What To Know
- The Corsair RM series boasts a fully modular design, allowing you to customize your cable management for a clean and clutter-free build.
- The RM series is more efficient, with an 80 Plus Gold certification compared to the 80 Plus Bronze certification of the CX series.
- Yes, the RM series comes with a 10-year warranty while the CX series offers a 5-year warranty.
When it comes to building a gaming PC, the power supply unit (PSU) is often overlooked. However, this unsung hero plays a crucial role in providing stable and efficient power to your system. Two popular PSU series from Corsair, the RM and CX, offer budget-friendly options that cater to different needs. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of Corsair RM vs. CX PSU to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair RM series boasts a fully modular design, allowing you to customize your cable management for a clean and clutter-free build. The CX series, on the other hand, features a semi-modular design, providing some flexibility while keeping essential cables pre-attached. Both series utilize high-quality components and adhere to ATX 2.0 and EPS 2.92 standards, ensuring reliability and compatibility.
Efficiency and Performance
Corsair RM PSUs are 80 Plus Gold certified, indicating an efficiency rating of up to 92%. This means that they convert more electrical power into usable energy, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced heat output. The CX series is 80 Plus Bronze certified, offering an efficiency rating of up to 85%. While not as efficient as the RM series, it still provides decent performance for budget-oriented builds.
Power Output and Features
The Corsair RM series offers a wide range of power output options, from 550W to 1000W. This caters to a variety of system configurations, including high-end gaming rigs. The CX series, on the other hand, has a more limited power output range, with options from 450W to 650W. Both series feature overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit protection to safeguard your components.
Connector Options
The Corsair RM series provides a generous array of connectors, including multiple PCIe 6+2-pin connectors for graphics cards, SATA connectors for storage devices, and MOLEX connectors for legacy devices. The CX series offers a more limited selection of connectors, but still provides enough options for most basic builds.
Noise and Cooling
Corsair RM PSUs utilize a 135mm fan with a rifle bearing for quiet operation, even under high load. The CX series employs a 120mm fan with a sleeve bearing, which may be slightly louder but still provides adequate cooling.
Price and Warranty
Corsair RM PSUs come with a premium price tag compared to the CX series. However, they offer higher efficiency, more power output options, and a longer warranty of 10 years. The CX series is more budget-friendly, but it comes with a shorter warranty of 5 years.
The Bottom Line: The Verdict
The Corsair RM and CX PSU series offer distinct advantages and target different needs. The RM series is ideal for enthusiasts and high-end builders who prioritize efficiency, performance, and a modular design. The CX series is a more affordable option that still delivers reliable power for basic and mid-range systems. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and the specific requirements of your build.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which series is more efficient, RM or CX?
A: The RM series is more efficient, with an 80 Plus Gold certification compared to the 80 Plus Bronze certification of the CX series.
Q: Does the RM series have a longer warranty than the CX series?
A: Yes, the RM series comes with a 10-year warranty while the CX series offers a 5-year warranty.
Q: Which series is better for high-end gaming rigs?
A: The RM series is better suited for high-end gaming rigs due to its higher power output options and modular design.
Q: Can the CX series handle multiple graphics cards?
A: The CX series offers limited PCIe 6+2-pin connectors, so it may not be suitable for systems with multiple high-powered graphics cards.
Q: Which series is quieter under load?
A: The RM series utilizes a larger and quieter fan, making it the better choice for noise-sensitive environments.
