NZXT C850 Gold ATX 3.1 - Fully Modular Low-Noise PC Gaming Power Supply - 850 Wa vs be quiet! System Power 11 750W Power Supply

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the be quiet! System Power 11 750W is more budget-friendly at £64.99, compared to the NZXT C850 Gold ATX 3.1, which is priced at £84.90. This represents a difference of £19.91, making the be quiet! option a more economical choice for users looking to save on their power supply purchase. Both products cater to high-performance setups, but the lower price of the System Power 11 may appeal to gamers or builders on a tighter budget.

Power Output

In terms of power output, the NZXT C850 Gold delivers a robust 850 watts, which is ideal for high-end gaming rigs and demanding applications. In contrast, the be quiet! System Power 11 offers a slightly lower capacity of 750 watts. While 750 watts can adequately support most systems, including many graphics cards, the additional 100 watts provided by the NZXT model allows for more headroom, especially when considering future upgrades or overclocking.

Efficiency Ratings

Efficiency is a critical factor for any power supply, and both models perform well in this regard. The NZXT C850 Gold is compliant with the ATX 3.1 standard, ensuring stable power delivery and efficiency. Although specific efficiency ratings aren't provided for the NZXT model, its premium quality components suggest a high level of performance. On the other hand, the be quiet! System Power 11 boasts an 80 PLUS Bronze certification, indicating an efficiency rating of up to 90.0%. This certification means that the System Power 11 is designed to consume less power while delivering reliable performance, which can lead to lower electricity bills over time.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise levels, the NZXT C850 Gold is equipped with a 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan that operates in complete silence when under 50% load, thanks to its Zero Fan Mode. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a quiet operation during gaming or intensive tasks. Conversely, the be quiet! System Power 11 features a temperature-controlled 120mm fan that also prioritises low noise operation, consistent with the brand's reputation for quiet performance. While both power supplies aim for silent operation, the NZXT's Zero Fan Mode may provide an edge in scenarios where absolute silence is desired.

Component Compatibility

Both power supplies offer compatibility with next-generation components, but they do so in different ways. The NZXT C850 Gold is designed with a durable, heat-resistant 12V-2x6 connector, enabling it to deliver up to 600 watts to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics cards. This makes it particularly well-suited for users looking to build or upgrade to the latest GPU technology. On the other hand, the be quiet! System Power 11 includes native integration of the 12V-2x6 connector for PCIe 5.1 graphics cards, as well as PCIe 6+2-pin connectors for current-generation GPUs. This versatility ensures that users can connect a wide range of components, making it an excellent choice for both existing and future builds.

Protection Features

Safety is paramount when selecting a power supply, and both models come equipped with essential protection features. The NZXT C850 Gold ensures reliable and stable power delivery with its high-quality construction, which includes 100% premium Japanese capacitors that improve hold-up time and reduce ripple noise. Meanwhile, the be quiet! System Power 11 offers a comprehensive array of safety protections, guarding against overcurrents, over- and undervoltages, overtemperature, short circuits, and overloads. This extensive protection can provide peace of mind for users concerned about the safety of their valuable components.

Build Quality

In terms of build quality, the NZXT C850 Gold stands out with its high-quality construction featuring 100% premium Japanese capacitors. This design choice enhances its hold-up time and minimises ripple noise, translating to a more reliable performance under load. The be quiet! System Power 11, while also well-built, focuses on efficiency and quiet operation, ensuring that users receive stable power without excessive noise. Both power supplies are constructed to high standards, but the emphasis on premium components in the NZXT model may appeal to those seeking top-tier reliability.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the NZXT C850 Gold and the be quiet! System Power 11 largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a higher power output and silent operation, the NZXT C850 Gold is the better choice at £84.90, offering 850 watts and a Zero Fan Mode. However, if you are more budget-conscious and require a reliable power supply that still delivers solid performance and efficiency, the be quiet! System Power 11 at £64.99 provides excellent value with its 750 watts and 80 PLUS Bronze certification. Ultimately, both power supplies are excellent options, so consider your priorities in power output, noise levels, and budget before making a decision.