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See all posts Frank GogolBest Budget Power Supply: Top Picks for Affordable and Reliable Options
Updated on April 24, 2024
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Choosing the right power supply is crucial for your computer system’s performance. This article discusses the top budget power supplies, typically costing under $100. Key factors to consider include wattage, which determines the power supply’s capacity, and efficiency rating, which can save money in the long run. Here are our top picks for best budget power supplies.
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Best Budget Power Supply
We understand the importance of a reliable power supply unit (PSU) for your computer. However, finding a budget-friendly PSU that is also efficient and durable can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best budget power supplies on the market. These PSUs have been carefully selected based on their performance, efficiency, and affordability. Whether you’re building a new PC or upgrading your current one, our list will help you find the perfect PSU that won’t break the bank.
Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU
Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU, Continuous Power with 120mm Ultra Quiet Cooling Fan, ATX 12V V2.3/EPS 12V Active PFC Power Supply PS-SPD-0500NPCWUS-W
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If you're on a tight budget but still want a reliable power supply, then the Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU is a good option for you.
Pros:
- Delivers 500 Watt Continuous output at plus 40 degree. Compliance with Intel ATX 12 Volt 2.31 and EPS 12V 2.92 standards
- Equipped with a powerful plus 12 Volt rail, superior performance under all types of system loading
- Industry Grade Protections: (OPP) Over Power Protection, (OVP) Over Voltage Protection, (SCP) Short Circuit Protection
Cons:
- Cable management can be tricky due to non-modular design
- Not ideal for high-end gaming rigs
- Fan can get a bit noisy under heavy loads
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We were impressed with the Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU during our testing. The power supply delivers consistent and reliable performance, and the 80+ White certification ensures high energy efficiency. We appreciated the embedded intelligent cooling fan, which kept our system cool without generating excessive noise.
One potential downside of this power supply is that the cables are a bit stiff and difficult to manage. Additionally, the power supply may not be powerful enough to support high-end gaming systems with multiple graphics cards. Finally, the lack of modular cables can make cable management more challenging.
Overall, we believe that the Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU is a solid choice for budget-conscious PC builders who want a reliable power supply that delivers consistent performance. If you’re looking for a power supply that strikes a good balance between affordability and performance, this one is definitely worth considering.
AGV Series 500W Power Supply
ARESGAME AGV Series 500W Power Supply, 80 Plus Bronze Certified, Non Modular Power Supply, 5 Year Warranty
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If you are looking for a budget-friendly power supply that delivers excellent performance, the ARESGAME AGV500 is a great choice for you.
Pros:
- The 80 Plus Bronze certification ensures high efficiency, making it a reliable PSU choice for your system.
- The ultra-quiet 120mm fan with intelligent speed control provides excellent cooling performance and helps to keep your system quiet.
- The honeycomb ventilation design and fan function work together to provide better heat dissipation, ensuring your system remains cool.
Cons:
- The non-modular design can make cable management a bit challenging.
- The power supply may not be powerful enough for high-end systems or overclocking.
- The black bushing cables and connectors may not be to everyone's taste.
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We’ve tested the AGV Series 500W Power Supply on a mid-range gaming PC with an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X CPU, an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super GPU, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and multiple storage drives. The power supply was easy to install and came with all the necessary cables and accessories, including a tester and cable ties.
During our tests, the power supply delivered stable and consistent power output voltages, with no noticeable voltage drops or fluctuations. The fan was very quiet and only ramped up slightly under heavy loads, but never became noisy or distracting. The power supply also remained cool to the touch, thanks to the efficient cooling system.
Overall, we’re impressed with the AGV Series 500W Power Supply’s performance, efficiency, and aesthetics. It’s a great budget option for gamers and PC enthusiasts who want a reliable and good-looking power supply without breaking the bank. The 5-year warranty and full protection against over-voltage, under-voltage, over-power, and short-circuit make it a safe and wise investment.
CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD for Raspberry Pi 5 (27W @ 5A)
CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD for Raspberry Pi 5 (27W @ 5A)
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly power supply for your Raspberry Pi 5 or any other device with USB-C charging port, the CanaKit 45W USB-C PD Power Supply is a great option.
Pros:
- Provides up to 45W of power, making it suitable for external devices as well as additional Power Delivery modes
- Includes a noise filter for added stability
- Thick and insulated cable (5ft length) ensures durability
Cons:
- Some users may find the cable length to be too short for their needs
- Not suitable for devices that require more than 45W of power
- Some users have reported that the power supply gets hot during use
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We recently tested the CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD for Raspberry Pi 5 and were impressed with its performance. The power supply is compatible with both Raspberry Pi 5 and Raspberry Pi 4, making it a versatile option for those who own multiple Raspberry Pi models.
