Just how bad is a cheap power supply?

kristmace · 14 Jan 2011 at 19:09

I maintain about 6 PCs for family and friends. None of them have high powered systems or overclocks and 4 had the same generic PSU that came bundled with a case. All 4 of these PSUs died within a year (though never taking any components out luckily). They've all been replaced by EZCool or CiT PSUs (£30ish) and they're fine. For general home/office PCs I think they offer excellent value.

CAT-THE-FIFTH · 15 Jan 2011 at 12:59

For £30 buying an EZCool or Colors IT is pointless TBH.

If you look around you can Seasonic S12 based 330W and 400W PSUs for between £24 to £34 on special offer.

You can also get the Antec Basiq 350W for under £30. It is not the best unit in the world but is made by FSP meaning that at least you get all the basic protections up and running AFAIK.

chaparral · 15 Jan 2011 at 13:00

Just how bad is a cheap power supply?

BANG

robotron · 15 Jan 2011 at 13:06

I bought a arctic power 700w for £43 a year or so ago. Plugged it in and it blew up, bought a proper PSU and it worked fine.

cammy5477 · 15 Jan 2011 at 13:34

my kids ez-cool just went bang after 3 weeks....im not even going to rma it im going to get the antec 650w and put it down as lesson learned...thought it would be ok as i was tight for money at the time but it was total guff......i will never buy a cheap psu again