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Comparison Products

We’ll start with the two odd ones on this list: the Sabrent Rocket Nano 2242 and the SK hynix Gold P31. The first is the only other M.2 2242 drive on our list because, frankly, there aren't many compelling retail drives in this form factor. You can usually get away with an M.2 2230 SSD, using an extender if necessary, or an OEM 2242 drive. Most devices are set up to handle M.2 2280 and 2230 for its part is the most space-efficient, but there is still a need for 2242 drives, and not just for 2242 hosts. Being able to add a second NAND flash package on a single-sided drive means you can have a high-capacity option in a very tight area, which can be useful in HTPCs and even some desktops.

The second drive is a near-legend in some circles for its excellent power efficiency at the time of its release. We’re including it because SK hynix makes OEM drives with the same hardware in an embedded package. In fact, the M.2 2242 variant of the OEM drive is found in the Tube T31 and X31 Beetle, and shucking is a possibility. These have DRAM, which is almost impossible to find in smaller form-factor drives. The Gold P31 performs similarly to the OEM version with just a little bit more thermal and power headroom due to its use of separate chips. It’s the gold standard for use in comparison here because it’s probably the best option from Gen 3. The rest of the drives are Gen 4, and, for cases where a 2242 exists, the hardware would be the same, so we are covering all of our bases.

At the top, we have E27-based drives with TLC flash, like the Corsair MP600 Mini (E27T), and QLC with the Crucial P310. QLC with SMI’s comparable SM2268XT2 controller is represented by the Kingston NV3. For older hardware, we have the proprietary WD Black SN770M, the 1TB TeamGroup MP44S, and the 2TB Silicon Power UD90. These last two both have QLC flash, which is sufficient for our coverage, as the Nano 2242 handles this range with TLC. Instead, we’re looking at how different capacities perform, as one of the MP700 Micro’s top selling points is its capacity range.

Trace Testing — 3DMark Storage Benchmark

Built for gamers, 3DMark’s Storage Benchmark focuses on real-world gaming performance. Each round in this benchmark stresses storage based on gaming activities including loading games, saving progress, installing game files, and recording gameplay video streams. Future gaming benchmarks will be DirectStorage-inclusive and we also include notes about which drives may be future-proofed.

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The MP700 Micro puts up great numbers in 3DMark with excellent latency for predicted game workloads. In the real world, this may not translate to significant improvements, for example, in FPS gains, but it does mean you will have the best loading times. In some edge cases, such as playing a game after a massive update or when the system is facing one or more bottlenecks that can affect storage performance, a faster drive can make gameplay feel smoother. This is especially true when comparing QLC-based drives, like the P310, to TLC-based ones like the MP700 Micro. You’re not going to have fresh-out-of-the-box performance on a drive once it sees steady use, especially if it's fuller or handles regular I/O. In these cases, having a drive with this level of performance could provide a better overall user experience.

Trace Testing — PCMark 10 Storage Benchmark

PCMark 10 is a trace-based benchmark that uses a wide-ranging set of real-world traces from popular applications and everyday tasks to measure the performance of storage devices. The results are particularly useful when analyzing drives for their use as primary/boot storage devices and in work environments.

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The MP700 Micro can push an incredible amount of bandwidth for what it is, although we give credit to the P310 for keeping up. We’re a big fan of the P310, in fact, but with Crucial pulling out of the consumer market, this creates a void for smaller-form-factor drives. In that new universe, the MP700 Micro is the clear winner for the time being.

Transfer Rates — DiskBench

We use the DiskBench storage benchmarking tool to test file transfer performance with a custom, 50GB dataset. We write 31,227 files of various types, such as pictures, PDFs, and videos, to the test drive, then make a copy of that data to a new folder, and follow up with a reading test of a newly-written 6.5GB zip file. This is a real-world typeof workload that fits into the cache of most drives.

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The MP700 Micro’s competition is fighting at a disadvantage here, as the PCIe 5.0 interface has more headroom, even with a drive that tops out around 9.6 GB/s at this capacity. This is enough to put it more than 15% ahead of the next-fastest competitor, the P310. The better comparison would be the MP600 Mini E27T, which is basically a Gen 4 version of the MP700 Micro. You are getting substantially more performance here, but the real gains are hidden. Going from BiCS6 to BiCS8 and a 12nm controller to a 7nm one means a lot of power savings. This is a significant consideration for shorter form factor drives. The MP600 Mini E27T is fantastic for Gen 3 systems like the Steam Deck but things are murkier at Gen 4 against the MP700 Micro even without its 5.0 interface advantage. When you add in the 4TB capacity option it ends the debate about who is the king of the hill.

Synthetic Testing — ATTO / CrystalDiskMark

ATTO and CrystalDiskMark (CDM) are free and easy-to-use storage benchmarking tools that SSD vendors commonly use to assign performance specifications to their products. Both of these tools give us insight into how each device handles different file sizes and at different queue depths for both sequential and random workloads.

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While the MP700 Micro’s sequential CDM results are excellent, especially at higher queue depths, we do have some minor concerns. QD1 sequential read performance isn’t that much better than the SN770M’s. However, the SN770M’s relatively high power draw and heat production probably dulls this comparison a bit. Of more concern is the MP700 Micro’s read performance in ATTO, which appears to be off-point for most of the curve. The dip at 64KiB is most conspicuous and unusual, given that the four-plane flash should align fine with its standard 16KiB page size.

Our instinct is to look at other drives using this controller to see what’s going on. The Corsair MP700 Elite, which uses identical hardware, also has some struggles in this benchmark. The Crucial P510, which uses the same controller but Micron TLC flash, doesn’t. More generally, we see inconsistent ATTO read performance from this controller with BiCS8 TLC flash specifically. Given what we’ve seen with this flash on Phison’s E28 controller – see the MP700 Pro XT, which is excellent – we think this is something that’s been ironed out. The E28’s DRAM doesn’t hurt things, either. Luckily, the real-world impact from this appears to be small or even negligible, and possibly this will also be improved with future firmware updates. While we can think of some technical reasons about why the drive behaves this way here, at the end of the day, it’s something that can be overlooked when the real-world experience is so tight.

The drive’s random performance, thankfully, is excellent. This is a very responsive drive that really feels like an upgrade over the original crop of M.2 2230 SSDs. We do think that having a system that can take advantage of it – this means a PCIe 4.0 or higher link, a capable CPU, and sufficient RAM/VRAM – is required to fully appreciate the upward leap. When you factor in power efficiency, you are really squeezing every ounce out of your portable system with the MP700 Micro. If you happen to need 4TB of space, as well, then the decision is made easy for you.

One extra thing to point out here is that with rising memory prices, specifically DRAM, systems will become more expensive with potentially weaker base models in terms of the amount of memory that’s provided. This has a negative effect on storage as it’s not really capable of making up for a system memory bottleneck or shortfall. This means that the MP700 Micro is a high-end drive that might become even more of a luxury as it needs a more powerful system and heavier workloads to make a difference.

Sustained Write Performance and Cache Recovery

Official write specifications are only part of the performance picture. Most SSDs implement a write cache, which is a fast area of pseudo-SLC (single-bit) programmed flash that absorbs incoming data. Sustained write speeds can suffer tremendously once the workload spills outside of the cache and into the "native" TLC (three-bit) or QLC (four-bit) flash. Performance can suffer even more if the drive is forced to fold, which is the process of migrating data out of the cache in order to free up space for further incoming data.

We use Iometer to hammer the SSD with sequential writes for 15 minutes to measure both the size of the write cache and performance after the cache is saturated. We also monitor cache recovery via multiple idle rounds. This process shows the performance of the drive in various states as well as the steady state write performance.

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If any naysayers remain, then surely their criticism would be realized through our sustained writing test. Using a large pSLC cache is a great way to hide poor performance even in edge cases, and while in the real world there is usually little reason to worry about post-cache performance, we think it’s something that’s worth a look. It can be an Achilles heel for drives that otherwise perform well, so waiting for this test to decide can be wise. With that in mind, we’re glad to report that the MP700 Micro does not disappoint here.

Write performance is relatively weak at just 8.09 GB/s in the fastest single-bit mode. You can certainly do better with this hardware, and the drive will be faster than this at 2TB. That said, it can sustain this mode for just over 54 seconds with a 438GB cache. This is a reasonably large cache, and it is many times bigger than the Crucial P510's small cache. The P510 had very consistent sustained performance with that cach,e but the MP700 Micro can manage something similar while also being able to write longer in the pSLC mode. Yes, the P510 can eventually sustain 4 GB/s in TLC mode, but its primary drop is to a speed very close to MP700 at 2.14 GB/s. This is a good result for a drive this large, and it dispels any lingering questions about its performance.

Power Consumption and Temperature

We use the Quarch HD Programmable Power Module to gain a deeper understanding of power characteristics. Idle power consumption is an important aspect to consider, especially if you're looking for a laptop upgrade as even the best ultrabooks can have mediocre stock storage. Desktops may be more performance-oriented with less support for power-saving features, so we show the worst-case.

Some SSDs can consume watts of power at idle while better-suited ones sip just milliwatts. Average workload power consumption and max consumption are two other aspects of power consumption but performance-per-watt, or efficiency, is more important. A drive might consume more power during any given workload, but accomplishing a task faster allows the drive to drop into an idle state more quickly, ultimately saving energy.

For temperature recording we currently poll the drive’s primary composite sensor during testing with a ~22°C ambient. Our testing is rigorous enough to heat the drive to a realistic ceiling temperature.

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The MP700 Micro is very power-efficient and also runs relatively cool. It’s the 2nd most efficient drive in our testing today, but keep in mind that it will be even more efficient if limited to a slower interface speed. Head-to-head it should beat any drive here.

The drive also runs cool, with a maximum reported temperature of 67°C and a nominal throttling threshold of 83°C. We would like to see more headroom here, but there are two things to keep in mind. First, running the drive in a slower slot will reduce its temperature by a noticeable amount. Second, this drive is M.2 2242, with two NAND flash packages compared to single-package drives, mostly in the 2230 form factor. The MP700 Micro has more surface area and more space, which helps improve cooling if you’re using any sort of heatspreader or thermal interface such as thermal padding. This means that in many systems, it will be easier to cool the drive. We’re testing the worst case, and there is still enough distance to the throttling temperature that we don’t expect any issues outside hot environments.

Test Bench and Testing Notes

CPU	Intel Core i9-12900K
Motherboard	Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
Memory	2x16GB G.Skill DDR5-5600 CL28
Graphics	Intel Iris Xe UHD Graphics 770
CPU Cooling	Enermax Aquafusion 240
Case	Cooler Master TD500 Mesh V2
Power Supply	Cooler Master V850 i Gold
OS Storage	Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus-G 2TB
Operating System	Windows 11 Pro

We use an Alder Lake platform with most background applications such as indexing, Windows updates, and anti-virus disabled in the OS to reduce run-to-run variability. Each SSD is prefilled to 50% capacity and tested as a secondary device. Unless noted, we use active cooling for all SSDs.

Corsair MP700 Micro Bottom Line

As with the MP700 Pro XT, we’re on the edge of awarding this drive a perfect score. It has excellent performance across-the-board even with sustained writes. Power efficiency is very high and the capacity being offered is simply bonkers for this form factor. Minor glitches aside – the ATTO read performance is questionable – this is the best drive you can get in M.2 2242. In basic terms it’s as simple as that.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

There are some factors that keep us from giving it a 5/5 score, though. One is that, at the time of review, we could only find the 4TB SKU at normal retailers. We think the 2TB would be extremely popular, while the 4TB is a significantly larger investment with a higher cost per GB. The 4TB is also slower due to the nature of the technology, although this isn’t a big drawback, as the drive is faster than anything else out there.

Pricing overall isn’t bad, but we worry about how this drive will remain viable in the future. It’s unlikely to have any direct 4TB competitors – if it does have any, they will probably use the same hardware – but lower capacities may become more attractive as time goes on. The M.2 2242 form factor is somewhat niche as it is. Additionally, the MP700 Micro is a PCIe 5.0 drive, while the install base for the form factor is essentially only 3.0 and or 4.0.

This makes an older drive like the Sabrent Nano 2242 a more realistic solution for upgraders, and many people might go back to OEM drives as well, given the nature of supply and demand. You can also extend M.2 2230 SSDs, and there are a lot more of those around. The MP700 Micro is, therefore, the holy grail for anybody who wants max performance and 4TB of space, but it’s probably overkill for anybody else. We love this drive and do suggest you pick it up ASAP if you’ve been waiting for something like it, but if your needs are more modest, you have other options to explore.

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Corsair RM850x SHIFT 850W power supply review: Platinum performance at Gold pricing

E. Fylladitakis — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Corsair has established its market position through calculated innovation rather than incremental refinement. While competitors obsessed over efficiency percentages and cable braiding aesthetics, Corsair questioned fundamental assumptions about power supply integration. The result stands before us: the RM850x SHIFT, a unit that literally shifts the paradigm by relocating modular connectors from their traditional rear position to the left chassis side, enabling direct cable routing behind the motherboard tray. Will this innovation be enough to edge out its competition? We put the RM850x SHIFT through its paces to determine if it earns a spot on our Best Power Supplies list.

The RM850x SHIFT's architectural transformation represents more than aesthetic ambition. By repositioning connectors perpendicular to conventional orientation, Corsair eliminates visible cable management challenges entirely, assuming builders possess cases specifically designed to accommodate this radical departure from standard PSU layouts. The gamble here is not technical. Rather, Corsair bets that a substantial segment of enthusiast builders will prioritize cable management perfection enough to accept reduced case compatibility.

The 2025 revision of the RM850x SHIFT builds upon the foundation established by the original 2023 model. It adheres to Intel ATX 12V v3.1 and PCIe 5.1 specifications, achieving Cybenetics Platinum certification that promises efficiency exceeding 91% at nominal loads. Strangely, Corsair markets this unit under Gold certification, likely to avoid internal competition with their HX series despite the unit's actual Platinum-level performance. At retail pricing around $180, the RM850x SHIFT occupies an interesting position. It costs more than several conventional Gold units but delivers efficiency and electrical performance exceeding its certification while offering cable management innovations that conventional designs are simply unable to.

Specifications and Design

Corsair RM850x SHIFT (2025) Power Specifications (Rated @ 50 °C)
RAIL	+3.3V	+5V	+12V	+5Vsb	-12V
MAX OUTPUT	20A	20A	70.8A	3A	0A
	150W	150W	849.6W	15W	0W
TOTAL	850W
AC INPUT	100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz
MSRP	$180

In the Box

The Corsair RM850x SHIFT arrives in packaging featuring the company's signature black and yellow aesthetic theme that has become synonymous with Corsair products. The sturdy cardboard construction provides substantial protection during transport. Inside, a protective pouch and carefully designed cardboard inserts cradle the unit securely.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The accessory bundle remains rudimentary, including almost only the bare essentials. Corsair provides standard mounting screws, an AC power cable, and a few cable ties. The company has moved toward paper bags instead of plastic where possible, a minor but appreciated environmental consideration.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The cable situation deserves extensive discussion, as Corsair has implemented their proprietary Type-5 cable system throughout the RM850x SHIFT. Every cable features all-black construction with matching connectors and conductors, employing ribbon-line flat cables with per-wire sleeving that provides visual appeal without the bulk of traditional braided solutions. More significantly, these cables utilize smaller connectors on the PSU side, the same type employed by the 12V-2x6 plug.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The connector configuration reveals strategic decisions about target audience. The unit provides a single 12V-2x6 connector capable of delivering up to 600W to compatible graphics cards, alongside four traditional 6+2 pin PCIe connectors for broader compatibility. Corsair implements these four connectors across three cables: two of the 6+2 PCIe connectors have dedicated cables, while the third cable carries two connectors.

