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Best PSU for RTX 3080 in 2024 – Our top picks

Which PSU will you land on?
Last Updated on May 13, 2024
Best PSU for RTX 3080
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Looking for the perfect match for your Nvidia graphics card? Well, look no further as we reveal the best PSU for RTX 3080. Ensuring optimal performance from the Nvidia Geforce RTX 3080 GPU entails more than merely fitting it into your PC build. An equally critical aspect is the selection of the right power supply unit (PSU) that meets the GPU’s robust energy requirements.

As the TDP and power needs of the RTX 3080 stand at 350/320W for the 12/10GB model, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of picking the ideal PSU, given that the Founders Edition recommends a system power of 750W. Moreover, custom AIB versions, depending on their overclocks or margins, might nudge the requirement upwards to 850W.

How we selected the best PSU for RTX 3080

Selecting the ideal PSU goes beyond merely matching the wattage requirements. First and foremost, we account for the reliability and reputation of the PSU brand and model. Given that the PSU is a critical component safeguarding every other part in your PC, it’s imperative to choose from brands with a track record of dependability and longevity. Next, we scrutinize the efficiency rating.

Moreover, the nature of GPU tasks, especially in extended gaming or rendering sessions, means the PSU must consistently deliver power without overheating. Therefore, thermal performance, fan curves, and the quality of capacitors play a pivotal role in our assessment.

BEST PSU FOR RTX 3080
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  • Corsair SF850L fan, source PCGuide
  • Corsair SF850L logo side, source PCGuide
  • Corsair SF850L logo profile, source PCGuide
  • Corsair SF850L back side logo, source PCGuide
  • Corsair SF850L info label, source PCGuide
  • Corsair SF850L cable connectors side, source PCGuide
Best in ClassExcellent
4.5 /5
Editor’s Rating
How We Review
Specifications
  • Wattage: 850W
  • Form Factor: SFX-L
  • Rating: 80 Plus Gold, Cybenetics Platinum
  • Design: Fully modular
Reasons to Buy
  • Provides ample power for the RTX 3080
  • Ideal for small form factor (SFF) PC builds where space is limited.
  • Features a 120mm PWM fan with zero RPM mode for silent operation at low loads.
Reasons to Avoid
  • Type 5 cables can be difficult to bend and manage in tight SFF cases.
  • Stock cables might be too short for some SFF case layouts
  • Uses unique connectors for the PSU

The Corsair SF850L is a great match for the RTX 3080, particularly for small form factor builds. With 850W, it comfortably handles the 3080’s typical 320W draw, leaving headroom for overclocking or other power-hungry components. Furthermore, its SFX-L size makes it perfect for smaller cases where space is at a premium. Fully modular cables allow for clean and efficient use of space, and quiet operation ensures a headache-free PC experience.

SF850L is an ideal choice for small form factor PCs with its SFX-L design.

PC Guide

Overall, the Corsair SF850L’s combination of high wattage, compact size, and quiet operation makes it a top choice for powering an RTX 3080.

What users say

Corsair’s SF850L has a good online reputation, praised for its handling mid-range and high-end GPUs like the RTX 3080 and its small SFX-L size. Reviewers on Amazon appreciate its quiet operation at low loads, but some find the fan noise unacceptably high under heavy use. Though, most provided 5 star reviews. One reviewer noted it as “A wonderful PSU, and Cheaper than comparable 1000w SFX-L PSU’s on the Market“.

BEST WARRANTY PSU FOR RTX 3080
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Corsair RM850x
Specifications
  • Wattage: 850W
  • Form Factor: ATX
  • Rating: 80 PLUS Gold
  • Design: Fully Modular
Reasons to Buy
  • Highly efficient 80 PLUS Gold rating
  • Zero RPM fan mode for silent operation
  • Ten-year warranty for peace of mind
Reasons to Avoid
  • A tad pricier than some rivals
  • Some users might prefer RGB fan options

If you’re on the lookout for a power supply that’s trusted by enthusiasts worldwide, the Corsair RM850x should be on your radar. This PSU boasts an 80 PLUS Gold rating, ensuring up to 90% efficiency under typical loads. It’s fully modular, which means cable management will be a breeze, and you’ll only use the cables you need, maintaining a tidy build.

For those diving deep into intensive gaming or content creation tasks, the RM850x stands out with its low noise operation, courtesy of its zero RPM fan mode. So, when the demand isn’t too high, this PSU keeps things hush-hush. And when it comes to longevity, Corsair’s ten-year warranty is like a comforting pat on the back, ensuring you’re covered for a good long while.

What users say

Amazon reviewers laud the Corsair RM850x for powering even the largest of gaming rigs with its 850W and modular cables for a clean look. The 10-year warranty assures long life, and recent reviews point to quieter operation thanks to a magnetic levitation fan. However, some reviewers with older units mentioned higher noise levels, and some found the SATA power cables stiff. In one 5 star review, a user stated “Reliable Power Delivery with Efficiency and Modular Design“.

