PSU Tier List 2024: Which one is right for your build?

When building a computer, the power supply unit is one of the essential parts to consider (PSU). It gives power to everything else in the system, so choosing a high-quality unit to meet your power needs and keep your system running well is essential. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to make the right choice. Several organisations have created PSU Tier List to help users make informed decisions when selecting a power supply. These lists rank power supplies based on their quality, efficiency, and reliability, allowing users to create a more informed decision when selecting a power supply.

One way to make choosing a power supply for a PC easier is to know what the different PSUs offer. Our PSU tier system groups by how well they work, their features, and how much they cost, so it’s important to know what you want before you buy.

To save time and stay safe from all issues caused by power supplies, you should get PSU from a high-end Tier A list. But a Tier B, mid-range PSU is an excellent choice if you want a high-quality PSU but don’t want to spend as much. The perfect combination of CPU and GPU is also mandatory with the right PSU. To help you with your decision, we have built a bottleneck calculator. Now that you’ve chosen the right CPU and GPU, you can use the SSD Tier List to select the right SSD for your build.

Best Power Supplies

If you want to keep it short and don’t have time to spend on a massive PSU catalog, get one of the following Power Supplies for your build from different PSU tiers. These are hand-picked and the best in their respective tiers.

TW Recommendation from Tier A:

• Corsair AXi Series, AX1600i, 1600 Watt – $662 – Get it from Amazon
• be quiet! Dark Power Pro 13 1300W -$419 – Get it from Amazon
• Multirail: be quiet! BN310 1200W Straight Power 11 $329 – Get it from Amazon
• Single rail: Corsair RMx Series (2021) 850 Watt – $149 – Get it from Amazon

TW Recommendation from Tier B:

• Cooler Master MWE 750 Bronze V2 750W – $143 – Get it from Amazon
• Corsair SF Series, SF750, 750 Watt – $173 – Get it from Amazon
• ASUS TUF GAMING 750W Bronze PSU – $148 – Get it from Amazon

Now moving on to complete Tiers of PSUs, Let’s first look at the A Tier List – the most expensive but reliable. These are the best because they have the best performance and features. This tier has switchable multi-rail/single-rail, multi-rail, and single-rail PSUs. Tier A brands include Be Quiet!, Cooler Master, Corsair, and many others.

Tier A ATX 3.0 compatible

These power supply units (PSUs) are the best of the best, offering excellent efficiency, strong stability, and high wattage outputs. They are ideal for powering overclocking setups and handling heavy workloads, equipped with top-notch components, advanced heat management, and reliable voltage regulation. Their ATX 3.0 compatibility ensures they are ready for future hardware advancements. However, their premium performance comes with a higher price tag.

Tier A – High-end (multi/single-rail switchable)

Switchable multi/single-rail PSUs let you use more than one 12V rail or just one. If you want more control over how power flows through your system, this feature can help. On the other hand, multi-rail PSUs have more than one 12V rail, which protects against overloading. Single-rail power supplies only have one 12V rail, which makes them more efficient and easier to work with.

If you want the best and are willing to spend a little more, you should get a PSU from Tier A List; these are high-end power supplies. These units have the best performance and quality parts, perfect for high-end gaming systems and workstations.

Choosing Between Multi-Rail and Single-Rail: It’s All About Preference

Top-tier manufacturers often include a switchable multi single-rail feature. But what does that mean? Think of your computer’s power distribution as roads carrying electricity to different parts of your PC. A multi-rail system has separate lanes for different parts, while a single-rail system uses one large road.

Tier A – High-end (multi-rail)

Benefits: It provides better protection against overloading for each component.
Drawbacks: It can be harder to set up and might not give full power based on the capacities of each rail.

Tier A – High-end (single-rail)

Benefits: It’s easier to set up and makes the most of the available power for components like graphics processing units (GPUs).
Drawbacks: It offers less control over power distribution and has a higher chance of overloading the single rail.

Tier A – High-end (low priority units)

Hold on, there’s a catch… The label Low Priority introduces an unexpected complication. While these units are undoubtedly potent, they may not be the ideal match for everyone. Here’s why:

• High Price Point: Brace yourself for a significant expense. Tier A PSUs carry a heftier price tag compared to their lower-tier counterparts.
• Excessive for Common Use: Unless you’re really pushing the envelope with your system demands, such high-powered units could be overkill for everyday tasks and light gaming.
• Potential Compatibility Problems: Some older motherboards or less power-hungry systems may not fully harness the capabilities of these PSUs, resulting in unexploited potential.

So, who might find a Tier A – High-End (Low Priority) PSU beneficial?

• Overclocking Enthusiasts and Power Users: If you’re always chasing the cutting edge and wringing out every bit of performance from your hardware, these PSUs are your friends.
• Future-Proofing Aficionados: By keeping up with the latest standards like ATX 3.0, you can ensure your PSU won’t hinder future upgrades.
• Noise-Averse Users: Some top-tier PSUs shine in their ability to operate quietly, making them ideal for environments where noise is a concern.

Tier-B – Mid-range

Dubbed as a great blend of cost-effectiveness and performance, Tier B power supply units (PSUs) stand out as the ideal choice for most mainstream computer builds. These PSUs are designed to deliver solid and stable power, ensuring your computer runs smoothly even during intensive tasks.

