Seasonic Core GX ATX 3 2024 650W Fully Modular 80+ Gold PCIE 5.1 Power Supply/PSU ATX3.1 Review

Overview

The Seasonic Core GX ATX 3 2024 650W is a high-performance power supply unit (PSU) designed to meet the demands of modern computing systems. This PSU is part of Seasonic's Core series, known for its reliability, efficiency, and modular design. Here, we delve into its features, performance, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The Seasonic Core GX ATX 3 2024 650W features a sleek and compact design, measuring 140 × 150 × 86 mm. The unit is built with premium components and boasts an excellent build quality, which is a hallmark of Seasonic's products. The fully modular cable management system allows for easy installation and a clean-looking build, making it ideal for both enthusiasts and professionals.

Performance

Efficiency: The PSU achieves an 80 PLUS Gold certification, indicating high efficiency across various load levels. During testing, it demonstrated an average nominal load efficiency of 89.8% at 115 VAC, which increases to 92.1% at 230 VAC. This efficiency is impressive, especially considering the unit's compact size.

Load Regulation: The Seasonic Core GX ATX 3 2024 650W shows excellent load regulation, with the 12V rail holding at 0.4%, the 5V rail at 0.6%, and the 3.3V rail at 0.5%. Ripple suppression is also well-executed, with maximum ripple levels of 34 mV on the 12V rail, 20 mV on the 5V rail, and 20 mV on the 3.3V rail.

Thermal Management: The unit features a 120 mm fan with smart and silent fan control, ensuring that the fan remains either off or relatively quiet across most of the load range. The fan becomes audible only under high loads, and it never reaches its maximum speed, even under full load. Internal temperatures are well-regulated, staying within safe operating limits.

Features

• Form Factor: ATX/EPS
• Dimensions: 140 × 150 × 86 mm
• Fan Size: 120 mm
• Fan Control: Smart and Silent Fan Control
• Efficiency: 80 PLUS Gold
• Power Output: 650W
• Modularity: Fully Modular
• Connectors:
  • ATX 24 Pin: 1
  • EPS 4+4 Pin: 2
  • EPS 8 Pin: 0
  • PCI-E 5.0: 1
  • PCI-E 8 Pin: 3
  • SATA: 8
  • Molex: 3
  • Floppy: 0
• Protection Features:
  • Over Current Protection (OCP)
  • Over Voltage Protection (OVP)
  • Over Power Protection (OPP)
  • Short Circuit Protection (SCP)
• Compliance: ATX 3.1, PCIe 5.1

Pros

• Excellent Build Quality: The PSU is built with premium components and features an immaculate assembly job.
• High Efficiency: Achieves 80 PLUS Gold certification with high efficiency across various load levels.
• Quiet Operation: The fan remains either off or relatively quiet across most of the load range.
• Compact Design: Measuring 140 × 150 × 86 mm, it is compact and easy to install.
• Fully Modular Cables: Easy cable management with all-black, individually sleeved cables.
• Great Power Quality: Precise voltage regulation and effective ripple suppression.
• Responsive Protection Circuitry: All protection mechanisms were activated and functioned correctly during testing.

Cons

• Limited Connectors: The number of connectors is conservative, which might be a drawback for some users.
• Price: The retail price is on the higher end, although it is justified by its top-quality components and reliability.

Verdict

The Seasonic Core GX ATX 3 2024 650W is a well-rounded PSU that combines good overall performance, long-term reliability, and modern features. Its high efficiency, precise voltage regulation, and effective thermal management make it an excellent choice for users who prioritize durability and stability in their systems. While the price might be a consideration for some, the cost is justified by its top-quality components and balanced performance.

Features Table