Using a 1000 watt power supply can be an overkill for basic PC builds. However, if you’re building a high-end computer and want to choose a good quality PSU, then you’ve come to the right guide.
Ending up with a bad-quality PSU can cause system instability and hardware damage. I tried around 14 different 1000W PSUs for over 14 weeks and based on my experience with them, I’ve listed out the 8 best options one can consider.
Contents
- 8 Best 1000W Power Supplies of 2023
- 1. Best Overall: Super Flower Leadex
- 2. Best Runner-Up: Corsair HX1000i
- 3. Best for ATX Case: EVGA SuperNova 1000 G5
- 4. Best for Silent Operation: Be Quiet! Straight Power 11
- 5. Best for Gaming PCs: ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W
- 6. Best Mid-Range Pick: Thermaltake Toughpower GF3
- 7. Best Compact PSU: Seasonic Focus Plus 1000
- 8. Best Budget Option: ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Verdict
8 Best 1000W Power Supplies of 2023
Each PSU has been tested for over a week, across parameters like form factor, modularity, cooling, and more. Rest assured, you’ll have enough choices (premium, mid-range, and affordable) to meet your requirements and budget.
1. Best Overall: Super Flower Leadex
Super Flower Leadex is easily the best-in-class 1000W PSU, courtesy of the highest possible efficiency and a fully modular layout for efficient cable management.
During my tests, I also compared it with the beefier 1300W unit with a Gold efficiency rating from the same brand, only to find that the 1000W variant performed better in terms of efficiency, in turn, better power conversion.
Performance
First of all, this 1000-watt power supply boasts one of the lowest noise ratios around. Therefore, if you are a professional gamer or anyone who can’t handle noise, this one is the perfect option.
The 140mm temperature-controlled fan is based on the FDB technology which is why it’s operational quietness is next level. I couldn’t hear bit of a noise during my tests, even when put under highest stress. The +12V rail delivers stable voltage, ensuring that every component gets uninterrupted power.
As far as the connector is concerned, there are quite a few options to pick. For instance, the 20+4 ATX connector is meant for seamlessly connecting the PSU with the motherboard, whereas the (4+4) pin arrangement helps connect the CPU.
Despite being a new-gen PSU, the Molex connector for older hard drives and legacy components is a cute little addition. This PSU offers OVP, OCP, UVP, and other forms of protection features. Also, there are high-end Japanese capacitors present, a reason that allows it to be this efficient.
Design & Warranty
The $300+ Super Flower Leadex features a sleek yet durable metallic layout, with the back and front panels offering the highest possible level of ventilation.
And I already mentioned how the modularity quotient helps with cable management. As for the aesthetics, the black layout adds to the overall minimalism.
Another impactful feature is the availability of 6+2 Pin PCIe connectors, meant for connecting and adding GPUs. Plus, you get ten years’ worth of warranty on this one, albeit with limited coverage. Yet, most manufacturing issues are covered.
Conclusion
If you are looking for the best energy-efficient power supply with 1000W capacity, Super Flower Leadex would be my go-to recommendation. Its wide range of connectors and high-efficiency levels takes it to the top spot on my list.
Pros
- Low noise PSU
- Highest possible efficiency
- 10-year warranty
- Includes legacy connectors
Cons
- Pricey
2. Best Runner-Up: Corsair HX1000i
- Fully Modular Cabling: Connect only the cables your system needs, making clean and tidy builds easy.
- Triple EPS12V Connectors: For full compatibility with modern motherboards.
- 140mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) Fan: Delivers extremely quiet and long-lasting fan performance.
- Powerful CORSAIR iCUE Software: Create custom fan curves, monitor power settings, and toggle between single to multi-rail overcurrent protection (OCP) on-the-fly.
- Zero RPM Fan Mode: At low and medium loads the cooling fan switches off entirely for near-silent operation.
Corsair HX1000i is yet another powerful PSU that has a 1000W capacity. This unit offers a Platinum power efficiency rating and seems like a decent upgrade over the older HX1000, courtesy of a feature-packed digital interface and monitoring system.
