Top PSU Options for RTX 4080 Gaming: Expert Recommendations and Reviews

The RTX 4080 represents the next level of the highly-anticipated 4000 series graphics cards. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the RTX 3080, the 4080 is poised to revolutionize gaming experiences at 4k resolution. This powerhouse delivers exceptional performance while consuming the same amount of power as the previous generation. With its cutting-edge features, the RTX 4080 incorporates the 3rd generation of ray tracing cores. This allows for real-time rendering of lifelike reflections, shadows, and other crucial elements, all contributing to an immersive gaming experience like never before. Availability-wise, the RTX 4080 can be purchased in both reference designs and from renowned 3rd party manufacturers. However, it’s important to note that EVGA, a prominent manufacturer, has halted production of graphics card models for team green due to conflicts with Nvidia. Prepare to elevate your gaming to new heights with the release of the RTX 4080, an exceptional graphics card offering unparalleled performance and visual fidelity.

1. EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT, 1000W 80 Plus Gold
2. Corsair RMx Series RM850x, 850W, GOLD
3. Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold
4. ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply
5. Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 Platinum 1200W

If you’re looking to play games at a resolution of 2160p or higher, a budget or mid-range PC can provide enough power to ensure an enjoyable gaming experience. However, it’s crucial to have a powerful graphics card and processor to keep up with the increasing demands of modern games. To support this level of performance, it’s important to have a reliable power supply that can deliver sufficient electricity to these components safely. A high-quality power supply is essential for protecting both your PC’s components and itself in the event of any fluctuations in electricity from your room’s power socket.

Additionally, investing in a power supply with excellent components and enough headroom for future upgrades is a wise decision. To assist you in selecting the right power supply for your build, this article will guide you through some of the best quality options available on the market. By choosing one of these top-notch power supplies, you can eliminate the worry of your PC malfunctioning or shutting down unexpectedly while in the middle of a game.

1. EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT, 1000W 80 Plus Gold

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Best Buy

Pros of EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT, 1000W 80 Plus Gold:

• Efficiency: The power supply is 80 Plus Gold certified, which means it has an efficiency rating of at least 90% (115VAC) or 92% (220VAC-240VAC) under typical loads. This high efficiency helps to reduce energy waste and lower electricity bills.
• Fully Modular: The power supply is fully modular, which means that all cables can be detached from the unit. This reduces cable clutter inside the computer case, improves airflow, and makes cable management easier.
• Eco Mode with FDB Fan: The power supply features an Eco Mode and a Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) fan. Eco Mode allows the fan to operate silently when the power supply is under low load, reducing noise levels. The FDB fan provides efficient cooling while maintaining quiet operation.
• Warranty: The EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT comes with a 10-year warranty. This provides peace of mind and ensures that the power supply is protected against any manufacturing defects or failures.

Cons of EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT, 1000W 80 Plus Gold:

• Price: The EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 GT is a high-end power supply, and as such, it comes with a higher price tag compared to lower wattage or non-modular power supplies. This may be a con for budget-conscious users who don’t require the high wattage or modular features.
• Size: The power supply may be larger in size compared to lower wattage models. This can be a concern for users with limited space inside their computer case, especially in smaller form factor builds.
• Mixed Reviews: While the power supply has generally positive reviews, there are some mixed opinions from customers. It’s important to read and consider multiple reviews to get a comprehensive understanding of the product’s performance and reliability.

We’ll start the list with a product from the highly reputable company, EVGA. Renowned for their high-quality products, EVGA receives exceptional ratings from the community based on their excellence in terms of quality, performance, and durability. The EVGA Supernova 1000 GT, an 80 Plus Gold certified 1000W power supply, possesses all the necessary specifications and features to efficiently power a high-end build, particularly in extreme conditions.

Boasting a 1000W capacity, this power supply surpasses the power demands of a build featuring an RTX 4080 and an overclocked Ryzen or Intel CPU, with ample headroom for additional components. Additionally, the EVGA Supernova 1000 GT is equipped with Japanese capacitors and features full modular design, ensuring that only the necessary cables are utilized, resulting in improved cable management within your PC case.

With an 80 Plus Gold certification, this power supply attains an impressive 90% efficiency, optimizing energy consumption. Moreover, its single +12V output ensures compatibility with the latest GPUs and hardware in the market. To accommodate for various operating conditions, the optimal temperature range for this PSU is 0-50°C. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 135mm fluid dynamic bearing assists in effective temperature regulation by efficiently dissipating heat.

