Apevia ATX-GX650W Galaxy 650W 80+ Gold Certified vs Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold 850W Fully Modular

Price Comparison

The Apevia ATX-GX650W Galaxy is priced at $54.99, making it significantly more affordable than the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold, which retails for $153.25. This means the Apevia power supply is about 64% cheaper than its competitor, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. This price difference can be a determining factor for those looking to build a gaming PC without overspending on components.

Power Output

When it comes to power output, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold has a higher capacity of 850W compared to the 650W provided by the Apevia ATX-GX650W. This 31% increase in wattage means the Cooler Master power supply can support more demanding systems and hardware configurations, making it a better choice for users planning to run high-performance components or multiple GPUs. If you need more power for intensive gaming or professional applications, the Cooler Master has the advantage.

Efficiency Ratings

Both power supplies boast an 80+ Gold certification, which signifies high efficiency in power delivery. However, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold excels with its 90% efficiency rate. While the Apevia ATX-GX650W meets the same certification, it does not specify its exact efficiency percentage. This can make a difference in long-term energy costs, as a higher efficiency rating translates to less wasted energy and lower electricity bills over time.

Modular Design

The Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold features a fully modular design, which allows users to connect only the cables they need. This design helps to reduce clutter inside the case and improve airflow. In contrast, the Apevia ATX-GX650W has a semi-modular design, meaning some cables are fixed and others are removable. While semi-modular designs are still good for cable management, the fully modular design of the Cooler Master offers superior flexibility and ease of installation.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is critical in power supplies, and both options feature effective fan designs. The Apevia ATX-GX650W utilizes a 135mm thermally controlled fan that adjusts its speed based on temperature to minimize noise. Meanwhile, the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold is equipped with a 92mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan known for its reliability and low maintenance. While both fans aim to keep the units cool and quiet, the Cooler Master's fan design may provide better long-term performance due to its self-lubricating properties.

Connector Options

In terms of connector options, the Apevia ATX-GX650W includes a variety of connections including 1 x 20/24pin main power, 2 x 4+4 pin CPU connectors, and multiple PCI-E and SATA connectors. The Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold also offers a comprehensive set of connectors, including a unique 90° 12VHPWR PCIe 5.1 connector that enhances electrical durability. While both power supplies provide ample connectivity for most builds, the Cooler Master’s specialized connectors may better suit the latest hardware requirements.

Build Quality and Warranty

The Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold is built with 100% Japanese capacitors, which are renowned for their reliability and performance. Additionally, it comes with a substantial 10-year warranty, indicating the manufacturer's confidence in its longevity and durability. In contrast, while the Apevia ATX-GX650W mentions heavy-duty protections against short circuits and over-voltage, it does not specify the warranty period. This difference in build quality and warranty can influence customers looking for a power supply that will last and provide peace of mind.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Apevia ATX-GX650W Galaxy and the Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution and have moderate power requirements, the Apevia is a solid choice at $54.99. However, if you need a higher wattage, better efficiency, and a fully modular design, the Cooler Master is worth the investment at $153.25.