When you’re building a small form factor PC, the power supply can make or break your system’s performance. You need something that’s compact yet powerful. SFX power supplies are a great solution, combining efficiency with a space-saving design. In this review, we’ll explore the top contenders that promise reliability and advanced features. Let’s see which options could be the perfect fit for your next build.
Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold Modular Power Supply (850W)
The Cooler Master V850 SFX Gold Modular Power Supply (850W) is the perfect choice for gamers and creators who demand high performance in compact spaces. With its 80 Plus Gold certification, you’ll enjoy up to 90% efficiency, ensuring your system runs smoothly without wasting energy. Its compact 100mm design fits easily into small form factor builds, while the fully modular setup helps reduce cable clutter. You’ll appreciate the high-quality Japanese capacitors that enhance durability and efficiency. Plus, the integrated cooling system and reliable Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan keep everything running quietly and efficiently, making this power supply a top-tier choice for your PC.
Best For: Gamers and creators seeking a high-performance, compact power supply for small form factor builds.
Pros:
- Fully modular design reduces cable clutter for improved airflow.
- 80 Plus Gold certification provides up to 90% efficiency, minimizing energy waste.
- Compact size (100mm) makes it ideal for ITX and SFF builds, fitting seamlessly into tight spaces.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to non-modular power supplies.
- Limited to 850W, which may not be sufficient for extremely high-end builds requiring more power.
- Requires careful planning of cable management due to customized cable lengths.
Apevia SFX-AP500W Mini ITX Solution/Micro ATX/SFX 500W Power Supply
For anyone building a compact system, the Apevia SFX-AP500W power supply stands out with its efficient 500W output tailored specifically for Mini ITX and Micro ATX setups. Measuring just 125mm x 100mm x 63.5mm, it fits snugly in tight spaces. The power supply provides essential connectors, including a 20+4 pin main power, an 8-pin CPU connector that splits into 4+4, and a versatile PCI-E connector that can split into 6+2. Just remember, it won’t power on without all cables properly connected. This reliability makes the Apevia SFX-AP500W a fantastic choice for your compact build.
Best For: The Apevia SFX-AP500W power supply is best for users building compact Mini ITX or Micro ATX systems that require a reliable and efficient power source.
Pros:
- Compact Size: Fits easily in tight spaces with dimensions of 125mm x 100mm x 63.5mm.
- Versatile Connectors: Includes modular connectors that can split for compatibility with various motherboard and GPU requirements.
- Reliable Power Output: Provides a solid 500W output, ensuring sufficient power for compact builds.
Cons:
- Requires Proper Connection: Will not power on unless all cables are correctly connected to the PC.
- Limited Compatibility: Primarily designed for Mini ITX and Micro ATX setups, which may not suit larger systems.
- Non-Modular Design: Although some connectors are modular, the overall design is not fully modular, potentially leading to cable management challenges.
CORSAIR SF850 Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
Ideal for gamers and content creators seeking top-tier performance in compact builds, the CORSAIR SF850 Fully Modular ATX Power Supply delivers exceptional power efficiency and reliability. With its 80 PLUS Platinum rating and ATX 3.0 compliance, you’ll enjoy stable and efficient power delivery. The compact SFX form factor, along with the included SFX-to-ATX bracket, makes installation seamless. Fully modular Type-5 Micro-Fit connectors facilitate tidy cable management, while the 92mm PWM cooling fan operates quietly, thanks to its fluid dynamic bearing. Plus, 105°C rated Japanese capacitors guarantee unwavering power, making this PSU a top choice for your small form factor PC.
Best For: Gamers and content creators seeking a compact, high-efficiency power supply for small form factor builds.
Pros:
- Fully modular design allows for tidy cable management and customization.
- 80 PLUS Platinum rating ensures high power efficiency and stable performance.
- Compact SFX form factor with included SFX-to-ATX bracket simplifies installation in tight spaces.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to non-modular or lower-rated power supplies.
- Limited wattage may not suit extreme overclocking or multi-GPU setups.
- May be overkill for basic or budget builds that don’t require such high efficiency.
