As everyone seems to prefer the idea of a quiet PC setup, it’s important we establish the best quietest power supply unit ideal for you.
When buying a silent power supply, you should expect to pay a little more than for standard generic PSUs. Perhaps this is widely known, as these PSUs are often created with superior parts and offer better quality.
They are fitted with top-tier capacitors and premium-grade components that will, without a doubt, outlast your system’s life, whereas lower-end power supply units cannot often make the same claim.
What is a Power Supply?
A power supply is a piece of hardware that provides electricity to an electronic gadget. It gets electricity from an electrical outlet and transforms the current, which the computer requires, from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).
In addition, it controls the voltage to the correct level, allowing the computer to operate efficiently without overheating. The power supply is a vital component of every computer and must operate smoothly for the rest of the circuits to function.
A computer’s power supply can be located by locating the input where the power cable is plugged in. If the power supply were removed, it would reveal a metal container with a fan and cables. You should never need to detach the power supply; therefore, keeping it in the case is better.
Many electronic gadgets need an external power supply, as opposed to the internal ones found in most PCs. Some external hard drives and monitors, for instance, have power supplies that are external to the primary device.
These power supplies are directly attached to the cable plugged into the power outlet. They frequently have an additional connection that links the gadget to the power source. Some power supplies, commonly known as “AC adaptors,” are directly linked to the plug.
Because the power supply is the initial point where electricity enters an electronic device, it is also the most susceptible to voltage spikes and spikes. Thus, power supplies are intended to accommodate changes in the electrical current while maintaining steady or controlled power output.
Some power supplies have fuses that will break if the surge is excessive, safeguarding the remainder of the equipment. In any case, it is far less costly to replace a power supply than a complete computer. Nonetheless, connecting all gadgets to a voltage regulator or UPS is prudent to safeguard them against electrical surges.
DARK POWER 12 – Dead Silent Power Supply
The Dark Power is the most energy-efficient power supply series ever created by be quiet.
Features up to 95.9% unmatched efficiency, qualifying in an 80 PLUS® Titanium accreditation, plus fully digital management of PFC & LLC+SR/12V for Dark Power Pro 12, resulting in improved regulation and reduced ripple noise for Dark Power 12 models.
Consequently, the Dark Power series is a model of efficiency and dependability. The innovative frameless fan design with a Silent Wings fan provides an optimal cooling effect and a practically silent operation in addition to its unrivaled efficiency.
The overclocking key permits manual switching between single-rail and multi-rail operations. All these qualities make the latest Dark Power 12 family the most innovative power supply created by Be Quiet Brand.
What to Consider When Buying a Quiet Power Supply?
There are a few factors you need to consider while shopping for a quiet power supply. These include:
Fan
The fun is usually responsible for the pesky power unit buzzing noise. This should be the first feature you consider if you are concerned about noise.
Fortunately, modern advances have made it possible for manufactures to provide quiet units that deliver exemplary performance. However, with these, you have to consider the heat distribution and ensure that the unit is mounted in an area that allows proper ventilation.
The fanless varieties also come at a higher price. Even among the fanned units, you will get quite a variety of quiet power supply units with fans that will go on if it goes beyond a certain load.
Wattage
Wattage is possibly the most important feature you need to consider. What is the PSU wattage, and will this be adequate for your machine?
You can use a PSU calculator to see how much power is required.
However, this method may not be accurate. This is because identical machines can differ in their power consumption due to factors such as GPUs and power spikes.
The most energy-demanding part of your computer is the graphic card. This means that the best way to tell how much power you need is to check its energy requirements.
The processor also consumes a significant amount of power, so it helps to check its requirement as well. While checking the Thermal Design Power number may give you a rough estimate, you may need to dig a little deeper since the numbers can be inaccurate.
A better method would be to check reviews on different sites and see what product is perfect for your PC.
In most cases, customers give honest reviews based on experience, so checking them may narrow your search and help you select a perfect match for your computer. If you want accurate figures, use a kill-a-watt device and use the intense benchmark value.
The peak wattage numbers you get should help you determine the best wattage for your current needs and future upgrades. Get a PSU with 20% headroom over the peak wattage to take care of increased power needs in the future.
Efficiency
You want a quiet power supply that delivers the power you need efficiently.
A few years back, most high wattage PSUs were quite inefficient at low loads. Since then, things have changed with advanced technology, and most units are highly efficient today.
All the power units highlighted above come with over 80% efficiency. Ensure that the efficiency goes beyond the 70% mark, so you are guaranteed of great efficiency even under light loads.