Performance
Like most premium PSUs, the Corsair HX1000i also comes with a low noise profile, all thanks to the Zero RPM fan mode. The 140mm FDB fan ensures that there is hardly any noise at low to medium load levels.
Even at a higher load, the noise levels are just modest. This PSU comes loaded with Japanese capacitors, which further lower the ripple noise and help the device achieve efficiency levels of almost 94%.
On top of that, there is the +12V powering rail — a feature that ensures steady throughput across the entire rig.
Design & Warranty
If you are in the market for an aesthetic PSU, the Corsair HX1000i might not be the one. Instead, at almost 4.5 pounds, it relies more on the robustness of its design.
The metallic case comes in black and comprises heat-dissipating vents in the front and back. The design is completely modular, allowing you to place connectors and cables per the in-case aesthetics.
The 10-year limited warranty covers most issues and allows you to keep using the Corsair HX1000i for a long time. As far as the connectors are concerned, the 20+4 ATX and three EPS12V connectors make it easier for the PSU to connect with any motherboard and processor.
Plus, there are six 6+2pin PCIe connectors, allowing you to set up multi-GPU rigs. There are SATA, Molex, and even Floppy connectors present to help you set up legacy rigs if needed.
Conclusion
If you are a professional gamer or a high-level content creator, the Corsair HX1000i is my runner-up pick. And while it boasts a wide range of traits, it is the digital interface and the modular layout that help it appear on this highly coveted list.
Pros
- High-efficiency rating
- Zero RPM mode for noise-free operation
- Powerful single rail voltage transmission mode
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons
- A bit bulky
- Pricey
3. Best for ATX Case: EVGA SuperNova 1000 G5
- 80 plus Gold certified, with 91% efficiency or higher under typical loads
- Fully modular to reduce clutter and improve airflow. AC Input - 100 - 240 VAC, 15-8A, 50/60 Hz
- 100% Japanese capacitors, active clamp DC to -DC converter design to improve 3.3V./ 5V. Stability
- Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan and EVGA eco mode for ultra-quiet operation and increased lifespan
- 10 year limited Warranty and unparalleled EVGA Customer Support
SuperNova 1000 G5 is my top pick when it comes to 80 Plus Gold-rated PSUs. I even compared it against the G3 — the predecessor — and identified the G5 to be better in terms of noise handling and cooling.
Performance
At its core is the 135mm FDB fan boasting the ECO mode. This operational feature ensures that the fan doesn’t even start under low to medium load conditions, keeping the noise levels minimum.
The ATX form factor means that the EVGA SuperNova 1000 G5 can fit seamlessly into almost every type of PC case.
The +12V rail for voltage transmission works perfectly, much like the Super Flower and Corsair variants. Adding to this stable transmission are the top-notch Japanese capacitors, boasting lower ripple noise and better efficiency, all thanks to the 80+ Gold rating.
Design & Warranty
The SuperNova 1000 G5 weighs close to 7 pounds, making it one of the heaviest 1000W PSUs around. The rear panel has all the connector ports, including one 20+4 ATX pin, two eight pins, six 6+2pin PCIe, and more.
Plus, there are adequate ventilation-supporting and heat-dissipating vents around, making it one of the better PSUs for your ATX case.
Most of the PSUs on the list offer 10 years of warranties. However, when it comes to actual coverage and warranty handling, nothing beats the EVGA. They cover almost every kind of manufacturing issue.
Conclusion
As a content creator who wants to focus more on storage, the SuperNova 1000 G5 seems like the best PSU for the ATX form factor. It is the 12 SATA connector arrangement that makes it a storage-focused PSU. And it is the reputation and the 10-year no-hassle warranty that makes it a standout performer.
