Redragon RGPS-850W 80+ Gold 850 Watt Power Supply w/Upgraded ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 vs Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the Redragon RGPS-850W is more affordable at C$154.99, while the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold is priced at C$194.23. This represents a difference of C$39.24, making the Redragon a more budget-friendly option for consumers. Despite the price disparity, both power supplies offer 850 watts of power output, which is ideal for high-performance builds.

The more economical choice between the two may appeal to gamers and PC builders who are looking to maximize their investment without sacrificing quality. However, price isn't the only factor to consider when choosing a power supply.

Build Quality and Reliability

Both the Redragon RGPS-850W and Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold emphasize build quality and reliability. The Redragon is constructed with 100% Japanese capacitors, ensuring both durability and stable performance. This is crucial for users who demand unwavering power stability, particularly in esports scenarios.

On the other hand, the Lian Li also leverages high-quality Japanese electrolytic capacitors, backed by a 10-year hardware protection plan. This extended warranty reflects Lian Li's confidence in the product's longevity and reliability. While both options are well-built, the Lian Li offers additional peace of mind with its longer warranty.

Efficiency Ratings

Efficiency is a critical factor in power supply performance, and both products boast an 80 Plus Gold certification. This rating indicates that they are designed to operate at a minimum of 87% efficiency at 20% and 100% load, and 90% efficiency at 50% load. This ensures lower energy costs and less heat generation during operation.

The efficiency of these power supplies directly contributes to cooler case temperatures and reduced noise levels. Thus, both the Redragon RGPS-850W and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold are excellent choices for energy-conscious consumers, providing similar efficiency benefits.

Cooling Mechanisms

Cooling performance varies between the two models, with the Redragon RGPS-850W featuring a Zero RPM Mode fan. This fan only activates when the temperature reaches 60°C, allowing for silent operation during low-load scenarios. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who want a quieter gaming experience.

Conversely, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold is equipped with a premium 92mm fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) fan, which promises efficient and quiet thermal performance. While it does not feature a Zero RPM mode, its design aims for longevity and low noise. Depending on user preferences for noise levels, either cooling mechanism could be more appealing.

Modular Design

The modularity of a power supply can greatly influence ease of installation and cable management. The Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold is fully modular, meaning users can connect only the cables needed for their specific build. This can lead to a cleaner and more organized system, which is often a priority for PC builders.

In contrast, the Redragon RGPS-850W does not specify a fully modular design, which may result in more unused cables cluttering the build. For those who value aesthetics and tidy cable management, the Lian Li's fully modular approach is a significant advantage.

Compatibility with Modern Hardware

Both power supplies are designed with modern hardware in mind, supporting the latest standards. The Redragon RGPS-850W is ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 ready, making it suitable for high-performance graphics cards like the NVIDIA RTX 40/50 series. It also offers substantial power excursions, which is beneficial for users looking to push their systems to the limit.

The Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold is also ATX 3.1 certified and supports PCIe Gen 5.0, ensuring compatibility with the latest GPUs. Its native 12V-2x6 connector is specifically designed to provide secure connections for high-performance graphics cards. Both power supplies are future-proofed for modern builds, but the Redragon offers additional power excursion capabilities.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetics play a role in many PC builds, and both power supplies offer unique visual features. The Redragon RGPS-850W stands out with its up to 9 RGB modes and 26 selected colours, allowing users to customize the lighting to match their overall build theme. This feature can enhance the visual appeal of a rig, especially for gamers who appreciate RGB lighting.

In contrast, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold focuses more on functionality and performance, lacking any RGB features. While this might appeal to users looking for a more subdued look, those seeking dynamic lighting options may prefer the Redragon for its customization capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Redragon RGPS-850W and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are budget-conscious and appreciate RGB aesthetics, the Redragon RGPS-850W offers excellent value at C$154.99, along with solid performance and a quiet operation thanks to its Zero RPM mode.

On the other hand, if you prioritize long-term reliability, modular design, and slightly better thermal performance, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold, priced at C$194.23, is a compelling choice with its 10-year hardware protection and fully modular cabling. Both options are strong contenders, but your decision should align with what features matter most in your build.