Best 1200W PSU (Gaming, Mining, Budget, Affordable)

Want to know What is the best 1200W PSU? Check out our top picks for the best 1200W Power Supply for your next build.

A 1200W power supply unit (PSU) offers ample capacity for the highest-end gaming and workstation PC builds.

When your rig contains top-tier components like an NVIDIA RTX 3090 or AMD Radeon 6950 XT graphics card, 12th/13th gen Intel Core i9 CPU, multiple SSDs/HDDs, water cooling, and tons of RGB lighting, you need a PSU up to the task. 1200W gives you comfortable headroom and overclocking potential.

You want high efficiency to save on electricity costs, fully modular cabling for ease of installation, quiet fan profiles, and most importantly stable, reliable power delivery backed by strong warranties. Premium units offer all of this while budget options cut some corners to reduce costs.

In this guide, I’ll cover the best 1200W PSUs for 4090 across the spectrum – from more affordable models under $200 to top-tier flagship units over $300.

I’ll make recommendations for both high-end gaming rigs and professional workstations needing maximum power. You can match your performance and budget needs to pick the perfect 1200W PSU for your build. Let’s jump into the options and details!

Our recommended list of the Best 1200W Power Supply

1. Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 : Overall Best
2. Asus Rog Thor 1200P2 Gaming : Best for Gaming
3. Corsair RM1200x Shift : Best PSU ATX 3.0
4. SilverStone Strider ST1200-PT 1200W : Best For Mining
5. NZXT C1200 PSU : Best for RTX 4090
6. Seasonic Vertex GX-1200

1. Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 : Overall Best

Pros:

• High wattage (1200W) provides plenty of power for high-end systems with multiple GPUs
• 80+ Gold certified for efficiency
• Has two dedicated 12VHPWR cables to support NVIDIA RTX 40 series GPUs
• Supports latest ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 standards
• 10 year warranty provides long-term peace of mind

Cons:

• Very expensive compared to lower wattage options
• Overkill for most single GPU gaming systems
• Large size may not fit in some smaller cases
• Noisy fan at higher loads
• Only partially modular cables

The overall best 1200W power supply has to be the Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 due to its affordable price and excellent performance.

The new Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 1200W power supply has quickly become one of the top options for high-end PC builds needing up to 1200 watts of power. As an top 1200W Power Supply contender, it has several standout features that make it a smart choice.

The GF A3 is 80 Plus Gold certified for 87% efficiency or higher at typical loads. This reduces electricity waste and saves on your power bills. Internal components are premium-grade, including Japanese capacitors, a fluid dynamic bearing fan, and protective circuits for safety and reliability.

Fully modular cabling makes builds very easy, with detachable cables to eliminate unnecessary clutter. Helpfully, it has two new 600W 12VHPWR power connectors specifically for NVIDIA’s new power-hungry RTX 40 series graphics cards.

Future-Proofing with support for ATX 3.0 and PCI-E 5.0, this PSU can handle next-gen hardware.

For high end gaming systems, especially with RTX 40 series GPUs, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF A3 1200W checks all the right boxes as a leading contender for best overall 1200W power supply. It’s a smart investment for a high-end build meant to last.

2. Asus Rog Thor 1200P2 : Best for Gaming

Pros:

• Full power at 47°C
• Good ripple suppression & load regulation
• Quality components
• Dual-ball bearing fan
• Lots of modular cables and connectors
• Aura compatible RGB lighting
• 10-year warranty
• Accurate AC Watt readings
• Good looks

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not as efficient as competition
• OPP is set sky-high
• OLED screen provides limited info
• Bulky

The ASUS ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is an enthusiast-grade power supply optimized for high-end gaming PCs. As a leading contender for the “Best 1200W PSU for Gaming,” this unit provides exceptional power delivery and customization for maxed out rigs.

Efficiency is top-notch with an 80 Plus Platinum certification – meaning at least 89% efficiency under typical loads for reduced power waste. Further efficiency credentials come from a Lambda A++ rating and ROG heatsinks for cooling.

With a fully modular design, builders can use only the cables they need for seamless builds. The 135mm PWM fan operates in 0dB silent mode at low-medium loads. An integrated OLED panel can display system stats or graphics.

This PSU can provide a peak 1200W of continuous power to even the most power-hungry systems. Four PCIe 5.0 connectors cater specifically to new GPUs like the RTX 4090. Ten-year warranty coverage offers long-term peace of mind.