Corsair RM850x Shift 2025
Connector type	Hardwired	Modular
ATX 24 Pin	-	1
EPS 4+4 Pin	-	2
EPS 8 Pin	-	-
PCI-E 5.0	-	1
PCI-E 8 Pin	-	4
SATA	-	12
Molex	-	8
Floppy	-	-

External Appearance

Corsair designed the RM850x SHIFT to combine functional innovation with understated visual flair. The chassis receives a matte black paint finish that demonstrates excellent quality, resistant to fingerprints and casual scratching while finished to tolerances that eliminate any trace of budget manufacturing techniques. At 160mm depth, the RM850x SHIFT extends slightly beyond typical ATX dimensions but the design of the unit itself warrants a case compatibility check regardless of its length.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The shifted modular panel mounted on the left side represents the defining feature, dramatically altering cable routing geometry compared to traditional rear-mounted configurations and necessitating compatibility verification. This placement allows cables to exit directly toward cable management channels behind the motherboard tray, but only in cases specifically designed to accommodate this unconventional layout. Corsair recommends at least 30mm clearance on the PSU's left side for proper cable routing.

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The front panel has a standard AC receptacle and on/off switch, as well as a fan speed control knob. This represents the most visible external difference from the previous SHIFT model, which lacked direct fan control beyond its programmed zero-RPM behavior. The control knob switches the fan from “Auto” (when all the way down) to a manual mode that forces the fan to continuously at a user-defined speed. If that user-set speed is too low to keep the unit functioning safely, it will force the fan to speed up. A decorative etched logo adorns the right side panel, while the fan grille integrated into the top surface features a distinctive fidget spinner pattern cutout design. The same geometric motif appears covering the chassis top. The rear panel hosts the electrical specifications and certifications sticker. The left side panel presents the modular connector array with subtle printed legends identifying each socket's purpose. These Type-5 connectors are notably smaller than conventional modular connections.

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Internal Design

A Corsair NR140HP 140mm fan equipped with a fluid dynamic bearing engine handles thermal management duties. FDB technology represents the premium tier of fan bearing designs, offering exceptional reliability and remarkably quiet operation compared to sleeve or rifle bearing alternatives. These fans maintain low acoustic signatures even at elevated speeds while delivering MTBF figures that support Corsair's ten-year warranty confidently. While Corsair has not published detailed specifications for this particular fan model, testing reveals maximum rotational speeds approaching 2200-2300 RPM, a capability that the unit's thermal control circuitry ensures remains untapped during typical operating conditions.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Great Wall serves as the OEM behind this platform, a choice that brings decades of experience designing mid-to-top tier power supplies for numerous brands. This heavily distinguishes this version from the 2024 variant, which Channel-Well Technology manufactures. The Chinese manufacturer's engineering prowess has graced many enthusiast-grade products, establishing them as a capable partner for premium PSU development. The core design philosophy here does not deviate dramatically from conventional high-end units. Active PFC, synchronous rectification, and DC-to-DC conversion for minor rails all appear as expected. However, the PCB orientation rotates 90 degrees clockwise to accommodate the side-mounted connector arrangement. This seemingly simple transformation actually demands comprehensive redesign, as component placement, heat dissipation paths, and electrical routing all shift to maintain performance within the altered geometry.

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The input filtering stage implements adequate protection with six Y capacitors (four Y capacitors according to some specifications), two X capacitors, and two filtering inductors. Two rectifying bridges mount on a sizable heatsink immediately following filtration, providing thermal management for these critical components. The APFC circuitry employs a straightforward approach to power factor correction. Two STM 33N60DM2 MOSFETs handle primary active PFC duties alongside a diode. One encased inductor paired with two Nichicon capacitors (390 μF and 330 μF) form the passive components of the APFC circuit.

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The primary inversion stage employs two STM MOSFETs identical to those used for the PFC circuit, configured in a half-bridge topology and mounted on substantial heatsinks alongside the APFC bulk capacitors. These heatsinks provide ample thermal dissipation area, suggesting conservative thermal design that prioritizes longevity over minimal material investment. The secondary side implementation places four Toshiba MOSFETs cooled by an odd-looking heatsink for synchronous rectification, generating the primary 12V rail. While only four MOSFETs seems modest compared to flagship units employing eight or ten, the efficient devices prove adequate for 850W output. A separate vertical daughterboard houses DC-to-DC converter circuits that generate the 3.3V and 5V rails from the primary 12V bus.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The capacitor selection throughout the secondary side draws predominantly from Nichicon, a very reputable Japanese manufacturer known for reliability and longevity. Only one Rubycon electrolytic capacitor appears, breaking Nichicon's near-complete dominance in this unit. The premium component selection throughout promises long-term stability and performance retention.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

One notable architectural decision: the RM850x SHIFT completely omits the -12V rail, recognizing this legacy specification as unnecessary for modern systems.

Cold Test Results

Cold Test Results (25°C Ambient)

For the testing of PSUs, we are using high precision electronic loads with a maximum power draw of 2700 Watts, a Rigol DS5042M 40 MHz oscilloscope, an Extech 380803 power analyzer, two high precision UNI-T UT-325 digital thermometers, an Extech HD600 SPL meter, a self-designed hotbox and various other bits and parts.

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Under controlled cold testing conditions with 25°C ambient temperature, the Corsair RM850x SHIFT delivered efficiency performance that substantially exceeds its Gold certification. At 115 VAC input voltage, the unit achieved an average nominal load efficiency of 90.5%, while 230 VAC input improved performance to 92.5%, figures that comfortably satisfy Cybenetics Platinum certification requirements. The efficiency curve exhibits excellent behavior, peaking at approximately 50% load before declining gradually as power draw increases. This efficiency profile remains remarkably stable across most of the operational range, never dropping precipitously even as loads approach maximum capacity. Very low load efficiency proves quite good as well for an 850W class unit. Compared to the previous version, the 230 VAC efficiency is almost identical but the 115 VAC efficiency has been significantly improved.

The fan behavior during cold testing reveals sophisticated thermal management programming. The NR140HP fan remains completely inactive until load reaches approximately 500W, activating slowly at first and increasing speed gradually as load increases. This zero-RPM mode ensures virtually silent operation at low and medium loads, a feature increasingly expected in modern power supplies. Even at maximum load, the fan never approaches its maximum 2200+ RPM capability, maintaining remarkably low noise levels that belie the unit's Gold certification. For a Gold-level product, the RM850x SHIFT operates exceptionally quietly. Internal temperatures remain very low throughout testing, indicating that the thermal design provides substantial headroom and that Corsair has prioritized longevity and acoustic comfort over minimal heatsink investment.

Hot Test Results

Hot Test Results (~45°C Ambient)

Elevated ambient temperature testing reveals the RM850x SHIFT's good resilience to thermal stress under adverse operating conditions. Average nominal load efficiency measures 89.6% at 115 VAC and 91.6% at 230 VAC, representing measurable but not excessive degradation from cold test results. The unit demonstrates no signs of thermal stress, with efficiency remaining stable even when heavily loaded for prolonged periods. Performance here is greatly superior compared to that of the previous version.

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The fan profile under hot conditions reveals adjusted thermal management. Fan activation occurs somewhat earlier than during cold testing, and rotational speeds increase more aggressively as loads climb. However, the fan still never reaches its maximum speed capability, maintaining controlled acoustic output even under thermal stress. The fan speed increases almost linearly alongside load, keeping internal temperatures steady throughout the test. Internal temperatures remain relatively low even at maximum load, demonstrating excellent thermal management. The acoustic performance remains outstanding even under these challenging conditions.

PSU Quality and Bottom Line

Power Supply Quality

The Corsair RM850x SHIFT's electrical performance validates its position as a unit that substantially exceeds its Gold certification, delivering metrics that challenge Platinum-certified competitors. Voltage ripple suppression proves exceptional across all rails: the 12V rail peaks at merely 28 mV, while the 5V and 3.3V rails achieve 16 mV and 14 mV respectively. These figures represent roughly one-quarter of the ATX specification's recommended limits, placing the RM850x SHIFT among the cleanest power supplies available regardless of certification level. Voltage regulation achieves near-perfection across all rails, demonstrating the benefits of premium component selection. The primary 12V rail maintains outstanding 0.7% regulation from 20% to 100% load. The minor 5V and 3.3V rails achieve even better results at 0.5% regulation each, specifications that exceed typical requirements substantially and ensure devices receive pristine power. These regulation figures compete favorably with units costing significantly more.

During our thorough assessment, we evaluate the essential protection features of every power supply unit we review, including Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Power Protection (OPP), and Short Circuit Protection (SCP). All protection mechanisms were activated and functioned correctly during testing.

Over Current Protection triggers at reasonable thresholds: 124% on the 3.3V rail, 146% on the 5V rail, and 146% on the 12V rail. These settings provide adequate headroom for transient current spikes while protecting against sustained overcurrent conditions that could damage components. The relatively high OCP thresholds suggest confidence in the platform's capabilities. Over Power Protection activates at 125% under hot conditions, providing appropriate safeguards against excessive total power draw while allowing headroom for brief transient loads.

Main Output
Load (Watts)	171.72 W		428.55 W		641.78 W		853.55 W
Load (Percent)	20.2%		50.42%		75.5%		100.42%
	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts
3.3 V	1.82	3.42	4.56	3.42	6.84	3.41	9.11	3.41
5 V	1.82	5.1	4.56	5.1	6.84	5.08	9.11	5.07
12 V	12.91	12.1	32.26	12.08	48.4	12.06	64.53	12.03

Line	Regulation (20% to 100% load)	Voltage Ripple (mV)
		20% Load	50% Load	75% Load	100% Load	CL1 12V	CL2 3.3V + 5V
3.3V	0.5%	16	12	14	14	14	14
5V	0.5%	14	12	14	16	14	14
12V	0.65%	18	14	22	28	28	16

Bottom Line

The Corsair RM850x SHIFT (2025) exists at the intersection of innovation and pragmatism, forcing builders to weigh transformative cable management against compatibility constraints while offering meaningful improvements over its predecessor. From a purely electrical perspective, this unit performs magnificently, substantially exceeding its Gold certification and delivering Platinum-level performance. The voltage regulation competes with virtually anything in the market, regardless of price; ripple suppression achieves levels typically reserved for flagship units, and efficiency remains firmly in Platinum territory across diverse loading conditions.

Great Wall's proven platform heritage promises long-term reliability, while Corsair's premium component selection throughout (Japanese capacitors, quality MOSFETs, FDB fan) ensures this unit will likely outlive the systems it powers. The addition of the manual fan speed control knob represents the most significant functional improvement in the 2025 revision. While the original forced users to accept its automatic zero-RPM behavior without override capability, the 2025 model allows builders to adjust minimum fan speeds according to their specific thermal requirements and acoustic preferences. This seemingly minor addition addresses a legitimate limitation, particularly for enthusiasts who want to be in control.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Yet the RM850x SHIFT's defining characteristic is its shifted connector arrangement that simultaneously represents its greatest strength and most significant limitation. When paired with compatible cases featuring appropriate PSU bay designs and cable routing provisions, this configuration delivers cable management that conventional power supplies cannot match. Cables route directly behind the motherboard tray without traversing visible spaces, creating builds where power delivery infrastructure essentially disappears from view. However, this architectural revolution demands specific case compatibility, typically requiring at least 30mm clearance on the PSU's left side and cases with appropriate cutouts and routing channels. Builders must verify compatibility carefully before purchase, the very friction point that universal standards specifically aim to eliminate.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The retail pricing around $180 creates an interesting value proposition. This positions the RM850x SHIFT above conventional Gold units but below typical Platinum offerings. Given that this unit actually delivers Platinum efficiency and electrical performance that challenges more expensive competitors, the pricing appears reasonable for target customers. The Type-5 flat cables, exceptional electrical performance, and revolutionary cable management combine to justify the premium over conventional Gold units. However, those customers represent a narrower segment than typical power supply purchasers. Mainstream builders seeking reliable 850W power delivery will find numerous conventional alternatives that deliver comparable electrical performance without compatibility constraints.

Corsair's decision to market this unit as Gold-certified despite its actual Platinum-level performance seems counterproductive. While presumably intended to avoid internal competition with the HX series, it undersells the unit's genuine capabilities. Buyers researching specifications might dismiss the RM850x SHIFT as merely another Gold unit when it actually outperforms many Platinum-certified competitors. This marketing approach benefits savvy buyers who recognize the value but potentially alienates those judging solely by certification badges.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The Corsair RM850x SHIFT ultimately succeeds brilliantly for its intended audience: enthusiast builders with compatible cases who prioritize cable management perfection and appreciate genuine performance value over certification badges. For this demographic, the RM850x SHIFT represents one of the finest power supplies available at its price point, delivering flagship electrical performance wrapped in genuinely transformative integration. Its ten-year warranty, zero-RPM operation, excellent thermal performance, and exceptional build quality further strengthen the value proposition for buyers who appreciate engineering that exceeds its marketing. For builders outside this target demographic, such as those with incompatible cases, those unwilling to verify compatibility requirements, or those prioritizing universal compatibility over clean cable management, the RM850x SHIFT's innovations may not justify its constraints. These buyers would be better served by conventional alternatives offering comparable electrical performance without compatibility limitations.

The fundamental question is not whether the RM850x SHIFT represents good engineering. It unquestionably does, delivering Platinum performance at Gold pricing with innovative cable management. The question is whether its specific innovations align with your build requirements and whether you possess a compatible case to leverage its distinctive architecture. For the right builder with the right setup, this PSU achieves something genuinely special. For others, conventional excellence exists in more universally compatible forms.

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Corsair ships customer $35 decorative memory sticks instead of $1,000 worth of 96 GB of DDR5 memory — buyer accidentally receives dummy RAM in unlucky warranty claim

editors@tomshardware.com (Hassam Nasir) — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:28:27 +0000

With the memory crisis reaching its peak and expected to only worsen, even the slightest of mix-ups are exacerbated and feel almost absurd. That's what happened to an unlucky user on the r/pcmasterrace subreddit, who sent in their 96 GB kit of Corsair Vengeance DDR5 memory for an RMA, but received seemingly fake RAM in return that didn't work.

Corsair sent me DDR5 Ram Replacement Sticks and the new RAM looks like this? from r/pcmasterrace

For some context, 96 GB of DDR5 desktop memory will run you at least $1,000 today — that's how much it is listed for on Corsair's website — so, obviously, you don't want it to get misplaced in some warranty claim. What happened in u/Loudenoughforme's case, though, was instead of receiving the proper replacement, Corsair sent them dummy sticks known as a "Light Enhancement Kit."

As the name suggests, these are empty DIMMs designed to look like real RAM, but they contain no memory inside, as they're only meant to enhance aesthetics. They have RGB strips on top that light up when slotted in, making their sole purpose to populate all the RAM slots on your motherboard for that complete look, without spending the extra money.

(Image credit: Future)

There's real logic behind doing this as running 4 (or more) sticks of RAM at the same time can reduce performance; in most cases, two sticks are ideal and preferred for high-speed DDR5, so decorative kits can really come in handy. Anyhow, Corsair's Light Enhancement Kit only costs $35 and is really easy to spot, thanks to the oddly-spaced pin layout that stands out against the dense contact points for actual memory.

Therefore, the commenters were quick to point this out and someone from the Corsair team even managed to directly get in touch with the user, asking for their ticket number. So, it seems like the case is closed and OP should receive their highly-coveted, working RAM soon. As for who this mix-up can be attributed to on the back end, well, that's anyone guess at this point.

Corsair MP700 Pro XT 2TB SSD review: the fastest SSD ever has landed with a record 3.3 million IOPS and nearly 15 GB/s

Shane Downing — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Every once in a while, a product comes along that causes you to do a double-take. Oh, another high-end SSD, but wait! It delivers a record 3.3 million IOPS? It’s how power-efficient? The relatively plain-looking Corsair MP700 Pro XT knows how to surprise by turning the existing order of things on its head. In a time when we finally have some great high-end drives, it manages to raise the bar even further in a way that previously seemed improbable. Almost 15 GB/s with truly zero compromises? That reality is here.

