· internal power supplies · 13 min read
Best Flex PSU Options 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover the top-rated flex power supply units (PSUs) of 2024. Our comprehensive guide evaluates key features, performance, and usability, helping you pick the perfect flex PSU for your system.
Flex power supply units (PSUs) are compact and versatile, making them ideal for small form factor (SFF) builds. In this guide, we'll explore the best flex PSUs available in 2024. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, we'll cover key features, performance, and usability to help you make an informed decision.
Overview
PROS
- Ultra-compact FLEX/Mini-ITX form factor ideal for small form factor builds and space-constrained applications
- Exceptional performance with full range Active PFC guaranteeing stable and consistent output
- Fully modular design enables you to tailor your cable setup for improved airflow and aesthetics
- Wide-range AC input compatibility (90-264V) ensures seamless operation across different power grids
- Backed by a reliable warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment
CONS
- May not be suitable for high-performance systems with demanding power requirements
- Some users have reported minor installation challenges
The Apevia ITX-PFC400W power supply is an exceptional choice for individuals seeking a compact and versatile power solution. Its slim FLEX/Mini-ITX form factor makes it ideal for small form factor builds and constrained spaces. Despite its compact size, this power supply delivers exceptional performance with its full range Active PFC, ensuring stable and consistent power output.
The fully modular design of the Apevia ITX-PFC400W grants users the flexibility to customize their cable setup. This not only enhances airflow within the system but also results in a cleaner and more organized interior. Additionally, its wide-range AC input compatibility eliminates the need for voltage adjustments, allowing for seamless operation across different power grids.
PROS
- Small form factor design is perfect for small form factor PCs and HTPCs
- Modular design allows for easy cable management
- 80 Plus Gold certified for high efficiency and low power consumption
- Silent operation ensures a quiet computing experience
- 6-pin PCIe connector provides power for graphics cards
- Easy to install and use
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
CONS
- Only 350 watts of power, which may not be enough for some systems
- Fixed cables may make it difficult to route cables in some cases
The SilverStone Technology 350 Watt Flex ATX is a great power supply for small form factor PCs and HTPCs. It's small, modular, and efficient, and it comes with a 6-pin PCIe connector for graphics cards. It's also easy to install and use, and it comes with a 5-year warranty.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing this power supply. First, it only has 350 watts of power, which may not be enough for some systems. Second, the fixed cables may make it difficult to route cables in some cases. But overall, the SilverStone Technology 350 Watt Flex ATX is a great power supply for small form factor PCs and HTPCs.
PROS
- Consistently delivers a stable 600W power output, ensuring reliable performance for demanding systems.
- 80 Plus Platinum certification guarantees exceptional energy efficiency, reducing heat output and operating costs.
CONS
- Limited number of PCIe connectors, which may not meet the needs of multi-GPU setups.
- Small profile can make cable management in tight spaces challenging.
Unleash the unparalleled power of SilverStone Technology's FlexATX power supply, the FX600 Platinum. This compact powerhouse delivers a remarkable 600W output, empowering you to conquer high-performance computing. With its 80 Plus Platinum certification, the FX600 Platinum operates with exceptional energy efficiency, minimizing heat output and lowering your electricity bills. Brace yourself for uninterrupted performance and enhanced system longevity.
Built to the exacting standards of the FlexATX form factor, the FX600 Platinum seamlessly integrates into even the most space-constrained builds. Its diminutive size grants you unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to construct compact and portable systems without sacrificing performance. The inclusion of a 120mm cooling fan ensures optimal airflow and heat dissipation, maintaining component temperatures within safe limits even under heavy loads.
PROS
- Compact Flex ATX design fits perfectly in mini ITX builds.
- 80 Plus Gold certification ensures high efficiency and low energy consumption.
- Active PFC (Power Factor Correction) minimizes power loss and enhances stability.
- Quiet operation with a smart fan speed control.
- Protections against over-voltage, over-current, and short circuits for safety and reliability.
CONS
- Limited wattage may not be suitable for high-performance setups.
- Non-modular design can make cable management a bit challenging.
