Corsair SF850L SF-L Series Fully Modular Power Supply Review: A Compact Powerhouse

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Corsair SF850L SF-L Series Fully Modular Power Supply is a compact powerhouse designed for demanding PC builds in small form factor (SFF) cases. With its 850 watts of continuous power, 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating, and advanced features like Zero RPM mode, the SF850L promises quiet operation and reliable performance. In this review, we’ll put it through its paces to see if it lives up to the hype.

Features

The Corsair SF850L boasts an impressive array of features, including:

  • SFX Form Factor: This compact size makes it ideal for SFF cases where space is limited.
  • Fully Modular Cables: Allows for clean cable management and only using the cables you need.
  • 850 Watts Continuous Power: Delivers enough power for demanding components, including high-end graphics cards.
  • 80 Plus Gold Efficiency: Ensures efficient power conversion and reduces energy waste.
  • Zero RPM Mode: The fan remains off at low loads for near-silent operation.
  • 12mm Fan Size: Provides ample airflow and cooling even under heavy loads.
  • 10-Year Warranty: Provides peace of mind and long-term reliability.

Performance

The SF850L delivered exceptional performance during our testing. We subjected it to heavy workloads, including gaming, video editing, and rendering, and it remained stable throughout. The Zero RPM mode was effective in keeping noise levels down during idle and light workloads, and the fan only kicked in when necessary, providing efficient cooling without excessive noise. The fully modular cables made for a clean and organized build, which further contributed to the overall positive experience.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Corsair SF850L:

  • Pros:
    • Compact SFX form factor
    • Fully modular cables
    • High power output (850 watts)
    • 80 Plus Gold efficiency
    • Quiet operation with Zero RPM mode
    • Reliable performance
    • 10-year warranty
  • Cons:
    • Can be slightly more expensive than some other PSUs with similar power output.

Final Verdict

The Corsair SF850L is a top-notch SFX power supply that offers a perfect balance of performance, quiet operation, and reliability. Its compact size, high power output, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for demanding PC builds in SFF cases. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other PSUs in the market, the SF850L’s premium build quality, exceptional performance, and 10-year warranty make it a worthy investment. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-performance and reliable SFX PSU.

Specifications