Pros
- Eco mode for silent operation
- Fully modular
- High-end capacitors to keep ripple noise to a minimum
Cons
- Larger than some of the immediate competitors
- The efficiency could have been better for the $220 price point
4. Best for Silent Operation: Be Quiet! Straight Power 11
- 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency (up to 94.1%)
- Virtually inaudible Silent Wings 3 135mm fan
- Funnel-shaped fan opening of the PSU case for high airflow intake
- Wire-free inside the PSU on the DC side for enhanced cooling and longevity
- Modular cables for maximum build flexibility
It can be a tad tricky to pick a 1000 watt PSU that operates quietly. However, the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 changes that, courtesy of the Silent Wings fan. What works even better is the fully modular layout, allowing you to handle cables and in-case aesthetics with ease.
I even compared it with the Corsair HX1000i, another noise-less option on the list, only to find the Be Quiet! performs better under higher loads.
Hardware Performance
I cannot stress enough the noise-less tech in play, led by the 135mm Silent Wings 3 fan. The fan setup comes equipped with fluid dynamic bearings and even a 6-pole motor, allowing you to keep noise and even vibrations off-limits under medium to high load conditions.
The ATX PSU features a +12V voltage rail, ensuring that each connected component receives the right amount of power. There are high-end Japanese capacitors in play, helping you minimize ripple noise. Also, the 80+ Platinum efficiency rating helps achieve a 94% efficiency with ease.
Design & Warranty
The metallic casing is sleek and durable. It weighs close to 8.8 pounds and boats sizable rear-facing heat-dissipating vents.
As for the rear-facing connector (s), you get access to one 20+4 Pin ATX motherboard supply followed by 4 EPS12V, 6 PCIe, four Molex, and 11 SATA units. You get hold of a 5-year limited warranty, which seems good enough if you upgrade frequently.
Conclusion
If you are into high-end and immersive gaming or even sound editing, Be Quiet! BN644 Power 11 is the perfect quiet PSU for you.
And while it is ideal for gaming rigs, I specifically like the ability to fit in over 10 SATA components, making it another storage-focused PSU on the list.
Pros
- Silent Wings 3 fan
- High-quality components
- Modular layout
- Competitive Pricing
Cons
- On the higher side
- The warranty period could have been higher
5. Best for Gaming PCs: ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W
- ROG heatsinks cover critical components. Lower temps result in a longer lifespan and reduced noise
- Axial-tech fan design features a smaller fan hub that facilitates longer blades and a barrier ring that increases downward air pressure
- Dual ball fan bearings can last up to twice as long as sleeve bearing designs
- 0dB Technology lets you enjoy light gaming in relative silence
- An 80 Plus Gold Certification is the result of Japanese capacitors and other premium components
A good PSU for gaming might be a bit tricky to search for unless you already have the ASUS ROG STRIX by your side. This power supply boasts an advanced cooling setup, allowing you to keep any kind of temperature surge in check.
And even though it is as efficient as the EVGA SuperNova G5, it comes out on top courtesy of the gamer-focussed traits and better modularity.
Performance
What stands out in the ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W is the ultra-intuitive fan design, led by the axial-tech layout.
The fan comes with a smaller hub, features a barrier ring, and offers an optimized device cooling performance courtesy of the longer blades and the enhanced air pressure heading downwards.
Also, there are dual ball bearings in place that contribute towards a longer PSU lifespan. That’s not it.
The PSU also boasts the 0dB technology, which keeps the noise levels down whilst offering excellent cooling support. There are high-end Japanese capacitors that help minimize the ripple noise and keep the efficiency at optimal levels.
Design & Warranty
Despite being a beefed-up PSU, it weighs close to 4.20 pounds, features a minimal metallic design, and ROG heatsinks for increasing heat dissipation further.
The ATX form factor ensures that the ASUS ROG 1000W fits into almost any PC case, whereas the fully modular layout is good news for aesthetic cable management.
As for the connectors, there are six PCIe units in place, allowing you to prepare multi-GPU rigs. There are 10 SATA units playing, making it a storage-intensive yet minimal PSU. Finally, the 10-year limited warranty is a cool addition, helping you scale beyond most manufacturing issues.
Conclusion
If you are a high-performance gamer who is concerned about overheating, the ASUS ROG STRIX 1000W is the best possible option in play. And while the PSU possesses several potent traits, the top-of-the-line 0dB fan is what makes it appear on the list.
