Is the extreme power supply calculator more accurate than a graphics cards recommended wattage?

thesuperguy

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Apr 19, 2013
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I am planning a nice system upgrade for a friend who has a pretty old system. I am eyeing the GTS 450 currently because it offers decent performance and is on sale right now. The only problem is, the GTS 450 recommends a minimum of 400 watts whereas the psu calculator says a mere 313 watts is needed. I am currently only able to fit in 350 watts of power due to some size restrictions so I am wondering if that will be enough?
 
I don't go under the manufacturer's recommended number, if for no other reason than warranty compliance.

http://www.guru3d.com/articles_pages/geforce_gts_450_review_roundup,15.html

Recommended Power Supply

Here is Guru3D's power supply recommendation:

GeForce GTS 450

On your average system the card requires you to have a 500 Watt power supply unit.

GeForce GTS 450 in SLI

A second card requires you to add another ~100 Watts. You'll need a 600 Watt power supply unit.

If you are going to overclock massively, then we do recommend you purchase something with some more stamina.

keep in mind this review was written in 2010 .... use of a modern 2013 era CPU will reduce that system's power needs.
 

LoliElin

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Sep 15, 2013
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The recommended wattage usually overestimates to make up for people buying poor quality PSUs. If your 350 watt is a quality one, then you should have no issues. What brand is it?