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Are you looking for the best-suited power supply to pair with your RTX 4090 GPU? Whether you indulge in productivity-centric or performance-centric tasks, you’ll need an efficient and capable PSU.
There are a lot of factors to consider when picking a PSU. These include design, power rating, Motherboard-GPU compatibility, power delivery, efficiency, etc. And yes, you must also look at a few other traits that a PSU for RTX 4090 should have:
Trait | Recommended Range |
---|---|
Capacity (Wattage) | 850W - 1000W+ |
Efficiency Rating | 80+ Gold or higher |
Modularity | Fully Modular |
Form Factor | ATX |
Connector Types | ATX, EPS, PCIe, SATA, Molex |
Contents
- 8 Best PSUs for RTX 4090 in 2023
- 1. Best Overall: Corsair AX1600i
- 2. Best Runner-Up: Gamemax 1300W
- 3. Best Platinum PSU: EVGA Supernova 1000 P5
- 4. Best Gold PSU: Thermaltake Toughpower GF3
- 5. Best with Long Warranty: Seasonic Prime GX-850
- 6. Most Silent PSU: Be Quiet! Straight Power 11
- 7. Best Value: Silverstone Technology Strider 850
- 8. Cheap Yet Good: ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Verdict
8 Best PSUs for RTX 4090 in 2023
While a high-capacity PSU with good efficiency, design, and modularity can address most concerns, finding an ideal match can still be daunting.
This is when I took 16 PSUs that work with RTX 4090 and tested each with my Intel i9 13-series processor, 32GB DDR4 RAM-based build for over four weeks. After extensive tests and evaluations, I’ve shortlisted 8 power supplies that perfectly balance the price, features, and performance.
So let us dive right into their reviews.
1. Best Overall: Corsair AX1600i
- Capacity: 1600W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Titanium
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX
- Connector Type: ATX
If you seek a top-of-the-line power supply unit for your RTX 4090, Corsair AX1600i is the one to pick. And while the specifications and design enhancements are reasons enough to consider this, it is the 80+ Titanium rating that stands out, making the PC you use highly power-efficient.
Other bankable traits include exceptional cable management support, followed by the ability to work closely with Corsair’s iCUE program for additional control.
I even compared the AX1600i to the AX1500i, only to find the new variant offer better efficiency and power.
Hardware Performance
The Corsair AX1600i boasts the much-anticipated ‘Zero RPM’ fan mode — a feature that keeps the noise ratio to a minimum.
For the unversed, this enhancement lets you use this PSU in the quietest gaming zones, as there is hardly any noise at medium to low loads. Cooling the PSU is the FDB fan, featuring a patented technology and excellent heat-dissipation.
Even though this PSU boasts the ATX form factor, its wide array of connecting options allows you to use it with a wide range of cases. If you are into specifics, this PSU supports SATA, PCIe, EPS, ATX, and other connectors.
What makes it ideal for RTX 4090 is the excellent power capacity and support for multiple PCIe connectors, which could then ensure that the PSU supplies power to almost every component around.
A lot of credit also goes to the GaN (Gallium Nitride) transistors, which ensure that most of the power is converted and only a little is wasted. As the RTX 4090 requires a lot of power, AX1600i’s 94% efficiency and Japanese capacitors make it the best in class.
Design and Warranty
The 80+ Titanium efficiency metric works wonderfully when it comes to using the PSU with high-power components like the RTX 4090 graphics processing unit.
However, the compact and sleek design also has a role to play in this. Colored all black, this PSU features honeycomb vents for improved heat dissipation, something that increases efficiency.
The cables are fully modular and can be managed per the space constraints of the case. Also, the cables come in black and are flattish, ensuring improved manageability.
Coming to the shape, this PSU features a standard rectangular form factor made of high-quality steel. The connectors are front-adhering, whereas the back panel features vents, power input, and a power switch.
And to sweeten the pot further, there is a 10-year warranty on this product by Corsair, making it one of the best picks in the given category.
Conclusion
If you are a gamer looking for a reliable, efficient, and top-tier PSU, the Corsair AX1600i is the perfect choice. And coming to the standout traits, the top-of-the-line efficiency followed by the low noise ratio, inclusion of GaN transistors, and the 10-year warranty are the traits that help it make the cut.
