Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 12VHPWR vs SAMA G850 Power Supply - 850W Fully Modular 80 Plus Gold Certified ATX 3.1 & PCI

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will delve into the differences between the Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 12VHPWR and the SAMA G850 Power Supply. The Fasgear is a high-performance extension cable priced at £18.00, while the SAMA G850 is a fully modular power supply unit (PSU) costing £84.99. Each product serves a distinct purpose in a gaming or high-performance PC build, making it essential to understand their features and benefits.

Design and Build Quality

The Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 12VHPWR features a sleek design focused on functionality, boasting a 30cm extension cable that enhances cable management in your PC setup. Its tinned copper wire ensures a stable current, which is crucial for high-demand graphics cards. In contrast, the SAMA G850 has a fully modular design that allows users to utilise only the cables needed for their specific build, leading to improved airflow and aesthetics. With a compact size of 150×150×86mm, the SAMA G850 is designed to fit into various cases while maintaining a clean and tidy look.

Performance and Efficiency

When it comes to performance, the SAMA G850 stands out with its 80 Plus Gold certification, achieving up to 91.15% efficiency at typical loads. This not only reduces energy waste but also lowers heat generation, making it ideal for energy-conscious users. The Fasgear extension cable supports a maximum output of 600W, which is suitable for high-performance GPUs like the RTX 4070 and 4090. While the extension cable enhances the performance of the graphics card setup, it is the SAMA G850 that provides a reliable power source to the entire system.

Compatibility with Graphics Cards

The Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 12VHPWR is specifically designed for NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 and 30 Series GPUs, including models like the RTX 5070ti and 4090. It includes a 12+4-pin connector to ensure compatibility with modern graphics cards, making it a versatile choice for users upgrading their systems. On the other hand, the SAMA G850 features a native 12V-2x6 connector, ensuring compliance with the latest Intel ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards. This makes the SAMA G850 an excellent choice for users focused on building high-performance systems with the latest hardware.

Cooling and Noise Levels

The SAMA G850 employs a 140mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) fan designed for quiet operation while keeping the PSU cool during intense workloads. The low noise levels contribute to a more pleasant gaming experience, especially during extended sessions. In contrast, the Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 extension cable does not have any active cooling features, as it is simply a cable designed to extend the power connection. Users needing silent operation in their builds will benefit significantly from the SAMA G850's design.

Cable Management and Aesthetics

Aesthetics play a crucial role in high-end PC builds, and both products offer features that contribute to a tidy appearance. The Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 cable comes with four transparent cable comb acrylic clips, making it easier to manage the cable and keep the system looking neat. Meanwhile, the SAMA G850’s fully modular design allows builders to eliminate unnecessary cables, further improving airflow and visual appeal. Both products aim to enhance the overall look of your build, but the SAMA G850 provides a more comprehensive solution for cable management.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 extension cable is available for £18.00, making it an affordable option for users needing to improve their power supply connections. The SAMA G850, at £84.99, represents a larger investment but offers significant benefits in terms of efficiency, modularity, and cooling performance. While the Fasgear product may be seen as a supplementary component, the SAMA G850 is a critical part of a build that justifies its higher price through enhanced performance and features.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fasgear PCI-e 5.0 12VHPWR and the SAMA G850 Power Supply ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you require an efficient, reliable power supply unit for a high-performance gaming rig, the SAMA G850’s 850W output and 80 Plus Gold certification make it the superior choice. However, if you simply need to extend the power connection for your GPU without investing in a new power supply, the Fasgear extension cable is a practical and budget-friendly option. Consider your current setup and future plans to make the best choice for your PC build.