ARESGAME SFX Power Supply (850W, ATX 3.0 & PCIE 5.0 Ready)
When you’re building a compact gaming rig or a mini-ITX system, the ARESGAME SFX Power Supply (850W, ATX 3.0 & PCIE 5.0 Ready) stands out as an excellent choice. With its 80 Plus Gold certification, you get impressive efficiency, delivering 90% power at half load. It features a fully modular design, making cable management a breeze, while the durable hydraulic bearing fan guarantees quiet operation. Plus, it’s built with high-quality Japanese capacitors for longevity. The included SFX-to-ATX bracket means it fits snugly in standard cases, and the native PCIe 5.0 connector powers your graphics card with ease.
Best For: Compact gaming enthusiasts and mini-ITX system builders seeking a high-efficiency power supply.
Pros:
- Fully modular design allows for easy cable management and customization.
- 80 Plus Gold certification ensures high efficiency and lower energy consumption.
- Durable construction with high-quality Japanese capacitors and a quiet hydraulic bearing fan.
Cons:
- Limited to SFX form factor, which may not be suitable for larger builds.
- Higher price point compared to non-modular or lower-rated power supplies.
- Some users may require additional adapters for compatibility with older components.
be quiet! SFX L Quiet Performance Power Supply 600W
SFX L Quiet Performance Power Supply 600W is a fantastic choice for your Mini ITX or compact gaming build. With 80 Plus Gold certification, you’ll enjoy up to 92% efficiency, ensuring your system runs smoothly. It supports multi-GPU setups, thanks to four PCIe connectors, while stable LLC and DC-to-DC power conversion deliver reliable performance. The modular cables offer build flexibility, and the included SFX-to-ATX adapter lets you expand your options. Plus, a temperature-controlled 120mm fan keeps everything cool. With a 3-year warranty, you can trust in its quality and support for your setup.
Best For: This power supply is best for users looking to build high-performance Mini ITX or compact gaming systems with efficient power management.
Pros:
- 80 Plus Gold certification ensures high efficiency with up to 92% power usage.
- Modular cables allow for a clean and flexible build configuration.
- Supports multi-GPU setups with four PCIe connectors, catering to advanced gaming needs.
Cons:
- Limited wattage may not suffice for high-end components in larger builds.
- SFX form factor might not fit all cases without the adapter.
- Temperature-controlled fan may run louder under heavy loads compared to other models.
Lian Li SP V2 750 Watt SFX Power Supply
For users seeking a compact yet powerful solution, the Lian Li SP V2 750 Watt SFX Power Supply stands out as an excellent choice. With an 80+ Gold efficiency rating and compliance with ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.0, it’s designed for high-performance setups. Its fully modular design lets you connect only the necessary cables, reducing clutter while enhancing airflow. The native 12V-2×6 cable ensures safe connections for demanding graphics cards. Plus, the 92mm FDB fan operates quietly, maintaining ideal thermal performance. Weighing just 3.99 pounds, it’s a lightweight powerhouse backed by a generous 10-year warranty.
Best For: Users looking for a compact, efficient power supply that delivers high performance for modern gaming and workstation builds.
Pros:
- 80+ Gold efficiency rating ensures lower energy consumption and cost savings.
- Fully modular design allows for a clean setup by connecting only the necessary cables.
- Low-noise operation due to the 92mm FDB fan, providing quiet thermal management.
Cons:
- Limited to SFX form factor, which may not fit larger cases.
- Higher price point compared to non-modular or lower-rated power supplies.
- Weight might be considered heavy for some users compared to alternative lightweight options.
CORSAIR SF1000 Fully Modular Low Noise ATX Power Supply
Compact yet powerful, the CORSAIR SF1000 Fully Modular Low Noise ATX Power Supply is the ideal choice for enthusiasts building high-performance small form factor PCs. With an 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency rating and PCIe 5.0 readiness, this power supply guarantees reliable performance in demanding gaming or computing environments. Its fully modular design allows for tidy cable management, while the 92mm PWM cooling fan operates quietly, thanks to Zero RPM Mode. Weighing just 2.31 pounds and measuring 4.92 x 3.94 x 2.5 inches, it fits perfectly in tighter spaces. Plus, a seven-year warranty offers peace of mind for your investment.