Pros
- One of the more efficient units
- GaN transistors help with design compactness
- The zero RPM mode is a life-saver for gamers
- Offers a 10-year warranty
- Offers overcurrent protection
Cons
- Not the most affordable option around
2. Best Runner-Up: Gamemax 1300W
- Capacity: 1300W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Platinum
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX 3.0
- Connector Type: ATX, PCIe
Gamemax 1300W is the perfect PSU if you wish to combine performance with striking aesthetics. And while the 80+ Platinum rating ensures close to 92% efficiency, I’d solely include this with my 4090 GPU for its seamless cable management.
As it doesn’t actually succeed with any PSU, I compared it with the comparable Thermaltake Toughpower Grand RGB 1200W variant. However, the Gamemax excelled in terms of power capacity and even aesthetics or, rather, the ease of cable management.
Hardware Performance
As mentioned earlier, this PSU comes with a capacity of 1300W, something that can match up to the RTX 4090. Also, the 80+ Platinum rating ensures that almost 92% of power is converted into usable form.
This makes way for lesser environmental impact and increased cost savings. You get full modularity, something that allows you to make the most of the case-specific arrangement.
This PSU boasts a low noise ratio, a feature that supports quieter gaming experiences due to its ability to work without any noise whatsoever, even under heavy loads. Also, its wide range of connectors, EPS, PCIe, and more allows you to pair a diverse array of components.
Design and Warranty
When it comes to design and aesthetics, the Aura Sync and the Smart ARGB layout steal the show. There are 25 lighting modes to work with, allowing you to adjust the gaming effects if and when needed.
Also, this PSU is PCIe 5.0 ready — something that allows you to pair the latest set of components to it.
Other relevant specs include the presence of Japanese caps for better efficiency, followed by the inclusion of the 14CM fan — which adds to the noise-free effect, boasts a 9-blade layout, and paves the way for the requisite RGB support.
Also, this PSU weighs 7.24 pounds and feels like a rectangular block of high-quality steel. And just for the 4090, there is a 16 Pin connector at the front — that alone can transfer 600W worth of power. You get 10 years of warranty on this one.
Conclusion
If you are an ambitious gamer who prefers swanky RGB visuals, this Gamemax GPU might just do the trick. And it is the exceptional RGB layout that makes this component appear on this list of PSUs compatible with RTX 4090.
Pros
- An efficiency rate of over 92%
- Completely modular and supports exceptional cable management
- Boasts the best RGB support on high-end PSUs
- The 9-blade fan is virtually noise-free
Cons
- The limited warranty can get tricky to navigate
3. Best Platinum PSU: EVGA Supernova 1000 P5
- Capacity: 1000W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Platinum
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX
- Connector Type: SATA, Molex, PCIe, EPS, and ATX
EVGA Supernova 1000 P5 should be your go-to PSU if you want something that offers the best value for money. For a sub-$250 price, you get the 80+ Platinum rating followed by a completely modular layout, a squarish design, and top-of-the-line Japanese capacitors.
I even compared it with the Supernova 1000 P2, and the P5 came out on top, courtesy of a more organized and compact design.
Hardware Performance
What works for this PSU is the 1000W power capacity. And the 80+ Platinum rating ensures that you can use most of the power, at least 92%, moving the same to the required PC components, including the RTX 4090 GPU.
The noise ratio exhibited by the same is on the lower side, all thanks to the 135mm FDB fan. Do note that this fan can keep the noise levels on the lower side, even under heavy load, courtesy of the ECO mode.
The heat dissipation is more than adequate, and the PSU also brings in a wide range of connectors like PCIe, EPS, and more to accommodate multiple components.
Design and Warranty
As far as the layout is concerned, Supernova 1000 P5 is more like a sleek slab of steel, boasting honeycomb vents in the back and modular connectors on the front.
The cables in play are black and flattish, making life easier in case you prefer managing that space within the ATX case.
Regardless of the squarish shape, this PSU is still on the harder side, weighing 6.6 pounds in the process. And like many other devices around, even the EVGA Supernova 1000 P5 offers ten years’ worth of limited warranty.
