PSU Tier List 2026 Update
If you're confused by the range of PSU options available, you're not alone. This is where a PSU Tier List comes in handy. This guide will help you understand the different PSU tiers, helping you select the best option based on your needs.
What is a PSU Tier List?
A PSU Tier List categorizes PSUs based on factors such as efficiency, build quality, and power stability. The list helps you choose between premium, mid-range, and budget-friendly power supplies while understanding the pros and cons of each. Below is a breakdown of the tiers and the best power supply options for each category.
Tier A PSUs for High-End Builds
Tier A PSUs are the best choice for gamers and professionals who require top-tier performance, power, and efficiency. These PSUs are perfect for high-end PC builds with demanding components like multiple GPUs, heavy overclocking, or intense workloads.
Recommended Tier A PSUs
- Corsair RM1000x
- Wattage: 1000W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: With fully modular cables and ultra-quiet performance, the RM1000x is an excellent choice for high-performance gaming rigs and professional setups.
- Seasonic PRIME TX-1000
- Wattage: 1000W
- Efficiency: 80+ Titanium
- Why Recommended: Known for its outstanding build quality and reliability, this PSU offers the best efficiency for power-hungry systems.
- EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 T2
- Wattage: 1000W
- Efficiency: 80+ Titanium
- Why Recommended: With a long warranty and top-tier power efficiency, this PSU is perfect for high-end gaming PCs and workstations.
- ASUS ROG Thor 1200W
- Wattage: 1200W
- Efficiency: 80+ Platinum
- Why Recommended: Featuring RGB lighting and an OLED display, this PSU is designed for gamers who want both power and style.
- be quiet! Dark Power Pro 12 1200W
- Wattage: 1200W
- Efficiency: 80+ Titanium
- Why Recommended: Known for being whisper-quiet, this PSU delivers excellent voltage regulation and stable power.
- SilverStone Strider Titanium 1000W
- Wattage: 1000W
- Efficiency: 80+ Titanium
- Why Recommended: Compact and efficient, this PSU offers a reliable solution for space-constrained high-end builds.
- Cooler Master V Platinum 1000W
- Wattage: 1000W
- Efficiency: 80+ Platinum
- Why Recommended: A reliable PSU with great power efficiency, making it ideal for top-performing PCs.
- Fractal Design Ion+ 860W
- Wattage: 860W
- Efficiency: 80+ Platinum
- Why Recommended: A compact PSU with solid performance and premium components, making it a perfect choice for high-end but space-efficient builds.
Tier B PSUs for Mid-Range Builds
Tier B PSUs offer a great balance between performance and cost. These are ideal for mid-range gaming PCs or workstations that don't require the extreme power of Tier A PSUs but still need reliable and stable power.
Recommended Tier B PSUs
- Corsair RM750x
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Excellent reliability, solid performance, and quiet operation make this PSU perfect for mid-range systems.
- ESGAMING Gold 750W
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Known for its high value at a competitive price and long-lasting performance, this PSU is perfect for gaming builds that don't need excessive wattage.
- Seasonic FOCUS GX-750
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Fully modular with great efficiency, this PSU is perfect for medium power systems.
- MSI MPG A750GF
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: A solid choice for mid-range builds offering excellent power stability and a 10-year warranty.
- Cooler Master MWE Gold 750W
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Provides quiet operation and solid power delivery for mid-range builds.
- Antec Earthwatts Gold Pro 750W
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Offers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price, making it perfect for mid-range systems.
- Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 750W
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: Strong efficiency and build quality, ideal for mid-tier setups.
- Gigabyte P750GM
- Wattage: 750W
- Efficiency: 80+ Gold
- Why Recommended: A great value PSU with high performance and reliability for mid-range builds.
Tier C PSUs for Budget Builds
Tier C PSUs are suitable for budget systems that don't require high wattage or efficiency. These PSUs are generally reliable for basic tasks but may not handle intense gaming or overclocking as well as higher-tier PSUs.
Recommended Tier C PSUs
- ESGAMING Bronze 650W
- Wattage: 650W
- Efficiency: 80+ Bronze
- Why Recommended: A budget-friendly PSU offering solid power delivery and reasonable efficiency.
