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I’m sure you’re well aware that the RTX 5090 is currently championing the hierarchy of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs in terms of performance output as well as power consumption and price tags. What you may not know is that the RTX 5090 is heartbreakingly expensive, even for an RTX 4090 user because the RTX 5090 launched with an MSRP of $2,000 as opposed to $1,600 for the outgoing RTX 4090.
That being said, the RTX 5090 tries to justify its price increment with up to 10% higher performance on average (versus the RTX 4090), but of course, you’ll need a whole lot of power to run that power-guzzling Blackwell architecture. On that note, after several rounds of extensive testing and analysis, my team and I have rounded up the five best gaming PSUs for the RTX 5090.
Here’s an overview of our awardees, along with a glance at their specs.
Before you proceed any further, I’d strongly advise you to give our PSU Watts Calculator a try. We designed this tool with the sole intention of helping you find the right PSU for your gaming PC as per your components.
Best PSUs for RTX 5090
Here’s my list of recommended PSUs for the RTX 5090.
- Best 1200W: Seasonic Vertex GX-1200W
- Best High-End: Seasonic PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition Titanium
- Best 1000W: XPG CyberCore II 1000W
- Best Performance: Enermax PlatiGemini 1200W Platinum
- Best Value: MSI MAG A1000GL
Seasonic Vertex GX-1200W
Best 1200W PSU for RTX 5090
Form Factor: ATX | Generation: ATX 3.1 | Wattage: 1200W | Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS Gold | Modularity: Fully Modular | PCIe Cable: 12VHPWR
Pros
- 10-year warranty
- Solid performance
- Silent profile
- Exceeds gold efficiency standards
Cons
- Outdated topology
- Unjustified price bracket
- Runs slightly hot
Read Our Seasonic Vertex GX-1200 Gold ATX 3.0 Review
No PSU round-up can ever be complete without a Seasonic offering. This time, the 50-year-old trusted company leads the charge with a monstrous 1200W PSU in the form of the Seasonic Vertex GX-1200W. For starters, the unit is now ATX 3.1 compliant, which means it’s ideal for pairing with an RTX 5090 given its 1200W rating. While my teardown proves that Seasonic isn’t necessarily using the latest topologies available, I can assure you that the internals of the Vertex GX-1200W are solid and performant enough to guarantee a long and durable journey with your RTX 5090.
Furthermore, the Seasonic Vertex GX-1200W also features a hybrid fan mode where the PSU will be completely silent until the workload crosses 400W. Even then, the PSU, courtesy of a 135mm Fluid Dynamic Bearing fan from Hong Hua, boasts inaudible operation. According to my in-house testing, the voltage ripple performance and power efficiency results reasonably exceeded my expectations. However, the GX-1200W’s backside can get a little toasty to the touch, as it reached 66.4°C.
After putting Seasonic’s PSU through its paces, here’s what I had to say:
The Seasonic Vertex GX-1200 is a high-quality, reliable PSU that handles demanding systems with ease. It’s fully modular, efficient, and operates quietly with a hybrid fan mode, making it a great choice for anyone looking to power a modern setup.
What Makes It The Best 1200W PSU For RTX 5090?
To begin with, the fact that you get a PSU jumper along with lengthy, braided power cables that are certified to be compatible with the ATX 3.1 standard is an instantly distinguishing factor. Plus, as seen in the test results, the PSU nails benchmarks across the table, especially with its exceptional ripple performance, and that alone makes it an overall great 1200W choice for the RTX 5090.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 7.5/10 |
| Overclocking: 9/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Seasonic PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition Titanium
Best High-End PSU for RTX 5090
Form Factor: ATX | Generation: ATX 3.1 | Wattage: 1600W | Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS Titanium | Modularity: Fully Modular | PCIe Cable: 12V-2×6
Pros
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Outstanding performance
- Ultra-efficient
- Dual native 12V-2×6 connectors
- Best-in-class 12-year warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
- Underwhelming voltage ripple performance
Read Our Seasonic TX-1600 Noctua Edition Titanium ATX 3.1 Review
There’s a reason Seasonic is often hailed as the undisputed king of PSU OEMs when it comes to brand reputation, track record, and experience. Seasonic hits it out of the park again with the PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition Titanium. For starters, this unit isn’t much different from the vanilla TX-1600W, of course, that’s aside from the fact that it’s got a Noctua NF-A12x25 HS-PWM fan capable of pushing 2400 RPM. All while without getting too noisy thanks to Noctua’s SSO (Self Stabilizing Oil-pressure) Bearing.