Conclusion
Not many PSUs offer multi-faceted voltage protection layers at this price, but EVGA Supernova 1000 P5 does. Coupled with a 92% efficiency and a compact design, this PSU makes it on the list, courtesy of the excellent value for money.
And while gamers can seriously consider it, provided the processor doesn’t have a massive MTP, even PC enthusiasts can use it for some mid-range activities.
Pros
- Excellent PSU efficiency
- 10-year limited warranty
- Competitive Pricing
- Multi-level voltage protection
Cons
- It might not be enough for high-level Intel processors
4. Best Gold PSU: Thermaltake Toughpower GF3
- Capacity: 1000W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX
- Connector Type: ATX 3.0
Next on my list is Thermaltake Toughpower GF3, which strikes the perfect balance between power supply and cooling. It’s a 1000W PSU that isn’t just good enough for the RTX 4090 but ensures that the PC cases hardly heat up, even during heavy loads.
I used to own the Toughpower GF1 before this, and when compared, the GF3 came out on top, courtesy of better cooling support and a design that can fit in almost anywhere.
Hardware Performance
The Toughpower GF3 has several good things going for it, including the ultra-low noise ratio. The low-ripple design focusing on lesser noise is primarily led by the Fluid Dynamic Bearing 135mm bearing fan and the Smart Zero cooling technology.
Plus, the 80+ Gold rating makes it adequately efficient. Yet, the high-end Japanese capacitors have a big role to play in that.
If you are into the specifics, this PSU offers 90% efficiency, converting at least that much power to usable quantities.
On top of that, it is modular and boasts a wide range of connectors — Molex, PCIe, and more — helping you work with almost every PC component around.
Design and Warranty
As far as the layout is concerned, this 3.95-pound PSU comes in black and features a sturdy all-steel chassis. The front part of the PSU is where the connectors are placed, whereas the back comes equipped with honeycomb vents for heat dissipation, power input, and also the power switch.
This new-gen PSU is even compatible with the ATX 3.0 version of PC cases. Plus, it is PCIe 5.0-ready, allowing you to work with the latest breed of PC components like RAM modules, SSDs, and GPUs.
There is a native 12+4 Pin connector in play that can push through 450W worth of power to a single GPU if needed. Hence, it makes sense to use the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 with the RTX 4090.
On top of that, this power supply unit comes with a 10-year limited warranty — a feature needed to help you power through even the toughest of scenarios without concerns.
Conclusion
Overall, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF3, led by excellent load efficiency, a low-noise fan, and the strictest voltage regulation, is one of the more equipped PSUs for use with RTX 4090. However, it specifically makes it to the list due to its compatibility with smaller PC builds.
And finally, if you are a gamer who hardly shuts down the PC, this cooling-focused PSU might just be the right one to get.
Pros
- Built-in efficiency of almost 90%
- The design is fully modular, with flat cables to work with
- 10-year warranty
- The cooling performance is impressive
- Smaller size that can fit into smaller ATX cases
Cons
- Not the most power-efficient PSU
5. Best with Long Warranty: Seasonic Prime GX-850
- Capacity: 850W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX12V
- Connector Type: PCIe, EPS, SATA, and Molex
If you are in the market for something higher than the standard 10-year warranty, the Seasonic Prime GX-850 makes the perfect sense.
I even compared it with the older and slightly less powerful GX-750, and the GX-850 felt better to use, especially with the RTX 4090 connected. The latter made less noise and offered a more stable power source.
Hardware Performance
As far as the overall PSU performance is concerned, leading the way is the 80+ Gold rating — a feature that allows almost 90% of the existing power to be converted into usable juice.
On top of that, this PSU supports load regulation under 0.5%, making the operation virtually noise-free. Another powerful resource is the inclusion of the fanless mode, made possible with the “Hybrid Fan Control.”
The one-touch fan control tab appears at the rear, allowing you to change the cooling needs by toggling between the standard and the fanless mode.
The Seasonic Prime GX-850 is also a fully modular PSU boasting seamless cable management, helping you achieve that clean layout.
And finally, the PSU supports EPS, ATX, PCIe, and other connectors — making it possible to connect any choice of PC component along the way.