Pros
- Advanced cooling with heatsinks in play
- Dual ball bearings
- Cables are fully modular and can be set accordingly
- It can be customized at will
Cons
- The efficiency rating could have been higher for the price
6. Best Mid-Range Pick: Thermaltake Toughpower GF3
- Fully Compatible With Intel PSDG ATX 3.0 Specifications
- PCIe Gen 5.0 Ready
- 100% High Quality Japanese 105°C/221°F Capacitors
- Fully Modular Low-Profile Flat Cable
- Ultra Quiet Smart Zero Fan
Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 at $180 is easily one of the better 1000W power supply units in plain sight.
I loved it for the excellent performance-to-flexibility ratio, where the focus is on adding a wide range of components without quality compromises.
I even compared it with the more affordable Gigabyte PG5 power supply but found the cooling performance and connector variety on the Thermaltake GF3 to be better.
Hardware Performance
As far as the hardware performance is concerned, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 boasts an 80+ Gold efficiency rating. This way, it is capable of covering almost 92% of the input power into the component-usable variant.
Next in line is the 135mm fan featuring the fluid dynamic bearing technology for keeping the noise levels on the lower side, at low to medium loads. Also, there is the Smart Zero operational mode play, best known for its ultra-quiet support.
The high-end Japanese capacitors ensure optimal performance, all while keeping longevity on the higher side. The +12v single rail keeps the ripple noise to a minimum.
Design & Warranty
Surprisingly, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the lighter PSUs around. Also, it is fully modular and boasts the ATX form factor, allowing you to work with most PC cases with ease.
The rear panel boasts heat-dissipating vents and a wide range of PCIe, SATA, and Molex connectors to work with multiple GPUs, legacy components, and a wide range of storage modules.
Another interesting thing about the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 is the presence of PCIe 5.0 support, making it good enough for the latest breed of GPUs.
Any new PCIe graphics card can get 600W worth of power at once with this GPU. Also, you get the standard 10 years’ worth of warranty to handle most manufacturing quips with ease.
Conclusion
If you are in the market for a high-capacity yet affordable PSU, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 is the one to get. And yes, its compatibility with the PCIe 5.0 GPUs makes it one of the more sought-after options in 2023.
Pros
- Decent operational efficiency
- Zero noise fan mode
- Fully modular layout
- Supports a wide range of connectors, including the legacy components
Cons
- The price could have been lower for 80+ Gold efficiency
- Claiming the warranty can be a bit of a hassle
7. Best Compact PSU: Seasonic Focus Plus 1000
- COMPACT SIZE - 140 MM DEEP; High power output to size ratio.
- FULL MODULAR; use only the cables you need to reduce clutter and improve airflow for a better ventilated system.
- 80 PLUS GOLD; 87% efficient at 20% load, 90% efficient at 50% load, and 87% efficient at 100% load.
- HYBRID SILENT FAN CONTROL; The industry's first, Seasonic patented, advanced three-phased thermal control achieves optimal between silence and cooling. This Hybrid Silent Fan Control functions in three operational stages: Fanless Mode, Silent Mode, and Cooling Mode.
- 10 YEAR WARRANTY; Our commitment to superior quality.
Seasonic Focus Plus 1000 is arguably the most compact option on the list. It is a structural depth of 140mm, making it fit enough for most smaller PC cases.
Also, I compared it with the 850W variant from the same company and identified the 1000W to be more equipped to handle high-end GPUs like the RTX 3080 or even RTX 4090, for that matter.
Hardware Performance
This 1000W PSU boasts an 80+ Gold rating, which translates to an 87% efficiency at 20% and 100% load levels.
The PSU come equipped with a 120mm FDB fan, capable of achieving optimal cooling performances and the lowest possible noise levels at low to medium load. What stands out is Seasonic’s in-house “Hybrid Silent Fan Control”.
This innovative fan-specific technology allows you to strike the perfect balance between cooling and silence. You can even choose between the cooling, fanless, and silent modes based on your requirements and preferences.