One key benefit of Tier B PSUs is their noteworthy efficiency. They consistently output enough electricity to keep everything running, while also minimizing wasted power. This can make a significant difference in your utility bill over time.

Security is another important aspect covered by these mid-range PSUs. Adequate protective measures are in place, such as Over Power Protection (OPP), which prevent damage from anomalies like power surges or sudden voltage changes – crucial for everyday tasks and moderate gaming needs.

While some models in this tier tout ATX 3.0 compatibility – a feature that allows better energy efficiency – it’s not a standard offering across all products in this category. It’s always wise to verify this before making your purchase if ATX 3.0 compatibility is essential for your build’s requirements.

The Tier B category features respectable brands such as 1st Player, Abkoncore, Cooler Master, Corsair, and Cougar. These brands have carved a niche for themselves in the market and are appreciated by consumers for their reliable performance.

Tier C – Low-end

If you’re working with limited financial resources, Tier C power supply units (PSUs) could be a practical solution for simple tasks and occasional gaming. However, bear in mind the old adage: value comes at a cost. These PSUs typically offer reduced efficiency, minimal protection features, and may run louder than their pricier counterparts. The likelihood of finding a unit compatible with ATX 3.0 standards in this tier is slim, so it’s important to manage your expectations accordingly.

What are the main differences between Tier A, B, and C PSUs?

Tier A: The Apex of Power

Tier A represents the crème de la crème. These PSUs are constructed with top-tier components such as Japanese capacitors, MOSFETs, and transformers, which all contribute to their superior build quality. The result?

1. Stellar Efficiency: Energy waste is significantly reduced leading to cooler operation.
2. Unmatched Stability: They provide consistent power even under high-demand workloads.
3. Whisper-Quiet Operation: Their high-quality components create minimal noise.
4. High Power Capacity: Often exceeding 1000W, they’re perfect for PCs that require a lot of power like those with overclocked CPUs and multiple GPUs.
5. Advanced Features: Expect modular cables for neat case interiors, digital monitoring, and even individually sleeved cables for aesthetic appeal.

However, this level of performance comes with a higher price tag.

Tier B: The Ideal Balance

If you’re looking for a balance between performance and value, Tier B PSUs are your best bet. They may not be as luxurious as Tier A but they still offer reliable operation thanks to their high-quality components.

1. Adequate Wattage: Ranging from 550W to 850W — suitable for most mid-range and some high-end gaming PCs.
2. Decent Feature Set: They often come with modular cables and basic monitoring options.

All these factors make Tier B PSUs a popular choice among users due to their blend of performance, features, and affordability.

Tier C: The Economical Choice

For those on a budget who don’t require cutting-edge technology in their PSUs, there’s Tier C. These units prioritize cost-effectiveness over advanced features.

1. Lower-Quality Components: May use less efficient parts and simpler designs.
2. Limited Wattage Range: Usually between 450W-550W — ideal for basic office PCs or low-tier gaming setups.
3. Minimal Features: They often lack modular cables and advanced monitoring options.

While Tier C PSUs are the most affordable, bear in mind that they may have lower efficiency and stability.

Should I choose a multi/single-rail switchable, multi-rail, or single-rail PSU?

A switchable multi/single-rail PSU lets you choose between using more than one 12V rail or just one. If you want more control over how power flows through your system, this feature can help. Comparatively, multi-rail PSUs have more than one 12V rail; as a result, it protects against overloading. Single-rail power supplies only have one 12V rail, which makes them more efficient and easier to work with.

You should always choose a switchable multi/single-rail PSU because it allows you to choose between multiple and single rails, depending on your needs. That’s why It also gives you more protection against overloading. But it’s important to note that single-rail PSUs are also a good choice for distributing power in a simple and easy way—ultimately, choosing which of these options will depend on your needs and preferences.

How do I know if a PSU fits my system’s power requirements correctly?

The first step in determining which PSU is best for your system is determining how much power it needs. You can do this by using a power supply calculator online or by adding up how much power each part of your system needs. Once you have a rough idea of how much power your system needs, you can compare that to how much power the PSU you are considering putting out.

Another important thing to think about is the PSU’s efficiency rating. The PSU is better at turning AC power into DC power if it has a higher efficiency rating. This can help you save money on energy costs and keep your system running cooler.

You should think about how many connectors and cables the PSU has. Ensure the PSU has enough connectors to support all the parts in your system and that the cables are the right length.

What’s a good rating for a PSU?

Most mid-range to high-range systems today will be rocking an 80 Plus Gold-rated power supply, as they are incredibly reliable and relatively low cost. These PSUs might even be more popular than Bronze-rated ones! So, consider going for a Gold-rated PSU to keep your system running smoothly.

Is there such a thing as a truly rated PSU?

Well, that’s a tricky one. While certifications like 80 Plus attest to a PSU meeting certain requirements, there’s no absolute proof that a PSU is accurately rated. So, in short, the answer is no.

I think it’s always best to go for a bit more expensive and high-end PSUs (if you have the budget) because they work better and have more features. They also last longer, which saves you money in the long run. Also, they have better safety features, which are very important to protect your other expensive parts.