Design and Warranty
Design-wise, the Seasonic Prime GX-850 isn’t much different from any other PSU on the list. This device weighs close to 4 pounds and comes with a rectangular chassis of steel. The front panel houses the connectors, whereas, at the back, you will find the heat-dissipating vents, power input, and power switch.
As far as the warranty is concerned, you get 12 years’ worth of limited coverage on this one, allowing you to handle most tasks with peace of mind.
Conclusion
At under $220, the Seasonic Prime GX-850 is one of the most competitively priced PSUs in play. And while the 80+ Gold efficiency rating makes it a great pick, it appears on the list for its exceptional warranty and the highly resourceful fanless mode that is a serious life-saver for a professional gamer.
Pros
- Seamless cable management
- The efficiency-to-price ratio is exceptional
- The fanless operational mode is a must for gamers
- 12-year warranty
Cons
- Not the best power capacity around
6. Most Silent PSU: Be Quiet! Straight Power 11
- Capacity: 850W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Platinum
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX
- Connector Type: EPS, PCIe, Molex, and SATA
As a gamer, you might want to purchase a PSU that hardly makes any noise and is even priced competitively. This is where the be quiet! Straight Power 11 comes in as a great pick, packing an 80+ Platinum efficiency rating for such a budget price point.
Compared to the older Power 10, this unit is at least 4% more efficient and even packs an upgraded fan design that relies equally on cooling and low noise.
Hardware Performance
While the 80+ Platinum efficiency rating stands out and the 850W power capacity makes sense for the RTX 4090 GPU, be quiet! Straight Power 11’s use has to be the near-silent power supply operation, led by the 135mm fan based on the Silent Wings 3 technology.
As for the specifics, the funnel-shaped PSU vent is what furthers the low-noise standing of this unit. The fan in play boasts the FDB layout and comes equipped with a six-pole low-noise motor, adding to its efficiency.
In addition to the exceptional cooling setup, this PSU also features a completely modular design, allowing you to manage cables more efficiently than ever.
Design and Warranty
The Straight Power 11 features a steel-clad chassis, with the PCIe, SATA, and other connectors at the front. The rear panel houses the power input, the power switch, and the heat-dissipating vents.
Also, as it is a fully modular PSU, you can expect flat, detachable cables to be in play, helping you keep the cases insides at their tidiest best.
Despite all that, do note that at 7.15 pounds, Straight Power 11 is one of the heaviest PSUs on the list. As for the warranty, the company offers 5 years of coverage.
Conclusion
If you are a professional FPS gamer or even a sound engineer who doesn’t prefer noise, the be quiet! Straight Power 11 is the right PSU to get. Its top-of-the-line fan construction is what makes it appear on the list, followed by its extremely budget price tag and the 80+ Platinum efficiency rating to sweeten the pot further.
Pros
- Silent Wings 3 supported fan for noise-free operation
- 80+ Platinum rating offering close to 94% efficiency
- Competitive Pricing
- The layout is fully modular
Cons
- The warranty period isn’t as extensive as some of the other PSUs
7. Best Value: Silverstone Technology Strider 850
- Capacity: 850W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Platinum
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX12v
- Connector Type: PCIE
Those who seek a compact PSU can readily opt for the Silverstone Technology Strider 850. And at $150, things simply cannot get any better, especially when there is an 80+ Platinum energy efficiency rating in place.
I tested the same with the Silverstone’s Gold-series PSUs and found that the 850W corresponding to the Strider 850 works better with the RTX 4090 GPU. Also, the design is way more minimal and compact — compared to the Gold-series PSUs.
Hardware Performance
What stands out for the Strider 850 is the 80+ Platinum rating for such a throwaway price. This means 94% of the input power is converted into usable energy.
Also, if you are willing to get a standard i5 processor with a manageable MTP level, this PSU should be more than enough for the RTX 4090 GPU.
Do note that higher efficiency also stands for cost savings, and the fully modular structure lets you handle the in-case aesthetics without any hiccup whatsoever.
But that’s not all that the Strider 850 has to offer. Instead, there is a 120mm fan in place, powered by the intelligent cooling system. This way, you can keep the case cooler under low to medium load conditions.
There is also the option to activate the fanless mode if you are playing a game that doesn’t agree well with the noise. Also, the PSU makes way for a wide range of connectors — SATA, PCIe, and more — ensuring that you can pair a diverse array of SSDs, RAM modules, GPUs, and other components with it.
