MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 Power Supply Unit vs Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold

Price Comparison

The MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 Power Supply Unit is priced at £74.99, while the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold comes in at a higher price of £134.56. This significant price difference of £59.57 may make the MSI unit more appealing for budget-conscious consumers. While both power supplies are 80 PLUS Gold certified, indicating high energy efficiency, the MSI unit offers a compelling entry point for those looking to build a high-performance system without breaking the bank.

Design and Form Factor

The MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 features a compact design with a length of only 140mm, promoting efficient airflow and easy cable management. In contrast, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold is designed specifically for small form factor (SFF) cases, measuring 100 x 125 x 63.5 mm. This makes the V850 an excellent choice for mini-ITX builds. However, its smaller dimensions do not limit its versatility, as it can be installed in ATX cases using an SFX-to-ATX bracket. Depending on your case size and layout, both units can cater to different configurations effectively.

Modular Cabling

MSI's MAG A750GL is fully modular, allowing users to connect only the cables they need, which helps to reduce clutter and improve airflow within the case. Cooler Master’s V850 SFX Gold also boasts fully modular cabling, with a comprehensive set of cables, including an ATX 24 Pin and multiple PCIe connections. This feature is particularly useful for advanced builds that require precise cable management. The flexibility in cable management offered by both power supplies enhances overall build aesthetics and functionality, making them suitable for high-performance systems.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling performance is crucial for maintaining the longevity and reliability of any power supply. The MSI MAG A750GL utilises a 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan that promises reliable cooling performance. Meanwhile, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold employs a smaller yet efficient 92mm fluid dynamic bearing fan, which also includes a semi-fanless mode under 15% maximum operating load. While both fans are designed to keep temperatures in check, the MSI unit's larger fan may provide superior cooling capacity in demanding situations, making it a better option for high-end builds that generate substantial heat.

Efficiency Ratings

Both the MSI MAG A750GL and the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold hold an 80 PLUS Gold certification, indicating they can achieve up to 90% efficiency under typical loading conditions. This high level of efficiency makes both power supplies ideal for systems with high energy demands, as they help reduce energy consumption and heat generation. However, the V850’s design is specifically tailored for compact systems, potentially providing better overall efficiency in smaller builds, where every watt saved can significantly impact performance and thermal output.

Warranty and Durability

In terms of warranty, the MSI MAG A750GL comes with a 7-year limited warranty, while the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold offers a longer 10-year standard warranty. This extended warranty may provide added peace of mind for buyers concerned about the longevity and durability of their investment. Additionally, the V850 is constructed with 100% Japanese capacitors, known for their reliability and performance under pressure, suggesting that it may have a slight edge in terms of long-term durability compared to the MSI unit.

Compatibility

The MSI MAG A750GL is designed to support the latest PCI-E 5.0 GPUs, providing up to 450W of power through a native 16-pin connector. This makes it highly suitable for high-performance gaming and workstation setups requiring substantial power. Conversely, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold is also capable of supporting a variety of setups but is particularly tailored for small form factor builds. It offers multiple PCIe connections, making it versatile for different configurations. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you are prioritising cutting-edge GPU support or compact build compatibility.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI MAG A750GL PCIE5 and the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If budget is a primary concern, the MSI unit at £74.99 offers excellent value with its efficient performance and substantial features. On the other hand, if you're constructing a small form factor build and are willing to invest more for additional durability and a longer warranty, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold at £134.56 may be the better choice. Both power supplies provide reliable performance, but your decision should reflect your system requirements and budget constraints.