PSU Size
Most of the PSUs today are compact in size, which makes them versatile. Check your chassis dimensions so you can buy a power supply that can perfectly fit into it.
Some chassis are model specific and are only compatible with SFX-L and SFX PSUs that are much smaller. Be sure to get a power unit that is a perfect match for your chassis.
Full/Semi-Modular options
Most power supply users prefer fully modular units as there are great in cable management.
With enhanced cable management, you improved airflow, lower thermal loads, and consequently, minimal noise even at high speed. Semi-modular units are cheaper than the fully modular models.
Cost
This is the last feature you should consider. Power supply units come at different prices, so you have more than enough options to choose from, whatever your budget.
Just like with any other product, cheap doesn’t necessarily translate to poor quality, and the opposite is also true.
1. EVGA 220-G3-0750-X1
The EVGA G3 series stands out not just for its quiet operation, but also for being energy efficient.
The power supply comes with 80 plus gold-rated efficiency and can save power by up to 90%.
Like other products by the Taiwanese brand, Super Flower, this unit comes with Japanese capacitors with long life Eco Mode controlled fan that stops when the load is low.
With the 130 millimeters Hydraulic bearing, you are guaranteed of ultra-quiet performance.
The 12V regulation is built tight to suppress ripple and other power protections put in place to ensure that this product will stand the test of time.
Enjoy minimal heat dissipation reduced energy cost, and zero noise from the fan in low load operations.
With the EVGA 220-G3-0750-X1, you get ten years warranty against manufacturer defects.
2. Corsair RMX SERIES
Corsair is known for its high-quality and reliable products, and this power supply is not any different.
The Corsair RMX comes with fully-modular PSUs, so cable management is easy.
Additionally, it comes with 80 PLUS Gold Platinum certification, so energy efficiency is outstanding.
Thanks to the smart fan controller, the fan only goes on when the system goes a specific load threshold, which helps keep the unit quiet.
The RMx will not exceed 20 dBa noise levels even when the fan is at its maximum speed, making it perfect if you want a quiet power supply.
The 100% Japanese capacitors ensure consistent and solid power delivery.
Since they are also built with long term reliability in mind, you can expect the capacitor to serve you well for many years.
In addition to all the above features, the ZERO RPM Mode for the fan ensures that you can enjoy silent operation with low to medium loads.
3. Seasonic Prime 600
There are a few features that make the Seasonic Prime 600 stand out.
One, it is the only model without a fan.
In its place, the power supply uses passive cooling, and this can only translate to complete silence.
The Prime 600 comes with high-grade hardware along with outstanding power efficiency.
The manufacturer actually offers a 12-year warranty on this product so you can expect a decade-plus of outstanding service.
Since this power supply doesn’t come with a fan, you need to consider a quality chassis to ensure that hot air doesn’t accumulate inside for too long.
Get a case where you can mount the power supply at the top so hot air will rise with ease.
4. Corsair AX Series
The Corsair AX is a fully modular unit that delivers 80+ Titanium power.
This unit boasts of the highest quality internal parts and Japanese capacitors known to provide tight voltage regulation and low ripple noise.
Thanks to the Zero RPM mode feature, the fan only goes on when necessary, meaning that you can enjoy silent operation when on low or medium load.
Since the cables are fully modular flattened, you can easily upgrade your PC as you only install the cables needed for your systems.
Even when the fan is on, the unit is designed to run efficiently and offer near-silent operation.
The 135mm cooling fan with FDB bearing runs silently at demanding loads.
The Corsair AX comes with three-color magnetic side labels that you can customize to match your PSU’s style.
5. Rosewill Gaming Arc Series Quiet Power Supply
This Rosewill power supply guarantees a clean and stable power supply.
The unit will not break a sweat even on full load, plus it also offers the scalability, availability, and flexibility you need for your gaming computer.
The 80 plus supply is fitted with a 120mm fan that ensures optimal airflow at a very low noise level.
Even though the noise increases with the fan speed, you can barely hear the power supply from the next room, even when on full load.
In addition, the single +12V rail ensures optimal efficiency with low operation loss and even less heat.
For this unit, you get a three years warranty, so you are guaranteed great performance and replacement in case your unit has any manufacturer defect.
6. Antec HCG-620W High Current Power Supply
The Antec HCG-620W comes with an advanced low voltage 135 mm double ball-bearing fan that is sure to offer optimal circuit and heat shield for your machine.
With this power supply, you are sure that your PC is protected as you enjoy 620W of continuous and reliable power.
The power supply is also fitted with all Japanese capacitors that are heavy duty and high performing and high-quality connectors for enhanced performance.