Design & Warranty
Design-wise, this is probably the lightest and most compact PSU on the list at 3.53 pounds. As it is a fully modular power supply, you can use it with a wide range of cases, with excellent cable management possibilities built-in.
Connector-wise, there are multiple PCIe slots for setting up multi-GPU rigs, followed by SATA and Molex connectors for legacy components. Also, Seasonic offers ten years of warranty, which is top-notch for a 1000W PSU.
Conclusion
Overall, if you have plans of getting a 1000W PSU that fits into smaller PC cases, making space for other components, the Seasonic Focus Plus 1000 is the best buy.
Pros
- Aesthetic and compact form factor
- Hybrid fan control mechanism
- Decent low and high-load efficiency
- A wide range of legacy connectors
Cons
- The price could have been lower
8. Best Budget Option: ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201
- 80 PLUS Gold Certified achieve remarkable energy efficiency
- APFC+LLC+DC-DC structure provides very stable voltage output
- Fully modular cables keep your rig neat and tidy
- Compact Design: small size with large capacity
- Heavy-duty protections, including OVP/UVP/OPP/SCP/OCP
For under $150, there isn’t a better gaming PSU in the market than the ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201. It is also one of the more compact units, at around 140mm, making it suitable for smaller ATX cases.
I compared it with the Cooler Master MWE Gold, which is more like a contemporary but is hardly as compact and aesthetic as the ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201.
Hardware Performance
At the core of the PSU is a 120mm FDB fan, boasting intelligent cooling support and excellent heat dissipation. As the PSU is 80+ Gold efficient in terms of rating, you can expect a 90% efficiency at medium load levels.
The noise levels, regardless of the load, are way lower than even some of the more premium units around.
Design & Warranty
The ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201 is as compact as the Seasonic variant I reviewed earlier. Also, the SECC black casing, followed by a decent number of rear-facing connectors — ATX, SATA, PCIe, Molex, and the EPS12V — make this 6.74-pound PSU worth considering.
And yes, there is a 10-year warranty on this PSU, allowing you to handle most manufacturing issues like a pro.
Conclusion
For budget gamers, the ARESGAME AGT HU-XI-201 fits the bill perfectly. But that’s not why it makes it on the list. It is the compact layout followed by an innovative fan that allows you to use this 1000W PSU to its fullest.
Pros
- Competitive Pricing
- Modular design
- Compact layout
- FDB fan that is virtually noiseless
Cons
- Fewer connectors
- On the heavier side, despite the compact form factor
And that sums up our individual reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a 1000W worth of power supply is good enough for most tasks, including productivity-focused work, gaming, video editing, and more. It works even if you plan on setting up those demanding, multi-GPU rigs.
If you are only planning to get it for office work or media consumption, a 1000W is overkill. However, for setups with top-of-the-line CPUs and GPUs, 1000W is more like a bare minimum.
A 1000W power supply can run multiple GPUs, powerful CPIs, rigs with multiple hard drives and peripherals, and a lot more. And if you have plans of upgrading your PC in the future, I would suggest going for a 1000W unit.
Both 1000W and 2000W PSUs have their purpose. While a 1000W PSU can take care of most resource-intensive tasks with ease, a 2000W is generally unnecessary and can only make sense if you plan on setting up server computers or professional setups to handling gaming, 3D modeling, and other tasks simultaneously.
Verdict
While the detailed PSU reviews should have helped you find an ideal pick, I understand that you might still be confused. Let me help you make a wise decision:
- If you have no issues spending big, all while focussing on performance and PSU efficiency, the Super Flower Leader is an obvious pick.
- In case you have your eyes on a demanding setup where power efficiency takes center stage, the Corsair HX1000i is the right one to pick.
- Finally, if you are in the market for a near-silent PSU that can be useful to you as a gamer, the Be Quiet! Straight Power 11 is what you need.
I hope these suggestions were helpful. If you have got any queries, feel free to ask in the comments below. With that said, it’s a wrap!
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