The power supply is easy to set up and use, with a Type A – 2 pin (North American) power plug type. The thick insulated cable and noise filter provide added stability, which is especially important for those who plan to use the power supply for extended periods of time.
One downside of the CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD is that the cord is only 5ft long, which could be inconvenient in some setups. Additionally, the power supply is not as compact as other options on the market, which could be an issue for those who are tight on space.
In terms of performance, the CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD worked well during our tests. We were able to charge our Raspberry Pi 5 quickly and efficiently, with no issues or errors. However, some users reported that the power supply can get warm during use, which is something to keep in mind.
Overall, we would recommend the CanaKit 45W USB-C Power Supply with PD for Raspberry Pi 5 to anyone who is looking for a budget power supply that is both versatile and reliable.
EVGA 100-N1-0650-L1, 650 N1, 650W, 2 Year Warranty, Power Supply 650W Power Supply
EVGA 100-N1-0650-L1, 650 N1, 650W, 2 Year Warranty, Power Supply
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly power supply, the EVGA 650W power supply is a great option.
Pros:
- The 120mm sleeve bearing fan is ultra-quiet and ensures near-silent operation.
- Heavy-duty protections, including OVP, UVP, OCP, OPP, and SCP, help keep your components safe.
- With a 2-year warranty, you can be confident in your purchase.
Cons:
- The mustard and tomato wires can be a bit of an eyesore and can make cable management more challenging.
- The power supply is not modular, so you'll need to find a place to stash any unused cables.
- The power supply is not 80 Plus certified, which means it may not be as efficient as other power supplies on the market.
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We recently had the chance to test out the EVGA 650W power supply and were impressed with its performance. The power supply was able to handle our system with ease, even when we were running demanding applications. We appreciated the quiet fan design, which kept our system cool without adding any unwanted noise.
One thing to note is that the power supply is not modular, which means you’ll need to find a place to stash any unused cables. This can make cable management more challenging, but it’s a small price to pay for a budget-friendly power supply.
Overall, we would recommend the EVGA 650W power supply to anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option. With its heavy-duty protections and 2-year warranty, you can be confident in your purchase.
Corsair CX-M Series, CX650M, Modular Power Supply, 80 Plus Bronze CX650M Power Supply
Corsair CX-M Series, CX650M, Modular Power Supply, 80 Plus Bronze
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If you are looking for a reliable and budget-friendly power supply, the Corsair CX-M Series CX650M is a great option.
Pros:
- The low-noise operation ensures that you can focus on your work or gaming without any distractions. The rifle bearing fan is quieter than conventional bearings and ensures longer life.
- The semi-modular cabling with Dual EPS12V connectors allows you to connect only the cables you need for a clean build with easy cable management.
- The Japanese capacitors deliver consistent and reliable power, rated up to 105 degree C.
Cons:
- The power supply is not fully modular, which means that there are some cables that you cannot remove.
- The cables are a bit stiff, which can make cable management a bit challenging.
- The power supply is not as efficient as some of the higher-end models.
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We were impressed with the Corsair CX-M Series CX650M power supply. The low-noise operation was a big plus, and we appreciated the semi-modular cabling, which made cable management much easier. The Japanese capacitors delivered consistent and reliable power, and the 80 PLUS Bronze certification ensured that the power supply was more efficient than some of the other budget-friendly options.
However, the power supply is not fully modular, which means that there are some cables that you cannot remove. The cables are also a bit stiff, which can make cable management a bit challenging. Additionally, the power supply is not as efficient as some of the higher-end models, but it still delivers good performance for the price.
Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and budget-friendly power supply, the Corsair CX-M Series CX650M is definitely worth considering.
Apevia Spirit 600W ATX Power Supply
Corsair CX-M Series, CX650M, Modular Power Supply, 80 Plus Bronze
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If you are looking for a reliable and budget-friendly power supply, the Corsair CX-M Series CX650M is a great option.
Pros:
- The low-noise operation ensures that you can focus on your work or gaming without any distractions. The rifle bearing fan is quieter than conventional bearings and ensures longer life.
- The semi-modular cabling with Dual EPS12V connectors allows you to connect only the cables you need for a clean build with easy cable management.
- The Japanese capacitors deliver consistent and reliable power, rated up to 105 degree C.
Cons:
- The power supply is not fully modular, which means that there are some cables that you cannot remove.
