When it comes to power supply units (PSUs), two prominent names often rise to the top: Gigabyte and EVGA. Comparing the Gigabyte B700H and EVGA 650, we find a clash of titans in the mid-wattage PSU segment, each offering a unique blend of features and performance. Let's dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Firstly, both PSUs are 80 PLUS Bronze certified, ensuring at least 87% efficiency at typical loads. However, they operate differently in terms of fan control and noise levels, which could be a critical factor for some users.
Noise and Thermals
The Gigabyte B700H stands out with its semi-passive fan mode, which keeps the fan off under low to medium loads, delivering silent operation. It activates only at high loads (around 40%+), making it an excellent choice for quiet systems.
On the other hand, the EVGA 650 features a sleeved fan that runs continuously at low speeds, providing better airflow and heat management. Its fan does not spin down completely, but it's relatively quiet due to EVGA's.Stream Connect technology, which ensures consistent fan speed during load changes.
Noise Levels
Under light loads, the B700H is almost inaudible, thanks to its semi-passive mode. Meanwhile, the EVGA 650 maintains a low hum, noticeable but not intrusive, especially in cases with good airflow.
As loads increase, both PSUs ramp up their fan speeds. The EVGA 650 might become slightly louder, but its noise levels remain within acceptable limits for most users.
Thermal Performance
Both PSUs handle heat well, owing to their 120mm fluid dynamic bearings fans and efficient internal layouts. The EVGA 650's continuous fan operation provides constant airflow, keeping its temperatures in check. The B700H, however, benefits from its semi-passive mode, running cooler under light loads.
Output Connectors and ECO Mode
The B700H comes with eight PCIe connectors (6+2), suitable for high-end GPU setups. It also features two EC fans (addressable RGB), allowing for better case airflow control. Moreover, the B700H includes Gigabyte's Smart Save ECO mode, which reduces power consumption during light loads.
The EVGA 650 offers seven PCIe connectors (6+1), sufficient for most users. It does not come with EC fan headers, but it incorporates EVGA's Eco mode as well, which regulates fan speeds for optimal performance and noise management.
Connectors for High-End Setups
If you're planning a system with multiple high-end GPUs, the B700H's additional PCIe connector could be a deciding factor, as the EVGA 650 might not be enough in such cases.
However, for most users with single or dual-GPU setups, the EVGA 650's connector count should be sufficient. Furthermore, it offers more modular cables (fully modular vs. semi-modular), reducing cable clutter in your case.
ECO Mode: Performance vs. Noise
The EVGA 650's ECO mode balances performance and noise better, thanks to its consistent fan speed. The B700H's semi-passive mode might occasionally cause slight performance dips when switching between fan on and off states.
Both PSUs cater to different user preferences, offering unique combinations of noise control, thermal management, and power delivery. Ultimately, the choice between the Gigabyte B700H and EVGA 650 depends on your prioritized features, such as noise levels, connector count, or fan control.
Whether you're aiming for a whisper-quiet system or one with better airflow, both PSUs offer impressive performance and efficient power delivery. Investing in either the Gigabyte B700H or EVGA 650 ensures a robust and reliable power source for your gaming or workstation pc, ready to handle your demanding workloads.