Flex your PC's potential with the FSP Mini ITX Solution Flex ATX 300W PSU. This compact and efficient power supply is a perfect fit for mini ITX builds, providing all the essential power you need for reliable operation. With an impressive 80 Plus Gold certification, it ensures high efficiency, reducing wasted energy and keeping your system running cool and quietly. The active PFC further enhances stability by minimizing power loss and fluctuations.
Safety is paramount, and the FSP Flex ATX PSU has you covered. It comes equipped with comprehensive protection features, guarding against over-voltage, over-current, and short circuits. Plus, its smart fan speed control system ensures optimal cooling while minimizing noise. Whether you're building a compact gaming rig or a space-saving workstation, the FSP Flex ATX PSU is a reliable and efficient choice that won't let you down.
PROS
- Quiet operation thanks to its fanless design.
- Compatible with both Mini-ITX and Flex ATX motherboards, providing versatility when building compact PCs.
CONS
- Limited wattage (300W) may not be sufficient for power-hungry components.
- Compact size restricts the number of peripheral connectors available.
The Apevia PS-ITX300W power supply is an excellent choice for those building compact HTPCs or mini-desktops. Its fanless design ensures quiet operation, while its compatibility with both Mini-ITX and Flex ATX motherboards provides versatility in system design. However, it's important to note the 300W power limitation and the limited number of peripheral connectors due to its compact size.
Overall, the Apevia flex psu is a reliable and practical choice for users seeking a quiet and compact power solution for their small form factor PC builds. Its 80 PLUS certification ensures efficient power delivery, helping reduce energy consumption and potentially lower electricity bills. Ultimately, this power supply is a solid option for those prioritizing quiet operation and space optimization in their system configurations.
PROS
- Ultra-compact form factor ideal for small form factor builds (SFF), including mini-ITX systems.
- Fully modular design allows for maximum flexibility and cable management, reducing clutter and improving airflow.
CONS
- Slightly higher price compared to non-modular power supplies.
- May require additional cables for specific setups or component configurations.
The Flex-ATX 550W Power Supply (TF550B) is a highly versatile and compact PSU specifically designed for mini-ITX and SFF builds. Its fully modular design sets it apart, enabling users to select only the cables they need, enhancing airflow and minimizing cable clutter within the system. This not only optimizes performance but also contributes to the overall aesthetics of the build.
The TF550B delivers a stable and reliable power output of 550W, making it suitable for a wide range of builds, from low-power gaming PCs to small form factor workstations and servers. Its 110/220V AC full voltage compatibility ensures seamless operation in different regions. Additionally, the power supply adheres to strict industry standards, guaranteeing safe and efficient power delivery to your system components.
PROS
- Fully modular design for easy cable management.
- Active PFC provides clean and stable power.
- Compact Flex ATX form factor fits snugly in small cases.
- Wide range AC input voltage (90-264V) for global compatibility.
- Ideal for POS, AIO systems, and gaming servers.
CONS
- Limited wattage may not be sufficient for high-end systems.
Harness the power of Apevia's ITX-PFC500W Flex ATX Power Supply, designed to invigorate your small form factor systems! This marvel of engineering boasts a fully modular layout, providing you with the ultimate flexibility in cable management. Say goodbye to tangled wires and embrace a clutter-free workspace.
Its Active PFC (Power Factor Correction) technology ensures a steady stream of clean and stable power to your components, maximizing their performance and stability. With a compact Flex ATX form factor, this power supply seamlessly integrates into your compact case without taking up valuable space. Its wide range AC input voltage compatibility (90-264V) guarantees global usability, making it a versatile companion for your travels or international setups. Whether you're building a Point of Sale (POS) system, an All-in-One (AIO) desktop, or powering your gaming server, the Apevia ITX-PFC500W is an exceptional choice. Its high efficiency and ample wattage will effortlessly meet the demands of your essential components, ensuring a smooth and reliable computing experience.
PROS
- 80 Plus Gold efficiency for low energy consumption
- Compact Flex ATX form factor ideal for small cases
CONS
- Limited wattage of 500W may not be suitable for power-intensive configurations
- Lack of modular cables reduces customization options
The SilverStone Technology FX500-G is a compact and efficient Flex ATX power supply designed for small-form-factor PCs. With an 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating, it delivers reliable and stable power while minimizing energy consumption. Its compact Flex ATX form factor makes it ideal for space-constrained cases, ensuring a clean and organized build. However, it's important to note its 500W wattage may not be sufficient for power-hungry configurations, and the non-modular cables limit customization options for a tidy setup.
