SAMA Black 850W Power Supply - Fully Modular 80 Plus Gold Certified ATX 3.1 & PC vs Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold 850 Watt SFX Form Factor Power Supply

Price Comparison

When comparing the SAMA Black 850W Power Supply and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold, the most noticeable difference is in price. The SAMA Black is priced at C$89.99, while the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold is significantly more expensive at C$194.23. This substantial price difference of C$104.24 raises questions about the additional features and benefits offered by the Lian Li model. For budget-conscious consumers, the SAMA Black presents a compelling option, especially for those looking for a reliable power supply without breaking the bank.

Design and Form Factor

The SAMA Black is designed as a standard ATX power supply, while the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold features an SFX form factor. The fully modular design of both units allows users to connect only the cables they need, enhancing cable management and airflow. However, the compact SFX form factor of the Lian Li model is particularly beneficial for smaller builds, as it adheres to the official ≤63.5mm size specification. This design aspect can be crucial for users with limited space in their cases, making the Lian Li a better fit for compact gaming rigs.

Efficiency Ratings

Both power supplies boast impressive efficiency ratings with 80 PLUS Gold certification, ensuring high energy efficiency and reduced heat output. The SAMA Black achieves up to 91.15% efficiency at 50% load, which is commendable. In contrast, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold also complies with ATX 3.1 standards, supporting the PCIe Gen 5.0 platform with enhanced transient power spike resistance. While both units provide efficient power delivery, the SAMA's specific efficiency rating gives it a slight edge in terms of energy savings at mid-load.

Cooling Performance

Cooling performance is a critical aspect of any power supply, and both models address this with their fan designs. The SAMA Black is equipped with a 120mm ECO fan featuring Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) technology, ensuring quiet operation with noise levels as low as ≤20dB-A. Meanwhile, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold uses a premium 92mm FDB fan, which also provides effective cooling but is smaller in size. The larger fan in the SAMA Black may offer better airflow and cooling efficiency, especially under heavy loads, making it a potentially quieter option during intense gaming sessions.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, both power supplies are designed to meet current standards. The SAMA Black supports ATX 3.1 and comes with 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 SP850 V2 Gold also meets the ATX 3.1 power standard and is equipped with native 12V-2x6 connectors, enhancing the connection clarity for high-performance graphics cards. While both are compatible with modern systems, the SAMA's explicit support for the latest GPU technologies may provide a slight advantage for gamers looking to build high-performance machines.

Warranty and Reliability

Warranty and build quality are essential factors when selecting a power supply. The SAMA Black comes with a 5-year warranty, which reflects the manufacturer's confidence in its product's durability. The Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold offers an impressive 10-year hardware protection, ensuring long-term reliability for users. Both units are constructed with high-quality Japanese capacitors, but the extended warranty on the Lian Li model signifies a stronger commitment to reliability, making it an attractive option for users seeking longevity in their components.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, both power supplies aim for quiet operation. The SAMA Black's 120mm ECO fan operates at a noise level as low as ≤20dB-A, making it a great choice for users who prioritize silent builds. Conversely, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold, with its upgraded 92mm FDB fan, also focuses on quiet thermal performance, but specific noise levels are not mentioned in its specifications. While both power supplies promise low noise, the SAMA Black's specific claim gives it an edge for users sensitive to sound during operation.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the SAMA Black 850W Power Supply and the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold largely depends on your specific needs and budget. The SAMA Black is a fantastic option for those looking for an affordable, efficient, and quiet power supply with excellent compatibility for high-end GPUs. At C$89.99, it offers great value for money. On the other hand, if you require a compact SFX form factor with a longer warranty and enhanced reliability, the Lian Li SP850 V2 Gold, priced at C$194.23, could be worth the investment. Ultimately, both power supplies have their strengths, but the SAMA Black stands out as the more economical choice for most users.