Best For: Enthusiasts building high-performance small form factor PCs seeking a reliable and efficient power supply solution.
Pros:
- High Efficiency: 80 PLUS Platinum rating ensures optimal energy use and lower electricity bills.
- Compact Design: Small dimensions and lightweight make it ideal for tight spaces in small form factor builds.
- Quiet Operation: Features a low-noise 92mm PWM cooling fan with Zero RPM Mode for silent performance under low loads.
Cons:
- Price Point: May be more expensive compared to lower-rated power supplies.
- Limited Availability: Being a newer model, it may be harder to find in stock at all retailers.
- SFX Form Factor: Might require an SFX-to-ATX bracket for compatibility with larger cases, which may not be included in all setups.
SFX 500W Power Supply for Desktop Gaming Server
Designed specifically for gaming enthusiasts and server builders, the SFX 500W Power Supply delivers robust performance in a small form factor. With full range Active PFC, it offers impressive energy efficiency and power quality across 110-240V. You’ll appreciate its output specifications of +3.3V@16A, +5V@20A, and +12V@45A, guaranteeing stable power delivery. The power supply includes versatile connectors, from a 24-pin main power to multiple SATA and PATA options. Safety features like over-current and over-voltage protection keep your setup secure. Plus, the silent 80mm fan assures efficient cooling, backed by a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
Best For: Gaming enthusiasts and server builders looking for a compact yet powerful power supply solution.
Pros:
- High Efficiency: Active PFC technology enhances energy efficiency and reduces power losses.
- Versatile Connectors: Multiple connection options cater to various components, ensuring compatibility with different builds.
- Safety Features: Comprehensive protection mechanisms safeguard your system from electrical issues.
Cons:
- Limited Wattage: 500W may not be sufficient for high-end gaming rigs or power-hungry components.
- Size Constraints: SFX form factor may not fit in all cases, limiting installation options.
- Noise Level Under Load: While generally quiet, the 80mm fan may become noticeable under heavy load conditions.
SilverStone Technology 300W SFX Power Supply (ST30SF-V2)
When you need reliable power for your small form factor PC, the SilverStone Technology 300W SFX Power Supply (ST30SF-V2) stands out with its impressive 80 Plus Bronze efficiency rating. Offering 300W continuous output at 40℃, it guarantees your system runs smoothly even under heavy loads. You’ll appreciate the 82% efficiency at 20% loading and 85% at full capacity. The single +12V rail design enhances stability, while the silent 92mm fan keeps noise to a minimum. Plus, it supports both SFX and ATX setups with the included bracket, making it a versatile choice for your compact build.
Best For: Users looking for a reliable and efficient power supply for small form factor PCs.
Pros:
- 80 Plus Bronze efficiency ensures lower energy consumption and cost savings.
- 300W continuous power output provides stable performance for demanding applications.
- Versatile compatibility with SFX and ATX setups makes it suitable for various builds.
Cons:
- Limited wattage may not support high-end components in larger builds.
- Single +12V rail may pose challenges for certain multi-GPU configurations.
- 92mm fan may not provide enough cooling for overclocked systems.
SFX Power Supply 500W PSU for Mini-ITX/SFF/MATX PCs
If you’re looking to build a powerful yet space-efficient PC, the SFX Power Supply 500W PSU is an ideal choice for Mini-ITX, SFF, and MATX systems. With an 85% energy efficiency and a continuous output of 500W, it supports mid-range GPUs like the NVIDIA RTX 3060 and 4060. This non-modular power supply features a compact design, fitting snugly in popular cases like the Cooler Master NR200. The 90mm fan operates quietly, adjusting speed as needed, while built-in protections guarantee safety. Plus, you’ll enjoy a three-year warranty for peace of mind with your new setup.
Best For: This power supply is best for users building compact Mini-ITX or SFF PCs that require efficient and reliable power for mid-range graphics cards.
Pros:
- 85% energy efficiency ensures lower power consumption and cost savings.
- Compact SFX form factor is perfect for space-constrained builds, fitting in popular cases.
- Built-in safety protections safeguard against surges, overheating, and short circuits.
Cons:
- Non-modular design may lead to cable management challenges in tight spaces.
