Updated PSU Tier List | Best PSU for Gaming [2020] | (Review & Buying Guide)
Are you planning to build a new or upgrade your existing game gear? Surely, you would not want to compromise on quality, and hence, looking out for an efficient and high-powered best Power Supply for gaming or PSU.
An online search will list you multiple PSUs, which can make it more difficult to take a final call. There are several models available from different manufacturers and with varying specifications.
But we’ve decided to make things simple for you, and hence, share the PSU Tier List. Additionally, we list down best PSU models for each list, 10 best PSU for gaming along with a comprehensive buying guide.
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
So, let’s begin!
Tier S – Platinum and Above 80 Rating
The best models in Tier S list are:
- Seasonic PRIME Series
- Cooler Master MasterWatt Maker 1200 MiJ
- Corsair AXi Series
- Thermaltake Toughpower iRGB PLUS
- Antec HCP Platnium,
- Be Quiet! Dark Power Pro 11
The PSUs in Tier S are definitely the best because of their 80 Plus rating and exceptional performance. They offer unique features and exceptional reliability at wattage range and affordable price. It comes with Japanese made elements and is one of the best models available.
They are ideal fit for those who have an extensive budget and don’t want to compromise for less. Most of them are incorporated with the latest Intel Core i9 processor with Nvidia GeForce Titan V running simultaneously.
It is a perfect solution for average gamer that hold a PC developed reliably for playing AAA games on simple settings.
Tier 1 – Exceptional Power at a Lower Price Range
The best models in this range are:
- Be Quiet! Straight Power 11
- Enermax Platimax D.F.
- Aerocool Project 7
- Corsair HX/HXi Series
- Cooler Master V-Series
- Corsair SF
- Riotoro Enigma Series
- Seasonic Focus Gold
- Cooler Master MasterWatt Maker Series
- Mistel MX650 Fanless
- GIGABYTE AP850GM Aorus P850W Modular
The units in the Tier 1 list are available at a lower price range but still deliver exceptional performance. They offer outstanding power solutions along with high reliability. However, they are a demanding powerhouse unit that comes with expensive components.
The good thing is that this Tier is not only for those who have enough money. It is also a great choice for those who want to shop within a budget. It is because there are numerous budget-friendly and high performance options available.
The main reason you must go for the Tier 1 list is that it offers you a wide range of options that work great for future and provide additional space for internal components with high power requirements.
Tier 2 – High-Grade Quality at Expensive Price
The best models in this range are:
- EVGA G1+
- Enermax Digifanless
- Cooler Master V Semi-Modular Series
- Thermaltake Toughpower Grand Series
- FSP Hydro G
- Seasonic M12II
- Kolink Continum
- Seasonic G-Series
- Fractal Design Tesla R2
- Gigabyte XP1200M
- Rosewill Quark
- Rosewill Capstone
Again, the price range for the Tier 2 is less than Tier 1. However, it is a perfect range for veteran builders who want a power-packed and good looking unit at a reliable budget. Their tier offer products that are true value for money and ensure you don’t spend more than needed.
But if you are buying a PSU for the first time, you have to be clear about the prices of various models.
Tier 3 – Great Power at Reliable Price
- Thermaltake EVO Blue Series
- LEPA G Series
- SAMA Armor Gold
- Silverstone Strider Gold S Series
- Silverstone Gold Evolution Series
- Deepcool DQST
- XFX Pro Series
- EVGA B3
- Lian Li SFX-L
- Rosewill Photon
- Vivo 24K
- Zalman EBT
This tier is all about PSUs, which perfectly cater to the needs of most of the gamers who want a functional machine equipped with numerous commendable components. The units in this list are engineered for heavy usage and offer great quality along with affordability.
Tier 4 – Unmatched Efficiency at Mid-Range
- Fractal Design Tesla R2
- Cougar LX
- Cooler Master GM Series
- Edition
- EVGA BQ
- Thermaltake Paris
- Antec High Current Gamer Series
- Seasonic ECO
- Be Quiet! Power Zone
- Corsair Gaming Series
- Seasonic S12II
If you are looking for a high-end model that offers extraordinary functionality but does not come with any additional features, the units in Tier 4 list are just perfect for you. They perform well but do not offer additional features.