Many of our expectations are built around Phison’s original high-end PCIe 5.0 SSD controller, the E26. This was an incredible innovation for its time, but it locked in a certain perspective on drives in this class – they are power-hungry, high-running storage solutions made only for enthusiasts. It’s hard to find a tech forum where users haven’t complained about the need for active cooling, even though it is not strictly required. That is, until SMI’s SM2508 controller arrived. When combined with the right flash it delivered new levels of performance with far less power consumption. Our sample didn’t even come with a heatsink. In retail, the SanDisk WD Black SN8100 in particular set the new baseline. Phison was, for once, not the one to make the first move, but taking the time to optimize its hardware has really paid off. The MP700 Pro XT proves that beyond any doubt.

Excellent 4KB random read performance? Check. Solid sustained write performance? Also check. Fantastic power efficiency so that the drive can be used anywhere? You know it. Even the launch pricing is reasonable, although current market turbulence makes that more difficult to judge. This drive has no weaknesses, and it impresses us across the board. Sure, there’s no 8TB model yet available, but if you want it at any other capacity, it is probably the best choice right now. We’re certainly eager to see what the competition brings out with this new hardware, but for now, diving into the MP700 Pro XT is an exciting prospect.

Corsair MP700 Pro XT Specifications

Product	1TB	2TB	4TB
Pricing	$159.99	$249.99	$459.99
Form Factor	M.2 2280	M.2 2280	M.2 2280
Interface / Protocol	PCIe 5.0 x4 NVMe 2.0	PCIe 5.0 x4 NVMe 2.0	PCIe 5.0 x4 NVMe 2.0
Controller	Phison E28	Phison E28	Phison E28
DRAM	LPDDR4x	LPDDR4x	LPDDR4x
Flash Memory	Kioxia/Sandisk 218-Layer TLC (BiCS8)	Kioxia/Sandisk 218-Layer TLC (BiCS8)	Kioxia/Sandisk 218-Layer TLC (BiCS8)
Sequential Read	14,900 MB/s	14,900 MB/s	14,900 MB/s
Sequential Write	14,200 MB/s	14,500 MB/s	14,700 MB/s
Random Read	1,500K IOPS	2,700K IOPS	2,700K IOPS
Random Write	3,300K IOPS	3,300K IOPS	3,300K IOPS
Active Power	6.2W	6.2W	6.5W
Endurance (TBW)	700TB	1,400TB	2,800TB
Part Number	CSSD-F10GBMP700PXNH	CSSD-F20GBMP700PXNH	CSSD-F40GBMP700PXNH
Warranty	5-year	5-year	5-year

The Corsair MP700 Pro XT is available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities for $159.99, $249.99, and $459.99. This is MSRP pricing, but the cost per terabyte isn’t unreasonable. Currently, the Crucial T710 is less expensive at 4TB; the Samsung 9100 Pro remains the best and only 8TB retail option; and the SanDisk WD Black SN8100 sets the price basis for high-end, Gen 5 SSDs. We think the MP700 Pro XT is compelling against the Black SN8100 at current pricing. However, given current market conditions, we can’t assume where these prices will go. Our only complaint here is that the MP700 Pro XT and its Phison E28 controller are a bit late to the market.

The drive is capable of hitting up to 14,900 / 14,700 MB/s for sequential reads and writes and up to 2,700K / 3,300K random read and write IOPS. This stands out for a few reasons. First, this pushes the limits of the PCIe 5.0 interface to the extreme, and it’s clear Phison really wanted the fastest drives possible on paper. Second, sequential performance at 1TB remains excellent, which is usually a problem with high-end drives. Previously, we’ve recommended the Crucial T710 at 1TB for its unusually high performance from six-plane flash, but Phison proves with the MP700 Pro XT’s numbers that it can push bandwidth with any flash. Third and lastly, the IOPS ratings are through the roof with the highest specifications we’ve ever seen on a drive. To put it bluntly, this is a powerhouse of a drive at any capacity.

It’s also backed by a standard five-year, 700TB of writes per TB of capacity warranty. This is nothing special, but we’re glad that no compromises are necessary. Phison’s E28 can support hardware encryption through TCG Opal, and the Corsair MP700 Pro XT states AES 256-bit encryption support. Corsair also provided power consumption numbers for this drive, which are excellent and even better than what the SMI SM2508 can deliver on the best drives. Compare the Kingston Renegade G5 – the MP700 Pro XT fits into a much tighter power envelope, which equates to fantastic power efficiency.

Corsair MP700 Pro XT Software and Accessories

Corsair offers its Corsair SSD Toolbox for its SSDs. This Windows-based program shows drive health information and controls functions such as TRIM optimization, secure erase, and drive cloning. We recommend CrystalDiskInfo and MultiDrive if you’re looking for free versions of software with some similar functionality.

Corsair MP700 Pro XT: A Closer Look

Tom's Hardware

The 2TB Corsair MP700 Pro XT is a single-sided drive, which is definitely something we like to see. Some of the drives in this segment, like the Adata XPG Mars 980 Blade, are double-sided, which can complicate drive fit in some systems and make them more difficult to cool. It looks like the 4TB version of the MP700 Pro XT is also single-sided, given that it has the same dimensions as the 1TB and 2TB. Given the power numbers from Corsair, we think this drive will work without a heatsink and should be fine in a laptop, so this single-sided form factor is great.

Speaking of power numbers, the label indicates a 3.3V, 2.4A power rating. This ballparks a peak around 8W, but the drive is rated for 6.5W active draw at 4TB, and the top power state is also 6.5W. This suggests Phison has managed to make an even more efficient controller than SMI’s SM2508, which is quite the accomplishment. It’s certainly an improvement over its older E26, which will make some readers happy.

Tom's Hardware

The MP700 Pro XT has an SSD controller, a single package of DRAM, and two NAND flash packages. Also on the board are Phison’s power management chips. This arrangement is the same as that on the Phison E28 ES, which we previously previewed, and it certainly contributes to its high power efficiency. Other configurations include discrete and on-ASIC power management, and all three arrangements have their pros and cons. The solution used here does take up some PCB space and may add cost to the drive, but there’s no arguing with the results, especially as this is a single-sided drive.

More details on the controller are available in our original preview. The pertinent details are that this is an eight-channel solution that can use newer ONFi/Toggle 5.2, or 3,600 MT/s, flash. Technically, this controller is rated for up to 4,200 MT/s in a four-channel configuration – previously, the Kioxia Exceria used the four-channel E12C variant of the E12/E12S for extra power efficiency – and up to 3,200 MT/s for the full eight channels. This is plenty of bandwidth to saturate the PCIe 5.0 connection. It can also use its choice of DRAM with the MP700 Pro XT, relying on SK hynix LPDDR4X, which is an efficient way to go.

The flash on hand is Kioxia – the “T” in the code points to its Toshiba origin – with 8Tb or 1TB packages using 218-layer TLC. This flash has proven to be excellent in our testing, with the best random read performance on record. The SanDisk WD Black SN8100 is a good example of what this flash can do. We’ve pointed to the agile, four-plane design as one factor for this performance, although it is the architecture as a whole – with sub-planes for responsiveness – that gives it a unique leg up over Micron’s 276-Layer flash on the Crucial T710. The MP700 Pro XT can also deliver maximum bandwidth thanks to optimizations for the E28 controller.

MORE: Best SSDs

MORE: Best External SSDs

Comparison Products

The Corsair MP700 Pro XT has to compete against the very best drives on the market. These include the SanDisk WD Black SN8100, the Kingston Fury Renegade G5, the Crucial T710, and the Samsung 9100 Pro. We’re particularly interested in seeing how it improves upon the Phison E28 ES we previewed earlier this year and, additionally, upon Corsair’s E26-based MP700 Pro SE former flagship. To round things out, we’ve included so-called “budget” high-end drives like the Adata XPG Mars 980 Blade, which uses older flash, and the Biwin Black Opal X570, which is a unique DRAM-less solution.

Trace Testing — 3DMark Storage Benchmark

Built for gamers, 3DMark’s Storage Benchmark focuses on real-world gaming performance. Each round in this benchmark stresses storage based on gaming activities, including loading games, saving progress, installing game files, and recording gameplay video streams. Future gaming benchmarks will be DirectStorage-inclusive, and we also include notes about which drives may be future-proofed.

Tom's Hardware

The MP700 Pro XT came, saw, and conquered. These are the best 3DMark results we’ve seen to date, although the drive is only a smidge faster than the Black SN8100. Most importantly, we see a significant latency improvement from our E28 ES, which takes this hardware from middling to top tier. This is peak performance for a gaming drive if you truly want the very best.

Trace Testing — PCMark 10 Storage Benchmark

Tom's Hardware

The MP700 Pro XT also sets records in PCMark 10, this time edging out the E28 ES for the top spot. The Black SN8100 also does well in this test. We again emphasize the latency results as these tend to represent real-world responsiveness or feel. The MP700 Pro XT is simply the best here with excellent application performance.

Transfer Rates — DiskBench

We use the DiskBench storage benchmarking tool to test file transfer performance with a custom, 50GB dataset. We write 31,227 files of various types, such as pictures, PDFs, and videos to the test drive, then make a copy of that data to a new folder, and follow up with a reading test of a newly-written 6.5GB zip file. This is a real world type workload that fits into the cache of most drives.

Tom's Hardware

The drive’s copy performance is also excellent, matching the E28 ES and beating all other drives. There is a limit to how much performance you can eke out at the higher end of an interface speed. We think that looking at 1TB and 4TB results for this hardware would give a better impression of how it handles at different capacities, and that’s something we will certainly aim to do in the future.

Synthetic Testing — ATTO / CrystalDiskMark

Tom's Hardware

The MP700 Pro XT’s ATTO results are nothing short of spectacular, with a smooth curve and high throughput across the board. The T710 does beat it out for larger writes thanks to its flash, but on the whole, we put the MP700 Pro XT up there with the very best. In fact, its sequential CDM results are fantastic, with it leading in QD1 reads. Such reads reflect real-world transfer workloads. The drive simply has no weak points there.

As we move on to random performance, the drive’s 4KB QD1 read and write latency results are also top-notch. There’s decent improvement for reads over the E28 ES, bringing the drive in line with the record-setting Black SN8100. Writes are even better, leading the entire pack. This is about as close to “no compromise” as you can get with an SSD of this caliber.

Sustained Write Performance and Cache Recovery

Tom's Hardware

The 2TB Corsair MP700 Pro XT at first writes in a temporary, single-bit pSLC mode at 13.17 GB/s for 16 seconds. This suggests a cache of around 211TB. That’s very small for a 2TB drive by today’s standards, but it’s still plenty large enough to fit typical write workloads even when the drive is fuller. However, drives of this caliber – high-end drives selected for their bandwidth potential – need to be able to handle larger workloads, too. The smaller cache means more consistent post-cache performance, and the MP700 Pro XT demonstrates this well. It is able to hit and maintain TLC at 4.2 GB/s for a prolonged period of time. This is the best result we’ve seen outside of the Sabrent Rocket 5, and it beats both the T710 and Black SN8100.

While there is an eventual “folding” state – when the drive is still tackling incoming writes and is unable to empty the cache fast enough to free up space for new data – it is relatively brief and still manages up to 1.96 GB/s on the whole. Folding performance tends to be at or below half the TLC mode performance since you have to write twice with a read in between, and the extra steps increase latency. 1.96 GB/s in this folding mode, which is basically the worst-case performance state, is pretty good, and it finally demonstrates the full capability of the BiCS8 flash. Some may be disappointed by the small cache, but that’s the price you pay for this level of consistency. Given the rest of the results, we think this is a capstone as it means there are no real weak areas for this drive.

Power Consumption and Temperature

We use the Quarch HD Programmable Power Module to gain a deeper understanding of power characteristics. Idle power consumption is an important aspect to consider, especially if you're looking for a laptop upgrade, as even the best ultrabooks can have mediocre stock storage. Desktops may be more performance-oriented, with less support for power-saving features, so we show the worst-case scenario.

Tom's Hardware

We knew this drive would be power-efficient from our E28 preview and the drive's launch specifications. However, we ended up being impressed by just how well this drive runs. It’s the most efficient drive we have on record, and it has none of the idle power-consumption problems that the older E26 had – see the MP700 Pro SE for a comparison. This hardware has been optimized to an incredible extent, and we would have to say we finally have a drive that puts the Black SN8100 in its place.

This efficiency carried over to heat production as well, with a maximum reading of just 59°C. This is almost 30°C below the first throttling point, although that point is very close to the critical temperature. The E26 on launch had some problems when it got that hot, which was easy to achieve if a drive was run without a heatsink. Phison later smoothed this out to some extent, but the drives always needed a heatsink. We can happily say that this is no longer true – the MP700 Pro XT can run without a heatsink and, in fact, should be fine in a laptop.

Test Bench and Testing Notes

CPU	Intel Core i9-12900K
Motherboard	Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
Memory	2x16GB G.Skill DDR5-5600 CL28
Graphics	Intel Iris Xe UHD Graphics 770
CPU Cooling	Enermax Aquafusion 240
Case	Cooler Master TD500 Mesh V2
Power Supply	Cooler Master V850 i Gold
OS Storage	Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus-G 2TB
Operating System	Windows 11 Pro

Corsair MP700 Pro XT Bottom Line

The Corsair MP700 Pro XT is everything a high-end SSD should be – massively powerful with good performance in every benchmark without any drawbacks. It is record-setting or record-tying in just about all of our tests, with great performance in the ones we think matter the most, like 4KB random I/O and sustained write consistency. On top of that, it has fantastic power efficiency in a single-sided form factor that’s cool enough for a laptop or portable gaming device. If you have to buy just one SSD, right now this is probably the one to get.

This sounds like an advertisement for a perfect score, but we do have some minor concerns about the product. The first is centered on price, as high-end drives hold a significant premium, and the current memory market is challenging to say the least. The MSRP and current pricing for the available capacities are not unreasonable, so we can’t really put that down as a negative. It’s just that we would expect this drive to be more expensive than, say, the SanDisk WD Black SN8100, our previous champion. That would be fine in our book, but we don’t have other E28-based drives to make a good comparison. We’ll have to wait and see if this drive can maintain its value.

The second issue is that we’re not seeing an 8TB SKU right away. This is completely expected as Phison has that planned for 2026, and in the current market, you’re asking a lot for that much storage. Considering that this drive is single-sided and has a very low relative power draw, stopping at 4TB makes a lot of sense. Going to 8TB will require a double-sided design, and the power draw is going to be higher to meet these performance requirements. Further, the 8TB Samsung 9100 Pro has been on sale at a price that would be very difficult to compete against, although the Black SN8100 is a possible second candidate there. For this reason, we would recommend one of those two drives – the 8TB Black SN8100 is on its way – if capacity is your number one priority.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

One problem that is avoided is weak performance at lower capacities. Previously, only the Crucial T710 really made sense at 1TB, given drive specifications. The MP700 Pro XT changes this analysis by maximizing parallelization even with a relatively low flash die count. We’re left with the distinct feeling that this drive is perfect at all of its available capacities, which is unusual. This puts a lot of pressure on existing SM2508-based drives, especially the ones with older Micron flash, to cut prices. That’s good news if your priority is budget, as you can still get high-end performance from other drives if you’re willing to compromise to save some money.

Speaking of the flash, the MP700 Pro XT’s use of BiCS8 instead of Micron TLC is an extra bonus. BiCS8 has delivered excellent random 4KB read results, and that remains the top area to look at for the best “feel” or responsiveness of the drive in everyday use. This drive will give you a sublime experience, on par with the excellent Black SN8100. The controller is also able to get the most out of the flash with a conservative pSLC cache, which means high TLC write speeds for a more consistent post-cache experience. While this is not ideal for all scenarios, it does mean that you can expect the drive to remain responsive even in edge cases. The combination of these two design decisions means the MP700 Pro XT will feel like a high-end drive in basically all situations.

In fact, this hardware could earn a perfect score from us under the right circumstances. We think Phison was right to delay the release of its controller, as the optimization is nothing short of phenomenal and well worth the wait. However, the timing isn’t great, given the sudden surge in memory demand and the fact that the Black SN8100 has been impressive and affordable for months now.

