Products at a Glance
How do we pick the best PSU for RTX 3080
Selecting the ideal PSU goes beyond merely matching the wattage requirements. First and foremost, we account for the reliability and reputation of the PSU brand and model. Given that the PSU is a critical component safeguarding every other part in your PC, it’s imperative to choose from brands with a track record of dependability and longevity. Next, we scrutinize the efficiency rating.
Moreover, the nature of GPU tasks, especially in extended gaming or rendering sessions, means the PSU must consistently deliver power without overheating. Therefore, thermal performance, fan curves, and the quality of capacitors play a pivotal role in our assessment.
If you’re looking for more PSU recommendations, then head over to our best power supply for gaming guide. As well as, our 5 best power supplies in 2023 article.
Product Reviews
- Highly efficient 80 PLUS Gold rating
- Zero RPM fan mode for silent operation
- Ten-year warranty for peace of mind
- A tad pricier than some rivals
- Some users might prefer RGB fan options
If you’re on the lookout for a power supply that’s trusted by enthusiasts worldwide, the Corsair RM850x should be on your radar. This PSU boasts an 80 PLUS Gold rating, ensuring up to 90% efficiency under typical loads. It’s fully modular, which means cable management will be a breeze, and you’ll only use the cables you need, maintaining a tidy build.
For those diving deep into intensive gaming or content creation tasks, the RM850x stands out with its low noise operation, courtesy of its zero RPM fan mode. So, when the demand isn’t too high, this PSU keeps things hush-hush. And when it comes to longevity, Corsair’s ten-year warranty is like a comforting pat on the back, ensuring you’re covered for a good long while.
- 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency
- Integrated OLED wattage display
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Premium price for the design
- Might be a tad flashy for minimalist builds
- RGB software can be finicky at times
Stepping into the realm of design flair combined with stellar performance, the Asus ROG Thor 850W is something to behold. This PSU doesn’t just satisfy your power requirements; it does it with style. An 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency rating speaks volumes about its ability to deliver power consistently while keeping waste to a minimum.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the flashy centerpiece? The ROG Thor comes with an integrated OLED panel displaying real-time wattage, a feature that’s bound to get the tech enthusiasts among you all giddy. And then there’s the customizable RGB lighting that complements almost any build.
If you’re into aesthetics as much as performance, you’re going to love this. But remember, the ROG Thor isn’t just about the visuals. Its performance, backed by a decade-long warranty, ensures you’re not just paying for the lights.
- Reliable brand reputation
- Fully modular design for clean builds
- Compact form factor
- Only 750W, might be limiting for future upgrades
- No RGB
In the PSU landscape, Seasonic has made a name for itself by consistently churning out high-quality units, and the Focus Plus 750 Gold is no exception. This power supply boasts an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating, promising less waste and more of your power going where it’s needed.
The fact that it’s fully modular makes it a dream for those who have a keen eye for cable management, ensuring you only plug in the essentials and maintain a clean aesthetic.
Stepping away from just the technicalities, the Focus Plus has a compact form factor, which is perfect for those tight builds or cases that don’t offer a lot of wiggle room. But don’t let the compact size fool you; this PSU comes with a strong cooling system, featuring a fan that operates silently under typical load but can ramp up when necessary.
- Gold efficiency on a budget
- Fully modular setup
- Versatile connector range
- Some sacrifices in build quality
When you’re gunning for the RTX 3080 but are keeping a watchful eye on your wallet, the Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 steps up as an enticing option. As its name suggests, it still brings to the table an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating, ensuring your rig gets the juice it needs without squandering energy.
Beyond the specs sheet, the MWE Gold offers a fairly straightforward experience for builders. A wide range of connectors ensures compatibility with a variety of components, though, as mentioned, some setups might need to double up on power cables for the GPU. Nevertheless, the freedom of full modularity means your rig can look as clean and organized as pricier alternatives.
In essence, the Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 proves that a tight budget doesn’t mean settling for less. However, remember every budget option comes with its considerations.
Features and considerations
A power supply unit, while seemingly a straightforward component, possesses various attributes demanding attention. Beyond mere wattage, the PSU’s efficiency, often denoted by its 80 PLUS rating, signifies how effectively it converts power from the wall outlet to your system, with Platinum and Titanium being the top tiers.
For a GPU as powerful as the RTX 3080, a higher efficiency PSU can be advantageous, not only for power consumption but also for ensuring stable performance.
Furthermore, consider the PSU’s modular nature. Fully modular PSUs provide the advantage of connecting only the necessary cables, leading to a cleaner setup and potentially better airflow inside the chassis. Chek out some other options for the best PSUs for RTX 3080 too.
Should I get a 1000W PSU for 3080?
1000W is too much for an RTX 3080. Nvidia recommends a 750W PSU for the founder’s edition. If you want to be on the safe side, especially considering other system components and potential future upgrades, an 850W unit is ample.
Is 750W enough for RTX 3080?
Yes, 750W is what Nvidia recommends for this GPU. However, if you’re looking to ensure optimal power, especially when considering partner GPUs and overclocking endeavors, stepping up to an 850W unit would be a prudent decision.
Our Verdict
Choosing the right PSU is a crucial step in building a stable and efficient gaming rig, especially when you’re integrating a powerful component like the RTX 3080. The PSUs we’ve highlighted above range from top-tier brands offering maximum efficiency and reliability, to budget-friendly options that don’t skimp on essential features.
Remember, investing in a quality PSU ensures that every other component in your system receives stable power, prolonging the lifespan of your entire setup. It’s not just about meeting the minimum requirements but ensuring that your system has a consistent and reliable power source to support all its operations.