In summary, with premium components, maximum power delivery, and intelligent monitoring and cooling, this ASUS ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is optimized to be a leading 1200Watt PSU for Gaming for maxed out enthusiast rigs needing flawless, stable power. ASUS has delivered an outstanding 1200W supply for today’s top-tier gaming PCs.

3. Corsair RM1200x Shift : Best PSU ATX 3.0

Pros:

• 80 PLUS Gold efficiency
• Fully modular design
• Side-mounted modular panel for easy cable management
• ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 compliant
• Zero RPM fan mode for silent operation
• 105°C-rated capacitors for durability

Cons:

• Larger than some other power supplies
• May not fit in all cases
• Slightly higher price than some other power supplies

Corsair’s new RM1200x Shift power supply is a forward-thinking 1200W model ready for the coming wave of ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 hardware. As one of the first “PSU 3.0” units on the market, the RM1200x Shift offers full compatibility with the new ATX standard along with the peak wattage to push next-gen components.

The most obvious feature is Corsair’s new customizable side LED interface, allowing builders to mount the PSU with the illuminated badge visible through case windows. But it’s really the internal upgrades that set it apart. This includes a new 140mm cooling fan optimized for zero RPM silent operation and quad 12VHPWR power connectors to drive GPUs like the RTX 4090.

With 80 Plus Gold efficiency, fully modular cables to reduce clutter, and durable 105°C-rated Japanese capacitors, the RM1200x Shift delivers stable, efficient power ideal for high-end gaming and workstations. And it’s all backed by a 10-year warranty.

For those building a cutting-edge PC using the latest ATX 3.0 motherboards and PCIe 5.0 graphics cards, the Corsair RM1200x Shift is currently a top contender for the “best 1200W PSU” ready for the future of high-power computing. It brings quality, compatibility, and customization that early adopters will appreciate.

4. SilverStone Strider ST1200-PT : Best For Mining

Pros:

• High Wattage
• 80 Plus Platinum Efficiency
• Modular Design
• Reliable Brand

Cons:

• Price
• Overkill for Most Build
• Physical Size
• Potentially Loud

The SilverStone Strider 1200W Platinum modular PSU stands out as one of the best values for a high-wattage 1200W power supply on the market right now. Offering a premium set of features at a very reasonable price point, it’s a top choice for budget-minded enthusiasts building powerful PCs.

Efficiency is excellent, with an 80 Plus Platinum certification meaning 92% efficiency or better under typical loads. This reduces wasted electricity and results in cooler operation as well. The 180mm long enclosure and intelligent 139mm Air Penetrator fan allow for semi-fanless operation for incredibly quiet performance, even under heavy loads.

Connectivity is also top-notch, with a fully modular design to eliminate unnecessary cabling as well as 8 PCIe connectors to handle multiple power-hungry GPUs. Protection features like over-power, over-voltage, and short circuit safeguard your other components.

For a budget price, the price is hundreds less than comparable 1200W PSUs, making this Strider 1200W unit stand out as a value leader. Yet it doesn’t compromise on delivering excellent power delivery and quiet cooling. For high wattage on a budget, the SilverStone Strider 1200W Platinum is arguably the best value 1200W power supply available right now.

5. NZXT C1200 PSU : Best for RTX 4090

Pros:

• High overall performance
• ATX v3.0 and PCIe 5.0 ready
• 600W 12VHPWR connector for NVIDIA RTX 4090
• Good efficiency levels, especially at light loads
• Compact design for a 150mm enclosure
• Fully modular cables and connectors
• Aura compatible RGB lighting
• 10-year warranty

Cons:

• Not very quiet at high loads
• Fluid dynamic bearing fan may not last long under high temperatures
• No in-cable capacitors for better ripple suppression

NZXT’s new C1200 power supply unit (PSU) packs a robust 1200 watts of power into a fully modular design made for building today’s high-end gaming PCs.

Standout features include compatibility with the latest ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 standards, making the C1200 ready for next-gen hardware. It provides two 12VHPWR connectors to power the most power-hungry GPUs like the RTX 4090. 80 Plus Gold certification ensures strong efficiency to reduce electricity waste and costs.

This PSU can deliver its full 1200W continuously with stable, reliable power delivery thanks to the use of all Japanese capacitors. The large 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan only spins when needed, enabling a zero fan mode for silent operation during lighter loads.

Fully modular, sleeved cables provide a professional look while letting you only use the cables your system requires. Comprehensive protections are included for over-voltage, under-voltage, short circuits, and overheating. An extended 10-year warranty provides peace of mind.

