OCZ ZS Series 650 W Review 3

OCZ ZS Series 650 W Review

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Value and Conclusion

  • The OCZ ZS 650W retails for $89.99
  • Handled full power at 46.4°C although it is rated up to 40°C
  • Good ripple/noise suppression at 5V, 3.3V and 5VSB and decent at +12V
  • Within 3% voltage regulation at +12V and 5V
  • Controlled voltage drops at Advanced Transient Response Tests
  • Good efficiency levels (for a Bronze unit) with 80W and 100W loads
  • Its price puts it against strong components that utilize modern designs (e.g. DC-DC converters that yield better efficiency)
  • Pure performance in the third test of Turn on Transient Tests where +12V dropped very low
  • The main ATX connector is a little short and may cause compatibility problems in large cases
  • Low max. operating temperature, 50° would be better
  • The distance among the peripheral and SATA connectors is too short (85 mm)
  • The wires between the peripheral and SATA connectors are not sleeved
The conclusion of the ZS 650W is almost the same as the one for the ZS 750W. The ZS series targets the value oriented users so it doesn't utilize modern characteristics like DC-DC converters, modular design etc. On the other hand all the ZS units I reviewed/disassembled feature Japanese capacitors; high quality caps mean prolonged life and reliability.

The main problems of the ZS 650W are the short distance among the peripheral and SATA connectors and the high price which puts it in a very competitive category where you can find PSUs with better price/performance ratios. At the time of the review OCZ offered a mail in rebate which dropped its price down to $65. At this price ZS 650W becomes a really good deal and is highly recommended. However this review's rating is based on the official street price since mail in rebates are not permanent.
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Apr 25th, 2024 15:47 EDT change timezone

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