You will love this range as along with affordability it provides you unmatched efficiency, which makes it a great deal. It contains PSUs that are acceptable in terms of performance and price.
Tier 5 – Budget-Friendly Options
- Enermax NaXn
- Antec Basiq Series BP
- EVGA – B1
- Rosewill Glacier
- Silverstone SFX
- XFX XT
The Tier 5 list is basically for those who want to purchase PSU within a budget. It is a perfect range for new gaming enthusiasts that will let you gain PSU power without burdening your pocket.
If you combine these PSUs with GPU or CPU, it will surely deliver you better performance.
Tier 6 – Cheap yet Reliable
- OCZ Fatal1ty
- Corsair VS Series
- FSP Raider Series
- Silverstone Essential Series
- Rosewill Hive
- LEPA MX-F1
- Cooler Master B2 Series
- Thermaltake Smart Series
- Series
- Antec VP Series
- Bitfenix BPA
The Tier 6 PSUs are quite tricky it is because it is not sure that they will work well or not. They are available at very cheap prices and it is best to use them only if your budget does not allow.
The enthusiastic PC builder entering the industry for the first time can try their hands on these PSUs. You will gain only basic functions along with decent performance.
Tier 7 – Pieces of Drums
- EVGA N1
- Thermaltake TR2 Series
- Cooler Master Elite Series
- FSP Hexa
The PSUs in this tier list are the worst available. In fact, most of them do not function at all, and hence, we term them as pieces of drums. They are a big waste of money.
Now, that you know everything about the PSU Tier List, here we share with you the 10 best PSU for gaming that are worth investing.
But before that, let us tell you the significance of a premium quality PSU for your entire setup.
Why You Must Buy a Premium Quality PSU?
It’s true that a high-quality PSU requires more money investment. But then it is really worth it!
A low quality PSU may not only hinder your PC’s performance but can disrupt the overall gaming experience. Mainly because a low-grade PSU do not offers high-end graphics delivery, which is a prime requirement for the gaming journey.
Moreover, if your power supply for gaming is not robust enough to deliver you an enhanced and uninterrupted gaming experience, buying a PSU becomes important.
Hence, it is essential to pick a high-quality PSU supplying excellent power, delivering exceptional performance, and engineered using best components and advanced technologies.
For your ease, we have listed some of the best PSU for gaming right below!
| PSU | 80 Plus Rating | Weight | Power | Buy Now |
| BitFenix Formula | Gold | 4.94 pounds | 450, 550, 650, 750 Watts | Buy Now |
| Seasonic Prime | Titanium | 2.2 pounds | 450, 500, 600, 700 Watts | Buy Now |
| Rosewill | Silver | 5.49 pounds | 1600 Watts | Buy Now |
| G.Skill GP | Gold and Platinum | 8.19 pounds | 750, 850, 1250 Watts | Buy Now |
| Seasonic Prime | Titanium | 4.62 pounds | 1000Watts | Buy Now |
| Corsair SF Series | Gold and Platinum | 1.98 pounds | 450, 600, 700 Watts | Buy Now |
| Corsair AXi Series | Titanium and Platinum | 4.57 pounds | 750, 850, 1000, 1200, 1600 Watts | Buy Now |
| Seasonic FOCUS Plus | Platinum | 3.52 pounds | 550, 650, 750, 850 Watts | Buy Now |
| CORSAIR RMX Series | Gold | 3.65 pounds | 550, 650, 750, 850, 1000 Watts | Buy Now |
| Corsair AX Series | Platinum and Titanium | 5.84 pounds | 750, 850, 1000, 1200, 1600 Watts | Buy Now |
10 Best PSU for Gaming in 2020
BitFenix Formula 80 Plus Gold Standard ATX PSU 450Watt BF-450G, BP-FM450ULAG – 7R
Why We Like It
- 80+ Gold Efficiency Certification
- Intelligent Fan Curve
- Maximum Power on +12V Rails
- Up to 650mm and 16AWG Fixed flat cable
- Industrial Level Protection
- 100% Industrial Japanese Capacitors
With a high-efficiency power supply and Gold Efficiency certification of more than 80, this PSU for gaming comes with an intelligent fan curve design. It operates at room temperature generating very less noise even at 60% load.
