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A PSU comes in different form factors that ensure compatibility and physical fitness within your build. Choosing the correct PSU form factor is crucial for better airflow and proper installation.
Key Takeaways
- The PSU form factor is the physical dimensions and the layout of a power supply.
- There are many form factors, but ATX, SFX, and TFX are the popular ones.
- All these form factors have different dimensions and wattage capacities since they are made for different PC cases.
What Are PSU Form Factors?
PSU form factor defines the physical dimension[1], mounting hole positions, and connector layouts of a power supply. The most common form factors are as follows:
ATX (Advanced Technology Extended)
The most widely used form factor is ATX[1]. ATX is suitable for the majority of PCs and provides excellent space for components, cooling technologies, and cable management. There are two sub-types of ATX:
- ATX PS/2 (Standard)
- ATX PS/3 (Slightly shorter)
SFX (Small Form Factor Extended)
SFX is designed for small form factor builds or Mini-ITX cases[2]. It is significantly smaller than the ATX and provides ample power for the smaller builds. Also, there are two sub-types of SFX:
- SFX (Standard)
- SFX-L (Slightly longer)
TFX (Thin Form Factor Extended)
TFX is primarily used in AIO PCS. Its power output is limited compared to the other form factors, but it has a low-fi design that fits in confined spaces[3].
Comparison Table of PSU Form Factors
| Form Factor | Dimensions (W x D x H) | Wattage Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| ATX | 150mm x 86mm x 140mm | 300W - 1600W+ |
| SFX | 125mm x 63.5mm x 100mm | 300W - 750W |
| TFX | 85mm x 65mm x 175mm | 200W - 400W |
Helpful Resources by Tech4Gamers:
References:
- Unlock Your Creativity with “Escape Sequence” | Lenovo US. (n.d.). https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/glossary/form-factor/
- Gaming, C. (2024, May 1). Difference between SFX and SFX-L PSUs. https://www.corsair.com/us/en/explorer/diy-builder/power-supply-units/whats-the-difference-between-sfx-and-sfx-l-power-supplies/
- ATX OR SFX: WHICH PSU IS RIGHT FOR YOU? | Cooler Master. (n.d.). https://www.coolermaster.com/en-global/guide-and-resources/atx-or-sfx/
Frequently Asked Questions
The Form factor of a power supply defines its dimensions, connector type, and overall design.
SFX units are smaller and designed for compact build, while ATX units are larger and fit standard desktop PCs.
Yes, you can use an SFX PSU in an ATX case with an SFX-to-ATX adapter.
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[Errors Troubleshooting Expert]
Arsalan Shakil (aka GuyThatDoesEverything on YouTube) is a PC Tech Enthusiast and Electronic Geek. With over 10+ years of experience in Electronics, he then decided to explore Software Engineering to design embedded products and automate existing hardware solutions.
When he started tearing down old cameras to understand how they worked, he was shocked (literally, when he got zapped by a flash discharge capacitor), giving him the power (debatable) to fall in love with videography/photography. He also started making some fun videos that later became YouTube tech reviews.
Skills:
- 10+ years of experience in Electronics design, embedded solutions, and prototyping
- Majored in Software Engineering
- Research paper publication in IEEE for Embedded Military Uniform & LoRa WAN wireless technology
- Specialized in IoT Solutions
- PC Enthusiast & PC Modder
In his local region, he’s known to expose cheap PSU brands, often claiming fake certification or false claims on the box. He’s a true nerd and needed some friends in his life. Then he met some guys who work at Tech4Gamers, and they also came out to be equal nerds who suggested he join Tech4Gamers as a Hardware Expert.
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