- Limited to 500W output, which may not be sufficient for high-end gaming rigs or future upgrades.
- Only a single +12V rail could limit support for multiple high-power components.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sfx Power Supplies for Small Form Factor PCs
When you’re choosing an SFX power supply for your small form factor PC, it’s essential to evaluate several key factors. You’ll need to assess your power capacity requirements, efficiency ratings, and how well the cables can be managed in tight spaces. Don’t forget to check compatibility with your components and the cooling solutions available to guarantee peak performance.
Power Capacity Requirements
Choosing the right power capacity for your SFX power supply is essential to guarantee your small form factor PC runs smoothly. Start by evaluating the total wattage needed for all components, like your CPU, GPU, and any peripherals. If you’re building a mid-range system, aim for at least 500W, while high-performance gaming rigs often require 850W or more. Additionally, verify the power supply offers sufficient amperage on the +12V rail to effectively power demanding graphics cards and processors. Don’t forget to check compatibility with the latest power specifications, such as ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0, to future-proof your build and support next-generation components. Proper power capacity keeps your system stable and efficient.
Efficiency Ratings Explained
Understanding efficiency ratings is essential for selecting the right SFX power supply for your small form factor PC. These ratings, like 80 Plus Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium, show how effectively a power supply converts AC power from the wall into usable DC power. Higher ratings mean less energy loss as heat. For instance, an 80 Plus Gold unit must achieve at least 87% efficiency at certain loads, which can lead to reduced electricity bills. Additionally, a more efficient power supply generates less heat, allowing for quieter cooling solutions and potentially extending component lifespan. Opting for a unit with a higher efficiency rating enhances stability and reliability, especially when powering demanding components like graphics cards and CPUs.
Cable Management Options
Effective cable management is essential for small form factor PCs, and selecting the right SFX power supply can make a significant difference. Opting for a fully modular power supply lets you connect only the cables you need, reducing clutter and improving airflow. Some manufacturers even offer customized cable lengths, which further minimizes excess cable and enhances organization. Look for power supplies with various connector options, including split-capable cables that adapt to your motherboard and GPU needs. Since SFX power supplies are compact, carefully managing cables is vital to avoid obstructing airflow and overheating. Utilizing cable ties or Velcro straps can help secure and organize cables, ensuring a clean build and easier access for future upgrades or maintenance.
Cooling Solutions Available
When you’re building a small form factor PC, considering the cooling solutions of SFX power supplies is vital for maintaining peak performance and longevity. Look for power supplies that feature fan designs like Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) or PWM-controlled fans. These help keep noise levels low while improving thermal performance. High-quality components, such as 105°C rated Japanese capacitors, enhance reliability and cooling efficiency. Integrated cooling technologies, like synchronous rectification and DC-to-DC conversion, help stabilize output voltage and reduce heat. Additionally, a well-designed airflow path is important; fully modular designs improve cable management, reducing clutter and boosting airflow. Finally, the size and placement of the cooling fan, typically around 92mm, balance noise levels and cooling capability.
Compatibility With Components
Cooling solutions play a key role in your small form factor PC, but ensuring compatibility with all components is just as important when selecting SFX power supplies. Start by checking the wattage; it should meet or exceed the total power requirements of your CPU, GPU, and peripherals to maintain stability. Next, verify your motherboard’s power connector needs, like the 20+4 pin and 8-pin (or split 4+4) for the CPU. Don’t forget to check for sufficient PCIe connectors for your graphics card, especially if it’s a high-end model requiring multiple 8-pin or 6+2 pin connections. Finally, consider the power supply’s dimensions and opt for modular or semi-modular designs for better cable management and airflow.
Warranty and Support Length
Considering warranty and support length can greatly impact your choice of SFX power supplies for small form factor PCs. Some brands offer warranties of up to 10 years, giving you peace of mind for long-term use. A longer warranty often signals greater confidence in the product’s durability and reliability—key factors for systems that may operate under constant load. Additionally, many SFX power supplies come with customer support services, which can be invaluable for troubleshooting during the warranty period. However, it’s crucial to review the warranty terms, as some may only cover specific issues or necessitate proof of proper installation. A robust warranty and support system can greatly enhance the overall value of your SFX power supply.