This unit comes with an extensive range of power options beginning with 450W to 750W. Hence, it is an ideal solution for gamers looking for an energy-efficient PSU system. It comes with a 2oz pure copper and dual-layer PCB coupled with gold Series that lets you achieve unmatched performance.
It uses Japanese Industrial capacitors delivering robust DC voltage regulation and longer service life. It can work effortlessly at a temperature of 105Degree Celsius. The specially designed ribbon-style cable and electronic components stabilize power offered to components augmenting its durability.
- Quiet operation even when heavy usage
- Ultra-efficient design
- Excellent performance with 92% efficiency
- High durability and world-class engineering
- The cable design is non-modular.
- High Efficiency Layout: Formula is an extremely high efficiency power...
- Intelligent Fan-Curve: Formula can operate at room temperature with minimum...
- Maximum Power on +12V Rails: Formula Gold can deliver full power on +12V...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Seasonic Prime 600 Titanium SSR-600TL 600W 80+ Titanium ATX 12V & EPS12V Fanless Super Quiet 12 Year Warranty Power Supply
Why We Like It
- Premium hybrid fan control
- Fluid dynamic bearing fan
- Fully modular cables
- Convenient installation and reduced clutter
- High-grade components
- SATA 3.3 connector and tester
With unique fanless technology, the Season Prime 600 Titanium fanless is a wonderful PSU eliminating fan noise completely. In addition to quiet operation, it ensures you gain the desired performance even when using this unit for hours.
It is rated for 80+ Titanium rating and delivers highest power output within the fan less power supply industry. It is a perfect bet for those who want absolute silence from their unit.
Not only the external but even the internal components are of very high quality. The unique circuit design offers stable and clean power output, while the modular cables permit for better management of the cable within the computer case.
- Comes with a wide-range of accessories
- Extremely quiet operation
- Micro tolerance load regulation keeps output voltage consistent
- Improved airflow and clutter-free setup
- It may not deliver optimum transient performance
- MICRO TOLERANCE LOAD REGULATION (0.5 %); Seasonic's latest design keeps the...
- FULL MODULAR - use only the cables you need to reduce clutter and improve...
- 80 PLUS TITANIUM - 92% efficient at 20% load, 94% efficient at 50% load,...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CORSAIR AX Series, AX850, 850 Watt, 80+ Titanium Certified, Fully Modular Power Supply
Why We Like It
- Includes three magnetic side labels
- Fully modular cables
- 135mm Cooling Fan
- Fluid Dynamic Bearing Fan
- 100% Japanese Capacitors
- 80+ Titanium Certification
Delivering world-class electrical performance, this PSU offers premium voltage regulation and reduced noise or ripple ensuring the best quality and consistently exceptional power for your PC. As a result, your PC stays stable and unlocks the true potential of your motherboard for overclocking.
It offers power up to 94% efficiency, reducing noise, energy consumption, temperatures, and power bill. It is designed with 100% Japanese capacitors delivering efficiency at 105 Degree Celsius.
In addition to unwavering performance and long-term reliability it comes with cooling fan that does not spin till you require it for silent operation at medium and low loads. The highly powerful airflow, longer life, and low noise functionality is all because of its Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan.
- Quick and easy installation
- Can be customized in your system with different cable colors
- Low noise operation
- Brilliant electrical performance
- The distance between peripheral connectors is short.
- 80+ Titanium Certified for the highest level of efficiency and performance
- Zero RPM fan mode for near-silent operation at low to medium loads
- World Class electrical performance for incredibly stable voltages and...
Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Corsair RMX Series (2018), RM550x, 550 Watt, 80+ Gold Certified, Fully Modular Power Supply for Gaming
Why We Like It
- Fan bearing technology
- RMX power supply
- 80 Plus Gold Certification Rating
- 100% Japanese Capacitors
- Zero RPM Fan Mode
- 100% industrial grade design
Engineered using the best quality components, the Corsair RM500x is proven to deliver 80 PLUS Gold efficient power to the PC. It uses Japanese capacitors and hence can work well even at 105 Degree Celsius.
The high reliability and long life of this unit is backed with years of warranty. It offers Zero RPM mode ensuring silent performance at medium and low loads. Even when the power is high the low noise of fan offers quiet operation.
The cables are fully modular, which makes it easy to install and upgrade your PC. You just have to install the cables needed by your system to gain dependable, efficient, and quiet functionality. It offers everything you require for powering high-performance to your PC.
- Low-noise operation
- Compact size
- Modular Cables
- Offers tidy and clean build
- There is no test button for the fan.
- 80 Plus Gold certified for lower power consumption, less noise and cooler...
- Tuned for low noise operation even at full load; MTBF hours 100,000 hours
- Zero RPM fan mode for near silent operation at low to medium loads
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Seasonic FOCUS Plus 750 Platnium SSR0750PX 750W 80+ Platinum ATX12V & EPS12V Size Power Supply For Gaming
Why We Like It
- 80 Plus Platnium rating
- Advanced three-phase thermal control
- Optimal cooling and silence
- Hybrid silent fan control functions
- Fits well ATX Systems
- High-quality components
Engineered by seasonal experts, this PSU unit is an excellent product based on advanced technology, which has been introduced after years of research. As a result, this unit comes with robust Focus technology that ensures you always gain excellent performance and consistent power boost for your PC.
It comes with an innovative modern design, which is well-complemented with brilliant electrical performance. The small power supply with modular cables makes it a true value for money.
This PSU is available with 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency rating, which is a proven certificate for its exceptional performance.
- Compact size
- High power output to size ration
- Reduced clutter and better airflow
- High energy efficiency
- Slightly expensive
- COMPACT SIZE - 140 MM DEEP; High power output to size ratio.
- FULL MODULAR; use only the cables you need to reduce clutter and improve...
- 80 PLUS PLATINUM; 90% efficient at 20% load, 92% efficient at 50% load, and...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Corsair AXi Series, AX1600i, 1600Watt, 80+ Titanium Certified, Fully Modular – Best Gaming Power Supply
Why We Like It
- System-wide RGB lighting synchronization
- Zero RPM Fan mode
- Customizable magnetic side labels
- Gallium Nitride Transistors
- 1600W continuous, stable power
- Robust CORSAIR link software monitoring
This Corsair PSU is an ultimate digital ATX power supply unit designed utilizing the finest components and cutting-edge technology. It is engineered using gallium nitride transistors delivering more than 94% efficiency rate.
It offers 1600W of ultra-stable, consistent and 80 PLUS Titanium efficient power and is the only gaming PSU with such high-quality transistors. The 100% 105 Degree Celsius Japanese capacitors offer superior efficiency in a lesser form-factor.
The stable voltages and low ripple noise deliver excellent electrical performance. You can select among three-color customizable magnetic side labels that let you pick PSU style, which is a perfect match to your setup. Along with Zero RPM fan mode it comes with intelligent control, performance monitoring, and stunning system-wide RGB lighting synchronization.
- Intelligent control
- Offers low-noise operation
- Exceptional electrical performance
- Superior efficiency
- Does not operate silently at heavy loads.
- Delivers 1600W of continuous, ultra-stable, 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency...
- 100% 105°C Japanese capacitors, top-specification internal components and...
- The only enthusiast PSU to use Totem-pole PFC Gallium Nitride (GaN)...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CORSAIR SF Series, SF750, 750 Watt, SFX, 80+ Platinum Certified, Fully Modular Power Supply
Why We Like It
- Fully modular cables
- Copper allow heat-sink
- 105 Degree Celsius Capacitors
- Zero RPM Fan Mode
- 750Watt SFX Form Factor
- Easily installed into small form factor and ATX cases
This PSU from Corsair is an extraordinary power supplying unit that is powered with the most cutting-edge technologies. It comes with 750 continuous watts supply and 80+ Platinum Certification, which makes it an ultra-efficient PSU generating low heat, and hence, low electricity bills.
