This category contains PC power supplies rated up to 650 W, suited to office computers, home PCs, mid-range gaming builds and replacements for ageing machines. Units come from CHIEFTEC, DEEPCOOL, FSP, Thermaltake, be quiet! and Seasonic, with non-modular, semi-modular and fully modular cabling.
How to choose a power supply up to 650 W
Wattage. Add up the demands of your processor and graphics card, then leave some headroom. Our range runs from 400 W to 650 W, with 650 W, 550 W and 600 W units the most often listed. A PC with integrated graphics rarely needs more than 400 to 500 W, while a system with a mid-range graphics card is safer at 550 W or above.
Form factor. Most tower cases take a standard ATX unit, and ATX is the most common form factor in our range. Small cases often need SFX, so check your case specifications first. Some listings use the PS/2 form factor, so confirm the size matches your case before you order.
Cabling type. Non-modular units have every cable permanently attached, which keeps the design simple. Semi-modular and fully modular units let you remove cables you do not use, which makes cable routing easier in small or tightly packed cases. Both types are available in our range.
Connectors. Count what your build needs: SATA power for drives, plus the PCIe power cables your graphics card requires. Models in our range list anywhere from 3 to 9 SATA power connectors, so a build with several drives needs a unit at the upper end.
Efficiency and noise. A higher 80 PLUS rating means less energy is lost as heat. Fan size also affects noise: most units here have a 12 cm fan, and larger fans can usually run slower for the same airflow. If the PC sits on your desk, this matters more than a few extra watts.
Brands we carry
- CHIEFTEC: a Taiwanese maker of cases and power supplies, with the largest number of models in this category.
- DEEPCOOL: best known for CPU coolers and cases, and also makes ATX power supplies for budget and mid-range builds.
- FSP: a major power supply manufacturer that also builds units for other PC brands.
- Thermaltake: known for cases and cooling, with power supplies designed to match its gaming enclosures.
- be quiet!: a German brand whose products focus on low noise levels.
- Seasonic: a specialist in power supplies, known for efficient designs and for supplying components used by other brands.
- CISCO: a networking manufacturer, so its units may be intended for its own equipment rather than a standard PC build. Check compatibility before buying.
Also in our range: ENDORFY, AKYGA, GAMEMAX, XILENCE and GIGABYTE.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does my PC need?
Most office and home PCs with integrated graphics run well on 400 to 500 W. A build with a dedicated mid-range graphics card is usually better served by 550 to 650 W. Check the power recommendation from your graphics card maker and choose a unit slightly above it.
Is a 650 W power supply enough for a gaming PC?
A 650 W unit is enough for many gaming PCs with a mid-range processor and a single mid-range graphics card. High-end graphics cards often need more, so check the manufacturer's recommended wattage. If you plan to upgrade later, choose a higher rating now.
Should I buy a modular or non-modular power supply?
A modular unit is the better choice if you want tidy cabling or a small case with limited space. A non-modular unit does the same electrical job and suits simple builds where most cables are used anyway. Semi-modular units sit between the two, with the main cables fixed and the rest removable.
Will a power supply rated 100 to 240 V work in South Africa?
Yes, a unit rated 100 to 240 V covers the 230 V mains supply used in South Africa. Units rated 220 to 240 V or 230 V also match the local supply. Check the input rating on the label if a unit lists a narrower range.