Additionally, the 92.9% +12V output offers maximum GPU and CPU support for an out-of-this-world gaming experience.
If you are looking for a power supply with extreme efficiency, high current engineering, and solid construction that will stand the test of time, the Antec HCG is a perfect choice.
7. OCZ Technology Series ZX & Fatal1ty
It uses a similar speed control circuit tech from PC Power & Cooling and is equipped with a 140mm fan to manage heat. ZX is dedicated to hard-core gamers and overclockers; thus, its single-rail construction provides ample power for your increased triple SLI configuration or aggressive CPU tuning. A further advantageous feature of the ZX is its modular architecture, which eliminates messy wires.
On the other hand, once the temperature reaches 45°C, these PSUs experience a little performance drop, but this is an extremely unusual occurrence; the fan runs in silence and appears to be more than adequate to perform its magic. A 5-year warranty covers this series. Sufficient for any ultra-gaming, bank-breaking PC setups.
Not much can be said regarding the Fatal1ty Series. It is essentially a modified ZX with sleeved wires and a 135mm LED fan making it ideal for those with transparent window chassis.
Fatal1ty is compatible with SLI configurations. However, the average amperage is lower than that of the ZX Series. I do not believe it to be an issue unless your computer contains two or more Titan or GTX 690 graphics cards.
Avoid the OCZ ModxStream if you need a noise-free gaming session. It has a strong power supply but lacks the ventilation control of the premium versions listed above.
8. Cooler Master Silent Pro
The Cooler Master Silent Pro has been Cooler Master’s best-seller ever since they were unveiled at CES in 2008. The series includes Silent Pro M & M2, Gold, Platinum, and Hybrid.
All of these power supplies employ a robust single-rail architecture for current quality and a suitable modular construction for all cables.
As the name suggests, this lineup intends to achieve a near-silent acoustic level for customized computers. Except for the most recent Hybrid models, most power supplies in this series don’t cease fan spinning under low load. And as for the Silent Pro, M2, M Gold, and Platinum, the fan rotates between 500 and 1000rpm at low loads, producing a noise level between 14 and 22 dBA, which is still tolerable.
Consider the Corsair Hx/Ax Series above if you desire absolute silence under light load. In its earlier Silent Pro M and Gold Series, Cooler Master employs a 135mm fan with a max of 1500RPM or 1700RPM and a noise level of up to 36.44dBA, according to our testing. The newest M2, Silent Pro Platinum, and premium Hybrid series are especially endowed with the latest Hydraulic Dynamic Bearing Fan, which is more durable and produces less noise at greater rpm.
According to online reports and comments, the Silent Pro produces a rather high amount of ripple on the 12V rail when subjected to specific stress tests. Normal/enthusiastic users will not notice a change. It’s important to note that this series is not intended for a 5GHz overclocked system.
M2 will replace the M Series. Depending on your budget, you might also consider the Gold, Platinum, or Hybrid Series for improved power efficiency during frequent usage.
If hearing sensitivity is an issue, the Hybrid would be the ideal option; there’s no noise distraction until the system uses 200 watts or the power supply temperature rises over 25 degrees Celsius. However, the noise level will only be about 32 decibels whenever the fan spins at its maximum rpm.
9. Thermaltake Smart with Ultra-Quiet Cooling Fan
The best quiet power supply unit is Thermaltake Smart with Ultra-Quiet Cooling Fan.
It’s available in different wattage (430-700 Watts), allowing you to choose a style that correctly matches the wattage of your computer.
The unit is equipped with a 120mm ultra-quiet fan.
Additionally, the PSU is 80 PLUS Standard Certified and equipped with highly quality components for reliable nonstop usage.
If the Thermaltake Smart with Ultra-Quiet Cooling Fan above doesn’t sound like the real deal to you, then below are some quality and quiet PSUs, including the Corsair CX series.
Final thoughts
Above are the best quiet power supply there is on the market today.
Electricity is the lifeblood of any computer, and it pays to if it’s reliable and quiet as possible.
If you’ve upgraded your computer, consider also consider whether your new upgraded PC requires a more reliable and quieter PSU.
References:
- https://www.allaboutcircuits.com/textbook/semiconductors/chpt-9/power-supply-circuits/
- https://www.bequiet.com/en/powersupply
Meet Mike O’Connor, (a DIY enthusiast), living in Cincinnati, a city ranked as the noisiest in the USA.
As a work from home dad, I have a first hand experience of how noise can truly affect your well being.
Soundproofing isn’t something that should be taken as a hobby, it should be a skill that every homeowner should be equipped with.
Most of the work documented on this blog comes from purely first hand experience, and the products recommended work as indicated.