All things being equal, which PSU would draw more power?

Stonedofmoo · 4 Feb 2008 at 09:12

A noob question I know but I'm looking at getting a new power supply and I cannot decide if I should go for a 500w PSU which is all I really need, or look to the future and get a 700w plus for long term use

My question was if all the components of a PC stayed exactly the same, would a 700w PSU draw more power than a 500w PSU?

i.e. would the 500w be more efficient?

Thanks :cool:

IAmATeaf · 4 Feb 2008 at 11:01

All depends on the efficiency of the PSU itself at the load you're putting on it TBH. If work out how much you're likely to load the PSU then have a look at a few reviews you'll be able to see the efficiency of the PSUs you're interested in at roughly the loading you'll be putting it under.

Stonedofmoo · 4 Feb 2008 at 11:05

OK lets say they are both 80% efficient

Which would draw more at the plug powering the same equipment, or would they draw the same.

IAmATeaf · 4 Feb 2008 at 11:06

They'd draw the same as far as I'm concerned.

Nick644622 · 4 Feb 2008 at 13:09

You can't destroy energy, only convert it. Your rig is going to use the same amount of power with either PSU. Therefore unless a PSU is grossly inefficient converting power into unwanted heat there won't be any difference between the two assuming they have the similar/same efficiency rating.

Stonedofmoo · 5 Feb 2008 at 08:16

Thanks