GUIDES

Power supply guides

Short, practical answers to the questions people ask before buying a graphics card or a PSU.

Wattage for popular cards

Is 650W enough for an RTX 5070?
Yes with most mid-range CPUs. Here is the math for common CPU pairings and when you should step up to 750W or 850W.
Is 850W enough for an RTX 5080?
Yes with most gaming CPUs, including X3D Ryzens. The math for common pairings, when 1000W makes sense, and how to power the 16-pin plug.
Is 750W enough for an RX 9070 XT?
Yes for most gaming builds. The math for common CPU pairings, what factory-overclocked cards change, and which plugs each 9070 XT uses.
Can I use my old PSU with an RTX 50 series card?
Usually yes, if it has enough watts and enough PCIe cables for the adapter. A three-check list for RTX 5060 to 5090.

12VHPWR vs 12V-2x6: what changed and do you need a new PSU?
The 16-pin GPU power plug got a quiet revision in 2023. Here is what changed, whether your old cable still works, and how to plug it in so it does not melt.
How to check what connectors your PSU has
Find out what your power supply can plug into before you buy a graphics card: the label, the cables, and the one mix-up that can kill hardware.
Modular vs semi-modular vs non-modular power supplies
What modular means, whether it is worth paying for, and the one rule about modular cables that can save your hardware.

ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1: what changed and does it matter?
A renamed 16-pin plug, a shorter hold-up time and slot power spikes. What that means if you own or are buying an ATX 3.0 power supply.
80 Plus Bronze vs Gold vs Platinum: what PSU efficiency ratings mean
What the 80 Plus badges measure, the efficiency each level needs, what it saves on your power bill, and what the rating does not tell you.
Signs your power supply is failing, and how to test it
Random shutdowns, clicking, burning smells and a PC that will not start. How to tell if it is the PSU, and three ways to test it without opening it up.