Apevia ITX-PFC500W Mini ITX/Flex ATX / 1U 500W vs Redragon RGPS-850W 80+ Gold

Price Comparison

The Apevia ITX-PFC500W is priced at $49.99, making it about 60% cheaper than the Redragon RGPS-850W, which costs $124.99. This significant price difference may appeal to budget-conscious consumers or those with less demanding power requirements. While both power supplies are fully modular, the Apevia model is designed for smaller form factors, such as Mini ITX and Flex ATX systems, whereas the Redragon caters to users looking for higher wattage and advanced features suitable for gaming setups.

Power Output

The Redragon RGPS-850W offers a robust 850 watts of power, significantly surpassing the Apevia ITX-PFC500W's 500 watts. This 70% increase in power output makes the Redragon a better choice for high-performance systems, especially those equipped with demanding components like the latest graphics cards. In contrast, the Apevia is suited for lower-power systems or compact builds, making it ideal for users with less intensive computing needs.

Efficiency Ratings

The Redragon RGPS-850W boasts an 80 Plus Gold certification, indicating a higher energy efficiency compared to standard power supplies. This certification means that the Redragon can operate at a cooler temperature and produce less noise during operation. Conversely, the Apevia ITX-PFC500W does not specify an efficiency rating but features a full range Active PFC, which helps to optimize its performance, albeit without the efficiency assurances of an 80 Plus certification.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling mechanisms differ substantially between the two models. The Redragon RGPS-850W features a Zero RPM Mode fan that remains silent until the temperature reaches 60℃, providing a quieter operation during low load. In contrast, the Apevia ITX-PFC500W utilizes a 40mm double ball bearing fan for forced air ventilation. While the smaller fan in the Apevia may be sufficient for its power output, it may not offer the same level of noise reduction or cooling efficiency as the larger fan system in the Redragon.

Cable Management

When it comes to cable management, the Redragon RGPS-850W includes flat fully modular cables that help reduce clutter and improve airflow within the case. This is particularly beneficial for users focused on aesthetic setups or efficient cooling. The Apevia ITX-PFC500W is also fully modular, allowing for selective cable use, but lacks additional features like the flat cable design found in the Redragon, which may result in a bulkier setup.

Compatibility and Features

The Redragon RGPS-850W is designed with modern systems in mind, supporting ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards, making it future-proof for high-performance graphics cards, including the latest NVIDIA models. The Apevia ITX-PFC500W, however, is targeted towards smaller systems and may not support the latest standards, limiting its compatibility with newer hardware. This difference is crucial for gamers and professionals looking to build cutting-edge systems.

Build Quality and Reliability

Redragon's RGPS-850W is built with 100% Japanese capacitors, which are known for their reliability and longevity, particularly under high-stress conditions. This construction enhances the power supply's ability to deliver stable power, especially in gaming or high-performance scenarios. The Apevia ITX-PFC500W does not provide detailed information regarding its capacitors, which may raise concerns about long-term reliability for users who are investing in a power supply for demanding tasks.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Apevia ITX-PFC500W and the Redragon RGPS-850W largely depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable option for a compact build, the Apevia is an excellent choice at $49.99. However, if you require a high-output power supply with advanced features, superior efficiency, and better cooling solutions, the Redragon RGPS-850W at $124.99 is worth the investment. Ultimately, your decision should align with your power requirements, system compatibility, and budget constraints.