Corsair should be applauded for putting its drive out first among the E28s, but it could have had more flair even though it doesn’t really need it. For example, offering the option of a heatsink for a small fee would be appreciated even though the drive doesn’t require one. Corsair stuck to the essentials here, and in a small way, that’s the better approach, but some users might expect more. Frankly, we think the drive is about as good as it gets, and we look forward to seeing what the competition can bring forth.

MORE: Best SSDs

MORE: Best External SSDs

Jump on $740 worth of hardware, including $410 worth of DDR5 RAM, in this $480 Newegg AM5 bundle — 32GB offering also includes an X870E motherboard and even a free 240mm AIO cooler

Stewart Bendle — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 17:29:50 +0000

Another superb RAM-inspired bundle deal from Newegg. This is going to be an ongoing theme for a while until RAM prices start to regulate anywhere near back to normal, or at least an acceptable level. There are no specific price decreases on the RAM kits themselves, but rather the savings come by offsetting the RAM price with the discounts on bundled extras - in this case, it's a motherboard and AIO CPU cooler. You can find this deal at Newegg, where the combo bundle for the MSI MAG Tomahawk X870E, Corsair Vengeance 32GB DDR5-6400 RAM, and Cooler Master Elite 240mm AIO Cooler is $479.99 for the lot. The Motherboard and RAM are bundled together, and the AIO cooler is a free gift worth $89.99 ($77.93 when bought separately).

Grab this deal at Newegg

The MSI MAG Tomahawk X870E WiFi is the perfect base for a new AM5 system. Plop an AMD Ryzen CPU in there, such as the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, and you've the basis for an elite gaming system. The 9800X3D is easy to cool, too, so the included Cooler Master Elite 240mm AIO is more than adequate to cool it.

The big deal in this particular bundle is the RAM. 32GB of DDR5-6400 RAM is getting harder and harder to get a hold of recently, and the prices have just been rising through the roof. Newegg has this particular kit listed at $406.99 when sold separately, and that's with a small discount. The timings on this particular kit are 36-48-48-104, with a CAS latency of CL36 and a voltage of 1.35V.

This Newegg combo bundle pairs a bunch of components for a new AM5 platform build. An MSI MAG Tomahawk X8700E WiFi motherboard, 32GB of Corsair Vengeance DDR5-6400 RAM, and a Cooler Master Elite 240mm AIO Liquid CPU cooler are included in the bundle.View Deal

The MSI MAG Tomahawk comes with plenty of cutting-edge specs. WiFi 7 is onboard, along with a superfast 40Gbps USB 4 port, PCIe Gen 5.0, and toolless M.2 installation. The AM5 socket supports 7000, 8000, and 9000 AMD CPUs for the latest builds.

If you're looking for more savings, check out our Best PC Hardware deals for a range of products, or dive deeper into our specialized SSD and Storage Deals, Hard Drive Deals, Gaming Monitor Deals, Graphics Card Deals, Gaming Chair, Best Wi-Fi Routers, Best Motherboard, or CPU Deals pages.

Corsair builds multi-function touchscreen LCD into a $400 case — Frame 4000D enclosure gets a modular Xeneon Edge upgrade

Bruno Ferreira — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Well-designed PC cases with good airflow are mostly a solved problem these days, so builders who want their setups to stand out need to get creative. Corsair is giving tinkerers a fresh canvas to play with by offering its highly modular Frame 4000D LCD RS ARGB case with its Xeneon Edge wide-screen touch display built in.

We reviewed the Corsair Frame 4000D a while back and found it an excellent case for the money, praising its thermals and airflow options. At the time, we dinged it for the dearth of promised modular upgrades, but Corsair is taking a step towards fixing that today by mounting a Xeneon Edge beneath the case's main chamber.

The Edge's 2560x720 AHVA display is a nifty piece of kit that works as a standard monitor as far as Windows is concerned, so you can put basically any window on it you can imagine. It can be used for component monitoring, general information display, or for general utility shortcuts. It integrates with Corsair's iCUE software and is easily customizable.

The Xeneon Edge also has five-point touch functionality, it's not hard to imagine potential multi-tap gesture functionality, like swiping your fingers past it in one direction or another to change your system's power profile, fan settings, and RGB lighting all at once, like putting a car into sport mode. Or, hey, maybe slap a graph of DDR5 RAM prices on there so you can feel smug about what you've already got.

Indeed, there's already a SimHub plugin that some gamers are already making excellent use of, as well as a Spotify controller widget. We could also see the Xeneon Edge hosting live stream statistics or featured chat messages on a stream PC. Do you strictly need a screen on your case for those things? No, but as with so many other parts of PC building and customization, it would sure look cool.

If you're interested in this setup for your own build, Corsair is asking $399.99 for the case-and-display set, which it's calling the Frame 4000D LCD RS ARGB. That might sound steep, but that variation of the Frame 4000D is $109.99 to start with. Add the corresponding mounting kit for $39.99 and the Xeneon Edge itself at $249.99, and the grand total comes in at basically the same amount as the separate parts, minus the hassle of putting it all together yourself.

The Frame 4000D LCD RS ARGB setup comes in black and white to fit the most common color-coordinated setups nowadays. If you have the larger Frame 5000D Airflow case and want to add a Xeneon Edge to your existing setup, the mounting kit to attach the display to your case is $49.99 on its own.

Corsair Sabre v2 Pro review: 36g but maybe too lightweight on features

mylesgoldman@icloud.com (Myles Goldman) — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Corsair has become one of the biggest names in the PC hardware community — it makes everything from all-in-one liquid coolers to gaming mice, which is what we have today. The brand's latest stripped-down ultralightweight mouse is just 36g — significantly lighter than most of its competition — and, needless to say, you can't put much in the way of buttons or features in a mouse that weighs so little.

There's not a lot to say about the Corsair Sabre v2 Pro, as it's a pretty simple mouse: it has five buttons, an ultra-lightweight faux-symmetrical body, and it features Corsair's 33,000 DPI Marksman S optical sensor. It also offers up to an 8,000 Hz polling rate and up to 70 hours of battery life — though not at the same time, of course — and is available in white or black for $100.

Design and Comfort of the Sabre v2 Pro

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Originally, I wasn’t a fan of the Sabre v2’s size. The mouse measures 4.69 inches (119mm) long by 2.46 inches (62.55mm) wide, and is 1.5 inches (38.21mm) thick, which makes it around the same size as the Razer Viper Mini. This isn't a bad thing, necessarily, but I just didn't expect it — it's quite small, especially compared to most mainstream gaming mice. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the mouse's small size hasn't been an issue, even though I have pretty large hands.

The mouse features a pseudo-symmetrical design, with a mild hump and a slight flare at the ends. It's a standard five-button mouse, with two primary buttons, two thumb buttons, and a clickable scroll wheel. On the bottom of the mouse, you'll find a power switch and two medium strip-like UPE mouse feet.

Despite weighing only 1.27 ounces — 36g, which is much lighter than most of the ultra-light mice on the market today — the Corsair Sabre v2 Pro doesn’t feel cheap. It features a matte black finish, which isn't terribly exciting (it's the same finish you'll find on most gaming mice), but the body feels sturdy. It also has a notched scroll wheel and custom-designed tactile mechanical switches from Corsair, which are rated for up to 100 million clicks. The scroll wheel didn't stand out to me, but I found the switches to be very nice.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro comes with a few accessories in the box: pre-cut grip tape, extra mouse skates, and an 8,000 Hz wireless dongle.

Performance and Software of the Sabre v2 Pro

The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro is a smooth operator. It was very comfortable while browsing the internet and gaming. Prior to receiving the Sabre, I was using the Cougar Revenger 4k, which uses PTFE skates, while this mouse utilizes UPE. I don't use a mouse pad, and the Sabre v2 Pro glided so smoothly and accurately that I think I'll be looking for mice with UPE skates in the future.

The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro features the brand's Corsair Marksman S optical sensor, which has a maximum resolution of 33,000 DPI and a maximum speed of 750 IPS, and can handle up to 50 G's of force. The mouse also features a wireless polling rate of 8,000 Hz — though this will obviously deplete the mouse's battery life significantly faster than the standard 1,000 Hz polling rate. You can expect about 70 hours of battery life with a 1,000 Hz polling rate — which isn't particularly impressive, but is decent for a mouse that only weighs 36g — but that drops to just 16 hours with an 8,000 Hz polling rate.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

To test the Corsair Sabre v2 Pro, I spent at least five hours playing Battlefield 4 in preparation for the franchise's sixth installment. I didn’t have to make any tweaks to the mouse — except for adding a snipe feature to my back button — for it to be a great sidekick in-game. I will point out that the mouse is very simple — there's no built-in button for toggling between profiles or DPI steps: you'll need to set up the mouse before launching your game, which might be frustrating for those who switch between multiple games.

The mouse was comfortable and performed very well for gaming — quick and smooth, and it never felt awkward or difficult to maneuver, which was surprising because I have large hands and tend to use a palm grip. Still, the mouse was lightweight, speedy, and comfortable enough that I didn't think about the size at all beyond my initial impression.

Specs

Sensor Model	Corsair Marksman S
Max Sensitivity	33,000
Max Speed (IPS)	750
Max Acceleration (Gs)	50
Polling Rates	1,000 - 8,000 Hz (with dongle)
Programmable Buttons	5
LED Zones	0
Cable	Braid
Connectivity	Wired or wireless
Measurements (L x W x H)	4.69 x 2.46 x 1.5 inches / 119 x 62.55 x 38.21 mm
Weight (excluding cable)	1.27oz / 36g
MSRP / Price at Time of Review	$100
Release Date	September 18th, 2025

Features and Software of the Sabre v2 Pro

The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro is customizable via Corsair's Web Hub — which is a web-based software. Yes — Corsair has decided to ditch iCue in favor of a web-based "software" that requires internet connectivity to work. I'm not a fan of this choice at all, as it puts your peripheral settings in the hands of Corsair's servers — which could be subject to blackouts or potential security risks. Also, what if you're trying to update or change your mouse's settings and you don't have internet access? As there's no button for switching between profiles or DPI on the mouse, this seems like it has a lot of potential to be a big hassle.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

That said, Corsair's Web Hub works fine — though I found it to be somewhat barren and uninspired (I thought iCue was pretty cool, though not everyone agrees with me). But it is a fairly simple mouse, so there's not much to change — you can remap keys, switch DPI, and change settings such as polling rate using the Web Hub. Still, this mouse is so simple that I wish I didn't have to go online to change just a handful of settings.

The Bottom Line

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro is a stripped-down, extremely lightweight mouse that performs very well. It was incredibly smooth and accurate in my testing — even smoother if you're the kind of person who notices the difference between 1,000 Hz and 8,000 Hz polling rates (I'll admit I'm not, and so 8,000 Hz polling rates seem like a gimmick to me). I found it very comfortable and natural to use despite its smaller-than-average size and fairly generic design.

But I don't see it overtaking Razer's DeathAdder line (both the DeathAdder V4 Pro and the older DeathAdder V3 Pro are next-level natural-feeling)... or even the brand's own Katar Pro XT. The Corsair Sabre v2 Pro is still $100 — that's not exactly cheap, though it is about $30 less than the Glorious Series 2 Pro Wireless, which also features 8K wireless polling rates and is a similar size and shape (but weighs 55g). (The Series 2 Pro Wireless does have a DPI switch and an extra button for switching profiles, though.)

Corsair's premium SFF case sees a massive 70% price drop to $59 — iCUE Link 2500X hits a new historic low

editors@tomshardware.com (Kunal Khullar) — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 18:28:50 +0000

Those looking to build a mid-tower rig can get Corsair’s iCUE Link 2500X dual-chamber case at a massive discount. With a listed MSRP of $219.99, you can grab the white variant at just $59.99 over at Newegg. Essentially, you are saving over 70%, and if you care about better airflow, the front mesh panel variant is also available at the same discounted price.

Check out this deal on Newegg

The Corsair iCUE Link 2500X can accommodate m-ATX and mini-ITX back-connect motherboards (Asus BTF, MSI Project Zero), allowing you to keep your setup clean and clutter-free. It comes with two 120mm RGB fans pre-installed and supports up to 9x 120mm or 4x 140mm fans, with options for mounting 240mm or 360mm radiators. The Airflow variant does not come with any pre-installed fans but offers wider support for up to 11 x 120mm and 6 x 140mm fans, plus an additional mounting option for 240mm radiators at the front.

All-time low price

The Corsair iCUE Link 2500X RGB is an m-ATX dual-chamber case that supports rear-connect motherboards, a wide range of fans, full-size ATX PSUs, and large GPUs.View Deal

In terms of front I/O, the case comes with two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, and a headphone/mic combo jack. The case can also accommodate two 2.5-inch SSDs and two 3.5-inch HDDs, full-size ATX power supplies of up to 225mm in length, and a maximum CPU cooler height of 180mm. Allowing you to fit the biggest-sized GPUs of up to 400mm, Corsair also sells a vertical mounting kit separately for this case. Additionally, the company sells swappable accent panels to completely change the aesthetics of your build, available in wood or aluminum.

In our hands-on, we found the case delivered outstanding support for newer rear-connector motherboards and excellent cable management, though the pricing definitely didn’t impress us. Fortunately, with this sale, you can grab either variant at a significantly better price.

If you're looking for more savings, check out our Best PC Hardware deals for a range of products, or dive deeper into our specialized SSD and Storage Deals, Hard Drive Deals, Gaming Monitor Deals, Graphics Card Deals, or CPU Deals pages.

Corsair HX1000i SHIFT 1000W power supply review

E. Fylladitakis — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Corsair has built its reputation not merely through incremental refinement but through strategic innovation that occasionally reshapes market expectations. While competitors focused on efficiency percentages and modular cable designs, Corsair questioned fundamental assumptions about power supply integration. The result stands before us: the HX1000i SHIFT, a unit that literally shifts the paradigm by relocating modular connectors from their traditional rear position to the chassis side, enabling direct cable routing behind the motherboard tray.

This architectural transformation represents more than aesthetic ambition. By repositioning connectors perpendicular to conventional orientation, Corsair eliminates the visible cable management challenge entirely - assuming builders possess cases specifically designed to accommodate this radical departure from standard PSU layouts. The gamble here is not really technical – CWT’s proven record demonstrates more than adequate engineering prowess. Rather, Corsair bets that a substantial segment of premium builders will prioritize cable management perfection enough to accept reduced case compatibility and premium pricing.

The HX1000i SHIFT complicates its value proposition further through ecosystem integration. An integrated iCUE Link System Hub transforms the PSU from simple power delivery into a central control node for compatible fans, RGB lighting, and peripherals. For builders already committed to Corsair's ecosystem, this consolidation eliminates motherboard header congestion and streamlines software control. For others, it represents additional complexity without a clear benefit. The unit adheres to Intel ATX 12V v3.1 and PCIe 5.1 specifications, achieving Cybenetics Platinum certification that promises efficiency exceeding 91% at nominal loads. At its retail price surpassing $340, however, the HX1000i SHIFT faces skepticism from pragmatic builders who question whether revolutionary cable management justifies substantial premiums over conventional alternatives delivering comparable electrical performance. Although the Corsair HX1000i SHIFT did not make our best power supplies list, it still offers a compelling value for builders with the appropriate hardware.

