Whether you love role-playing games, first-person shooters, or racing simulators, you need a robust gaming PC. Selecting the parts for the device can be confusing and overwhelming, as there are many variations for each component. For example, the power supply unit (PSU) is one of them. As a result, you may have seen the "80 PLUS" designation applied to it, with various metals following that term. To better understand what these labels mean, here is a brief introduction.

What Are the Differences in Ratings?

To start, the first aspect you should know is that "80 PLUS" is a voluntary certification program for energy efficiency and reliability. This label specifically refers to the energy efficiency of a PSU at different load percentages as it converts alternating current (AC) power from the outlet to direct current (DC) power, which is what gaming PCs use. A PSU that's certified as 80 PLUS can provide 80% energy efficiency or more at a 20%, 50%, and 100% load. So, if an 80 PLUS power supply is drawing 750 watts (W) from the wall outlet, it can consistently give your computer 600W, even at just a 20% load.

After the 80 PLUS label, you may see the term bronze, gold, or platinum. These metal designations show an increase in efficiency, with each level performing slightly better than the previous. For example, 80 PLUS Bronze provides 85% energy efficiency at a 20% load, while Gold goes up to 90%. At Platinum, it's as high as 92%. Platinum is usually the most expensive option because it provides reliable power in nearly all situations.

How Can You Choose the Best One?

For gaming PCs, choose a PSU based on how you plan to use it and how quiet you want it to be. For example, if you want a high-end graphics card and plan to play games that use a significant amount of memory, a highly energy-efficient unit is the best option. When the PSU is efficient, it won't produce as much heat, minimizing the noise generated by the fans.

Also, consider the climate. If you live somewhere that's quite hot, you will benefit from a PSU with a higher rating since it can keep the device cooler. However, since the efficiency differences are extremely small in some cases, especially between gold and platinum, one of the biggest factors is price. More efficiency comes with a higher cost, so factor this in when designing your gaming PC.

If you're ready to build your dream gaming PC, contact SKR Custom Gaming Computers in Maryville, TN. They ship custom computers to customers across the United States. They are known for their dedicated and friendly customer service, and will work with you to craft a PC that meets your needs, whether you want a custom or pre-built device. Visit the website for more information about their services. Call (865) 738-5620 to speak with a team member.