SAMA Black 850W Power Supply - Fully Modular 80 Plus Gold Certified ATX 3.1 & PC vs Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold White Edition Full Modular

Price Comparison

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply is priced at C$89.99, making it significantly more affordable than the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold White Edition, which retails for C$220.99. This price difference of C$131.00 highlights a substantial disparity between the two options, especially considering that both products offer 80 PLUS Gold certification. For budget-conscious consumers or those building a system where cost is a primary factor, the SAMA Black provides a compelling choice without compromising on essential features.

Design and Form Factor

In terms of design, the SAMA Black features a fully modular ATX form factor, while the Cooler Master V850 SFX is designed as an SFX unit. The SAMA Black's fully modular design allows users to connect only the cables they need, facilitating streamlined cable management that enhances airflow. Conversely, the Cooler Master V850 SFX is tailored for mini-ITX builds but includes an SFX-to-ATX bracket for compatibility with standard ATX cases. This adaptability makes the Cooler Master versatile for various builds, but the SAMA's design may appeal more to those focused on traditional PC setups.

Efficiency and Certification

Both power supplies boast 80 PLUS Gold certification, ensuring high efficiency. The SAMA Black achieves up to 91.15% efficiency at a 50% load, which is slightly higher than the Cooler Master V850’s typical efficiency of 90%. This marginal difference in efficiency might seem small, but it can lead to reduced energy waste and lower heat output over time, contributing to a longer lifespan for your components. For users prioritizing performance and sustainability, the SAMA may have a slight edge in this category.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is critical in power supply units, and both models take different approaches. The SAMA Black features a 120mm ECO fan with Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) technology, operating at noise levels as low as 20 dB-A. This quiet operation ensures that even under heavy loads, the power supply remains unobtrusive. In comparison, the Cooler Master V850 SFX also utilises an FDB fan, ensuring efficient cooling as well. While specific noise levels for the Cooler Master are not provided, its design is aimed at maintaining a quiet environment, which may resonate well with users seeking a silent build.

Cable Management

Cable management is another area where the two products diverge. The SAMA Black’s fully modular design allows users to attach only the necessary cables, leading to a cleaner build and improved airflow. The use of flat cables further enhances this aspect by reducing clutter. The Cooler Master V850 SFX, while also fully modular, utilises thicker 16 AWG PCI-e cables that allow for higher currents. This can improve both efficiency and safety, particularly in compact builds where cable thickness can be a concern. Users will need to weigh the importance of aesthetics versus performance in cable management when making a decision.

Warranty Period

Warranty considerations can be crucial for long-term investment in a power supply. The SAMA Black comes with a generous 5-year warranty, which offers peace of mind regarding durability and reliability. In contrast, the Cooler Master V850 SFX provides an even longer warranty of 10 years, showcasing the brand’s confidence in its product’s longevity. For users who plan to invest in a power supply for an extended period, the Cooler Master’s longer warranty may offer additional reassurance, making it a more appealing choice for those prioritising longevity.

Target Audience

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply is a great choice for gamers and PC builders looking for an affordable yet efficient power source. Its compatibility with high-end GPUs like the RTX 3090 Ti and RTX 40 series makes it ideal for powerful gaming rigs. On the other hand, the Cooler Master V850 SFX caters to users who need a high-quality power supply for compact builds or mini-ITX systems. Its versatility and longer warranty period make it suitable for a wide range of applications, appealing to builders who value both performance and reliability in smaller form factors.

Which should you buy?

When choosing between the SAMA Black 850W Power Supply and the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold White Edition, the decision largely hinges on your specific needs and budget. If affordability and high efficiency are your main criteria, the SAMA Black is hard to beat with its price point of C$89.99 and superior efficiency rating. However, if you require a power supply for a compact build and appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a 10-year warranty, the Cooler Master V850 SFX, despite its higher price of C$220.99, may be the better long-term investment. Ultimately, both power supplies offer excellent features, but the best choice will depend on your individual preferences and requirements.