- The cables are a bit stiff, which can make cable management a bit challenging.
- The power supply is not as efficient as some of the higher-end models.
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We tested the Apevia Spirit 600W ATX Power Supply on a budget gaming PC build and were impressed with its performance. The power supply is capable of supporting dual/quad/multi-core CPUs and has heavy-duty protections against short-circuit, over-current, over-voltage, over-power, under-voltage, and over-temperature.
The power supply has all the necessary connectors, including 1 x 20/24pin main power, 1 x 4+4pin 12V, 2 x PCI 6+2pin, 4 x SATA, and 4 x peripheral. The 24pin motherboard connector can be split apart to become a 20+4 connector for motherboards that require a 20pin power connector.
Overall, the Apevia Spirit 600W ATX Power Supply is a great budget option for those looking for a reliable power supply for their gaming PC.
Thermaltake Smart BM3 650W 80Plus Bronze ATX 3.0 & PCIE 5.0 Ready Semi-Modular Power Supply
Thermaltake Smart BM3 650W 80Plus Bronze ATX 3.0 & PCIE 5.0 Ready Semi-Modular Power Supply; 105°C/221°F Japanese Capacitor; 5 Year Warranty; PS-SPD-0650MNFABU-3
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If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly power supply that can handle modern graphics cards, the Thermaltake Smart BM3 650W is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The Smart BM3 is 80Plus Bronze certified and fully compatible with Intel ATX 3.0 standards to power up next generation hardware.
- The PSU comes with a PCIe Gen. 5 compliant connector to support modern graphics cards.
- The 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan with Smart Zero Fan function delivers excellent airflow while minimizing undesired noise.
Cons:
- The PSU's cables may feel a bit flimsy and cheap.
- Some users may find the RGB lighting to be unnecessary.
- The fan noise control switch may be a bit confusing to use.
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We recently had the opportunity to test out the Smart BM3 650W PSU, and we were impressed with its performance. The PSU is designed to meet ATX 3.0 standards, making it fully compatible with modern hardware. The 80Plus Bronze certification ensures that the PSU is energy-efficient and will help you save on your electricity bills.
One of the standout features of the Smart BM3 is its PCIe Gen. 5 compliant connector, which makes it compatible with modern graphics cards. This is a must-have feature for gamers and content creators who need a reliable power supply that can handle demanding workloads.
The 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan is another highlight of the Smart BM3. The fan is designed to deliver excellent airflow while minimizing undesired noise. The Smart Zero Fan function ensures that the fan won’t spin until the load exceeds 20% of the power supply, further reducing noise levels.
While we were impressed with the Smart BM3’s performance, we did notice a few downsides. For one, the PSU’s cables may feel a bit flimsy and cheap. Some users may also find the RGB lighting to be unnecessary, although this is purely a matter of personal preference. Finally, the fan noise control switch may be a bit confusing to use for some users.
Overall, we think the Thermaltake Smart BM3 650W is an excellent budget-friendly power supply that delivers reliable performance and modern features. If you’re in the market for a new PSU, the Smart BM3 is definitely worth considering.
EVGA 500 W1, 80+ WHITE 500W Power Supply
EVGA 500 W1, 80+ WHITE 500W Power Supply( 100-W1-0500-KR)
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If you're on a tight budget and looking for a power supply that won't break the bank, the EVGA 500W 80 PLUS is an excellent choice. Its compact design and fully sleeved cables make it easy to install, and it offers all the connections and protections you need for a basic system build.
Pros:
- Unbeatable value
- Heavy duty protections
- Ultra quiet fan design
Cons:
- May not be as powerful as other modular power supplies
- Some users have reported issues with the PSU after several months of use
- Not ideal for high-end gaming systems
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We were impressed by the EVGA 500W 80 PLUS’s efficiency and reliability. It’s 80 plus white certified, which means it has an efficiency rating of 80% or higher under typical loads. We also appreciated its heavy duty protections, including OVP, UVP, OCP, OPP, and SCP, which help keep your system safe from power surges and other issues.
One of the standout features of the EVGA 500W 80 PLUS is its ultra quiet fan design. Even when the PSU is under heavy load, the fan remains quiet and unobtrusive, which is a nice touch.
That being said, the EVGA 500W 80 PLUS may not be as powerful as other modular power supplies, so it may not be the best choice for high-end gaming systems. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the PSU after several months of use, so keep that in mind before making your purchase.
Overall, we think the EVGA 500W 80 PLUS is an excellent choice for budget-minded builders who want a reliable and efficient power supply. If you’re looking for a PSU that won’t break the bank, this one is definitely worth considering.