Specifications and Design

Power Specifications (Rated @ 50 °C)
RAIL	+3.3V	+5V	+12V	+5Vsb	-12V
MAX OUTPUT	25A	25A	83.3A	3A	0A
	150W	150W	1000W	15W	0W
TOTAL	1000W
AC INPUT	100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz
MSRP	$340

In the Box

The Corsair HX1000i SHIFT is supplied in packaging featuring the company's signature black and yellow aesthetic theme that has become synonymous with high-end Corsair products. The sturdy cardboard construction provides substantial protection. Inside, a nylon pouch and carefully designed inserts cradle the unit during transport.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The accessory bundle expands little beyond basic necessities. Corsair includes standard mounting screws and an AC power cable, naturally, but also provides specialized cables for the integrated iCUE Link System Hub. A few cable ties round out the bundle, though builders investing this heavily in cable management are likely to employ more sophisticated solutions.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The cable situation deserves extensive discussion, as Corsair has implemented its proprietary "Type-5" cable system throughout the HX1000i SHIFT. Every cable features all-black construction with matching connectors and conductors, employing per-wire sleeving that provides visual appeal without the bulk of traditional braided solutions. More significantly, these cables utilize smaller connectors on the PSU side, the same type employed by the 12V-2x6 standard, enabling higher density at the modular panel while maintaining robust current-carrying capability.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The connector configuration reveals strategic decisions about the target audience. The 1000W model provides a single 12V-2x6 connector capable of delivering up to 600W to compatible graphics cards, alongside four traditional 6+2 pin PCIe connectors for broader compatibility. Corsair implements clever multiplexing: two of the 6+2 PCIe connectors share the 12V-2x6 socket on the PSU side, allowing builders to either deploy the modern connector alongside two legacy connectors, or utilize four legacy connectors while abandoning 12V-2x6 capability entirely. This flexibility addresses transition-period hardware combinations, though the presence of only a single 12V-2x6 connector could prove limiting in the future. Note that only the 1500W variant provides two native 12V-2x6 connectors.

Corsair HX1000i SHIFT
Connector type	Hardwired	Modular
ATX 24 Pin	-	1
EPS 4+4 Pin	-	2
EPS 8 Pin	-	-
PCI-E 5.0	-	1
PCI-E 8 Pin	-	4
SATA	-	8
Molex	-	8
Floppy	-	-

External Appearance

Corsair designed the HX1000i SHIFT to combine functional innovation and aesthetic aggression. The chassis receives a matte black paint finish that demonstrates exceptional quality - resistant to fingerprints, immune to casual scratching, and finished to tolerances that eliminate any trace of budget manufacturing techniques. At 170mm depth, the HX1000i SHIFT extends beyond the ATX standard's 140mm recommendation. Nevertheless, the shifted modular panel mounted on the left side of the chassis is what represents the defining feature, dramatically altering cable routing geometry compared to traditional rear-mounted configurations and necessitating compatibility verification. This placement allows cables to exit directly toward cable management channels behind the motherboard tray, but only in cases specifically designed to accommodate this unconventional layout.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The front panel maintains minimalist elegance with a standard AC receptacle and on/off switch. A basic decorative sticker adorns the right side, while the fan grille integrated into the top surface features a distinctive "fidget spinner" pattern. The same geometric motif appears embossed into the top of the chassis itself. The rear panel hosts the electrical specifications and certifications sticker, documenting the unit's capabilities for reference without disrupting the overall aesthetic. The left side panel presents the modular connector array with subtle printed legends identifying each socket's purpose. These connectors are notably smaller than what we typically find.

Tom's Hardware

Perhaps most intriguing, Corsair has integrated iCUE Link System Hub functionality directly into the PSU chassis. Dedicated connectors for iCUE device cables appear alongside a somewhat mysterious tachometer 2-pin connector, transforming the power supply into a central hub for ecosystem management. For Corsair loyalists, this integration eliminates separate hub hardware and simplifies RGB/fan control. For others, it represents features that may never activate.

Tom's Hardware

Internal Design

A Corsair NR140HP 140mm fan equipped with a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) engine handles thermal management duties. FDB technology represents the premium tier of fan bearing designs, offering exceptional reliability and remarkably quiet operation compared to sleeve or rifle bearing alternatives. These fans maintain low acoustic signatures even at elevated speeds while delivering MTBF figures that support Corsair's ten-year warranty confidently. While Corsair hasn't published detailed specifications for this particular fan model, testing reveals maximum rotational speeds approaching 2300 RPM – a very high top speed that the unit's thermal control circuitry ensures remains untapped during typical operating conditions.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Channel-Well Technology serves as the OEM behind this platform, a choice that brings decades of experience designing mid-to-top tier power supplies for numerous brands. CWT's engineering prowess has graced many enthusiast-grade products, establishing the Taiwanese manufacturer as a reliable partner for premium PSU development. The core design philosophy here does not deviate dramatically from conventional high-end units. We have active PFC, synchronous rectification, DC-to-DC conversion for minor rails, etc. However, the PCB orientation rotates 90 degrees clockwise to accommodate the side-mounted connector arrangement. This seemingly simple transformation actually demands comprehensive redesign, as component placement, heat dissipation paths, and electrical routing all shift to maintain performance within the altered geometry.

Tom's Hardware

The input filtering stage implements robust protection with six Y capacitors, two X capacitors, and two filtering inductors, a configuration that exceeds minimum requirements substantially. Two rectifying bridges mount on a shared heatsink immediately following filtration.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The APFC circuitry demonstrates a more sophisticated approach to power factor correction. Two Infineon 60R099P6 MOSFETs handle primary active PFC duties, assisted by an enhancement MOSFET (SPN5003) that improves low-load efficiency - a configuration CWT has deployed across several recent platforms with excellent results. This digital interleaved PFC topology enables superior efficiency characteristics across the load range compared to conventional approaches. A Nippon Chemi-Con 560 μF unit paired with a Rubicon 470 μF capacitor and two encased inductors are the passive components of the APFC circuit.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The primary inversion stage employs two Infineon 60R099P6 MOSFETs configured in a half-bridge topology, mounted on substantial heatsinks alongside the main transformer. These heatsinks provide ample thermal dissipation area for such efficient MOSFETs, suggesting a rather conservative thermal design. The secondary side implementation places ten Infineon 014N04LS MOSFETs on a vertical daughterboard for synchronous rectification, generating the primary 12V rail, a generous allocation that distributes thermal loads and ensures excellent efficiency. Corsair employs the same MOSFET type throughout, including on the separate DC-to-DC converter circuits on another vertical daughterboard that generate the 3.3V and 5V rails. The capacitor selection throughout the secondary side draws exclusively from reputable Japanese manufacturers: Nippon Chemi-Con, Rubycon, and Nichicon products dominate the bill of materials.

Tom's Hardware

One notable architectural decision: the HX1000i SHIFT completely omits the -12V rail, recognizing this legacy specification as a liability that offers no practical benefit for modern systems.

Cold Test Results

Cold Test Results (25°C Ambient)

Tom's Hardware

Under controlled cold testing conditions with 25 °C ambient temperature, the Corsair HX1000i SHIFT delivered efficiency performance that comfortably satisfies its Cybenetics Platinum certification. At 115 VAC input voltage, the unit achieved an average nominal load efficiency of 90.7%, while 230 VAC input improved performance to 92.2%, figures that place this unit firmly in flagship territory. It actually misses the Cybenetics Titanium certification by a very small 0.3% margin. The efficiency curve exhibits great behavior, peaking at approximately 40% load before declining gradually as power draw increases. This efficiency profile remains remarkably stable across most of the operational range, never dropping precipitously even as loads approach maximum capacity. Very low load efficiency proves quite good for a kilowatt-class unit as well.

The fan behavior during cold testing reveals sophisticated thermal management programming. The NR140HP fan remains completely inactive until load reaches approximately 500W, but notably does not activate immediately at this threshold. Instead, the unit appears to be requiring some sustained loading before the fan activates. This suggests advanced thermal control circuitry that will only start the fan when it is absolutely necessary to do so, preventing unnecessary fan cycling during brief load spikes. Once active, the fan maintains relatively low speeds across most of the load range, never approaching anywhere near its maximum 2300+ RPM capability. Internal temperatures remain very low throughout testing, indicating that the thermal design provides substantial headroom and that Corsair has prioritized longevity and acoustic comfort over minimal heatsink investment.

Hot Test Results

Hot Test Results (~45°C Ambient)

Elevated ambient temperature testing reveals the HX1000i SHIFT's good resilience to thermal stress under adverse operating conditions. Average nominal load efficiency measures 90.1% at 115 VAC and 91.4% at 230 VAC, representing a measurable but reasonable degradation from cold test results. The highlight is that there are no signs of thermal stress and the efficiency of the unit remains stable even when it is very heavily loaded for prolonged periods of time.

Tom's Hardware

The fan profile under hot conditions reveals Corsair's conservative thermal management philosophy in full effect. Fan activation occurs somewhat earlier than during cold testing, and rotational speeds increase more aggressively as loads climb. Most notably, the fan exhibits a dramatic speed jump once load exceeds approximately 650-700W, transitioning from barely audible to clearly present. However, even this elevated speed level does not approach the fan's maximum capability. Internal temperatures remain comparably very low even at maximum load.

PSU Quality and Bottom Line

Power Supply Quality

The Corsair HX1000i SHIFT's electrical performance validates its flagship positioning, delivering metrics that match or exceed its competitors. Voltage ripple suppression proves exceptional across all rails: the 12V rail peaks at merely 26 mV, while the 5V and 3.3V rails achieve 16 mV and 14 mV respectively. These figures represent roughly one-quarter of the ATX specification's recommended limits, placing the HX1000i SHIFT among the cleanest power supplies available. Voltage regulation achieves near-perfection across all rails, demonstrating the benefits of CWT's sophisticated topology and premium component selection. The primary 12V rail maintains outstanding 0.7% regulation from 20% to 100% load. The minor 5V and 3.3V rails achieve even better results at 0.4% and 0.6% regulation respectively, specifications that exceed typical requirements substantially and ensure devices receive pristine power.

Over Current Protection (OCP) triggers at sensible thresholds: 136% on the 3.3V rail, 138% on the 5V rail, and 118% on the 12V rail. Taking into account the 150 watt combined rating of the secondary lines, the OCP triggers are fairly high. On the other hand, the OCP trigger of the 12V line is a bit low for an ATX 3.1-certified unit. Nevertheless, these settings provide adequate headroom for transient current spikes while protecting against sustained overcurrent conditions that could damage components. Over Power Protection (OPP) activates at 119% under hot conditions, also quite low for an ATX 3.1-certified unit, suggesting that the designer was cautious regarding reliability.

Main Output
Load (Watts)	201.6 W		502.75 W		751.55 W		1001.36 W
Load (Percent)	20.16%		50.28%		75.15%		100.14%
	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts
3.3 V	2.27	3.36	5.66	3.35	8.5	3.33	11.33	3.33
5 V	2.27	5.04	5.66	5.04	8.5	5.02	11.33	5.02
12 V	15.1	12.09	37.75	12.06	56.62	75.5	75.5	12.01

Line	Regulation (20% to 100% load)	Voltage Ripple (mV)
		20% Load	50% Load	75% Load	100% Load	CL1 12V	CL2 3.3V + 5V
3.3V	0.6%	12	10	16	14	12	16
5V	0.4%	12	12	16	16	12	16
12V	0.7%	14	12	18	26	22	14

Bottom Line

The Corsair HX1000i SHIFT exists at the intersection of innovation and pragmatism, forcing builders to weigh transformative cable management against compatibility constraints and premium pricing. From a purely electrical perspective, this unit performs magnificently. The voltage regulation can compete with virtually anything in the market regardless of price, ripple suppression achieves levels typically reserved for laboratory power supplies, and efficiency remains firmly in flagship territory across diverse loading conditions. Channel-Well Technology's proven platform heritage promises long-term reliability, while Corsair's premium component selection throughout - Japanese capacitors, Infineon MOSFETs, FDB fan - ensures this unit will likely outlive the systems it powers several times over.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The integrated iCUE Link System Hub transforms the power supply from simple infrastructure into ecosystem orchestrator for builders committed to Corsair's broader product family. This consolidation eliminates separate hub hardware, reduces motherboard header congestion, and simplifies software control for compatible fans, RGB lighting, and peripherals. For Corsair enthusiasts, this integration represents genuine value and convenience. For builders outside the ecosystem, these features will likely remain dormant.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Yet the HX1000i SHIFT's defining characteristic is its shifted connector arrangement that simultaneously represents its greatest strength and most significant limitation. When paired with compatible cases featuring appropriate PSU bay designs and cable routing provisions, this configuration delivers cable management that conventional power supplies cannot match. Cables route directly behind the motherboard tray without traversing visible spaces, creating builds where power delivery infrastructure essentially disappears from view. However, this architectural revolution demands specific case compatibility, typically requiring cases explicitly designed to accommodate this configuration. Builders must verify compatibility carefully before purchase – the very friction point that universal standards specifically aim to eliminate. For those with compatible hardware and cases, the benefits justify these constraints. For others, they represent unnecessary complications.

The retail price exceeding $340 creates the final barrier. This positions the HX1000i SHIFT firmly in premium territory, competing against flagship alternatives that may offer different feature sets or superior warranty terms. The Type-5 flat cables, integrated hub, exceptional electrical performance, and revolutionary cable management combine to justify premium pricing for target customers, but those customers represent a narrower segment than typical power supply purchasers. Mainstream builders seeking reliable 1000W power delivery will find numerous alternatives costing measurably less that deliver comparable electrical performance in conventional packaging.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The Corsair HX1000i SHIFT ultimately succeeds brilliantly for its intended audience: Corsair ecosystem builders with compatible cases who prioritize cable management perfection and do not mind paying premiums for innovation. For this demographic, the HX1000i SHIFT represents one of the finest power supplies available, delivering flagship performance wrapped in genuinely transformative integration. Its ten-year warranty, zero-RPM operation, and exceptional build quality further strengthen the value proposition for buyers who appreciate engineering excellence. For builders outside this target demographic, such as those with incompatible cases, those unwilling to be limited to iCUE-compatible hardware, or those prioritizing value over ecosystem integration, the HX1000i SHIFT's innovations may not justify its premiums and constraints. These buyers would be better served by conventional alternatives offering comparable electrical performance without compatibility limitations. As such, the fundamental question is not whether the HX1000i SHIFT represents good engineering. We can certainly say that it unquestionably does. The question is whether its specific innovations align with your build requirements and whether you are prepared to embrace both its capabilities and its compromises. For the right builder with the right setup, this PSU achieves something genuinely special. For others, excellence exists in more accessible forms.

MORE: Best Power Supplies

MORE: How We Test Power Supplies

MORE: All Power Supply Content

$5,000 Corsair pre-built keeps on frying Intel CPUs due to lack of BIOS update, tech alleges — kills three Intel Core i9 chips because latest version still doesn’t have fix for Intel crashing issues

editors@tomshardware.com (Jowi Morales) — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:45:02 +0000

A YouTuber and computer technician went on their channel to complain about Corsair’s pre-built, as his customer went back to his shop three times in the past year just to RMA the Intel Core i9-14900K on their $5,000 gaming PC. According to Matthew Wieland of Matt’s Computer Services, he is certain the processor on the gaming PC is suffering from instability after he ran several tests on both the motherboard and CPU. This should have been an easy fix, especially since Intel has released the 0x12F update that fixed the Vmin instability issue once and for all. Turns out, Corsair hasn't updated its custom BIOS to include the fix.

The Intel instability issue first exploded in early 2024, with the company blaming the custom BIOS installed by motherboard manufacturers that disables thermal and power protections. Eventually, the chip maker acknowledged that there was an issue with the processor, but it took Team Blue around five months from when the first reports surfaced for it to find the root cause and release a patch that fixed the problem. However, it wasn’t until May of this year that Intel released a final fix for the issue, which is deployed via a firmware update.

Unfortunately, six months after Intel dropped 0x12F, Corsair has yet to release a BIOS update with this fix for the motherboard in question. The gaming PC sports an Asus Prime Z790-P WIFI motherboard, and the latest BIOS on the Corsair website only has the 0x12B update. When Matthew downloaded the latest BIOS version from the Asus website and tried installing it on his customer’s gaming PC, it refused to recognize the file. He said that this is likely because most pre-built systems have a locked-in BIOS to prevent customers from tinkering under the hood. So, he needs a BIOS with the 0x12F fix directly from Corsair, but it’s not yet available.

Corsair’s customer service was pretty helpful, but their hands were tied because Corsair’s engineers have yet to release a new BIOS. Thankfully, Intel extended the warranty for all chips affected by the instability, allowing the tech to RMA the damaged CPU. However, going back three times in a year to get the issue fixed is mighty inconvenient, and unless Corsair comes up with a BIOS update by the time he gets the replacement processor, he has no choice but to recommend a motherboard replacement to avoid destroying the new CPU as well.