The big size 92mm fan offers industry-leading performance while zero RPM Mode functionality ensures smooth operation with minimal noise. The noise level activates only when the load is a little higher.
The fully modular cables are individually sleeved and let you maximize space and enhance flow of air. The internal components are made with 105 Degree rated Japanese capacitors ensuring excellent performance along with years of stability and dependable operation. You can select the SF750 to gain unprecedented power and reliable tech support.
- Quick installation with any ATX compatible case
- Perfectly fits into modern PC offering easy routing and cable management
- Delivers precise fan speed and low noise
- Optimal thermal performance
- Slightly expensive
- Harness 750 continuous watts In SFX form, perfect for the most power-dense...
- Ensures ultra-high efficiency operation for less excess heat and lower...
- Flexible Para cord sleeved cables make routing and cable management...
Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Seasonic Prime TX-1000, 1000W 80+ Titanium, Full Modular, Fan Control in Fanless, Silent, and Cooling Mode, 12 Year Warranty, Perfect Power Supply for Gaming and High-Performance Systems
Why We Like It
- Premium hybrid fan control
- Fully modular cables
- Premium components
- Comes with a wide range of accessories
- Enhanced low-load efficiency
- High energy efficiency
The Seasonic Prime TX-1000 PSU is an ultra-efficient unit with micro tolerance load regulation of under 0.5%, It comes with impressive electrical performance and great stability making it an ideal choice for gaming devices and high – performance systems.
The fully modular cables ensure you use only those that are needed and hence avail of reduced clutter as well as better airflow for an enhanced ventilated system. The 80 plus Titanium rating uses less energy conversion and cuts down the electricity usage.
With its premium hybrid fan control mechanism, you gain unsurpassed silent functionality in the fan less mode. There is also a fan regulation button at the back that lets you customize cooling effect as per your preference.
- Exceptional performance
- Reduced clutter and easy management
- Top quality 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan
- Perfect for high-performance systems
- The power cable comes with a European plug only
- Micro Tolerance Load Regulation (under 0. 5 %): this impressive electrical...
- Full modular - use only the cables you need to reduce clutter and improve...
- 80 plus Titanium - less energy gets wasted during power conversion; cut...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
G.Skill GP-PL1250A-CWV1 Ripjaws PS1250P 1250W 80+ Platinum Gaming PC ATX 12V | Best PC Power Supply
Why We Like It
- Premium grade components and efficient engineering
- Supports all devices including crypto Mining machines
- Zero RPM fan mode
- 80+ Platinum saves 300W of power
- 100% Japanese Capacitors
- Comes with numerous additional cables
The G.Skill PC power supply will simply blow your mind as it is coupled with the best parts holding the highest levels of quality control. It is so powerful that you can keep it running for days without worrying. The 1250W of stable power is able to serve even the most demanding systems.
It is a highly reliable unit equipped with 100% Japanese capacitors of highest standard. The 80+ Platinum Certification is backed with 7 years of warranty ensuring you avail of high performance and stability. It is compatible with all components and devices and come with enough cables needed for a secured connection. It works well with all motherboards and offer hassle-free system building.
The fully modular system keeps everything intact and offers clean and well-organized cable management. The internal components are of high quality and offer protection to your device from sudden voltage fluctuations.
- Highest level of components and quality controls
- High wattage of 1250W
- Low noise operation
- ATX compatibility
- Does not offer customization option
- G.Skill reliability – trust in the G.Skill Brand which only offers the...
- High wattage – 1250W to support any system including; crypto Mining...
- Low Noise Quiet – Zero RPM fan mode allows the PS1250P to operate at...
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rosewill 1600-Watt Intel Haswell Ready 80 Plus Silver Modular Gaming Power Supply ATC12V Hercules – 1600S
Why We Like It
- Intel Haswell CPU Ready
- Turbo fan switch
- Silent 135mm Fan with auto fan speed control
- Double strong 12V rails
- LED indicator of power status
- Active-PFC with AC-input voltage adjustment
With 80+ Silver Certified, this Rosewill PSU unit is a high-powered product delivering jaw-dropping regular 1600W performance. It is a perfect fit to most of the gaming devices and systems requiring high and continuous power supply.