- Cooler Master MWE Bronze 650W
- Wattage: 650W
- Efficiency: 80+ Bronze
- Why Recomanded: An affordable PSU that provides enough power for basic systems and budget builds.
- Thermaltake Smart 500W
- Wattage: 500W
- Efficiency: 80+
- Why Recommended: A no-frills, reliable PSU for low-power builds that require minimal energy.
- Corsair CV550
- Wattage: 550W
- Efficiency: 80+ Bronze
- Why Recommended: An affordable and reliable PSU for low-power budget systems.
- Antec VP600
- Wattage: 600W
- Efficiency: 80+
- Why Recommended: Offers solid reliability and power delivery for budget-conscious users.
Tier D PSUs for Home/Office Builds
Tier D PSUs are meant for home or office use where the system's power requirements are relatively low. These PSUs are not suitable for gaming or performance-intensive tasks.
Recommended Tier D PSUs
- Cooler Master MWE White 450W
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: 80+ White
- Why Recommended: Budget-friendly and ideal for basic office PCs.
- EVGA 450 BR
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: 80+ Bronze
- Why Recommended: Offers reliable performance for non-demanding tasks like web browsing or office work.
- Thermaltake Litepower 450W
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: 80+
- Why Recommended: A good option for basic builds with minimal power needs.
- Corsair CV450
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: 80+ Bronze
- Why Recommended: Ideal for entry-level systems that don't require much power.
- Antec VP450
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: 80+
- Why Recommended: Reliable for budget office or home PCs with low power requirements.
Tier E PSUs - Not Recommended
Tier E PSUs are not recommended for any serious use. These PSUs lack the necessary efficiency, safety features, and build quality for long-term, reliable performance.
PSUs to Avoid (Tier E)
- Generic 500W PSU
- Wattage: 500W
- Efficiency: Unknown
- Why Not Recommended: Cheap, low-quality PSUs that are prone to failure and could damage your components.
- Logisys 450W
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: Unknown
- Why Not Recommended: Poor build quality and insufficient power delivery.
- Rosewill 400W
- Wattage: 400W
- Efficiency: Unknown
- Why Not Recommended: Not recommended due to poor reliability and inadequate safety features.
- Ultra LSP450
- Wattage: 450W
- Efficiency: Unknown
- Why Not Recommended: Lacks critical protections and is prone to failure under load.
- Raidmax 500W
- Wattage: 500W
- Efficiency: Unknown
- Why Not Recommended: Known for reliability issues and inefficient power delivery.
Using the PSU Calculator
When selecting the best PSU for your build, using a PSU calculator can help you determine the ideal wattage for your system. It's important to maintain a 20%-30% headroom to account for overclocking and future upgrades. This ensures your PSU can handle increased power demands and provide stable performance as your system evolves.
By referring to these PSU ratings, you can make an informed decision that balances your budget and performance needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the right PSU for your build is critical for ensuring system stability, efficiency, and longevity. Whether you're looking for the best PSU for gaming or a good power supply for everyday tasks, our PSU tierlist will guide you to the most reliable and efficient options on the market in 2026.
Refer to this power supply unit tier list to find the best PSU ratings that match your needs, and use a PSU calculator for an accurate wattage estimate to ensure your PC gets the power it needs.
FAQ
Is 850W enough for a high-end PC?
An 850W PSU is usually enough for most high-end gaming PCs, giving you enough power for strong GPUs (like the RTX 4080/4090) and CPUs. However, if you're using the very best components (like an RTX 4090 with an Intel i9 or AMD Ryzen 9) and want extra future-proofing, a 1000W PSU is a safer choice. It will help handle power spikes and upgrades, especially if you choose a good ATX 3.0/3.1 model.
What happens if PSU is too weak?
It can lead to random shutdowns, system instability, or even damage the PSU and other hardware.
What form factor power supply do I need?
For most desktop PC users, standard ATX power supplies are sufficient. However, if you have a small form factor PC case, you may want to consider SFX, SFX-L, or TFX power supplies.
About ESGAMING
Founded in 2017, ESGAMING has quickly become a recognized emerging brand in high-performance computer components and accessories. From PC cases and power supplies to now cooling systems, ESGAMING is dedicated to delivering creative, reliable, and well-crafted E-sport solutions for gamers, creators, and PC builders around the world.
For more information, visit www.esgamingpc.com