Short answer: Cybenetics gives a power supply two grades: ETA for efficiency and LAMBDA for noise. Both come from far more thorough testing than 80 Plus. When a unit has Cybenetics grades, use them over the 80 Plus badge.
Why Cybenetics exists
80 Plus checks efficiency at only a few load points, at a cool room temperature, and makers can submit hand-picked samples, as Tom’s Hardware has pointed out. Cybenetics tests across thousands of load combinations and includes standby power, according to HWBusters. It also measures noise, which 80 Plus doesn’t touch.
ETA: efficiency
| ETA level | 115V | 230V |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond | 93% or more | 95% or more |
| Titanium | 91% to 93% | 93% to 95% |
| Platinum | 89% to 91% | 91% to 93% |
| Gold | 87% to 89% | 89% to 91% |
| Silver | 85% to 87% | 87% to 89% |
| Bronze | 82% to 85% | 84% to 87% |
The 230V thresholds are higher because power supplies are more efficient on higher mains voltages.
LAMBDA: noise
| LAMBDA grade | Average noise |
|---|---|
| A++ | Below 15 dBA |
| A+ | 15 to 20 dBA |
| A | 20 to 25 dBA |
| A- | 25 to 30 dBA |
| Standard++ | 30 to 35 dBA |
| Standard+ | 35 to 40 dBA |
| Standard | 40 to 45 dBA |
Anything in the A range is quiet in most rooms. See the best quiet power supplies.
When the grades disagree with the box
A unit can carry a Gold badge and earn a Platinum ETA grade, or the other way round. HWBusters notes Cybenetics rates the be quiet! Pure Power 13 M Platinum despite its 80 Plus Gold badge. It also notes Cybenetics rates the Seasonic Focus GX V4 Platinum for efficiency and A- for noise.
How to use them when shopping
- Look for the ETA and LAMBDA grades on the product page, the box or in reviews.
- For a quiet build, aim for LAMBDA A- or better.
- For efficiency, Gold is enough for most gaming PCs. See efficiency ratings explained.
- Treat the grades as one input. They don’t cover protections or build quality. See what makes a good power supply.
- Gold badge, Platinum ETA · Tier Bbe quiet! Pure Power 13 M80 Plus Gold · Fully modular · ATX · 750/850/1000/1200WBetter than its badge suggests.Check 850W price
- Cybenetics Titanium · Tier Abe quiet! Dark Power 1480 Plus Titanium · Fully modular · ATX · 850/1000/1200WExcellent efficiency and very low noise.Check 850W price
- Cybenetics Gold · Tier ACorsair RMx (2024)80 Plus Gold · Fully modular · ATX · 750/850/1000WQuiet at everyday loads.Check 850W price
Questions
Is Cybenetics better than 80 Plus?
It tests more thoroughly and adds a noise grade, so it tells you more.
What does ETA mean?
Cybenetics’ efficiency grade, from Bronze up to Diamond.
What does LAMBDA mean?
Cybenetics’ noise grade, from Standard up to A++.
What is a good LAMBDA rating?
A- or better means average noise below 30 dBA.
Do all power supplies have Cybenetics ratings?
No. Many do, especially newer units. Where they exist, use them.
Sources
- Cybenetics: LAMBDA noise ratings for power supplies
- HWBusters: the story behind Cybenetics (ETA requirements)
- Tom's Hardware: what 80 Plus levels mean
- PC Gamer: Cybenetics efficiency and noise certifications
- HWBusters: be quiet! Pure Power 13 M 850W review
- HWBusters: be quiet! Dark Power 14 850W review
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