XPG Core Reactor 850 W Review 9

XPG Core Reactor 850 W Review

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Value and Conclusion

  • The XPG Core Reactor 850 W retails for $149.99.
  • Full power at 47 °C
  • High performance in all areas
  • Operates quietly
  • Efficient
  • Efficiency with 2% load over 70%
  • Efficient 5VSB rail
  • Compatible with alternative sleep mode
  • Good build quality
  • Compact dimensions
  • Many connectors
  • 10-year warranty
  • Price a bit stiff
  • Transient response at 3.3 V could be better
  • High OCP triggering points on the minor rails
  • Longer EPS cables would be a highly welcome feature
The flagship Core Reactor model performed as well as its 750 W sibling, as it stood its ground as an equal against the likes of the Corsair RM850 and Seasonic Focus Plus Gold of similar capacity. The soon to be replaced EVGA SuperNOVA 850 G3 and highly popular Corsair RM850x achieve about 2% higher overall performance, but are not compatible with alternative sleep mode or efficient enough with 2% load for the newest ATX specification.

When it comes to noise output, the PSU manages to stay below 30 dBA in my overall noise chart, which is decent. However, the RM850 and especially RM850x perform better here, achieving much lower overall noise output. Since all platforms are based on CWT designs, the Core Reactor can be tuned for a quieter operation, especially at high loads under increased operating temperatures. A larger diameter fan would also help, but it would be difficult to install a 140 mm fan because of the PSU's compact size. It would be better to slightly increase the depth to accommodate a larger fan, which would be able to push the same amount of air as a 120 mm fan, but at lower speeds for less noise output.

All in all, the XPG Core Reactor is a great product of high build quality and good performance in all areas. Load regulation is tight, ripple is low on all rails, and transient response at +12 V, the most important rail in a PSU, is good. A huge number of cables and connectors are also provided, which gives this PSU the ability to cover everything from gaming rigs to workstations. Since the build quality, provided warranty, and performance are in line with the competition, it makes sense for it to have a similar price tag to all other competing offers. However, the problem is that XPG isn't a recognized name for PSUs, which will have many prefer a similarly priced Corsair, Seasonic, or Super Flower model instead. With that having been said, lowering the price slightly would give it the attention it needs, especially as XPG is currently trying to make a name for itself in this segment of the market. With them being more affordable, it would provide many the opportunity to get to know the brand for their PSUs by buying them over the competition.
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Apr 17th, 2024 21:38 EDT change timezone

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