CORSAIR SF850 vs CORSAIR CX750M

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the CORSAIR CX750M is significantly more affordable than the CORSAIR SF850. Currently, the CX750M is priced at C$124.99, while the SF850 sits at C$279.99. This represents a difference of C$155.00, making the CX750M nearly half the price of the SF850. For budget-conscious buyers, the CX750M offers a compelling option, especially for those who do not require the massive power output of the SF850.

Power Output

The power output capabilities of these two power supplies differ notably. The CORSAIR SF850 provides 850 watts of power, making it suitable for high-performance builds that demand substantial energy. In contrast, the CORSAIR CX750M offers a maximum output of 750 watts, which is still ample for mid-range to high-end gaming systems. This 100-watt difference may seem minor, but for users planning to run demanding components or multiple GPUs, the additional wattage of the SF850 can be a significant advantage.

Form Factor

The CORSAIR SF850 features an SFX form factor, which is designed for compact builds and small form-factor PCs. This small size allows it to fit into tighter spaces without compromising on power delivery. On the other hand, the CORSAIR CX750M is designed in a standard ATX form factor, which is more common in mid-tower and full-tower cases. While the ATX size of the CX750M offers more versatility in terms of compatibility with various cases, the compact design of the SF850 is ideal for users prioritizing space efficiency.

Efficiency Rating

Efficiency is another critical factor where the two products diverge. The CORSAIR SF850 boasts an 80 PLUS Platinum rating, indicating its superior efficiency in converting AC power to DC power with minimal energy waste. This rating translates to lower energy bills over time and potentially quieter operation due to less heat generation. In comparison, the CORSAIR CX750M has an 80 PLUS Bronze rating, which, while still respectable, does not match the efficiency level of the SF850. Users interested in lower energy consumption and higher efficiency will find the SF850 to be a more appealing choice.

Modularity

Modularity can greatly enhance cable management and overall aesthetics within a PC build. The CORSAIR SF850 is fully modular, allowing users to attach only the cables they need, which helps reduce clutter inside the case. This is particularly advantageous in small form-factor builds where space is at a premium. The CORSAIR CX750M, while semi-modular, has its main power cables permanently attached, with only the supplementary cables being modular. This design is still beneficial but may lead to more cable clutter compared to the fully modular design of the SF850.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling performance plays a vital role in maintaining system stability, especially during intensive tasks. The CORSAIR SF850 is equipped with a 92mm PWM cooling fan that delivers powerful yet low-noise operation due to its fluid dynamic bearing. This design ensures effective cooling without generating excessive noise, making it suitable for quieter builds. In comparison, the CX750M features a larger 120mm low-noise fan, which runs quietly under low to medium loads. While both power supplies are designed to operate quietly, the larger fan in the CX750M may provide better cooling under load, albeit at the cost of increased size.

Compatibility

Compatibility with modern hardware is essential for any power supply. The CORSAIR SF850 is ATX 3.0 compliant and PCIe 5.0 ready, ensuring it can support the latest GPUs and motherboard standards without issues, including transient power spikes. This makes it a future-proof choice for users looking to build cutting-edge systems. On the other hand, the CX750M is also compliant with ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1, offering reliable power delivery for current and future components. Both power supplies excel in this area, but the SF850's additional certification may provide peace of mind for enthusiasts.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the CORSAIR SF850 and the CORSAIR CX750M ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require a high-wattage, efficient, and compact power supply for a small form-factor build, the SF850 is an excellent choice, albeit at a higher price point of C$279.99. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option that still provides ample power for most builds, the CX750M at C$124.99 offers great value without sacrificing too much in terms of performance and features. Thus, for casual users or those with less demanding power needs, the CX750M is a smart buy, while the SF850 is tailored for high-performance systems.