Design and Warranty
The sleek, black steel-clad chassis stands out. There are modular connectors right at the front, whereas the back panel is all about the power switch, honeycomb vents, and power input. The device itself weighs close to 6 pounds, and you get a 5-year limited warranty on the same.
Conclusion
If you, as a gamer, have exhausted most of your PC building fund saving for the RTX 4090 GPU and a relevant processor, this cooling-focused PSU might still make sense.
While the 80+ Platinum rating works like a charm, the modularity and quality of cables exhibited to make it the best power supply unit for the given price point.
Pros
- Offers a 94% energy efficiency courtesy of the 80+ Platinum rating
- Seamless cable management
- One of the more compact PSUs
- Offers the fanless mode for medium to low loads
Cons
- The PSU does make a lot of sound under heavy load
8. Cheap Yet Good: ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W
- Capacity: 1000W
- Efficiency Rating: 80 Plus Gold
- Modularity: Full
- Form Factor: ATX
- Connector Type: EPS, PCIe, SATA,a and Molex
It must be surprising to see something as loaded as the ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W appear this low on the list. And that too for a pocket-friendly price.
This 6.74-pound PSU blows most Gold-rated PSUs out of the water, purely in terms of power capacity and competitive pricing, a reason big enough to make it appear on the list. And as it brings in the ATX form factor and complete modularity, you can expect this to take up the least amount of space and go with almost every PC case out there.
Hardware Performance
You get 1000W of power with this PSU, period. And most of that power would be usable, thanks to the 80+ Gold rating. Another interesting thing I noticed is that the voltage output of this PSU is very stable — almost unreal for something as affordable.
You even get a 120mm fan paired with this PSU, led by an intelligent temperature setting and the ability to operate virtually noise-free under low to medium load.
As for the connector support, you can play around with a wide range of SSDs and GPUs, courtesy of the SATA, PCIe, and other connectors.
Design and Warranty
The ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W features an industrial-grade design, which fits in with most gaming rigs. The front and back panels feature the connectors and honeycomb vents, respectively.
Coming to cable management, the complete modularity followed by the presence of flat cables ensures that you can keep the case insides tidier despite an extensive gaming setup.
Also, the ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W boasts a 10-year limited warranty, covering most manufacturing issues if and when they show up.
Conclusion
With an excellent efficiency rating and a budget price tag, the ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W is the perfect choice for any budget gamer. But then, if you are into RGB, aesthetics, and color, I would urge you to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Competitive Pricing
- 10-year warranty
- Excellent efficiency rating
- Seamless cable management
Cons
- Not as feature-rich as some of the other variants around
Frequently Asked Questions
Even though you might use a 750W PSU with the RTX 4090 GPU, NVIDIA recommends a minimum of 850W to cover all bases. Keeping up with this requirement ensures that you do not end up overloading the PSU while using it.
If you go by the board design, the RTX 4090 comes with a maximum power rating or limit of 450W. As for the connection with the PSU, you would need a 16-pin socket.
Well, you can overclock the RTX 4090 like any other GPU. However, there are several benefits and risks of the same. While overclocking can make the games perform better, it can even increase the power consumption of the GPU and even the temperature associated with the case.
The GTX 4090 is one of the more powerful GPUs around if gaming is one of your priorities. Simply put, you can play most advanced AAA titles in 1440p without experiencing any lag whatsoever.
Verdict
PC building often neglects Power Supply Units despite their importance. Focusing on processors, RAM, and storage for the RTX 4090 GPU is understandable.
If you have read through the reviews above, you should know which option to pick per your needs and preferences. However, if you couldn’t pick and are still confused, here is a quick refresher to help you make a choice:
- If a PSU warranty is on your mind, I would recommend the Seasonic Prime GX-850 as the choice of power supply.
- Also, if top-of-the-line efficiency and 1600W worth of power are your priorities, the Corsair AX1600i is the one to get.
- In case affordability is on your mind, the ARESGAME AGT Series 1000W is the best possible option.
Other PSUs, barring the ones I summed up, are also equally good. You just need to read through them, ascertain your preferences, and pick one that tickles your fancy.
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