Score a 17-button mouse on the cheap – the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite is 33% off on Newegg

editors@tomshardware.com (Kunal Khullar) — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 13:22:13 +0000

Having a mouse with multiple programmable buttons can be an excellent choice for gamers as it lets you assign in-game commands and execute various actions without relying heavily on the keyboard. The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite is one such option, which is currently on sale and is down to $59.99 on Newegg, saving you $30 from its usual price. Additionally, it can boost productivity in tasks like video editing and design work, where one can map multiple macros and shortcuts for quick access.

Check out this deal on Newegg

The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite features a total of 17 programmable buttons, making it suitable for gamers and power users. Apart from assigning macros and shortcuts, the mouse features 4-zone RGB lighting, an 18,000 DPI polling rate sensor, and onboard memory to save lighting and macro profiles.View Deal

The Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite features a total of 17 fully programmable buttons, and according to the company, it is suitable for MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) and MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) gamers. The mouse features a 12-button side panel with a sliding mechanism allowing users to reposition the buttons according to their hand and grip preference.

In our review of the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite, we were impressed with its sturdy build quality, high-precision sensor, and overall comfort during long gaming sessions. Please read our full review for more details on this mouse.

Other notable features of the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite include a custom PixArt PMW3391 sensor with a native 18,000 DPI polling rate with 1 DPI adjustable steps for accurate and customizable tracking. It also features 50 million click-rated Omron switches and a braided cable that should be able to withstand the wear and tear of extended usage.

For RGB lovers, four lighting zones are customizable using Corsair’s iCUE software. The software also lets you program and remap all the buttons, customize sensitivity, surface calibration, and more. Thanks to its onboard memory, the mouse can save all your lighting and macro settings, allowing you to retain your setup even when switching between different systems.

Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 review: A 96-percent magnetic switch keyboard with a semi-customizable LCD screen

mylesgoldman@icloud.com (Myles Goldman) — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Mechanical keyboards have become more popular than ever, thanks to TikTok for typing ASMR videos and the support for said peripherals on gaming consoles such as the Xbox and PlayStation 5. That said, there are so many boards featuring different switches, case materials — heck, even cables. But right now, one of the hottest commodities in the best gaming keyboards is the magnetic switch. Companies have been battling for the best Hall Effect keyboard on the market since magnetic switches have become more popular.

Today, we have the new Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 - a 96-percent mechanical keyboard with Hall Effect switches and, most notably, an LCD screen. This isn’t the first time Corsair has used magnetic switches — a couple of years ago, I reviewed their K70 Max RGB and was pleased, overall. However, it's been a couple of years, so it's time to see if this new board is worth a look.

Specs

Switches	Corsair MGX Hyperdrive Linear
Lighting	Per-key RGB
Onboard Storage	Yes, 5 profiles
Media Keys	Yes
Connectivity	USB Type A
Cable	6-feet, braided
Additional Ports	0
Keycaps	Double-shot PBT
Software	Web Hub
Dimensions (LxWxH)	38814143 mm / 5.28 × 5.55 × 1.69 inch
Weight	2.2 lbs
MSRP / Price at time of release	$230
Release Date	September 25 2025

Design of the Vanguard Pro 96

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is one of Corsair’s many mechanical keyboards, sporting their MGX Hyperdrive Linear switches, Axon hyper-processing technology and a new LCD screen in a 96-percent form factor. The Vanguard is only available in black and has a price tag of $230.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The first thing I noticed on the new Vanguard Pro 96 was its LCD screen. The screen is vibrant and configurable, but it wasn't what I expected when I opened the box. Because we’ve grown accustomed to seeing screens on everything from power supplies to all-in-one liquid coolers, I was surprised to see this screen wasn’t as customizable as I thought it would be. According to Corsair, you can use the screen to display custom animations, images, system specs, and more. However, I could only get photos to display. I did not see an option to display my system specs or custom animations in Corsair's Web Hub.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

While the support for gifs is neat, you need to make sure they’re below 500 KB; if they're larger, you'll see a frustrating notice.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

I tried about five or so different gifs and could not find one under that size, so I ended up sticking with photos (and I was able to upload a couple of different ones). Needless to say, I was a bit disappointed by the screen. That said, I did receive my review model before release, so Corsair might still be working on improving Web Hub’s compatibility with the Vanguard Pro 96.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 also has a new feature that allows you to control your Elgato Stream Deck with the keyboard. Next to the FN key on the Vanguard Pro 96, there's a key that resembles the Elgato logo. If you press that key, you can then toggle between different Elgato Stream Deck functions, such as mute, record, etc. Don’t worry — if you’re like me, and do not own a Steam Deck, accidentally pressing the key will not change anything. You can also disable it or remap it.

Tom's Hardware

Corsair

The build quality of the Vanguard Pro 96 is pretty solid. While it is almost entirely plastic, it seems pretty robust, and like it can handle the occasional drop or fist slam during bits of rage in-game. The board sounds good too — inside, you’ll find multiple layers of sound-damping foam to eliminate case and spring ping.

While the Vanguard Pro 96 has a couple of new features, you’re still getting Corsair's AXON technology, which provides you with a polling rate of 8,000 Hz, 20 layers of on-board lighting effects that can be configured, and a keystroke range from 0.1mm to 4mm — which is on par with other high-end magnetic gaming keyboards.

The keycaps are made of double-shot PBT plastic, which is thick and durable and also allows the RGB lighting to shine through. On the left side of the Vanguard Pro 96 are five dedicated macro keys — something I haven’t seen in years. As mechanical keyboards have become more feature-packed, companies have moved away from dedicated macro keys — so I love this. Beside the five macro keys is a gaming mode key, which turns the polling rate down to 1,000 Hz, turns WinLock on, and switches the backlighting to red. This isn’t a new feature, but it's worth pointing out, for any competitive gamers out there.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

When I reviewed the Corsair K70 Core RGB, I was surprised by how smooth the switches were out of the box — and I can confirm the MGX Hyperdrive linear switches in the Vanguard Pro 96 are even better than their non-magnetic counterparts. But I'll go into more detail on the switches later in the review.

Typing and Gaming Experience on the Vanguard Pro 96

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 arrived in the midst of my Battlefield 4 reboot. Thanks to Microsoft locking me out of my old Xbox account, I'd lost all of my progression, so I had to start at level one on Battlefield 4. The keyboard worked very well for gaming. I didn’t experience any latency issues and I even adjusted the actuation points on keys 1-5 to 1mm so I could swap weapons/gear with less force.

The Vanguard Pro 96 is also a convenient keyboard for everyday use, as it includes a 10-key numberpad. I am a massive advocate for numberpads; I have been using the same Filco Majestouch numberpad for over three years, and I can’t work without it. I will say that since the Vanguard Pro 96 is a 96-percent board, and not a full-size board, it took me a little while to get comfortable with the numberpad as it's a smaller keyboard overall..

The keyboard comes with Corsair’s MGX Hyperdrive linear switches, and I love them. While I was really impressed by Corsair Reds in the K70 Core RGB, you do lose out on the Hall Effect / magnetic switch capabilities with those. Also, the bottom-out isn’t as harsh on the magnetic switches, and the switches are quieter overall. One of the things I dislike about Hall-effect switches is their sound. Because the switches have magnets in them, they can be pretty loud, but the MGX switches sound like any other Cherry clone — which was great and very tolerable.

Keep in mind, I’m only scratching the surface when it comes to this keyboard’s capabilities. The AXON technology, dedicated macro keys, and rotary knob are absolutely worth experimenting with if you are a true gamer or want to set macros to make your day-to-day processes simpler. Like all gaming keyboards, the Vanguard Pro 96's strength is in its customizability.

Software of the Vanguard Pro 96

Unlike the K70 Core RGB, the Vanguard Pro 96 is powered by Corsair’s online Web Hub.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

As the name suggests, Web Hub is an online-only software — and I’m not a fan of the idea. I had no issues with iCUE, and I genuinely do not understand why Corsair thought it would be a good idea to make an online-only configuration software for a keyboard as customizable as this one. What if you’re traveling and want to fine-tune the actuation on your WASD keys and don’t have access to WiFi? It seems like an inconvenience to require an internet connection to adjust the keyboard's settings.

Fortunately, Web Hub works fine. I didn’t have any issues with it, but if you buy this keyboard, be sure to update the USB Wired Polling Rate to 8,000 Hz in the device settings because the board will arrive with its polling rate set at 1,000 Hz.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Bottom Line

I really like the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 overall. While I’m kind of annoyed by the online-only configuration tool, the keyboard makes up for it — it sounds great, and the switches are fast, feel good, and aren't too loud. I was a bit disappointed by the lack of visual capabilities of the built-in LCD screen (while it’s nice to have a picture of my dog, Daphne, on my keyboard... it's not necessarily the most useful feature).

While I like this keyboard, I'm not sure it's worth $230. Sure, the screen, customizability, and generous support for your Stream Deck is cool — but I don’t think it’s $230 cool. Instead, I'd recommend Corsair's K70 Max RGB, which is less than $200 and does just about everything the Vanguard Pro 96 does. If yu're not sold on magnetic switches, I'd also recommend the K70 Core RGB, which is just $70.

Corsair launches gargantuan 3,000W power supply for $599.99 — comes with four native 12V‑2x6 600W GPU cables

Zhiye Liu — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:57:52 +0000

Corsair has introduced the brand's first power supply exceeding 1,600W. The latest WS3000, featuring a capacity of 3,000W and 80 Plus Platinum-certified, is engineered to support systems and workstations equipped with multi-GPU configurations.

With dimensions measuring 6.9 x 5.9 x 3.4 inches (175 x 150 x 86 mm), the WS3000 constitutes a standard ATX 3.1 power supply that adheres to the PCIe 5.1 specification. Its length of 6.9 inches positions the WS3000 as potentially one of the most compact 3,000W power supplies available, facilitating installation within even conventional ATX cases. Like many contemporary high-end units, the WS3000 is equipped with a modular design, thus simplifying cable management.

The WS3000 boasts a power capacity of 3,000W and features a single-rail design. This configuration indicates that the power supply provides up to 250A on the +12V rail. It is essential to note that the WS3000 is designed for 220-240V operation; therefore, it is imperative to ensure that your residence is wired for 240V and has a circuit that complies with the specifications. Consequently, the WS3000 employs a C19 power cable, which has a physically larger connector and is rated for a higher current (16A compared to 10A), as opposed to the standard C13 power cable used with typical power supplies.

The WS3000 is not the first or only Corsair power supply to utilize the C19 power cable. Numerous high-capacity units from the brand, such as the HX1500i and AX1600i, have already employed the C19 power cable.

Corsair

Corsair HX1500i (2025) ATX 3.1 power supply review

E. Fylladitakis — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Within Corsair's extensive power supply portfolio, the HX series occupies a strategic position between mainstream offerings and flagship AX models, delivering near-premium performance at more accessible price points. The 2025 version of the HX1500i represents the latest evolution of this philosophy, incorporating ATX 3.1 compliance while maintaining the series' reputation for reliability and performance.

This 1500-watt unit targets enthusiasts building systems with multiple high-end graphics cards, flagship processors, and extensive storage arrays. How does it stack against our best power supplies list? Beyond raw power capacity, the HX1500i integrates digital monitoring capabilities through Corsair's iCUE ecosystem, providing real-time telemetry and customization options that distinguish it from purely analog alternatives. The critical question becomes whether this combination of features, performance, and brand heritage justifies the premium positioning in an increasingly competitive market segment.

Specifications and Design

Power Specifications (Rated @ 50 °C)
RAIL	+3.3V	+5V	+12V	+5Vsb	-12V
MAX OUTPUT	20A	20A	125A	3.5A	0.3A
	100W	100W	1500W	17.5W	3.6W
TOTAL	1500W
AC INPUT	100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz
MSRP	$390

In the Box

Corsair's packaging approach for the HX1500i reflects both brand consistency and environmental consciousness. The substantial cardboard enclosure features the company's signature yellow and black color scheme while minimizing plastic components in favor of paper-based cushioning materials.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

However, the unboxing experience reveals a notably sparse accessory collection that feels inadequate given the unit's premium positioning. The included items - basic mounting hardware, standard AC cable, and minimal cable management accessories - pale in comparison to competitors who provide comprehensive installation kits.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The cabling system compensates somewhat for the bundle’s shortcoming, featuring uniformly black, individually sleeved conductors with factory-installed cable combs on primary connections. Two 12v-2x6 connectors accommodate next-generation graphics cards, though each requires dual 8-pin PCIe connections at the PSU end, which is an arguably better design choice that distributes current load while maintaining flexibility. An internal USB header connection enables motherboard integration for iCUE monitoring, distinguishing this model from conventional power supplies. The number of connectors is identical to the connector count found on the HX1200i despite the increased power capacity.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Corsair HX1500i (2025) ATX 3.1
Connector type	Hardwired	Modular
ATX 24 Pin	-	1
EPS 4+4 Pin	-	2
EPS 8 Pin	-	-
PCI-E 5.0	-	2
PCI-E 8 Pin	-	5
SATA	-	8
Molex	-	6
Floppy	-	-

External Appearance

The visual design is very well-balanced, making the HX1500i visually appealing but not extravagant and/or kitschy. Satin black coating provides an attractive foundation, enhanced by strategically placed decorative elements and subtle edge chamfering that adds visual depth without appearing ostentatious.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Measuring 200mm in length, the HX1500i significantly exceeds standard ATX specifications, demanding careful case selection and internal clearance verification. This dimensional consideration becomes particularly crucial in compact or mid-tower configurations where space constraints could preclude installation. The integrated fan guard incorporates a distinctive triangular mesh pattern that continues across the rear ventilation area, creating design cohesion while serving functional purposes.

Tom's Hardware

Modular connectors occupy the majority of the front panel. Nine 8-pin connectors accommodate both PCIe and EPS requirements, meaning that not all of the EPS/PCIe cables can be installed simultaneously. The top side is partially covered by a sticker displaying electrical certifications and specifications. The rear panel hold the standard AC receptacle and power switch.

Tom's Hardware

Internal Design

Thermal management relies on a Corsair-branded NR140P fan featuring fluid-dynamic bearings that prioritize longevity and acoustic performance. The 1800 RPM maximum speed appears conservative given the unit's 1500-watt capacity, reflecting confidence in the underlying thermal architecture and component efficiency.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Channel-Well Technology (CWT) serves as the manufacturing partner, though Corsair maintains significant design influence throughout the development process. The HX1500i is utilizing the same platform as the HX1200i, enhanced in order to handle the extra power output.

Tom's Hardware

The architecture begins with comprehensive EMI filtering incorporating six Y capacitors, three X capacitors, and dual filtering inductors. Two rectifying bridges can be found on the primary heatsink assembly, handling initial AC-to-DC conversion duties efficiently.

Tom's Hardware

Active PFC implementation utilizes two Infineon 60R099P6 MOSFETs working alongside companion diodes, all sharing the same heatsink with the rectification bridges. The array is digitally controlled – hence the semi-digital design – to improve efficiency. The active components operate in conjunction with dual encased inductors and three high-quality Nippon Chemi-Con capacitors, two 680 μF plus one 470 μF, representing an upgrade from the HX1200i's capacitor configuration.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Primary inversion employs four Alpha & Omega 29S50 MOSFETs arranged in a full-bridge LLC topology, mounted on dedicated heatsinking adjacent to the main transformers. Secondary rectification utilizes twelve Vishay R626 MOSFETs positioned on a vertical daughterboard - four more than the HX1200i's eight-MOSFET configuration. The 50% increase should give the HX1500i a slight performance advantage as each MOSFET is slightly less stressed.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The secondary side capacitors, both polymer and electrolytic, come exclusively from premium Japanese manufacturers (Nippon Chemi-Con, Nichicon, and Rubycon). This no-compromise approach to parts selection directly impacts longevity and performance stability, though such quality is more of a demand than a request at this price tier.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Cold Test Results

Cold Test Results (25°C Ambient)

Tom's Hardware

Under normal ambient conditions, the HX1500i demonstrated excellent efficiency characteristics, achieving Cybenetics Platinum certification across both 115 VAC and 230 VAC inputs. Average nominal load efficiency measured 91.7% at 115 VAC and 92.8% at 230 VAC, figures more than high enough to earn this unit its Platinum certification. The efficiency curve peaks around 40% load while maintaining impressive performance throughout the operational range. Low-load efficiency is just as excellent as the HX1200i’s, showcasing the platform's versatility across varying power demands. Fan operation remains completely silent until load exceeds 600 watts, matching the HX1200i's threshold. The fan maintains conservative speeds even under maximum stress.