The FX500-G features a 120mm fan that operates quietly, ensuring minimal noise during operation. It also comes equipped with multiple protection circuits, including over-voltage protection, over-current protection, and short circuit protection, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your valuable components. Overall, the SilverStone Technology FX500-G is a solid choice for small-form-factor PC builders who prioritize efficiency, compact design, and reliability.
PROS
- Compact and space-saving 1U form factor, ideal for small form factor builds and rackmount systems.
- Fully modular design allows for easy cable management and customization.
- Reliable and efficient 350W power output, supporting various mini-ITX and thin profile systems.
- Includes essential connectors: 20/24-pin mainboard power, 2x SATA ports, and 2x IDE fan power.
CONS
- Limited wattage may not be sufficient for high-power systems.
- Requires a specialized case or server rack with a compatible slot.
Introducing the Flex ATX Power Supply 350W 1U, the perfect solution for those seeking a compact and efficient power supply for their small form factor builds or rackmount systems. Its 1U form factor makes it ideal for space-constrained environments, ensuring a clean and organized setup. The fully modular design allows you to use only the cables you need, further enhancing cable management and airflow within your system.
With a reliable and efficient 350W power output, this Flex ATX power supply can support a wide range of mini-ITX and thin profile systems. It comes equipped with essential connectors, including a 20/24-pin mainboard power connector, two SATA ports for storage devices, and two IDE fan power connectors to keep your system cool. The unit's high-quality components and rigorous testing ensure stable and reliable performance, making it a dependable choice for your compact computing needs.
PROS
- Compact flex ATX form factor designed for small-size systems
- 80 Plus Platinum certification ensures high energy efficiency, minimizing power loss
- Fully modular cabling allows for easy customization and better cable management
- 140mm hydraulic bearing fan provides quiet and reliable cooling
CONS
- Limited power output may not be suitable for high-end systems
- Modular cables need to be purchased separately
The Enhance ENP-8345L is a compact and efficient power supply designed specifically for small form factor (SFF) systems. Its flex ATX form factor makes it suitable for use in slim cases, while its 450W of power is sufficient for powering most entry-level to mid-range gaming and workstation builds. The power supply utilizes 80 Plus Platinum rated components to guarantee approximately 92% energy efficiency under typical loads, providing stability and minimizing power loss.
The ENP-8345L is fully modular, allowing users to only connect the cables that are necessary for their system, resulting in improved airflow and reduced cable clutter. The included 140mm hydraulic bearing fan ensures quiet operation even under heavy loads. Backed by a 3-year warranty, the Enhance ENP-8345L is an excellent choice for users seeking a reliable and efficient power supply for their SFF systems.
When selecting a flex PSU, consider factors like power output, efficiency, modularity, and compatibility. We recommend the Apevia ITX-PFC500W for its exceptional power output and modularity. For budget-conscious users, the SilverStone Technology SST-FX350-G offers a reliable and efficient option. If you demand high performance, the SilverStone Technology SST-FX600-PT is a formidable choice with impressive power capacity. Don't forget to check compatibility with your system and ensure you choose a PSU that meets your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What key features should I consider when choosing a flex PSU?
When selecting a flex PSU, consider power output, efficiency, modularity, and compatibility. These factors will influence performance, reliability, and the ease of integration into your system.
What is the best flex PSU on the market?
The Apevia ITX-PFC500W is an exceptional choice, offering high power output and modularity for flexibility. It's an ideal pick for users who demand versatility and power.
Is the SilverStone Technology SST-FX350-G a reliable option?
Yes, the SilverStone Technology SST-FX350-G is a reliable and efficient choice for budget-conscious users. It provides stable and dependable performance for small form factor builds.
What are the advantages of using a flex PSU?
Flex PSUs are compact and versatile, allowing for greater flexibility in system design. They're ideal for small form factor builds where space is limited.
Are all flex PSUs compatible with different systems?
No, compatibility varies. It's essential to check the specifications and ensure the flex PSU you choose is compatible with your system's motherboard and components.
