Chieftec ECO GPE-500S

A vision for the future

For a modern low-cost and even mid-range gaming PC, theoretically, an honest 350-400 W power supply is sufficient, of which at least 300 W should be output along the + 12V line. But so that the circuitry does not wear out too quickly, it is better not to load the PSU to full and take a model with a margin - 500 watts. And if you also want the PSU fan to rotate quietly, then the first candidate for purchase is the Chieftec Eco GPE-500S.

Quieter than water

At idle, the 12cm Chieftec Eco GPE-500S fan spins very quietly (650 rpm). The noise of the motor is not audible, but we can distinguish a slight whistle of air passing through the openings of the ventilation grill in the form of a honeycomb (not the best solution for blowing, as it quickly clogs with dust). However, there are no absolutely silent PSUs in this price category - this is already a privilege of models of the older segment.

Lots of power, few connectors

On the +12 V line, the Chieftec Eco GPE-500S delivers as much as 450 of the total 500 watts, but it is equipped with only one 8-pin graphics card power connector (models up to 175 watts are supported). Fortunately, with the help of a special adapter (sold separately), you can make an additional 6-pin connector from two Molex and in this way power a graphics card with a power consumption of up to 250 watts. The Eco GPE-500S has not been officially certified for energy efficiency, but according to the manufacturer, which is confirmed by tests on reputable hardware sites, its efficiency is a solid 85 percent (comparable to the 80 PLUS Bronze certificate). Conclusion: the Chieftec Eco GPE-500S is enough power for a gaming PC with one, even a flagship graphics card, with the exception of the outdated power-hungry Radeon R9 390, 390X, Fury and Fury X.