CORSAIR RM850e vs JUSTOP Black 700W Power Supply Unit ATX PSU With 120MM Quiet Fan

Overview of Power Supplies

When choosing a power supply for your system, reliability, efficiency, and noise levels are paramount. The CORSAIR RM850e, priced at £85.99, offers a robust solution with its fully modular design and superior features. In contrast, the JUSTOP Black 700W Power Supply Unit, available at an appealing £29.95, presents itself as a budget-friendly option with decent specifications for general use. This comparison explores the key aspects of both products to help you decide which power supply best suits your needs.

Price Comparison

The most significant difference between the CORSAIR RM850e and the JUSTOP Black 700W is their price. The CORSAIR model is priced at £85.99, while the JUSTOP variant is significantly cheaper at £29.95. This price gap of £56.04 reflects the differences in performance, build quality, and features. While the JUSTOP may appeal to budget-conscious consumers or those with basic power needs, the CORSAIR RM850e justifies its higher price with enhanced functionality and efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment for more demanding systems.

Build Quality and Design

Build quality is a crucial aspect of any power supply, and here, the CORSAIR RM850e shines. It features fully modular cabling, allowing users to connect only the necessary cables for their builds, which not only reduces clutter but also enhances airflow within the case. The JUSTOP Black 700W, while functional, adheres to a more traditional design without modular capabilities. Although it includes a 12CM cooling fan for airflow, it lacks the refined engineering of the CORSAIR, which is designed to operate quietly under load, thanks to its specially calculated fan curve.

Efficiency Ratings

Efficiency is an essential factor in power supplies, affecting energy consumption and heat generation. The CORSAIR RM850e is Intel ATX 3.1 certified, which supports the latest PCIe 5.1 platforms and handles power excursions efficiently. While specific efficiency ratings for the JUSTOP Black 700W are not detailed, it is stated to operate at 70% efficiency. In contrast, the CORSAIR model's efficiency can be inferred to be significantly higher, making it a better choice for users who prioritise performance and energy savings.

Noise Levels

Noise levels can greatly influence the user experience, especially in quiet environments. The CORSAIR RM850e utilises a 120mm rifle bearing fan that is designed to maintain low noise levels, even under full load conditions. This is particularly advantageous for gamers or professionals who require a silent operation. On the other hand, the JUSTOP Black 700W also features a 12CM quiet cooling fan, but its noise rating is 40dBA, which may be noticeable in quieter settings. Thus, those seeking a low-noise solution may favour the CORSAIR.

Protection Features

Both power supplies incorporate several safety features, but the CORSAIR RM850e offers a more comprehensive protection scheme. It employs 105°C-rated capacitors, ensuring steady performance and durability, while also providing modern standby compatibility. The JUSTOP Black 700W includes essential protections such as over voltage protection, short circuit protection, and thermal overload cut-off protection. However, it lacks the advanced features and build quality found in the CORSAIR, which may lead to improved longevity and reliability in demanding scenarios.

Compatibility and Connectors

Compatibility with various components is crucial when selecting a power supply. The CORSAIR RM850e's modular design allows for flexible connections tailored to specific builds, supporting a wide range of modern components. In contrast, the JUSTOP Black 700W is compatible with Intel ATX 12V v.2.3 and EPS 12V v.2.92 standards. It provides a more limited set of connectors, including a single PCI-E 8-Pin and several SATA connectors. For users building high-performance systems, the flexibility and range of connections offered by the CORSAIR RM850e make it the superior choice.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the CORSAIR RM850e and the JUSTOP Black 700W depends on your specific needs and budget. The CORSAIR RM850e, with its price tag of £85.99, excels in efficiency, noise reduction, build quality, and protective features, making it ideal for high-performance systems and users who value longevity and reliability. Conversely, the JUSTOP Black 700W, priced at just £29.95, serves as an excellent entry-level option for budget-conscious users or those with less demanding power requirements. If your priority is performance and efficiency, the CORSAIR is the clear winner; if you need a basic power supply at a low cost, the JUSTOP may suffice.