PSU Effeciency - Whats the real savings?

[thejez]

I am looking at buying a new PSU. I am wondering what the actual dollar savings would be between a 73% effecient PSU and an 83% effecient PSU? The cost difference is $40 and i wonder how long it would take to earn that back. It would be easier for me to justify $40 if i thought i would earn it back in some way by the added effeciency.

anyone have a clue?

 

[imported_Graeme]

Disclaimer - I dunno much about power supplies

With that said one possible performance benefit aside from the cost of electricity *could* be the heat generated. The less efficient PS is creating more 'waste' which could be in the form of heat or possibly extra EMI.

*shrug*

Dont really know but its a guess

 

[suszterpatt]

Originally posted by: Graeme
Disclaimer - I dunno much about power supplies

With that said one possible performance benefit aside from the cost of electricity *could* be the heat generated. The less efficient PS is creating more 'waste' which could be in the form of heat or possibly extra EMI.

*shrug*

Dont really know but its a guess

That makes sense. Which PSU's in specific are we talking about?

 

[thejez]

I was kind of hoping to not mention to spefic brands to avoid turning this thread into some sort of religious war.

but.... (with hopes that won't happen)

Antec TPII-550 @ $90 @ 73% effeciency
Seasonic S12-500 @ $130 @ 83% effeciency

 

[suszterpatt]

I'd go with the Seasonic... better efficiency, Active PFC, "only" 3A less current (still plenty, 35A total will be enough for years), and Seasonic's known to produce some of the quietest PSU's around. Worth the extra $40 imo.

 

[imported_Graeme]

Originally posted by: thejez
I was kind of hoping to not mention to spefic brands to avoid turning this thread into some sort of religious war.

but.... (with hopes that won't happen)

Antec TPII-550 @ $90 @ 73% effeciency
Seasonic S12-500 @ $130 @ 83% effeciency

Let the jihad commence!

Actually at etech4sale.com you can pick up the Seasonic S12-600 for $129 plus shipping. Their shipping seems reasonable so its a pretty good deal....assuming they have them in stock