CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT Fully Modular ATX Power Supply - 80 PLUS Gold - ATX 3.1 - vs be quiet! System Power 11 750W Power Supply

Price Comparison

The CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT is significantly more expensive than the be quiet! System Power 11. Priced at £174.98, the CORSAIR power supply comes with advanced features aimed at high-performance systems. In contrast, the be quiet! System Power 11 is priced at a more budget-friendly £64.99, making it an attractive option for users looking to save money without sacrificing too much quality. The price difference of £110.99 suggests that the CORSAIR model is targeting enthusiasts and gamers who require higher wattage and premium components, while the be quiet! model is aimed at mainstream users who need reliable power without the bells and whistles.

Power Output and Efficiency

In terms of power output, the CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT is the clear winner with a capacity of 1200W compared to the 750W offered by the be quiet! System Power 11. This makes the CORSAIR unit more suitable for high-end systems that may require more power, particularly for graphics-intensive tasks. Additionally, the be quiet! System Power 11 boasts an 80 PLUS Bronze certification, indicating an efficiency rating of up to 90.0%, which is respectable for its price range. However, the CORSAIR's premium positioning implies superior efficiency and performance, particularly as it is designed to comply with the ATX 3.1 standard, making it ideal for next-generation PC builds.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT focuses on innovative cable management through its side-positioned modular connections. This feature enhances accessibility and cleanliness, appealing to users who value aesthetics and organisation within their builds. Meanwhile, the be quiet! System Power 11 features a temperature-controlled 120mm fan, which is known for producing low noise, a hallmark of the be quiet! brand. The build quality of the CORSAIR unit is underscored by its use of 100% 105°C-rated Japanese electrolytic capacitors, promising long-term reliability. While both power supplies are built to last, the CORSAIR's focus on premium materials may give it an edge in longevity.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling solutions differ significantly between the two models. The CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT comes equipped with a 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan, engineered for high performance and low noise. This design not only enhances cooling efficiency but also ensures a quiet operation, which is crucial for high-performance systems. The be quiet! System Power 11, on the other hand, utilises a 120mm quality fan that is also temperature-controlled, promoting quiet operation. While both fans are designed to reduce noise, the larger fan in the CORSAIR model may provide better airflow and cooling capabilities, making it more suitable for demanding environments.

Compatibility and Future-Proofing

The CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT is Intel ATX 3.1 certified, supporting next-generation PCIe Gen 5.1 platforms and resisting transient power spikes. This makes it future-proof for users planning to upgrade their graphics cards or other components in the near future. The be quiet! System Power 11 also features native integration of the 12V-2x6 connector for next-gen PCIe 5.1 graphics cards, indicating good compatibility with current and upcoming hardware. However, the higher wattage and advanced features of the CORSAIR unit ensure that it is better equipped to handle future upgrades, making it a more forward-thinking choice for enthusiasts.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a crucial consideration for many users, especially those who value a quiet computing experience. The CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT, with its fluid dynamic bearing fan, is designed for low noise operation while maintaining high performance. Similarly, the be quiet! System Power 11 prides itself on offering remarkable quietness, consistent with the brand's reputation. While both units promise low noise, the specifications of the CORSAIR's larger fan suggest it may be better suited for users who require powerful performance without compromising on tranquillity.

Warranty and Support

Warranty and support are important factors when investing in a power supply. The CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT typically comes with a longer warranty period, reflecting the brand's confidence in its product quality and longevity. In contrast, the be quiet! System Power 11 also offers a reliable warranty, but the specifics can vary by retailer. A longer warranty on the CORSAIR model may provide added peace of mind for users who plan to use their power supply for an extended period, thus enhancing its overall value proposition.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the CORSAIR RM1200x SHIFT and the be quiet! System Power 11 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require a high-capacity, feature-rich power supply that supports advanced components and offers superior build quality, the CORSAIR model is worth the investment. However, if you're looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option that still delivers stable performance for mainstream systems, the be quiet! System Power 11 is an excellent choice. Weighing the price against features will guide you toward the best decision for your setup.