Thermal performance during standard testing proves outstanding, with internal temperatures remaining remarkably controlled despite the substantial power output. The iCUE software integration allows custom fan curve adjustments, providing users with personalized acoustic and cooling balance preferences.

Hot Test Results

Hot Test Results (~45°C Ambient)

High ambient temperature testing reveals the unit's behavior under challenging thermal conditions. Efficiency measurements showed 91.1% at 115 VAC and 92.1% at 230 VAC, a minimal degradation compared to cold testing and superior retention compared to many high-wattage competitors. There is virtually no additional degradation under heavy loads, indicating absence of thermal stress even under extreme conditions. This thermal resilience distinguishes the HX1500i from units that exhibit significant performance deterioration as temperatures rise.

Tom's Hardware

Fan activation occurs earlier under elevated temperatures, engaging a little over 400 watts. That was still a good 100 watts higher than what we observed in the HX1200i under similar conditions though. Despite the earlier activation, speed increases remain conservative, reaching maximum RPM only at full load and maintaining very low noise figures for a 1500-watt unit. Internal temperatures also stay remarkably controlled for a 1500-watt unit, demonstrating superior thermal engineering and component selection.

PSU Quality and Bottom Line

Power Supply Quality

The HX1500i delivers exceptional electrical characteristics across all measured parameters. Voltage regulation measures 0.9% on the 12V rail, 0.7% on the 5V rail, and 0.5% on the 3.3V rail - impressively tight tolerances for such a power output. Ripple suppression is equally outstanding with maximum levels of 40 mV on the 12V rail, 24 mV on the 5V rail, and 22 mV on the 3.3V rail.

During our thorough assessment, we evaluate the essential protection features of every power supply unit we review, including Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Power Protection (OPP), and Short Circuit Protection (SCP). Protection circuits operate precisely within expected parameters. Over Current Protection engages at 112% on the 12V rail, an extremely sharp figure for an ATX 3.1 unit, with higher thresholds of 136% on both minor rails.

Main Output
Load (Watts)	302.92 W		755.24 W		1128.35 W		1500.94 W
Load (Percent)	20.19%		50.35%		75.22%		100.06%
	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts	Amperes	Volts
3.3 V	1.9	3.35	4.74	3.34	7.11	3.33	9.48	3.33
5 V	1.9	5.09	4.74	5.07	7.11	5.07	9.48	5.06
12 V	23.69	12.11	59.22	12.08	88.83	12.03	118.45	12

Line	Regulation (20% to 100% load)	Voltage Ripple (mV)
		20% Load	50% Load	75% Load	100% Load	CL1 12V	CL2 3.3V + 5V
3.3V	0.5%	14	12	16	22	16	18
5V	0.7%	16	14	14	24	14	20
12V	0.9%	20	18	26	40	38	24

Bottom Line

The Corsair HX1500i represents a compelling option for system builders requiring substantial power capacity combined with premium electrical performance and advanced monitoring capabilities. While the $390 retail price firmly positions it in the premium segment, the combination of exceptional build quality, comprehensive feature set, and reliable performance provides genuine value for demanding applications. Compared to the HX1200i, the HX1500i offers 25% additional power capacity while maintaining similar efficiency, thermal performance, and connector configurations. On the other hand, the HX1200i lacks no features and/or performance compared to the HX1500i, making the HX1500i a reasonable choice only for multi-GPU systems or future-proofing considerations where the HX1200i might approach its limits.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The digital interface integration sets the HX1500i apart from purely analog competitors, enabling comprehensive system monitoring and customization through Corsair's mature iCUE ecosystem. Combined with premium component selection, excellent build quality, and 10-year warranty coverage, this creates a persuasive package for users prioritizing system reliability and performance insights.

The Corsair HX1500i is built with premium components, including Japanese capacitors from Nippon Chemi-Con, Nichicon, and Rubycon, ensuring exceptional reliability and longevity. Its advanced thermal management system maintains optimal operating temperatures, while CWT’s manufacturing expertise and Corsair’s engineering refinements create a PSU designed for long-term stability and performance. However, its substantial 200 mm length exceeds standard ATX dimensions, requiring careful case compatibility checks—particularly for compact or mid-tower cases where clearance may be an issue.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

In performance, the HX1500i delivers flagship-level power delivery, maintaining low noise through zero-RPM fan operation under moderate loads and a conservative fan curve at high demand. Thermal efficiency testing shows it remains well within design parameters, supporting long-term reliability. This PSU is ideal for high-end gaming systems, professional workstations, and multi-GPU rendering setups where clean, stable power is critical for stability and component safety. While budget-conscious builders can find similar wattage in less expensive units without its premium build or monitoring features, the HX1500i’s value shines when system demands exceed 1000 W, making it a solid long-term investment for discerning enthusiasts.

MORE: Best Power Supplies

MORE: How We Test Power Supplies

MORE: All Power Supply Content

Corsair's stylish Frame 4000D RS ARGB falls to $109 for Labor Day — a budget-friendly box to build in at a great price

Stewart Bendle — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:07:16 +0000

Here's to a tidy little Labor Day deal on one of Corsair's latest cases. The popular 4000D series has seen the Frame range of cases using the 4000D moniker added to the series, along with a few Iterations of customizable elements such as fans and ARGB. Keeping a familiar size and look, you may not notice the changes from a distance, but on a closer inspection, you can see that there are many changes in the Corsair 4000D Frame RS ARBG over its brethren.

Available at a discount directly from Amazon, you can pick up the Corsair 4000D RS ARGB for $104.99, saving $20 or 16% from the typical list price of $124.99. This new and updated case offers new features and customizability over the older Corsair 4000D, including options to purchase additional modular components to change aspects of the case's functionality, such as swapping out the front IO panel for more USB ports. This case has the power button and IO at the bottom of the front panel, so the case would be more at home sat on a desk if you want easy access.

Check out the deal at Corsair

The 4000D Frame uses a 3D Y-pattern steel front mesh panel that's generously ventilated with a Y-pattern for high airflow. Even with more airflow and ventilation making it inside the case, the 4000D Frame still keeps the good looks and aesthetic of earlier 4000D cases. This variant of the Corsair Frame - 4000D RS ARGB adds a splash of color with included ARGB fans. Illuminate the front of your case and also highlight the internal components of your PC build, viewable through the tempered glass side panel.

The Corsair Frame 4000D RS ARGB is a case with some great new design characteristics. An emphasis on modularity lets you swap out parts of the case and choose different fan sizes to suit your preferences, thanks to Corsair's InfiniRail system. The 4000D RS includes ARGB RS120 fans, adding a splash of color.

Mesh panels allow high airflow cooling, and inside the case, there are cutouts for rear-connecting motherboards and a built-in GPU support bracket.

See our review of Corsair's 4000D Frame for more information on this mid-tower PC case.View Deal

Choose different fan sizes to suit your build preferences, thanks to Corsair's InfiniRail system inside the case. You can adjust the rails to install fan sizes up to 200mm on the steel multi-point mounting system. This offers a great deal of flexibility for your preference of fan configurations.

There is room for dual 360mm radiator support at the front and top of the case, included case fans (3x RS120 ARGB performance fans), a GPU anti-sag bracket, and compatibility support for reverse connector motherboards such as MSI's Project Zero and Gigabyte's Project Stealth boards.

Corsair says audible clicking noise from its PSU is completely safe — will give you a new one anyway

stephen.warwick@futurenet.com (Stephen Warwick) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:30:10 +0000

Corsair has confirmed it has fixed a clicking issue with its RMe PSUs and will replace any affected units.

Corsair’s Air 5400 features a triple-chamber design for high-performance cooling

editors@tomshardware.com (Kunal Khullar) — Tue, 20 May 2025 14:42:40 +0000

Corsair is making a big splash at Computex 2025 with the launch of its new products, including new cases, a fully customizable keyboard, and new power supplies. The most eye-catching of them all is the Air 5400, which is its first PC case with a triple-chamber layout.

The new Air 5400 comes with a dedicated radiator cooling chamber that can accommodate up to 360mm AIO cooling solutions. The unique aspect here is that all the heat from the CPU is dumped directly out of the case as it is channeled separately without interfering with other components. The main or central chamber comes with an air duct allowing the cooling fans at the bottom to focus air flow for the GPU and motherboard. The third chamber, behind the motherboard, can accommodate mass storage drives and the power supply, along with all the cables.

Future

The case also comes with curved glass hinged panels, and comes pre-installed with reverse blade fans (Corsair RS-R ARGB or LX-R) at the bottom with bright LED RGB lighting. Corsair also highlights its Rapid Route 2.0 cable management system, which is said to help simplify cable management. There is also support for motherboards with back connectors and additional triple-120mm fan mounting options at the top. In terms of front I/O, the case comes with two USB Type-C 5 Gbps ports, one USB Type-C 20 Gbps port, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack. For storage, you can install a 3.5-inch HDD or two 2.5-inch HDD/SSDs.

Next is the Frame 4500X PC case featuring a wraparound tempered glass panel that covers both the front and side, thus offering a clear view of the internal hardware. It supports GPUs up to 460mm in length, CPU coolers up to 185mm in height, and power supplies up to 250mm in length. For cooling, it offers multiple fan mounting options, including support for up to three 120mm or two 140mm fans at the top or side, a single 120mm or 140mm fan at the rear, and a single 120mm fan at the bottom. Additionally, it can accommodate 360mm radiators on both the top and side panels.

Corsair

Storage options include one 3.5-inch HDD bay and two 2.5-inch SSD mounts. The front I/O panel provides two USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, and a combined headphone/microphone jack. Available in black and white color options, the Frame 4500X will be offered with the option of three pre-installed 120mm Corsair RS-R ARGB or LX-R RGB fans. Like the Air 5400, the case supports reverse-connect motherboards, and also incorporates Corair’s ‘InfiniRail’ fan mounting system, which uses adjustable steel brackets allowing users to slide and position fans appropriately.

Corsair also announced the Frame 5000D, a bigger version of the existing Frame 4000D case. It comes with support for up to 420mm radiator at the top alongside the Infinirail fan mounting system, RapidRoute 2.0 cable management, and support for reverse connection motherboards. The case will offer a variety of modular panels, both on the inside and outsid,e allowing users to customize the case as per their liking.

Moving away from PC cases, the new Corsair MAKR 75 is a 75% DIY barebones keyboard kit targeted specifically at users who want to build and customize their own mechanical keyboard. It has won the Red Design award for 2025, and comes with a full aluminum frame available in Carbon and Silver finish options. While it naturally supports hot-swappable switches, Corsair doesn’t mention support for third-party switches. You can, however, choose between the company’s MLX switches, including Pulse Thocky, Plasma Linear, Quantum Speed, and Fusion Tactile.

(Image credit: Corsair)

The MAKR 75 also comes with a programmable dial and an optional LCD module that can display system stats or custom graphics. Internally, it utilizes a gasket mount design with screw-in stabilizers, which should offer a softer typing experience with reduced vibration. Users can choose between polycarbonate or FR4 switch plates, each offering different levels of rigidity and acoustic profiles. The add-on wireless module adds 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth to the keyboard if you prefer a cable-free experience. For further personalization, the keyboard comes with RGB backlighting and support for various keycap profiles and colors.

Moving onto PSUs, the new Corsair HXi Shift series includes modular ATX power supplies available in 1,000W, 1,200W, and 1,500W capacities. These units meet the latest ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards and feature side-mounted power connectors, which can potentially help make cable management a lot easier. Like the company’s previous power supplies, the new lineup uses high-quality Japanese 105°C capacitors and is rated for continuous operation at up to 50°C. There’s also a 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan with Zero-RPM mode for quiet operation under low to moderate loads.

(Image credit: Future)

Corsair's newest case, the modular mid-tower Frame 4000D is on sale at its lowest-ever price of just £67

Stewart Bendle — Thu, 08 May 2025 12:01:33 +0000

Not to be confused with Corsair's long-running 4000D cases, the Frame 4000D is a new design that caters to the modern needs of the latest PC builds. It's only been out for just over a month, so I'm shocked to see it on sale for such a low price already, so much so that I may have already added one to my own basket for a little build I have planned.

The Frame 4000D offers modularity in how you place your fans, choices on using rear-connecting motherboards, and when they release, options for swapping out parts of the case.

This case deal is available at Amazon, where you can pick up the Corsair Frame 4000D for just £67, down from the original list price of £79. Finding a case like this for just £67 is amazing, and it is well-constructed with plenty of features. But, one of the reasons it is so cheap is that it does not come with any pre-installed fans, or a PSU.

This could easily be on our list of the best PC cases at this price, and with room for large 360mm radiator installations at either the top, side, or front of the case, it can provide cooling for the hottest CPUs. There is space for up to 12 fans in the Frame 4000D, with a unique-ish sliding rail that you can position to fit fans between 120 - 200mm, providing plenty of airflow for your build. Speaking of airflow, the case uses Corsair's funky 3D Y-pattern mesh design for its front panel. This design allows for more rigidity while not obstructing airflow, and it helps that it looks pretty cool.

Corsair Frame 4000D Modular Mid-Tower PC Case: now £67 at Amazon (was £79)
Good looks, a modular construction, and great to build in. The Corsair Frame 4000D is a solid budget buy for your next PC build. This case sports high-airflow, room for large 360mm radiators, and fan sizes between 120 - 200mm. There's good cable routing, a cable shroud, support for rear-connecting motherboards, and plenty of dust filters to keep your components clean. View Deal

There will also be modular parts such as an aluminium billet motherboard tray, and front I/O panels with different configurations, such as more USB-C ports, etc. However, these modular parts are currently unavailable, but are expected to be released in the coming months.

There is so much to cover with this case that there just isn't room in this deal's article, but luckily for you, we have a full review of the Corsair Frame 4000D that you can peruse and come to your own conclusions about this great case deal.

Corsair's 3000D and 4000D series cases are on sale for Cyber Monday, starting as low as $59

Christopher Harper — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:45:27 +0000

Here on Cyber Monday, Corsair is putting its 4000D Series PC cases (as well as the 3000D series refresh which slightly shrinks their footprint) on sale for prices starting as low as $59.91 for the black version of the Corsair 3000D.

In the past, we reviewed and praised the Corsair 4000 Series, giving them 4.5 stars for allowing mesh panels with the -D Airflow variants and still maintaining acceptable thermals with the -X RGB variant. In the time since, the 3000D refresh has released and there are now also RGB versions of the -D Airflow mesh-equipped cases, which is ideal for those who like RGB without sacrificing airflow.

Corsair 3000D Airflow (Black): was $84.99, now $59.91 at Newegg

The Corsair 3000D Airflow is a Mid Tower PC case with two included fans, support for motherboards up to ATX, and has 7 PCIe expansion slots. The case is a slightly larger refresh of the 4000D.

Note: White model also available for $59.99.View Deal

Corsair 4000D Airflow (Black): was $104.99, now $74.99 at Newegg

The Corsair 4000D Airflow is a Mid Tower PC case with two included fans, support for motherboards up to E-ATX, and has 7 standard PCI expansion slots as well as 2 vertical slots, which 3000D does not have. Most other case specs are identical to the later-released 3000D.

Note: White Model also available for $74.99.View Deal

When comparing these two cases, it's easier to list the minute differences than all of the specifications they have in common.

The biggest difference between 3000D and 4000D is the lack of 2 vertical expansion slots on the newer 3000D case, as well as the 3000D actually being slightly deeper with 462mm depth versus 4000D's 453mm.

