Short answer: a good deal is the right model, at the right wattage, from a trusted seller, at a price below its usual level. Check the exact model and generation before the price. A big discount on an old or unknown unit isn’t a deal.
Check the model first
- The generation. Brands reuse names. The 2024 Corsair RMx is ATX 3.1. Older RMx units aren’t. Check the year or the ATX version in the listing.
- The wattage. Listings often group sizes. Make sure the price is for the size you need. See the wattage guide.
- ATX 3.0 or 3.1. Every unit on my list has one of these. A discount on an older design can cost you later.
Check the seller
On Amazon, look at who ships and sells the item. Sold by Amazon, or by the brand’s own store, is the simplest for returns and warranty. With a third-party seller, check their rating and returns policy.
Check the price history
A “was” price isn’t always the usual price. Price tracking tools such as camelcamelcamel show how an Amazon price has moved over months. If today’s price is near its usual low, it’s a good deal.
Deal traps
| Trap | What to do |
|---|---|
| High wattage at a low price from an unknown brand | Look for lab reviews. If none, skip it |
| “Peak” wattage in the title | Check the continuous rating |
| Older generation at a discount | Check ATX version and year |
| Bundles with things you don’t need | Compare with the unit on its own |
When to buy
Power supply prices move all year. Big sale events often bring good prices on well-known units, but so do ordinary weeks. If you need one now, a fair price on the right unit beats waiting for a perfect one.
My list only includes units available on Amazon, and the buttons always show today’s price there.
- Often discounted · Tier ACorsair RMx (2024)80 Plus Gold · Fully modular · ATX · 750/850/1000WA popular unit that’s frequently on offer. Check you’re buying the 2024 version.Check 850W price
- Value pick · Tier BMSI MAG A850GL PCIE580 Plus Gold · Fully modular · ATX · 750/850/1000/1250WHWBusters called the price competitive.Check 850W price
- Quiet value · Tier Bbe quiet! Pure Power 13 M80 Plus Gold · Fully modular · ATX · 750/850/1000/1200WAlmost silent in two lab tests.Check 850W price
Questions
Is it worth waiting for a sale?
If your current unit works, maybe. If you need one now, buy the right unit at a fair price.
Are Amazon warehouse or renewed power supplies a good deal?
Read my guide on refurbished power supplies first. Warranty is the main concern.
Why do some power supplies have huge discounts?
Often it’s an older generation, an unknown brand, or an inflated “was” price.
How do I check I’m buying the 2024 RMx?
Look for ATX 3.1 and the 2024 year in the listing title or spec table.
Is a more expensive unit worth it?
Only if it suits your build better. Higher tiers aren’t always the right choice.
Sources
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and stock are on Amazon.