Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply vs Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply

Overview

When it comes to choosing a power supply, the Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply each serve distinct needs. The Pyramid power supply is designed for versatility and convenience, making it ideal for hobbyists and technicians. In contrast, the Lian Li power supply is engineered for high-performance PC builds, particularly those requiring significant power delivery and modularity.

Price Comparison

The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply is priced at C$70.78, making it an affordable option for those needing a reliable power source for testing and charging devices. On the other hand, the Lian Li SP850 V2 is considerably more expensive at C$194.23. This significant price difference reflects the Lian Li’s high-capacity output and advanced features, catering to gamers and professionals building high-performance systems. While the Pyramid is budget-friendly, the Lian Li offers premium performance, justifying its higher cost.

Design and Build Quality

The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply boasts a rugged and durable housing, designed for benchtop or desktop placement. Its compact design allows easy integration into various workspaces. Conversely, the Lian Li SP850 V2 is built to comply with the SFX size specification and features a premium 92mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan for enhanced cooling and quieter operation. While both units prioritize durability, the Lian Li’s design is focused on efficient thermal performance in high-demand environments, making it more suitable for gaming or heavy-duty tasks.

Features and Functionality

In terms of features, the Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply is equipped with a USB charge port and universal screw connection terminals, facilitating easy connections for testing various devices. It also includes built-in short-circuit protection, ensuring safety during operation. The Lian Li SP850 V2, however, is fully modular, allowing users to connect only the necessary cables for their system build. This not only reduces clutter but also enhances airflow within the case. The Lian Li also supports the latest ATX 3.1 power standard, making it a future-proof choice for modern builds.

Power Output

The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply offers a consistent power output of 13.8V DC with a maximum current of 12 amps, adequate for various electronic devices such as radios and testing equipment. In contrast, the Lian Li SP850 V2 provides a robust 850 watts of power, making it suitable for high-performance graphics cards and demanding components. This substantial power output means that the Lian Li can handle multiple high-powered devices simultaneously, catering to more complex setups compared to the Pyramid.

Cooling Solutions

Both power supplies incorporate cooling features, but they cater to different needs. The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply includes a built-in cooling fan to prevent overheating during prolonged use. However, the Lian Li SP850 V2 is equipped with a more advanced 92mm FDB fan, designed for quieter operation and improved thermal management, particularly in high-performance environments. This distinction makes the Lian Li more appealing for users seeking a silent yet efficient cooling solution during intense gaming or heavy computing tasks.

Safety Features

Safety is a critical aspect when it comes to power supplies. The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply includes built-in electronic overload and short-circuit protection, which is essential for safeguarding both the user and connected devices. Meanwhile, the Lian Li SP850 V2 offers a range of safety features, including a native 12V-2x6 connector designed for secure connections to high-performance components. Additionally, it comes with a 10-year hardware protection warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in its reliability and durability.

Use Cases

The Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply is perfect for hobbyists and technicians who need a reliable power source for testing and charging devices. Its versatility and straightforward operation make it an excellent choice for a variety of applications, from electronics projects to automotive testing. In contrast, the Lian Li SP850 V2 is tailored for gamers and professionals building high-performance PCs. Its modularity, substantial power output, and compliance with the latest standards make it ideal for modern gaming rigs requiring significant power and efficiency.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Pyramid Desktop Bench Power Supply and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are a hobbyist or technician looking for a cost-effective solution for testing equipment, the Pyramid power supply at C$70.78 is an excellent choice. However, if you are building a high-performance gaming PC and require a reliable, powerful, and modular power supply, the Lian Li SP850 V2 at C$194.23 is worth the investment. Each product serves its purpose well, catering to different audiences and use cases within the power supply market.