NZXT C Series 650W Semi-Modular ATX PSU Review: A Solid Budget Option
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NZXT C Series 650W Semi-Modular ATX PSU Review
The NZXT C Series 650W Semi-Modular ATX PSU is a budget-friendly power supply unit that aims to deliver reliable power for your PC build without breaking the bank. In this review, we put it through its paces to see how it performs in real-world scenarios.
Key Features
The NZXT C Series 650W boasts several features that make it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders:
* **80 Plus Bronze Certification:** This certification ensures that the PSU achieves at least 82% efficiency at 20% load, 85% at 50% load, and 82% at 100% load. This translates to less wasted power and lower energy bills.
* **Semi-Modular Design:** The semi-modular design allows you to connect only the cables you need, reducing clutter and improving airflow inside your PC.
* **Single +12V Rail:** This design provides a stable and consistent power output, suitable for even high-end components.
* **Quiet Operation:** The PSU features a 120mm fan that is designed to be whisper-quiet, even under heavy load.
* **5-Year Warranty:** NZXT offers a 5-year warranty on the C Series PSU, providing peace of mind regarding its reliability.
Performance & Efficiency
We tested the NZXT C Series 650W with a high-end gaming PC configuration that included an Intel Core i7-12700K processor, an RTX 3080 graphics card, and 32GB of DDR5 RAM. The PSU handled the load with ease, delivering stable power without any issues.
During our gaming benchmarks, the PSU remained quiet and did not exhibit any noticeable coil whine. Even under heavy load, the fan remained relatively silent, making it a great choice for those who value quiet operation.
Pros & Cons
**Pros:**
* **Affordable Price:** The NZXT C Series is a very competitive option in the budget PSU market.
* **Reliable Performance:** The PSU delivered stable and consistent power, even under heavy load.
* **Quiet Operation:** The fan remained relatively quiet, even under stress.
* **Semi-Modular Design:** This feature allows for cleaner cable management.
* **5-Year Warranty:** Provides reassurance regarding its longevity.
**Cons:**
* **Limited Cable Length:** The included cables are relatively short, which might pose challenges for some builds.
* **No RGB Lighting:** For those who desire RGB-illuminated components, this PSU lacks that feature.
Final Verdict
The NZXT C Series 650W Semi-Modular ATX PSU is a solid choice for budget-minded PC builders who prioritize reliability and quiet operation. While it lacks some features found in higher-end PSUs, it delivers on its promise of providing a stable and consistent power source at an affordable price.
If you’re looking for a reliable and quiet PSU that won’t break the bank, the NZXT C Series 650W is an excellent option.