Moving on, the PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition features an 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency rating coupled with a wattage of 1600W that helps it to blow competing units out of the ballpark. If anything, this PSU is probably going to be overkill for you. But just in case you’re running nothing less than a couple of servers or workstations, the TX-1600W boasts dual native 12V-2×6 connectors. If that wasn’t enough, Seasonic backs up the TX-1600W with an industry-leading 12-year warranty period.
After putting Seasonic’s top-of-the-line PSU to the test, this is how I shared my thoughts on the Noctua-themed unit:
The Seasonic Prime TX-1600 Noctua Edition is a beast of a power supply, built to handle the most demanding setups with ease. It combines Seasonic’s proven reliability with Noctua’s whisper-quiet fan for a premium experience. The PSU delivers excellent voltage regulation, top-notch efficiency, and impressive ripple control, making it ideal for power-hungry GPUs and next-gen builds.
What Makes It The Best High-End PSU For RTX 5090?
Thanks to Seasonic’s decades of experience in manufacturing PSUs, it’s no surprise that this flagship unit sports 1600W of power and an 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency rating to minimize your electricity bill. On top of that, the Seasonic PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition boasts dual 12V-2×6 connectors and total modularity for even the most power-hungry operations. Of course, noise isolation won’t be much of a problem here thanks to the inclusion of the Noctua fan. For all of these reasons and more, it is hard to rate any other PSU as the best high-end option for the RTX 5090 than the PRIME TX-1600W Noctua Edition.
| Performance: 9.5/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Overclocking: 9.5/10 | Design: 9.25/10 |
XPG CyberCore II 1000W
Best 1000W PSU for RTX 5090
Form Factor: ATX | Generation: ATX 3.0 | Wattage: 1000W | Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS Platinum | Modularity: Fully Modular | PCIe Cable: 12VHPWR
Pros
- Advanced topologies
- Harmonious CyberCore cooling system
- Excellent thermal efficiency
- Low noise output
- 10 year warranty period
Cons
- Heavy price tag
- No hybrid fan mode
- Hard-sleeved cables
Read Our XPG CyberCore II 1000W Review
To begin with, the XPG CyberCore II 1000W became the subject of a refresh as part of XPG’s effort to meet Intel’s ATX 3.0 certification criteria. As a result, the CyberCore II now sports a Nidec VENTO PRO 120mm PWM fan that can spin up to 2150 RPM and boasts a rated lifespan of 60,000 hours at 60℃ thanks to its dual ball bearing design. In addition, XPG has also refined the CyberCore II’s fan curve to help keep noise output at a minimum while earning the PSU a Cybenetics A- acoustic certification.
When we tore down the CyberCore II, we saw a hybrid architecture that’s based on an updated platform from CWT (Channel-Wall Technologies). Understandably, we subsequently discovered that CWT reengineered its CTT platform to comply with ATX 3.0 specifications while improving voltage regulation and PSU efficiency as a result of the hybridized design that helps the CyberCore II to improve its performance while trying to keep production costs low.
After giving the CyberCore II 1000W a run for its money, our experienced reviewer, Abdul Hannan, shared his opinion on the XPG PSU:
The compact design and premium components of the XPG CyberCore II PSU make it a solid choice for those seeking reliability and performance in their PC builds.
What Makes It the Best 1000W PSU For RTX 5090?