With its high power output, modern connectivity, efficient and quiet cooling, and robust protections, the NZXT C1200 is an excellent choice for a 1200W PSU to drive today’s high-end gaming rigs and workstations using the latest components. It offers great value for the money given the abundant power and connectivity for future expansion.

6. Seasonic Vertex GX-1200

Pros:

• Sufficient wattage for multi-GPU systems
• Good brand reputation and build quality
• Quiet operation in fanless and silent modes
• Fully modular for easy cable management
• 10-year warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• Very expensive, overkill for most systems
• Large size may cause fitment issues
• Stiff cables impede routing and bends
• Lacks advanced protections of higher-end units

As one of the first 80 Plus Gold certified power supplies to fully support the new ATX 3.0 and PCIe 5.0 standards, the Seasonic Vertex GX-1200 is exceedingly future-proof and ideal for high-end gaming rigs. With 1200 watts of continuous power delivery, it can easily handle even the most power hungry next-gen GPUs like the RTX 4090.

I’m impressed by the hybrid fan control offering multiple modes – fanless, silent, and cooling – to balance noise production and thermal performance. This enables quiet operation under lighter loads. Electrical performance is excellent thanks to the use of premium Japanese capacitors and strict voltage regulation.

The fully modular cabling ensures you only need to use the cables necessary for your build, helping reduce clutter. I’m also pleased to see the extended 10-year warranty, which is outstanding for a PSU.

For enthusiasts wanting a high capacity ATX 3.0 compliant PSU capable of driving something like an RTX 4090 and Core i9-13900K without breaking a sweat, the Seasonic Vertex GX-1200 is an obvious choice.

It offers elite-tier electrical performance and runs whisper quiet when you don’t push it hard. Backed by Seasonic’s sterling reputation, this 1200W PSU is a smart choice for a top-tier system build.

How to Choose the Best 1200W Power Supply

Here are some key factors to consider and things to look for when buying the best 1200W power supply unit (PSU):

• Efficiency rating – Look for 80 Plus Gold or higher ratings for less electricity waste. This saves on your power bills.
• Modularity – Fully modular PSUs allow you to only use the cables your build needs, reducing clutter.
• Size – Make sure the PSU fits your case. 150-160mm is standard for 1200W units.
• Rail distribution – Ideal is a single 12V rail to supply stable power for GPUs.
• Cooling – 120mm or larger fans with a zero RPM fanless mode for silent operation under lighter loads.
• Protections – Look for OVP (over voltage), OCP (over current), OPP (over power) and SCP (short circuit) protections.
• Warranty – At least 7 years, with 10 years being ideal for a 1200W PSU. This indicates reliability.
• Brand reputation – Stick with established brands like Corsair, EVGA, Seasonic for proven quality.
• Certifications – 80 Plus Gold or better, ATX spec support, RoHS compliant.
• Reviews – Check professional reviews for performance results and noise levels.
• Connectors – Needs at least two 8-pin (6+2) PCIe connectors for high-end GPUs.
• Price – Expect to pay $150-$350+ based on features and reputation. Sales can provide big discounts.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the right 1200W PSU for your high-end gaming or workstation PC build. Prioritize quality, reliability and noise levels as the most important criteria.

Conclusion

When it comes to powering top-tier gaming rigs and workstations, having a robust 1200W power supply unit ensures you have plenty of stable and efficient power delivery overhead. While 1200W is overkill for mainstream builds, for PC enthusiasts building systems packed with the latest high-end components, it provides welcome headroom both now and for future expansion.

Based on the factors and products discussed, I recommend the Corsair AX1600i as the overall best 1200W PSU available in 2023. It offers an unmatched combination of 80 Plus Titanium efficiency, fully modular cables, ultra-low noiselevels with a zero RPM fanless mode, and comprehensive monitoring and control via Corsair’s software. The 12-year warranty is icing on the cake.

For a more affordable 1200W option, the Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 ARGB 1200W is a great choice. It makes some compromises on efficiency and noise but still delivers excellent performance at around $100 less than the AX1600i. Other strong recommendations I would make are the Seasonic PRIME TX-1200 for its rock-solid reputation and 10-year warranty, and the Cooler Master V1200 Platinum for its balance of features and cost.

The key is matching your build’s needs and budget to select a 1200W PSU that provides reliable, efficient power delivery for years of top-tier gaming and workstation use. Carefully consider the factors mentioned when making your choice.

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