MSI MAG A850GL PCIE5 White vs Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply

Price Comparison

The MSI MAG A850GL PCIE5 White is priced at C$199.99, while the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply is slightly cheaper at C$194.23. The price difference of C$5.76 positions the Lian Li as a more budget-friendly option for users looking for high-quality power supplies. Both products fall within the same price range, making them competitive in terms of affordability. The MSI offers a robust feature set that may justify its slightly higher price, but the Lian Li still offers excellent value with its unique attributes.

Power Output and Efficiency

The MSI MAG A850GL delivers 850 watts, making it suitable for a wide range of power-hungry builds. In comparison, the Lian Li SP850 V2 also provides 850 watts, ensuring both options can support high-performance components. Both power supplies are ATX 3.1 certified, which means they comply with modern standards for power efficiency and reliability. This certification ensures that users can expect stable power delivery, even during peak usage, making either choice a solid option for gamers and creators alike.

Modular Design

The MSI MAG A850GL features a full modular design with flat cables, allowing users to connect only the cables they need for their specific builds. This design not only enhances aesthetics by reducing cable clutter but also improves airflow within the case. On the other hand, the Lian Li SP850 V2 also boasts a fully modular cabling system, which is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient setup. Both units allow for flexibility in cable management, making them appealing to users who prioritize a clean build.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is crucial for maintaining optimal performance in power supplies, and both the MSI MAG A850GL and Lian Li SP850 V2 prioritize this aspect. The MSI model is equipped with a 120mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan, designed to operate quietly while effectively dissipating heat. The Lian Li SP850 V2, however, features a slightly smaller but equally efficient 92mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan. While both fans are designed for low noise operation, the larger fan in the MSI may provide slightly better cooling performance over extended use, particularly under heavier loads.

Protection Features

Both power supplies come with impressive safety features designed to protect your components. The MSI MAG A850GL includes industrial-level protection mechanisms such as Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Power Protection (OPP), Over Temperature Protection (OTP), Short Circuit Protection (SCP), and Under Voltage Protection (UVP). In contrast, the Lian Li SP850 V2 also boasts robust protection backed by a 10-year hardware warranty, indicating long-term reliability. While both options offer substantial protection, the MSI’s array of specific protections may appeal to users looking for comprehensive safeguards for their systems.

Compatibility and Connectivity

The MSI MAG A850GL is specifically designed with native PCIe 5.1 compatibility, featuring a dual-color 16-pin cable that enhances the clarity and reliability of connections, particularly for high-performance graphics cards. Meanwhile, the Lian Li SP850 V2 is also ATX 3.1 certified and includes a native 12V-2x6 connector, which is tailored for modern graphics cards, ensuring they can handle the demands of current hardware. Both power supplies are well-equipped for contemporary builds, but the MSI’s native PCIe 5.1 support could provide an edge for users investing in the latest technology.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation plays a significant role in consumer choice, and both MSI and Lian Li are respected in the gaming and PC building communities. MSI is renowned for its gaming hardware and has a loyal following, especially among gamers. Lian Li, on the other hand, is celebrated for its high-quality cases and cooling solutions, making it a trusted name for power supplies as well. This brand recognition can provide peace of mind for users, knowing they are investing in products from companies known for their reliability and performance.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the MSI MAG A850GL PCIE5 White and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold comes down to specific user needs and preferences. If you value a slightly larger fan for potentially better cooling and an extensive array of protection features, the MSI may be the better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a cost-effective solution that still meets modern standards and offers excellent modularity, the Lian Li is a solid option. Ultimately, both power supplies deliver exceptional performance and reliability, making either a worthwhile investment for your PC building needs.