A power supply unit (PSU) isn't glamorous. It doesn't show up in benchmark results. But get it wrong — either too weak or too cheap — and you'll be troubleshooting crashes, instability, and potentially damaged components.
How Much Wattage Do You Actually Need?
The rule is simple: add up the TDP of your CPU, the typical power draw of your GPU, add 100W for everything else (motherboard, RAM, storage, fans), then add at least 20–30% headroom.
Example: RTX 4070 (200W) + Core i7-14700K (125W) + 100W overhead = 425W estimated draw. With 30% headroom, you want at least 550W — though 650W gives a more comfortable margin for peak transients.
Common GPU power draws in 2026:
- RTX 4060: ~115W (650W PSU is plenty)
- RTX 4070: ~200W (750W PSU recommended)
- RTX 4080 Super: ~320W (850–1000W PSU)
- RTX 4090: ~450W (1000W minimum, 1200W preferred)
Efficiency Ratings Explained
The 80 Plus certification tells you how efficiently the PSU converts AC power to DC:
- 80+ Bronze: 82–85% efficient. Fine for budget builds.
- 80+ Gold: 87–90% efficient. The standard recommendation for performance builds.
- 80+ Platinum: 90–92% efficient. Slightly less heat, better regulation.
- 80+ Titanium: 94%+ efficient. For extreme builds or 24/7 workstations.
For most gaming builds, 80+ Gold Fully Modular is the right pick. It's efficient, keeps cables tidy, and provides stable power output.
Modular vs. Non-Modular
Fully Modular: All cables are removable. Best for clean builds and good airflow. Costs slightly more.
Semi-Modular: Main cables are fixed, others are removable. Good middle ground.
Non-Modular: All cables are permanently attached. Fine if you're on a tight budget and don't mind cable management.
Don't Cheap Out Here
A PSU from an unknown brand with inflated wattage claims is a genuine fire risk. Stick with known manufacturers. At Sephora Systems we use only certified PSUs that pass internal testing before installation.