Mean Well EDR-120-24 Single Output DIN Rail Power Supply 24V 5 Amp 120W vs Official Raspberry Pi 5 27W USB-C Power Supply

Price Comparison

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 is priced at C$42.99, while the Official Raspberry Pi 5 27W USB-C Power Supply costs C$31.99. This makes the Raspberry Pi power supply C$11.00 cheaper than the Mean Well option. For users on a budget or those looking for a cost-effective solution, the Raspberry Pi power supply presents a more attractive price point. However, the price alone does not determine value, as the intended applications for these power supplies vary significantly.

Power Output

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 offers a maximum output power of 120 watts, significantly higher than the Raspberry Pi 5’s maximum of 27 watts. This substantial difference indicates that the Mean Well power supply can handle larger loads, which is ideal for applications requiring more power than what a Raspberry Pi typically demands. Meanwhile, the Raspberry Pi power supply is specifically designed to accommodate the power needs of the Raspberry Pi 5 and its peripherals, providing stable output across multiple voltage profiles.

Voltage Specifications

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 operates at a primary output voltage of 24 volts, which is suitable for various industrial and commercial applications. In contrast, the Official Raspberry Pi 5 27W USB-C Power Supply is versatile with multiple output settings: 5.1V at 5A, 9V at 3A, 12V at 2.25A, and 15V at 1.8A through Power Delivery. This flexibility allows the Raspberry Pi power supply to cater to different voltage requirements, making it ideal for powering not only the Raspberry Pi itself but also high-power peripherals.

Design and Connectivity

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 is designed for DIN rail mounting, making it suitable for industrial environments where space management and organization are crucial. On the other hand, the Official Raspberry Pi 5 power supply features a USB Type-C connection with a 1.2m cable, which is more consumer-friendly and easier to use in home or office setups. The choice between these designs depends largely on the intended application and user environment.

Target Audience

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 is aimed at professionals in industrial settings who require reliable power supplies for various devices, while the Official Raspberry Pi 5 power supply targets hobbyists and developers working with Raspberry Pi systems. Users who need a robust and powerful supply for multiple devices in a commercial setting would benefit more from the Mean Well unit, while those focused on Raspberry Pi projects will find the Raspberry Pi power supply more suited to their needs.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Mean Well EDR-120-24 supports a fixed output of 24 volts, making it less versatile in terms of powering devices that require different voltage levels. In contrast, the Official Raspberry Pi 5 power supply’s multiple output profiles provide versatility that allows it to power various devices beyond just the Raspberry Pi. This flexibility is particularly useful for users who want to connect additional peripherals that may require different power specifications, such as hard drives or SSDs.

Reliability and Stability

Both power supplies are designed to provide stable power; however, their intended use cases suggest different reliability metrics. The Mean Well EDR-120-24 is built for industrial applications where reliability is critical, capable of delivering 120 watts of continuous power. The Raspberry Pi power supply, while stable for its intended use, is limited by its maximum 27 watts output. Users who prioritize stability under high loads may lean towards the Mean Well option, while those using a Raspberry Pi for lighter applications will find the Raspberry Pi power supply sufficient.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Mean Well EDR-120-24 and the Official Raspberry Pi 5 27W USB-C Power Supply depends on your specific needs. If you require a high-output power supply for industrial applications or multiple devices, the Mean Well unit’s 120 watts and 24-volt output make it a strong contender. However, if your focus is primarily on powering a Raspberry Pi 5 and its peripherals with flexibility in voltage profiles, the Raspberry Pi power supply, priced at C$31.99, offers a compelling value. Assess your power requirements and intended usage to determine the most suitable option for you.