Another notable feature is the proprietary EVGA Eco Intelligent Control System, designed to reduce fan noise and enhance overall user experience. In terms of safety, the EVGA Supernova 1000 GT integrates multiple protective systems such as OVP (Over Voltage Protection), UVP (Under Voltage Protection), OCP (Over Current Protection), OPP (Over Power Protection), SCP (Short Circuit Protection), and dual OTP (Over Temperature Protection). These features make it the ideal choice for running PCs that require a substantial amount of power input.

Additionally, EVGA offers a generous 10-year warranty for this product. This substantial warranty, combined with their exceptional customer support, further solidifies the value and worthiness of investing in this power supply.

Overall, the EVGA Supernova 1000 GT, with its impressive specifications, robust features, and reputable brand, stands out as a superior choice when it comes to power supplies for high-performance builds.

Corsair RMx Series RM850x, 850W, GOLD

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Newegg

Pros of Corsair RMx Series RM850x, 850W, GOLD:

• Efficiency: The RM850x has a Gold efficiency rating, which means it operates at a high level of energy efficiency. This can result in lower electricity bills and less wasted energy.
• Fully Modular: The power supply is fully modular, allowing for easy cable management and customization. This means you only need to use the cables necessary for your specific setup, reducing clutter and improving airflow.
• Silent Operation: The RM850x is known for its quiet operation. It features a Zero RPM fan mode, where the fan doesn’t spin at low to medium loads, ensuring a silent computing experience.
• Reliability: Corsair is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality power supplies. The RMx Series is built with premium components and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure reliability and stability.

Cons of Corsair RMx Series RM850x, 850W, GOLD:

• Price: The RM850x may be more expensive compared to other power supply options with similar specifications. However, the higher price is often justified by the quality and features offered by Corsair.
• Availability: Depending on your location, the availability of the RM850x may be limited. It’s important to check if the specific variant you’re interested in is available in your country or region.
• Power Overkill: The RM850x has a power output of 850W, which may be more than what is needed for some computer setups. If you have a lower power requirement, you may consider a lower wattage option to save on cost and energy consumption.

Next, we have a PSU from the renowned brand Corsair. The Corsair RMX series (2021), specifically the RM850x model with 850 watts, is highly praised by the community and has earned its place on our list of the best PSUs for the upcoming RTX 4080. This fully modular PSU comes with sleek black-sleeved cables, ensuring a seamless power delivery for your high-end PC setup featuring an overclocked Ryzen or Intel processor alongside the RTX 4080.

To maintain optimal temperatures, the PSU is equipped with magnetic levitation cooling fans, guaranteeing efficient and cool operation even under extreme loads. Moreover, being a gold-rated PSU, it boasts an impressive 90%+ efficiency rating, resulting in minimal wasted energy. Thanks to the ball bearings in the cooling fan, this PSU not only runs cooler, but it also operates silently, contributing to excellent acoustics within your PC case. While wearing headphones can cancel out any potential noise, having a quieter PSU is always a plus.

The PSU’s multiple EPS12V connectors ensure compatibility with the latest GPUs, including the highly anticipated RTX 4080, which has already started reaching reviewers and soon will be available on store shelves. It also includes a 12 GPU power cable for newer graphics card models. Furthermore, the PSU features a zero RPM mode, allowing for silent operation when the PC is in idle or non-OC mode. However, when your hardware demands power, the fan automatically starts spinning to keep your PC cool and quiet, maintaining optimal performance.

Additionally, this PSU is equipped with high-quality Japanese capacitors capable of operating at 105°C, providing excellent stability and longevity for your system. Its efficient DC-DC conversion enables quick wake-up times for your PC. The onboard rails can draw a current of 70.8A at 12V, delivering a maximum output of 849W, ensuring ample power for your components.

In terms of aesthetics, this PSU supports a wide range of Corsair accessories, including individually sleeved cables, 12VO motherboard cables, and 12-pin micro-Fit GPU cables. This versatility not only ensures functionality but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of your PC build, enhancing its visual appeal.

In summary, the Corsair RMX series PSU (2021), RM850x model, is a reliable and high-performing choice that meets the demanding requirements of an RTX 4080-powered system. With its impressive features such as modular design, efficient cooling, silent operation, and compatibility with the latest hardware, this PSU is a fantastic addition to any PC build, both in terms of performance and aesthetics.

Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold

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Walmart

The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold is a power supply unit that has both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons of this PSU:

Pros:

• High Efficiency: The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold has an efficiency rating of 80+ Gold, which means it can deliver up to 90% efficiency at 50% load. This translates to lower energy consumption and reduced electricity bills.
• Silent Operation: The PSU is designed with a 140mm hydraulic bearing fan that operates silently, ensuring that the system remains cool and quiet even under heavy loads.
• Fully Modular: The PSU is fully modular, which means that all cables can be detached from the unit, making cable management easier and improving airflow within the system.
• High Wattage: The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold has a high wattage output, making it suitable for high-end gaming PCs and workstations that require a lot of power.

Cons:

• Price: The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold is more expensive than some other PSUs in its category, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers.
• Noisy Fan at High Loads: While the PSU is designed to operate silently, the fan may become noisy at high loads, which may be a concern for some users.
• Limited Warranty: The PSU comes with a limited 10-year warranty, which may not be as long as some other PSUs in its category.

Overall, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold is a high-quality PSU that offers high efficiency, silent operation, and a high wattage output. However, it may be more expensive than some other PSUs in its category, and the fan may become noisy at high loads.

For our next product, we are introducing the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W 80+ Gold PSU, specifically designed for PC enthusiasts seeking a premium power supply unit with the latest features. This PSU is tailored to fulfill the power requirements of high-end PCs, elevating users to the top end of the community.

The notable feature of the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 PSU is its 140mm hydraulic bearing fan, ensuring optimal cooling and silent operation. The fully modular design enhances flexibility and includes low-profile flat cables in an elegant black color, exemplifying durability. While originally designed for running an SLI/Crossfire setup, this PSU has the robust power capacity to suit modern power-hungry GPUs.

The PSU incorporates an anti-vibration mounting system and concentrated compression fan blades, maximizing airflow. Additionally, the side ventilation design of the chassis further enhances the overall cooling efficiency. Japanese capacitors of the highest quality guarantee reliable power input, even under extreme conditions.

The DC-to-DC design conversion ensures a stable and continuous voltage supply for resource-intensive applications and gaming. Notably, the hydraulic fan comes with a smart zero fan feature, enabling it to operate silently at zero RPM when the system is idle, while maintaining a noise level below 30 decibels during extreme or overclocked conditions.

The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 PSU surpasses the industry standard for voltage regulation, with a 2% tolerance compared to the 5% tolerance set by Intel. This high level of stability ensures consistent power delivery to meet demanding performance requirements.

With an impressive capability to deliver 850.8W and an output current of 70.9A at 12V DC, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 PSU is a premium choice that easily powers a system running the latest graphics cards, such as the RTX 4080.

ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply

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Pros of ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply:

• High Power Output: The ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply provides a maximum power output of 1000W, making it suitable for high-performance gaming PCs and systems that require a lot of power.
• Efficiency: It has an 80 Plus Gold certification, which means it operates at high efficiency levels, reducing energy waste and lowering electricity costs.
• Modular Cables: The power supply comes with modular cables, allowing users to connect only the cables they need, resulting in a cleaner and more organized system build.
• Quiet Operation: The power supply features 0dB technology and dual ball bearing axial fans, which help to keep the noise levels low, ensuring a quieter computing experience.
• Long Warranty: ASUS offers a 10-year warranty for the ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply, providing peace of mind and assurance of its quality and durability.

Cons of ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply:

• Price: The ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply may be relatively expensive compared to other power supply options on the market.
• Availability: Depending on the region and availability, it may be challenging to find the ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W Gold Power Supply in stock or at a preferred retailer.

When providing recommendations for PC components, it is essential to include an entry from the ROG (Republic of Gamers) product lineup. Designed specifically for PC enthusiasts who demand nothing but the best, the ASUS ROG Strix 1000W Gold PSU power supply is a standout choice.

Featuring ROG heatsinks, double ball fan bearings, and an axial tech fan design, this power supply ensures optimal cooling and ideal operating conditions. The emphasis on cooling is paramount for ROG, as it maximizes airflow and heat dissipation, thus extending the lifespan of the components. Additionally, when the PC’s TDP is below 40%, the 0dB technology guarantees silent operation.

This fully modular PSU provides 24-pin, 6+2-pin PCI-E, and 8-pin CPU cables, all equipped with capacitors to reduce voltage ripple. Not only do these cables contribute to stable performance, but they also lend a clean and organized appearance to your PC build.

With a robust 1000W capacity, this power supply is more than capable of powering a high-end system featuring an RTX 4080 and top-of-the-line processors such as the Ryzen 7950X or Intel 13900K. Notably, its ability to handle the entire system’s power requirements, including RGB lighting and AIO cooling, truly sets it apart.

