SAMA Black 850W Power Supply - Fully Modular 80 Plus Gold Certified ATX 3.1 & PC vs CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT

Price Comparison

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply is priced at C$89.99, making it significantly more affordable than the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT, which retails for C$264.99. The price difference of C$175 indicates a substantial investment disparity, reflecting the varying features and capabilities of these two power supplies. The SAMA aims to attract budget-conscious consumers who still desire high performance, while the Corsair targets users willing to pay a premium for enhanced features and innovative design.

Build Quality and Design

Both power supplies feature a fully modular design, but they differ in their approach to cable management and overall aesthetics. The SAMA Black 850W showcases streamlined cable management with flat cables that ease installation and improve airflow. In contrast, the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT boasts an innovative easy-access connection position, allowing for simpler cable routing from the side of the PSU. While both designs prioritize cleanliness in builds, the Corsair's debossed PVC cable kit introduces a new standard for cable management, enhancing the overall look with low-profile combs for a neater finish.

Efficiency Ratings

The SAMA Black 850W holds an impressive 80 PLUS Gold certification, achieving up to 91.15% efficiency at 50% load. This high efficiency not only reduces energy waste but also aids in maintaining lower heat output, contributing to a more stable system and prolonged component lifespan. Conversely, the efficiency rating for the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT is not explicitly mentioned, but its branding suggests a focus on high performance and reliability. While both power supplies are positioned for efficiency, the SAMA provides a quantifiable efficiency level that may appeal to environmentally conscious users.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling performance is paramount for power supplies under heavy loads. The SAMA Black 850W features a 120mm ECO fan with Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) technology, ensuring quiet operation with noise levels as low as ≤20dB-A. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking minimal noise during operation. The CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT, on the other hand, utilises a 140mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan designed for high performance and low noise levels. While both units prioritise quiet operation, the SAMA provides a specific noise level measurement, which may be appealing to noise-sensitive users.

Compatibility and Features

Compatibility with modern components is crucial for a power supply. The SAMA Black 850W is designed to meet ATX 3.1 standards and includes native PCIe 5.1 ports and cables, fully supporting high-end GPUs such as the RTX 3090 Ti and the RTX 40 series. In comparison, the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT features a native 12V-2x6 GPU cable that easily powers modern graphics cards, including the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series. Both power supplies cater to contemporary graphics requirements, but the SAMA offers broader compatibility with the latest standards and GPUs.

Warranty and Reliability

Reliability is a key factor when selecting a power supply, and both brands provide assurances in this regard. The SAMA Black 850W is constructed with premium Japanese capacitors, ensuring stable power delivery and long-term reliability. It is backed by a 5-year warranty, which showcases the brand's confidence in its product. In contrast, the warranty period for the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT is not mentioned, leaving potential customers without a clear indication of reliability assurance. The longer warranty of the SAMA may be a deciding factor for those prioritising longevity and manufacturer trust.

Noise Levels

When considering a power supply, noise levels can significantly impact user experience. The SAMA Black 850W operates quietly with its ECO fan achieving noise levels as low as ≤20dB-A, making it suitable for builds where silence is a priority. The CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT also aims for low noise with its specially calculated fan curve, but it does not provide a specific noise level. Users who are particularly sensitive to noise may find the SAMA's explicit rating more reassuring.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the SAMA Black 850W Power Supply and the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT ultimately depends on your budget and specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable option that delivers excellent efficiency, quiet operation, and solid compatibility with modern components, the SAMA Black 850W at C$89.99 offers great value. However, if you are willing to invest more for innovative features such as easy-access connections and superior cable management, the CORSAIR RM1000x SHIFT at C$264.99 may be the better choice. Each power supply has its strengths, so your decision should align with your priorities in performance, aesthetics, and budget.