SPCR

Thanks in advance for any advice. Figured I would ask the experts before hitting "checkout." I am doing a midrange build, primarily for Photoshop use. I don't upgrade much anymore (4+ years since my last revamp), so I'm going with an i7 4770K, Z87-based mobo, and GeForce 750 TI card.

I think I can run that comfortably with even a 300-400W PSU, and I am attracted to the semi-fanless performance, efficiency, and modular cables of the Corsair RM units. I've noticed that the RM450 and RM550 are both right about $100 USD. If the price is the same, is there a reason to go one way or the other? Will the 550 spend more time in fanless mode? Does the idle draw of the 550 make it less efficient in the long run? This machine is on virtually 24/7, so the draw while idle is a concern.

Thanks!

RDaneel wrote:i7 4770K, Z87-based mobo, and GeForce 750 TI card.

I did a similar build for a mate using an i7 4770 and GTX750. Went with a Seasonic G360.

RDaneel wrote:Will the 550 spend more time in fanless mode?

Theoretically yes, only by a little though.

RDaneel wrote:Does the idle draw of the 550 make it less efficient in the long run?

Yes, but only by a tiny bit.

RDaneel wrote:This machine is on virtually 24/7, so the draw while idle is a concern.

Get the RM450.

Thanks! Appreciate the feedback...

fyi, your stressed load is ~200W. Heavy Photoshop load will probably be in the 150-160W range.

Thanks. I know this is probably all overkill... I'd get a smaller Corsair if they made it. Maybe I'll check out a 300W Seasonic.

RDaneel wrote: Maybe I'll check out a 300W Seasonic.

Bah, Seasonic doesn't make a 360W with modular cables, too bad!