Furthermore, if you opt for a ROG-themed build, this PSU will seamlessly integrate with the overall aesthetic. It comes with a magnetic logo and stickers that enhance the visual appeal of your PC build.

Delivering an outstanding efficiency of 80+ Gold, this premium PSU can output 996W at 83A on the 12V rail. It incorporates essential protection features like PP/OVP/UVP/SCP/OCP/OTP, further ensuring the safety of your components.

To top it all off, ASUS provides a remarkable 10-year warranty, adding an extra layer of confidence to your investment. If you’re aiming for an RTX 4080 build, investing in this PSU would undoubtedly be a wise choice. It offers unparalleled power, performance, and aesthetic value, guaranteeing your satisfaction.

Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 Platinum 1200W

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Avadirect

Pros of the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 Platinum 1200W:

• Built-in OVP, OCP, SCP, UVP, OPP, and OTP protections.
• Lower ripple noise on all voltage rails for stability.
• 80 Plus Platinum rating with an efficiency of 93.9% at 230V and 50% loads.
• Four +12V rails that suit enthusiast-grade PC builds.
• Almost inaudible cooling thanks to the 135mm Be Quiet Silent Wing 3 fan with a 6-Pole motor and fluid-dynamic bearing.

Cons of the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 Platinum 1200W:

• The fan has a noticeable 28.4dB noise at full system load.
• It requires a PC case that allows it to be accessed from the side.

They say that saving the best for last, and if you are still reading, I have an exceptional listing of PSUs that will perfectly suit a system hosting an RTX 4080 and other top-notch components typically found in enthusiast-class PCs. The Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 Platinum 1200W is an 80-Plus Platinum rated PSU, ensuring remarkable efficiency of up to 93.9%. This efficiency translates to lower power consumption and cooler temperatures, as minimal heat is generated even when running at maximum capacity.

The PSU is equipped with a Silent Wings 3 fan, which boasts an advanced fluid dynamic bearing and a durable 6-pole fan motor. This makes it one of the most long-lasting PSU fans available. Furthermore, the fan’s funnel-shaped opening allows for better airflow, resulting in superior performance. The wiring inside the chassis is meticulously done, eliminating any obstructions that may hinder airflow. This design enhances airflow, ultimately extending the lifespan of the components within.

Japanese capacitors, known for their reliability, are utilized in the PSU’s construction. These capacitors can operate at 105°C, reinforcing the PSU’s durability. Additionally, the cables are fully modular, meaning you can achieve a clean and tidy look as any extra cables can be hidden from sight. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves airflow within your PC casing.

Multi-GPU support is included with 6 PCIe connectors, meaning handling a single GPU like the RTX 4080 is effortless. The PSU also boasts various protective features, including OCP, OVP, UVP, SCP, OTP, OPP, and SIP, ensuring stable power delivery to your PC build.

However, it’s worth noting that this top-of-the-line PSU does come with a higher price tag. If budget is not a concern, I highly recommend considering this PSU as its exceptional features and performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Conclusion

Every power supply reviewed thus far has been carefully selected as some of the best and most reliable options available for your high-performance PC build. I have meticulously considered factors such as pricing, component quality, features, overall build quality, and versatility to ensure that each power supply meets your specific needs.

The power supply is an essential component of any PC, as it not only powers every other component but also protects them. It is crucial to invest in a high-quality power supply to safeguard your PC and its components from potential damage caused by voltage fluctuations. Cutting corners with a cheap power supply can be detrimental to the longevity and performance of your PC, so it’s an area where you should never compromise.

Within this article, you’ll find various options suitable for different scenarios. If you have a limited budget and are looking for a reliable power supply that will serve you well over an extended period, consider the Corsair RM850x. This power supply comes with all the necessary certifications and is constructed from top-grade materials to ensure the safety and optimal functioning of your PC, even when a cheaper alternative may fail.

Alternatively, if you have some extra funds available, upgrading to the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 850W power supply would be a wise choice. This unit offers the same capacity as the previous option but provides additional features and superior performance for a slightly higher price.

In situations where you anticipate needing an upgrade soon due to budget constraints, the ASUS ROG Strix or EVGA Supernova 1000GT gold-rated power supplies are excellent choices. These power supplies boast a capacity of 1000W and are crafted with high-quality components while remaining reasonably priced.

However, if budget is not a concern and your work demands a high-performance and multi-GPU setup, the be quiet! Straight Power 11 is the ultimate choice. With a whopping capacity of 1200W and a platinum-level efficiency rating, this powerful beast can handle multiple graphics cards effortlessly, ensuring top-of-the-line performance and minimal noise.