Cougar GEX 1050 1050W 80 Plus Gold PSU Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Cougar GEX 1050 1050W 80 Plus Gold PSU promises to deliver high-performance and reliable power delivery. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and real-world usage to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next PC build. We’ve put it through its paces with a variety of demanding workloads to assess its capabilities.
Features and Design
The Cougar GEX 1050 boasts a sleek and modern design with a fully modular cable system. This modularity allows you to connect only the cables you need, minimizing clutter and improving airflow within your PC case. The unit also features 80 Plus Gold certification, indicating high efficiency and lower energy consumption.
One of the notable features is the inclusion of Japanese electrolytic capacitors, known for their durability and extended lifespan. The unit also incorporates a 0dB fan mode that remains silent under light loads, making it ideal for quiet systems. The HDB (High Density Bearing) fan ensures smooth and quiet operation, even under heavy loads.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | Cougar GEX 1050 |
| Power Output | 1050W |
| Efficiency | 80 Plus Gold |
| Capacitors | Japanese Electrolytic |
| Fan | HDB Fan with 0dB Mode |
| Modular | Fully Modular |
| Dimensions | 160mm x 150mm x 86mm |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
Performance Testing
We subjected the Cougar GEX 1050 to a series of rigorous tests to assess its performance under various scenarios, including:
- Idle Load: The PSU maintained a whisper-quiet operation with the fan remaining off. The 0dB mode works flawlessly in low-power scenarios.
- Gaming Load: During extended gaming sessions with demanding graphics cards, the GEX 1050 maintained stable power delivery and kept temperatures within acceptable limits. The fan remained relatively quiet even under heavy load, demonstrating its effectiveness.
- Stress Testing: We pushed the PSU to its limits with a combination of CPU and GPU stress tests. The GEX 1050 handled the demanding workload with ease, delivering consistent power and maintaining stability throughout the test.
The results of our testing showed that the Cougar GEX 1050 1050W 80 Plus Gold PSU delivered on its promises. It provided ample power, consistently maintained stability, and operated quietly under all load conditions.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fully modular cable system for clean and organized builds.
- 80 Plus Gold certification for high efficiency and lower energy consumption.
- Japanese electrolytic capacitors for improved durability and longevity.
- 0dB fan mode for quiet operation under light loads.
- HDB fan for smooth and quiet operation even under heavy loads.
- Solid build quality and reliable performance.
Cons:
- Some users may find the cable length to be slightly shorter than desired, particularly for larger cases.
- The price point may be considered slightly higher compared to some competing models.
Final Verdict
The Cougar GEX 1050 1050W 80 Plus Gold PSU is a reliable and efficient power supply that offers excellent performance and a range of useful features. Its modular design, high efficiency, and quiet operation make it an excellent choice for both gaming and workstation builds. While it may be slightly more expensive than some competitors, the added features and quality justify the price for those who value reliability and longevity.
Overall, I highly recommend the Cougar GEX 1050 for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable power supply for their next PC build. It provides the performance and features you need to ensure your system runs smoothly and quietly for years to come.