BEST ASUS PSU FOR RTX 3080
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ASUS ROG Thor 850
Specifications
  • Wattage: 850W
  • Form Factor: ATX
  • Rating: 850 Certified
  • Design: Fully Modular
Reasons to Buy
  • 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency
  • Integrated OLED wattage display
  • Customizable RGB lighting
Reasons to Avoid
  • Premium price for the design
  • Might be a tad flashy for minimalist builds
  • RGB software can be finicky at times

Stepping into the realm of design flair combined with stellar performance, the Asus ROG Thor 850W is something to behold. This PSU doesn’t just satisfy your power requirements; it does it with style. An 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency rating speaks volumes about its ability to deliver power consistently while keeping waste to a minimum.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the flashy centerpiece? The ROG Thor comes with an integrated OLED panel displaying real-time wattage, a feature that’s bound to get the tech enthusiasts among you all giddy. And then there’s the customizable RGB lighting that complements almost any build.

If you’re into aesthetics as much as performance, you’re going to love this. But remember, the ROG Thor isn’t just about the visuals. Its performance, backed by a decade-long warranty, ensures you’re not just paying for the lights.

What users say

Amazon reviews on the ASUS ROG Thor 850 are generally positive. Gamers love the fancy OLED wattage display and RGB lighting for a showstopping PC, and its 850W ensures reliable power for those using the RTX 3080. However, it’s pricier than similar PSUs, and some find the cables bulky and the wattage display potentially hidden depending on the case layout. If you prioritize unique looks and have the budget, the ROG Thor could be a winner.

BEST SEASONIC PSU FOR RTX 3080
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Seasonic FOCUS GX-850
Specifications
  • Wattage: 850W
  • Form Factor: ATX
  • Rating: 80 PLUS Gold
  • Design: Fully Modular
Reasons to Buy
  • Reliable brand reputation
  • Fully modular design for clean builds
  • Compact form factor
Reasons to Avoid
  • Only 750W, might be limiting for future upgrades
  • No RGB

In the PSU landscape, Seasonic has made a name for itself by consistently churning out high-quality units, and the Focus Plus 750 Gold is no exception. This power supply boasts an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating, promising less waste and more of your power going where it’s needed.

The fact that it’s fully modular makes it a dream for those who have a keen eye for cable management, ensuring you only plug in the essentials and maintain a clean aesthetic.

Stepping away from just the technicalities, the Focus Plus has a compact form factor, which is perfect for those tight builds or cases that don’t offer a lot of wiggle room. But don’t let the compact size fool you; this PSU comes with a strong cooling system, featuring a fan that operates silently under typical load but can ramp up when necessary.

BEST COOLER MASTER PSU FOR RTX 3080
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Specifications
  • Wattage: 850W
  • Form Factor: ATX
  • Rating: 80 PLUS Gold
  • Design: Fully Modular
Reasons to Buy
  • Gold efficiency on a budget
  • Fully modular setup
  • Versatile connector range
Reasons to Avoid
  • Some sacrifices in build quality

When you’re gunning for the RTX 3080 but are keeping a watchful eye on your wallet, the Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 steps up as an enticing option. As its name suggests, it still brings to the table an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating, ensuring your rig gets the juice it needs without squandering energy.

Beyond the specs sheet, the MWE Gold offers a fairly straightforward experience for builders. A wide range of connectors ensures compatibility with a variety of components, though, as mentioned, some setups might need to double up on power cables for the GPU. Nevertheless, the freedom of full modularity means your rig can look as clean and organized as pricier alternatives.

In essence, the Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 proves that a tight budget doesn’t mean settling for less. However, remember every budget option comes with its considerations.

What users say

With over 75% of users providing 5 star reviews, the Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 is considered to have a good online reputation based on Amazon reviews. Users praise is ample 850W and performance with mid-range GPUs like the RTX 3080. One user noted it as having “Great value for money!”.

Considerations for the best PSU for RTX 3080

A power supply unit, while seemingly a straightforward component, possesses various attributes demanding attention. Beyond mere wattage, the PSU’s efficiency, often denoted by its 80 PLUS rating, signifies how effectively it converts power from the wall outlet to your system, with Platinum and Titanium being the top tiers.

For a GPU as powerful as the RTX 3080, a higher efficiency PSU can be advantageous, not only for power consumption but also for ensuring stable performance. 

Furthermore, consider the PSU’s modular nature. Fully modular PSUs provide the advantage of connecting only the necessary cables, leading to a cleaner setup and potentially better airflow inside the chassis.

Should I get a 1000W PSU for 3080?

1000W is too much for an RTX 3080. Nvidia recommends a 750W PSU for the founder’s edition. If you want to be on the safe side, especially considering other system components and potential future upgrades, an 850W unit is ample.

Is 750W enough for RTX 3080?

Yes, 750W is what Nvidia recommends for this GPU. However, if you’re looking to ensure optimal power, especially when considering partner GPUs and overclocking endeavors, stepping up to an 850W unit would be a prudent decision.

Camilo is a contributor for PC Guide. He's been into tech since he was a teen, surfing through the web and local stores trying to find the cheapest way to play the latest Half-Life on his old Windows