MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 AC/DC Switching Power Supply 108W 24V 4.5A Single Output fo vs Redragon RGPS-850W 80+ Gold 850 Watt Power Supply w/Upgraded ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1

Price Comparison

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 is priced at C$32.95, while the Redragon RGPS-850W costs significantly more at C$154.99. This stark difference in pricing reflects the intended use cases and features of each power supply. The MEAN WELL model is designed for industrial and commercial applications, providing 108W of output. In contrast, the Redragon is a high-capacity unit offering 850W, aimed at gamers and high-performance systems. If budget is a primary concern, the MEAN WELL power supply presents a much more economical choice.

Power Output

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 delivers a single output of 108W at 24V, making it suitable for applications that require moderate power. This is ideal for devices such as control panels and electronic instruments. On the other hand, the Redragon RGPS-850W provides a robust output of 850W, compatible with high-performance components, including the latest Nvidia and AMD graphics cards. This significant difference in power output makes the Redragon a better option for high-end gaming setups, while the MEAN WELL is more suited for less demanding applications.

Efficiency Ratings

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 boasts an impressive energy efficiency rating of 90%, which minimizes power loss during operation. This efficiency is crucial in industrial settings where energy costs can add up. Meanwhile, the Redragon RGPS-850W is certified with an 80 Plus Gold rating, indicating that it also offers high energy efficiency, reducing waste heat and improving operational performance. The subtle difference lies in how these efficiencies apply to their respective output ranges; the MEAN WELL excels in lower power consumption, while the Redragon focuses on efficiency at higher wattages.

Design and Build Quality

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 features a slim 30mm profile and metal mesh housing, ensuring superior heat dissipation. This design allows for fanless operation across an extensive temperature range of -30°C to +70°C, highlighting its rugged construction and reliability in demanding environments. Conversely, the Redragon RGPS-850W includes a Zero RPM mode fan that activates only at 60°C, promoting quiet operation. Additionally, the unit is built with 100% Japanese capacitors, enhancing its durability and reliability. Both power supplies exhibit strong build quality, but their designs cater to different operational environments and user needs.

Protection Features

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 includes multiple protection features such as overvoltage protection, overload protection, and short circuit protection, ensuring a safe operation in various applications. It also has a low no-load power consumption of less than 0.5W, which is an added benefit for energy-conscious users. The Redragon RGPS-850W also comes equipped with a range of protective features, including OVP, OCP, OPP, OTP, UVP, and SCP, ensuring comprehensive protection for high-performance systems. Both units prioritize safety, but the MEAN WELL’s low power consumption makes it stand out in environments where energy efficiency is crucial.

Compatibility and Connectivity

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 offers a universal AC input voltage range of 85-264VAC, ensuring it can be used globally without compatibility issues. It is designed for industrial applications and can withstand surge inputs of 300VAC for up to 5 seconds. In contrast, the Redragon RGPS-850W is upgraded for modern systems with ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 compatibility, making it ideal for powering the latest GPUs and CPUs. This makes the Redragon a more suitable choice for gamers and enthusiasts who want to build cutting-edge systems, while the MEAN WELL caters to those needing reliability in less demanding tasks.

Noise Levels

The MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 operates fanless, which means it produces no noise during operation, making it an excellent choice for environments requiring silent performance. This feature is particularly beneficial in settings like laboratories or studios where sound can be a distraction. In contrast, the Redragon RGPS-850W’s fan operates in Zero RPM mode until it reaches 60°C, which helps keep noise levels low under regular conditions. However, it may become audible under heavy load. Users who prioritize silence would likely prefer the MEAN WELL, while those needing high performance might accept some noise from the Redragon.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MEAN WELL LRS-100-24 and the Redragon RGPS-850W ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require a reliable power supply for industrial or less demanding applications, the MEAN WELL offers great efficiency and a compact design at a low price of C$32.95. However, if you are a gamer or someone who needs to run high-performance components, the Redragon’s powerful 850W output and modern features justify its higher price of C$154.99. Consider your power requirements, budget, and intended use to make the best decision for your needs.