SAMA Black 850W Power Supply - Fully Modular 80 Plus Gold Certified ATX 3.1 & PC vs Lian Li Edge Series-850W Full Modular Power Supply-80 Plus Platinum-ATX 3.0

Price Comparison

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply is priced at C$89.99, while the Lian Li Edge Series 850W Full Modular Power Supply costs C$195.95. This substantial difference in price—over C$100—may appeal to budget-conscious consumers who seek reliable power without breaking the bank. The SAMA model offers a compelling entry point for those building or upgrading a PC on a budget, while the Lian Li model’s higher price may reflect its premium features and overall build quality.

Design and Build Quality

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply features a fully modular design that enables streamlined cable management, which can enhance airflow and aesthetic appeal in a PC build. In contrast, the Lian Li Edge Series also boasts a full modular design but incorporates an L-shape configuration for dual chamber cases. If you're using a non-dual chamber case, however, you must ensure compatibility with a height not exceeding 400mm. The build quality is enhanced by the use of premium materials in the Lian Li model, which may justify its higher cost for users looking for durability.

Certification and Efficiency

The SAMA Black Power Supply has an 80 PLUS Gold certification, achieving up to 91.15% efficiency at 50% load. This level of efficiency can help reduce energy waste and heat output, which is beneficial for long-term performance. Conversely, the Lian Li Edge Series offers an even higher 80 PLUS Platinum certification, meaning it operates with greater efficiency than the SAMA model. This translates to potentially lower electricity bills and enhanced system stability over time, particularly under heavy loads.

Compatibility Features

When it comes to compatibility, the SAMA Black Power Supply is designed to meet the latest ATX 3.1 standards and includes native PCIe 5.1 ports and cables, making it suitable for high-end GPUs like the RTX 3090 Ti and RTX 40 series. On the other hand, the Lian Li model is also ATX 3.0/3.1 compliant and is PCIe 5.1 ready with in-house developed soldered terminals, ensuring it can support the latest technology. Both products are future-proofed for upcoming hardware, but the SAMA offers a slight edge for users focused on high-performance graphics.

Cooling and Noise Levels

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply features a 120mm ECO fan with Fluid Dynamic Bearing technology, which operates at noise levels as low as 20dB-A. This ensures quiet performance, even under load, making it a solid choice for gamers who prefer a silent setup. The Lian Li Edge Series also comes equipped with a 120mm FDB fan and boasts a fanless mode, which can be particularly appealing for users who desire an ultra-quiet operation during low power usage. The cooling capabilities of both models are impressive, but the fanless mode of the Lian Li may offer additional versatility.

Warranty and Reliability

The SAMA Black Power Supply is backed by a 5-year warranty, demonstrating the brand’s confidence in its durability and performance. This warranty period is adequate for most consumers looking for reliability in their power supply. The Lian Li Edge Series, while not explicitly stating a warranty in the provided specifications, typically aligns with industry standards for premium products, often providing similar or longer warranty periods. Users prioritizing long-term reliability may feel reassured by the warranty offered by SAMA.

Target Audience

The SAMA Black 850W Power Supply is well-suited for budget-conscious gamers and PC builders looking for reliable power without high costs. Its features cater to those who appreciate efficiency and modular design while still being cost-effective. Meanwhile, the Lian Li Edge Series targets enthusiasts willing to invest more for superior efficiency, advanced features, and premium build quality. This makes it an ideal choice for users building high-end systems or those desiring the best performance possible.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the SAMA Black 850W Power Supply and the Lian Li Edge Series ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a powerful yet affordable option with solid efficiency and features, the SAMA model at C$89.99 is an excellent choice. However, if you are willing to invest in a premium product that offers higher efficiency, enhanced cooling features, and better compatibility for future hardware, the Lian Li Edge Series at C$195.95 is worth considering. Both power supplies have their merits, making them suitable for different types of users.