With ATX 3.0 specs, the XPG CyberCore II 1000W is a recipe for success if you can swallow the $200+ price. The 120mm Nidec fan guarantees an extensive lifespan thanks to its innovative dual ball bearing while the PSU’s enhanced fan curve helps keep acoustic output to a minimum. Last but not least, the semi-digital design helps promote voltage regulation and power efficiency that indirectly boosts the PSU’s overall performance. Also, the 10-year warranty means users can rest assured that XPG’s PSU will stand the test of time.
| Performance: 8.5/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Overclocking: 8.25/10 | Design: 8.75/10 |
Enermax PlatiGemini 1200W Platinum
Best Performance PSU for RTX 5090
Form Factor: ATX | Generation: ATX 3.1 | Wattage: 1200W | Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS Platinum | Modularity: Fully Modular | PCIe Cable: 12V-2×6
Pros
- Top-of-the-line performance
- Expansive OC’ing potential
- ATX12VO design
- Mesh-sleeved cables
- Minimal noise output
Cons
- Expensive
- Might be overkill for some
Read Our Enermax PlatiGemini 1200W Platinum Review
The hits just keep on coming with the Enermax PlatiGemini 1200W Platinum. This PSU from Enermax has risen to the top of my rankings. That’s because the PlatiGemini 1200W is a fully modular ATX 3.1 PSU that is also compatible with the ATX12VO standard which makes it very future-proof in case motherboards decide to transition to this anomalous standard down the line. As a side effect of being ATX12VO, the PlatiGemini also exhibits unparalleled efficiency figures.
The list doesn’t end here. In my review, I witnessed record-breaking voltage regulation, chart-topping voltage ripple performance, and a 235% power excursion. That proves that the PlatiGemini 1200W is well-equipped to serve even the most demanding overclocking enthusiasts. What’s even more astounding is that Enermax has achieved these results by sticking to conventional tech like an APFC circuit. If that wasn’t enough, the mesh-sleeved cables make installation an enjoyable experience while adding to the PlatiGemini’s luxurious demeanor.
After critically testing and reviewing the flagship PSU from Enermax, here’s what we said about the PlatiGemini:
The Enermax PlatiGemin 1200W Platinum takes the crown with its robust build, top-tier efficiency, and exceptional performance. It has a fully modular design, premium mesh-sleeved cables, superior voltage regulation, and excellent thermal management.
What Makes It The Best Performance PSU For RTX 5090?
Compatibility with ATX12VO on top of ATX 3.1 certification along with 1200W wattage and 80 PLUS Platinum rating means that Enermax isn’t joking around. This PSU is built to withstand absolutely anything you can throw at it. Additionally, the PlatiGemini boasts undefeated figures with respect to voltage regulation, voltage ripple, and power efficiency. Also, the mesh-sleeved cables enhance the deluxe charm of the unit while making cable management a breeze. Finally, the PlatiGemini’s cleverly customized fan curve ensures whisper-quiet operation.
| Performance: 9.75/10 | Value: 8.75/10 |
| Overclocking: 9.75/10 | Design: 8/10 |
MSI MAG A1000GL
Best Value PSU for RTX 5090
Form Factor: ATX | Generation: ATX 3.1 | Wattage: 1000W | Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS Gold | Modularity: Fully Modular | PCIe Cable: 12V-2×6
Pros
- Thermally efficient
- 10 year warranty period
- Incredible value-for-money proposition
Cons
- Absence of hybrid fan mode
- Chinese/Taiwanese capacitors
Read Our MSI MAG A1000GL PCIE5 Gold Review
The MSI MAG A1000GL might not be breaking any records for voltage regulation, voltage ripple, or even power efficiency, but that doesn’t mean it sucks in any of those departments. In fact, the MAG A1000GL performs reasonably well. On top of that, it’s ATX 3.1 compliant and sports PCIe 5.1 compatibility. Total modularity ensures ease of use, and the 10-year warranty period is the icing on the cake, especially for the price that MSI’s PSU commands.
