit, possibly with a changed length, indicating a platform shift. The image shared seems to represent the older version, but it's uncertain if Thermaltake still offers the previous model alongside the new one. If they stopped producing the older version, you might face inventory issues (PSUs need consistent power) or receive the newer model, which could be of lower quality. Another issue is the model number listed on the site (PS-TPD-0850FNFAGE-H) doesn't match the GF1 or the one shown, it's actually a GF A3 and is considered inferior in quality. Overall, there are several red flags to be aware of.
I choose the Corsair RM850x model.
80 Plus Gold 850W ATX 3.1 PCIE 5.1 for 144 euros.
If anyone has an interest, here’s what I’ve decided on for the setup:
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
MSI MAG B850M Mortar Wifi
Kingston Fury Beast 32GB 2x16GB 6000MHz CL30 EXPO-XMP
Kingston Fury Renegade G5 2TB PCIe Gen5 x4 NVMe SSD
Corsair RM850x 80 Plus Gold 850W ATX 3.1 PCIE 5.1
Fractal Design Pop Mini Air ARGB TG
ThermalRight Phantom Spirit 120 SE
Sapphire RX 9070 XT nitro+ (have until Monday to decide pulse versus nitro. Pulse suffices for my needs, and I’m aware it’s great, but Nitro+ would stand out visually; the background will stay simple)
PRICE: 2100 euros.
I aim for a small yet capable gaming machine that fits my budget. The main focus is on reliability and confidence. My previous PC, purchased nine years ago by a UK shop called chillblast, was excellent—though I didn’t do much research on this new model. I think I was fortunate. This one will be assembled in Spain.