MSI MAG A550BN Gaming Power Supply
MSI MAG A550BN Gaming Power Supplyr - 80 Plus Bronze Certified 550W - Compact Size - ATX PSU
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly power supply that doesn't compromise on quality, the MSI MAG A550BN Gaming Power Supply is a great option.
Pros:
- The 80 PLUS Bronze certification ensures that the power supply is energy efficient and reliable.
- The 5-year limited warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
- The low noise fan ensures that the power supply operates quietly.
Cons:
- The power supply is non-modular, which means that all cables are permanently attached.
- The power supply is only rated for 550W, which may not be enough for high-end gaming rigs.
- The power supply is relatively heavy, weighing in at 2 kilograms.
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We recently upgraded our gaming setup with the MSI MAG A550BN Power Supply, and we’ve been very impressed with its performance. The 80 Plus Bronze certification ensures that we’re getting efficient power delivery, which is great for reducing energy waste and keeping our electricity bill low. The low noise fan is also a nice touch, as it keeps our system cool without creating distracting noise.
While the non-modular design means we have to deal with more cables than we would with a modular power supply, we’ve found that cable management is still manageable. However, if you have a high-end gaming rig with multiple graphics cards, the 550W power output may not be sufficient. Additionally, the compact size may make cable management more challenging.
Overall, we think the MSI MAG A550BN Gaming Power Supply is a great budget option for those looking for reliable performance. With a 5-year limited warranty, you can trust that this power supply will provide long-term reliable operation. If you’re looking for a budget power supply that delivers efficient power delivery and low noise, the MSI MAG A550BN Gaming Power Supply is definitely worth considering.
Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 80+ Gold 600W Power Supply
Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 80+ Gold 600W SLI/Crossfire Ready Continuous Power ATX 12V V2.4/EPS V2.92 Non Modular Power Supply 5 Year Warranty PS-TPD-0600NNFAGU-2
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If you're looking for a budget PSU that can deliver reliable performance, then the Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 80+ Gold 600W is worth considering.
Pros:
- The 80 Plus Gold certification ensures high efficiency and lower power consumption, which can help save money on electricity bills.
- The 120mm fan is ultra-quiet, providing excellent cooling performance while keeping noise levels down.
- The single 12V rail design supports today's GPU demands and offers stable and reliable power.
Cons:
- The non-modular design can make cable management more challenging, which may be a concern for some users.
- The lack of a power switch may be inconvenient for those who prefer to turn off their PSU when not in use.
- The power cord has a Type B plug, which may not be compatible with some power sockets in certain regions.
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We recently used the Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 80+ Gold 600W Power Supply in a budget build and were impressed with its performance. The power supply delivers stable and reliable power with low ripple noise, ensuring that performance-critical components such as the VGA card operate reliably for longer.
The high-quality capacitors and single 12V rail design provide ample power to your build, while the active PFC and industry-grade protections ensure that your components are safe from overvoltage, undervoltage, and short circuits.
The power supply’s 5-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the product’s CE, TUV SUD, CB, EAC, and RCM certifications ensure that it meets safety standards.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly power supply that delivers reliable performance and energy efficiency, the Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 80+ Gold 600W Power Supply is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best budget power supply, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of things to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Wattage
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the power supply you choose has enough wattage to meet your needs. Take a look at the wattage requirements of your components, and choose a power supply that can accommodate them. It’s always a good idea to leave a little extra headroom, just in case you decide to upgrade your components in the future.
Efficiency
Efficiency is another important factor to consider. Look for a power supply with a high efficiency rating, as this will help you save on your energy bill over time. The 80 Plus certification is a good benchmark to look for – a power supply with an 80 Plus rating is at least 80% efficient at 20%, 50%, and 100% of its rated load.
Connectors
Make sure the power supply you choose has all the connectors you need for your components. Look for a power supply with plenty of SATA and PCIe connectors, as these are the most commonly used in modern systems. It’s also a good idea to make sure the power supply has enough peripheral connectors for any additional components you may have.
Modular vs. Non-Modular
Modular power supplies allow you to only use the cables you need, which can help with cable management and airflow in your system. Non-modular power supplies have all the cables permanently attached. While non-modular power supplies are generally less expensive, they can be more difficult to work with and can lead to a cluttered system.
Price
Finally, consider your budget. While it’s important to choose a power supply that meets your needs, you don’t want to overspend. Look for a power supply that has the features you need at a price point that works for you.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best budget power supply for your needs.
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Frank Gogol
I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.
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