CORSAIR SF850 vs be Quiet! Dark Power Pro 13 1600W Power Supply

Introduction to Power Supplies

When selecting a power supply, two standout options are the CORSAIR SF850 and the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro 13 1600W. Both power supplies cater to distinct user needs, with the CORSAIR SF850 focusing on compact design and efficiency, while the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro offers immense power capacity. Understanding their features will help determine which one is best suited for your requirements.

Form Factor and Design

The CORSAIR SF850 is designed in a compact SFX form-factor, making it ideal for small-form-factor PCs. Its size allows for flexibility in building compact systems without sacrificing power efficiency. In contrast, the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro 13 is a larger ATX power supply, providing 1600W of power. This significant wattage is more suitable for high-performance builds that require multiple components or overclocking. While the CORSAIR excels in space-saving design, the Dark Power Pro offers robustness in a traditional form factor.

Efficiency Ratings

When it comes to efficiency, the CORSAIR SF850 boasts an 80 PLUS Platinum rating, ensuring high performance with minimal energy waste. This power supply is designed to deliver excellent efficiency levels for everyday use. On the other hand, the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro achieves an impressive 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency, with operational efficiency up to 94.5%. This means that while both supplies are efficient, the Dark Power Pro offers slightly superior energy savings, particularly beneficial for users running high-performance systems continuously.

Power Output

The power output is where the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro significantly outmatches the CORSAIR SF850. With a capacity of 1600W, it is tailored for users who need to power demanding components, such as multiple GPUs or high-end CPUs. The CORSAIR SF850, with its 850W output, is best suited for mid-range systems or smaller builds. The substantial difference in wattage means that users with greater power demands should lean towards the Dark Power Pro, while those with less intensive needs may find the SF850 more than adequate.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, and both power supplies are equipped with effective cooling solutions. The CORSAIR SF850 features a 92mm PWM cooling fan that operates quietly, thanks to its fluid dynamic bearing. This ensures that users can enjoy high performance without excessive noise. In contrast, the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro includes a full mesh PSU front with a funnel-shaped air inlet, promoting effective airflow and heat dissipation. While both options provide reliable cooling, the design of the Dark Power Pro may offer better airflow for high-demand scenarios.

Modular Design

The modularity of power supplies can significantly affect cable management and system aesthetics. The CORSAIR SF850 employs a fully modular design with Type-5 Micro-Fit PSU connectors, allowing users to connect only the cables they need. This feature is particularly useful in compact builds, reducing clutter and enhancing airflow. Similarly, the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro also supports modularity, featuring overclocking key switches that allow users to toggle between six 12V rails and one massive 12V rail. Both power supplies excel in modularity, but the CORSAIR's compact connectors may provide an edge in space-constrained builds.

Compatibility and Future-Proofing

In terms of compatibility, the CORSAIR SF850 is ATX 3.0 compliant and PCIe 5.0 ready, ensuring it can support the latest hardware advancements. This forward-thinking design makes it an excellent choice for users looking to build or upgrade their systems with cutting-edge components. The be Quiet! Dark Power Pro is also ATX 3.0 compliant and fully supports PCIe 5.0 GPUs, making it equally future-proof. Users can feel confident that both supplies will meet the demands of emerging technologies, but the Dark Power Pro's higher wattage could offer more headroom for future upgrades.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the CORSAIR SF850 and the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro 13 1600W, the choice ultimately boils down to your specific needs. If you require a compact power supply for a smaller build and value high efficiency, the CORSAIR SF850 at C$279.99 is an excellent option. However, if your system demands more power for multiple high-end components and you seek the highest efficiency with robust cooling, the be Quiet! Dark Power Pro at C$574.27 may be the better investment. Each power supply has its strengths, making them suitable for different types of users and builds.