During my review of the A1000GL, I wasn’t surprised to see that MSI had used a clever combination of Chinese and Taiwanese capacitors to lower the cost instead of using premium Japanese capacitors, but don’t let that fool you. The 10-year warranty highlighted above proves that these capacitors are built to stand the test of time. I should also mention that while the 135mm included fan does a great job of keeping components cool under the shroud, it does output slightly annoying acoustics as the MAG A1000GL does not feature a dedicated hybrid fan mode, which means the fan is spinning 24/7, even when the PSU is idling.
After thoroughly inspecting and testing, this is how we concluded our review of the PSU:
The MSI MAG A1000GL PCIE5 is an excellent mid-range PSU that balances cost with modern features like the 12VHPWR connector and ATX 3.1 compliance, offering impressive efficiency and reliable power regulation.
What Makes It The Best Value PSU For RTX 5090?
To start with, the MSI MAG A1000GL features a respectable wattage of 1000W and pairs it with a mixture of cheap, but reasonably built Chinese and Taiwanese capacitors. Not only that, the MSI slaps on a 10-year warranty for the A1000GL. Of course, the MAG is ATX 3.1 compliant and boasts PCIe 5.1 certification with the updated 12VHPWR cable. Last but not least, MSI’s value-driven PSU might not be the quietest power supply, but it’s definitely one of the most thermally efficient ones, so you don’t have to worry about your PSU overheating.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 9.5/10 |
| Overclocking: 8/10 | Design: 7.5/10 |
Our Test Results Of The Best PSUs For RTX 5090
Over the past year, my team and I have tested and compared over two dozen power supplies ranging from 600-800W to a whopping 1600W. Throughout our testing, we maintained a consistent methodology so that we could compare the power supplies on fair ground. As such, all the PSUs that we have recommended above our personally tested by our team, and below you’ll find the test results:
My Strategy For Selecting These PSUs
In order to round up the best five options for you, we hustled through numerous hours of exhaustive testing, assessment, and examination to compare different PSUs and compile a list of the most suitable ones, tailor-made for your specific needs. That said, there were a couple of factors that took precedence throughout our evaluation of these PSUs:
- Performance: The RTX 5090 demands 575W of power at stock settings. Therefore, we highlighted only those PSUs that showcased the best average ratio of voltage regulation, voltage ripple performance, and power efficiency figures.
- Efficiency: The *smallest* PSU on our list boasts a wattage of 1000W, so your power efficiency is going to determine the variation in your electricity bills. Needless to say, PSU efficiency was one of the most critical aspects when the time came to determine our rankings.
- Durability and Longevity: None of us want our PSUs to explode like the infamous Gigabyte power supplies. As such, our team tore down all of these PSUs to inspect them to ensure they’ll be safe for use in the long term. Also, manufacturer warranties are not to be ignored because all the PSUs featured in our article boast 10 years of warranty or more.
- ATX 3.0/ATX 3.1 compatibility: Keeping in mind the RTX 5090’s vehement power usage, we’ve only recommended those PSUs that comply with the GPU’s needs and compatibility standards. The last thing you want is to be daisy-chaining cables and using adapters with your RTX 5090.
FAQs
I’d recommend a 1000W PSU as the baseline, but for optimal performance, I’d suggest an upgrade to a 1200W PSU or an even more powerful one in order to ensure adequate power delivery. ATX 3.1 compatibility is also strongly advised, but you can use ATX 3.0 PSUs as well or even older ones with adapters, but I wouldn’t recommend the latter option at all.
For OC’ing, I’d recommend a PSU that has a power rating of at least 1200W with strong voltage regulation and voltage ripple performance to ensure stable power delivery.
Efficiency determines how much of your PSU’s power actually gets delivered to your PC and how much of it gets wasted as heat energy. A 1200W Titanium-rated PSU might perform better in the real world than a 1250W Gold-rated PSU, so it’s important to select a PSU that’s considerably power efficient. Your electricity bill will thank you later.
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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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