It comes with numerous graphics cards configuration and renders elongated supply of power. The Active PFC with automatic AC-input voltage adjustment of 100-240V offers high quality output with a fewer impact on the utility grid.
Also, it features modular cable design, LED indicator, and mesh sleeves on cables ensuring you have optimum performance and silent operation. It is a great choice for DIY professionals and gaming enthusiasts looking out for exceptional efficiency and performance. Integrated with an array of protection, it gives great confidence to you.
- Enhanced silence with automatic fan speed control
- The fan works in full speed
- LED indicator for clear power status
- Voltage adjustment mechanism
- You cannot change the fan speed.
- Intel Haswell CPU Ready
- Dual strong 12V rails - idea for Gaming system
- 1 x Silent 135mm Fan with Auto Fan Speed Control for better silence
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Buying Guide to Pick Best PSU for Gaming
Just like any other component or product, it is essential to consider a few factors while selecting a PSU.
Wattage
The wattage for a power supply unit is the volume of power it can supply. While some PSUs deliver peak wattage, others offer continuous wattage.
It is possible that the power supply wattage you buy is unable to support your entire components. Hence, first estimate the total wattage required for the entire setup. Based on your motherboard, graphics card, fan, disk drive logic boards, and other components, you can pick PSU wattage.
Physical Structure and Shape
You must have read the term ATX in the above-mentioned models. The ATX uses single 20 – pin power connectors and it is a mainstream that uses 4 pin +12V connector to offer exclusive power to the processor.
Before you purchase a PSU, just ensure it perfectly fits into your PC and is an ideal match to other components of your setup.
Modular Cables
PSU comes with cables, which can be fully modular, semi modular or non-modular. Depending on your unit modularity, you can pick up a PSU accordingly.
- Fully-Modular – This form of PSU comes with no pre-attached cables. As a result, you can make a setup as per your preference availing a clean and clutter-free look.
- Semi-Modular – Such PSUs are connected with only essential cables like cables for CPU and motherboard. They are usually the most preferred ones and offer a less clutter and clean look along with better flow of air throughout the rig. The cables for other components like SATA are detachable.
- Non-Modular – Managing non-modular cables can be highly tricky. It is because they are pre-attached with all possible cables, which means you cannot make any customizations. In most of the cases, your setup may also appear cluttered and messy.
PSU Connectors
In order to gain the best performance with your gaming gear, all components of your setup must easily link to your PSU.
For example, a motherboard will usually require a 24-pin connector while a CPU requires 2-8 pin connector. The graphics card requires a 4-12 pin connector and SSD or Hard Drives require a SATA connection.
Before you buy a PSU, it must come with suitable connectors for all your PC components.
Understanding 80+ Efficiency Rating
The efficiency rating of a PSU determine the power it supplies to the internal components. Most of the PSUs boast of delivering 80+ efficiency rating.
The 80+ is a certification used by manufacturers to confirm their PSU’s efficiency.
The 80+ efficiency rating can be Gold, Platinum, Bronze, Titanium or White.
For a high power supply, it is best to pick PSU with 80+ Platinum or Titanium Efficiency Rating.
Power Rails
PSUs can be single-rail or multi-rail designs. A single rail supplies power from a high power +12V rail to various components of your setup. Alternatively, a multi-rail supplies power from two or more +12V rails.
Stability
It is essential that your PSU delivers a consistent power supply. If the power supply is unstable, it may shut down or render low performance during heavy use or under high temperatures.
Safety
It is best to pick a PSU that is equipped with sound safety mechanisms such as UVP or Under Voltage Protector and OVP or Over Voltage Protector.
Conclusion
Even if you buy a budget-friendly PSU, it would not blow off in just one game. However, to avail of long-term benefits and consistently high results, it is best to invest in an expensive PSU, which offers true worth for your money.
Hope you have an amazing gaming experience with your new PSU!