The 3000D also allows for fan mounting on the PSU shroud and boasts an extra USB 3.2 Type-A front panel port. Finally, the 4000D also offers an additional two 2.5-inch drive bays.

But as one can easily confirm with the official Corsair specs comparison page (it seems they know this is confusing, too), those really are all of the differences. All other core specifications of these two cases remain identical, including:

Maximum Video Card Length — 360 mm
Maximum CPU Cooler Height — 170 mm
Radiator Support — Front: 360/280mm, Top: 240/280mm, Rear: 120mm
Fan Support (not counting PSU shroud fan exclusive to 3000D) — Front: 3 x 120mm OR 2x 140 mm, Top: 2x 120mm OR 2x 140mm, Rear: 1 x 120mm

Corsair 4000D RGB (Black): was $149.99, now $99.91 at Amazon
The Corsair 4000D RGB is a variant of the Corsair 4000D Airflow with 3 RGB fans included. It is otherwise identical to the Corsair 4000D in every other way.

Note: The 4000X Black RGB model is also on sale for $91.99, but sacrifices some airflow for lower noise levels with a solid instead of mesh front panel. Neither White 4000D/4000X models are on sale.View Deal

Tom's Hardware

Overall, any variant of the Corsair 4000D (including its newer 3000D cousin) should serve your Mid Tower PC building needs pretty well, particularly if you have a soft spot for Corsair and its RGB implementations. While most of the RGB models aren't on sale, a few are, and in general the entire line of Corsair's Mid Tower 4000/3000 Series cases have become much more affordable here on Cyber Monday.

If you intend to capitalize on that, be sure to hop on these deals while they are still available! We are working hard to find the best deals for you this Cyber Monday. If you're looking for other products, check out our Cyber Monday Computer Hardware Deals Live blog for a range of products, or dive deeper into our specialized SSD and Storage Deals Live blog, Monitor Deals Live, Graphics Card Deals, or CPU Deals pages.

You can now get a 240mm liquid cooler with LCD display for under $100 - Corsair's AIO hits record low price for Cyber Monday

editors@tomshardware.com (Kunal Khullar) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:32:34 +0000

The Corsair iCUE Link H100i LCD liquid cooler is now available for an unbeatable Cyber Monday deal price of $99 on Amazon. This deal makes it one of the most affordable AIO liquid coolers equipped with a customizable LCD display. This 240mm cooler, typically found in higher price ranges, delivers excellent value with both performance and aesthetic appeal.

The 2.1-inch IPS LCD screen on this liquid cooler is capable of displaying real-time CPU temperatures, custom graphics, or even animated GIFs. With a 480x480 resolution and 16.7 million colors, it’s perfect for PC enthusiasts who want to personalize their builds without breaking the bank. The cooler also includes dual QX120 RGB fans featuring 34 LEDs each, delivering quiet, efficient cooling with eye-catching visual effects.

Corsair iCUE Link H100i LCD 240mm liquid cooler selling for $99 at Amazon down from list price of $199

The Corsair iCUE Link H100i LCD Liquid CPU Cooler is a 240mm all-in-one cooler featuring a vibrant 2.1-inch IPS LCD screen for real-time stats and custom animations. It offers efficient cooling with a split-flow copper cold plate, dual QX120 RGB fans, and support for Corsair's iCUE software for lighting and performance control. View Deal

Additionally, this AIO liquid cooling solution comes with Corsair’s innovative single-cable iCUE Link ecosystem that reduces cable clutter and streamlines installation. Designed for wide compatibility the H100i plays nicely with most modern AMD and Intel CPUs. Using Corsair’s iCUE software users can control fan speeds, sync RGB lighting, and monitor system performance, making it easy to integrate into any setup.

According to Corsair, the cooler isn’t just about looks; it delivers robust cooling performance thanks to its split-flow copper cold plate and pre-applied Corsair XTM70 thermal paste. The fans can ramp up to 2,400 RPM for intensive tasks while also supporting a zero RPM mode for silent operation during low loads.

Backed by a six-year warranty, the H100i is a long-term investment for PC builders seeking cutting-edge features at an accessible price. Whether you’re upgrading your system or building a new rig, this deal offers an exceptional opportunity to own one of the best-looking and most versatile AIO liquid coolers on the market.

We are working hard to find the best deals for you this Cyber Monday. If you're looking for other products, check out our Cyber Monday Computer Hardware Deals Live blog for a range of products, or dive deeper into our specialized SSD and Storage Deals Live blog, Monitor Deals Live, Graphics Card Deals, or CPU Deals pages.

Corsair Vengeance i7500 gaming desktop is a Cyber Monday bargain at $1,359 with 14600KF and Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU

brandon.hill@futurenet.com (Brandon Hill) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:26:50 +0000

The Corsair Vengeance i7500 is a formidable gaming PC, one that was good enough to earn our coveted Editor’s Choice award. Luckily, Amazon currently has this system on sale for Cyber Monday, and it’s a smoking deal. Although it’s not the exact same configuration that we tested last year, the fundamentals are still there.

This Vengeance i7500 SKU comes with an Intel Core i5 14600KF processor, 32GB of Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5 memory, a B760 motherboard, 1TB SSD, and a GeForce RTX 4060 GPU. Since this is a Corsair system, you won’t be shocked to learn that it has one of the brand’s 750-watt 80+ Gold modular power supplies inside the case.

Corsair Vengeance i7500 gaming desktop: now $1,359 at Amazon (was $1,699)
The Corsair Vengeance i7500 is equipped with a Core i5-14600KF processor, 32GB of DDR5, and an RTX 4060View Deal

Speaking of the case, it’s a stylish Vengeance 4000D mid-tower, complete with plenty of cooling. You’ll find three 120mm fans up front and another 120mm fan at the rear of the chassis. While our review unit featured Corsair’s iCue H100i RGB Elite 240mm AIO cooler, this SKU comes with the iCue H60x RGB Elite, equipped with a single SP120 RGB Elite Series PWM fan, to keep the Core i5 14600KF cool under load. Removable and washable dust filters are at the top, front, and bottom of the Vengeance 4000D, and a large tinted glass side panel lets you gawk at the hardware inside.

The retail price for this SKU is $1,699, but it is currently on sale for $1,359 at Amazon, which is a solid 20 percent discount. Given that this is Black Friday/Cyber Monday season, Amazon has an extended window for purchases. So instead of the typical 30-day return window, you’ll have until January 31, 2025, to return the system if you encounter any problems or don’t feel it is the right fit for you. Corsair also stands behind its system, as it comes with a full two-year manufacturer warranty instead of the one-year warranty that you typically find on competitive systems.

For more on the Corsair Vengeance i7500, be sure to read our comprehensive review.

Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 drops down to $499 for Black Friday — this 27-inch, 240 Hz, 1000 nits HDR OLED has never been cheaper

Christopher Harper — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 19:48:59 +0000

OLED displays have become more standard across the PC and console gaming marketplaces. Gamers know that OLED provides industry-leading gaming performance, contrast, and color accuracy— albeit at a significant price premium, at least until we spotted this great Black Friday deal from Corsair. The Xeneon 27QHD240 is now just $499which, which is half off its original MSRP.

A 27-inch OLED monitor would be unthinkable at this price point a year ago. Now you can get a 27-inch OLED with a 240 Hz refresh rate and 1000 nits brightness for superb DisplayHDR 1000 support for a steal. Add in the expected gaming features like Adaptive Sync (G-Sync/FreeSync) support and glowing reviews from several reputable outlets, including our own Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 review, and it seems the entry to high-quality OLED desktop gaming has never been cheaper.

Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240: was $999, now $499 at Corsair.
Corsair's 27-inch, 240 Hz, 1440p OLED monitor is one of our highest-rated OLED displays and is available at an absolutely killer price for Black Friday. This deal is in such hot demand that it went out of stock on Amazon and Newegg while we wrote this, so act fast if you want it!View Deal

In our original review of the Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240, we praised the monitor on every key point. We loved its deep contrast and saturated colors, its near-perfect, calibration-free accuracy, and next-level gaming performance in a package with premium build quality. Our issues were with its original price point (now very mitigated) and some minute HDR color inaccuracies.

Black Friday deals like this are sure to be snatched up quickly, so act fast if you've been waiting for a great OLED gaming monitor at a reasonable price point! Considering OLEDs at this grade have been regularly priced at and above $1,000 (pricing comparable to much larger but slower entry-level OLED TVs), $499 is an absolute steal.

We are working hard to find the best deals for you this Black Friday. If you're looking for other products, check out our Black Friday Computer Hardware Deals Live blog for a range of products, or dive deeper into our specialized SSD and Storage Deals Live blog, Monitor Deals Live, Graphics Card Deals, or CPU Deals pages.

Corsair's H100i RGB 240mm AIO liquid CPU cooler with iCUE link is only $74 ahead of Black Friday — new all-time low price

Stewart Bendle — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:50:20 +0000

There are a couple of choices for cooling your CPU in your PC build: air cooling, a custom water loop, or an AIO (All in One) liquid loop and radiator. Today's deal features an AIO cooling solution from Corsair, that also comes with Corsair's iCUE link hardware for connecting to multiple RGB fans for illuminating your PC with whatever color scheme you can think of.

The Corsair H100i RGB 240mm AIO liquid CPU cooler with iCUE link is available at Amazon for its lowest-ever price of $74. The H100i is compatible with Intel LGA 1700 and AMD AM5 platforms, and the 240mm radiator is ample for cooling most processors at stock settings.

Corsair's H100i RGB uses a 240mm radiator to dissipate the heat collected from the CPU through the copper plate on the cooling head, but the big selling point for this cooler is the recent addition of the iCUE link ecosystem which allows easy connection of iCUE link enabled devices for the ultimate RGB rainbow build. Using 2 x QX120 RGB PWM fans with 34 RGB LEDs per fan this is one colorful cooler and just the thing to highlight your components if you have a case that lets you easily display what's inside.

Corsair H100i RGB iCUE Link 240mm: now $74 at Amazon (was $109)
The Corsair H100i RGB iCUE Link uses Corsair's iCUE link ecosystem to easily connect to other iCUE link-enabled devices for an RGB light show in your PC builds. Includes 2x QX120 RGB fans and the iCUE link hardware. View Deal

The Corsair H100i RG can cool your processor easily with fan speeds up to 2,400 RPM to quickly bring the CPU heat down. PWM controls enable automatic control over your fan settings and there's also a quiet/0 RPM mode that allows fans to stop spinning entirely at low CPU temperatures, eliminating fan noise completely.

Corsair Xeneon 34WQHD240-C QD-OLED review: Sleek and shiny with stellar performance and imagery

Christian Eberle — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 12:00:08 +0000

Lately, I’ve reviewed many OLED gaming monitors, and the biggest takeaway from my observations is that they differ very little from one another. Infinite contrast is a universal constant in that they all have true black levels, as in no measurable light is emitted from blacked-out pixels. And they all deliver fantastic gaming performance with low input lag and smoother motion processing than any LCD can boast. And they are all expensive. So, how do you choose among the best gaming monitors?

If you care about styling, Corsair has you covered with its 34WQHD240-C. This beautifully designed and executed monitor has a 34-inch ultra-wide 21:9 QD-OLED screen with WQHD 3440x1440 resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, Adaptive-Sync and wide gamut color. Let’s take a look.

Corsair Xeneon 34WQHD240-C Specs

Panel Type / Backlight	Quantum Dot Organic Light Emitting Diode (QD-OLED)
Screen Size / Aspect Ratio	34 inches / 21:9
	Curve radius: 1800mm
Max Resolution and Refresh Rate	3440x1440 @ 240 Hz
	FreeSync Premium
	G-Sync Compatible
Native Color Depth and Gamut	10-bit / DCI-P3+
	HDR10, DisplayHDR 400
Response Time (GTG)	0.03ms
Brightness (mfr)	250 nits SDR
	1,000 nits HDR (3% window)
Contrast	Unmeasurable
Speakers	None
Video Inputs	1x DisplayPort 1.4
	2x HDMI 2.1
	1x USB-C
Audio	3.5mm headphone output
USB 3.2	1x up (type C), 4x down (type A)
Power Consumption	37.5w, brightness @ 200 nits
Panel Dimensions WxHxD w/base	32 x 17.5-21.5 x 11 inches (813 x 445-546 x 279mm)
Panel Thickness	4.9 inches (124mm)
Bezel Width	Top/sides: 0.4 inch (9mm)
	Bottom: 0.6 inch (15mm)
Weight	19.7 pounds (9kg)
Warranty	3 years

Aside from a millisecond here and there, all 240 Hz OLEDs deliver a similar gaming feel and response, and the 34WQHD240-C is no exception. It runs without overclocking and is certified G-Sync compatible and FreeSync Premium. It meets the VESA DisplayHDR 400 TrueBlack standard and immerses the user with an 1800R curvature. The color gamut covers a measured 110% of DCI-P3 thanks to a Quantum Dot film. I found in testing that it is accurate out of the box and does not need calibration.

Like most OLEDs, the 34WQHD240-C has a variable brightness feature. If you leave this off, it peaks at around 250 nits for SDR content. To get more impact from highlight areas, engage it for a peak over 460 nits. Either way, you get the perfect black levels all OLEDs are known for.

For gaming, the 34WQHD240-C offers aiming points and a frame counter, which is about all you’ll need for stellar gameplay. In my tests, I measured extremely low input lag that puts it at the head of the pack for 34-inch 240 Hz OLED monitors. It is very quick and delivers perfectly smooth motion resolution.

Convenience abounds here with plenty of USB ports. The hub is version 3.2 and includes an upstream type C and four downstream type As. An additional USB-C accepts video signals along with a DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.1 inputs. There are no internal speakers, but you get a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Corsair takes a refreshing style approach using lots of white with silver accents. Materials are high-end with finely finished aluminum and textured plastics. There’s plenty of passive cooling with no need for an internal fan. And the stand seems capable of supporting much more weight.

The Xeneon 34WQHD240-C is premium all the way and at this writing, costs around $1,100. As you’ll soon see, it delivers on its promise, and like all OLEDs, it is something you’ll try and want, regardless of price.

Assembly and Accessories

The 34WQHD240-C comes in fully recyclable packaging, no crumbly foam, and unpacks in three parts. The base bolts to the upright with the panel snapped in place to form a monolithic unit that is solid in all respects. The included cables are all white. You get IEC power, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C and USB-C/A.

Product 360

Corsair

The 34WQHD240-C has OLED’s characteristic thin bezel, but you can see the white plastic backing piece wrapped around. It’s barely there, but you'll see it if you put two screens together. The bottom trim is shiny and features the Corsair moniker. In the top view, you can see the thin OLED panel mounted on a component housing that is generously ventilated. Cooling is fully passive, so there is no fan. Underneath is a large OSD joystick and two control keys, one for power and the other for input selection. A small LED glows white for power on and red in standby.

The stand is very substantial and offers full ergonomics with high-quality movement and firm adjustment. You get 7/15 degrees tilt, 30 degrees swivel and four inches of height. If you’d rather use an arm, a 100mm VESA mount is revealed when you remove the stand. You’ll need to provide your own fasteners.

The inputs are arrayed on either side of the upright and face backward. They are clearly labeled and easy to access. Video interfaces include one DisplayPort 1.4, one USB-C, and two HDMI 2.1. USB 3.2 is supported by a type C upstream port and four type A downstream. You also get a 3.5mm headphone jack. There are no internal speakers.

OSD Features

The 34WQHD240-C’s OSD is laid out efficiently into eight sub-menus. It is entirely text-based, with only a simple Corsair graphic in the upper left corner. A black background ensures high contrast and clarity.

Tom's Hardware

The Picture menu has everything needed for image tweaks and calibration. There are six picture modes of which Standard is the default and best choice. It doesn’t need calibration, but you can tweak yourself a small improvement. If you want sRGB color, it’s included, and is also very accurate. All the modes can be calibrated with gamma presets and a Custom color temp but those two parameters remain constant across the different modes so you can’t create multiple calibrations. For HDR, there are two additional modes, neither of which is adjustable. HDR Peak Brightness is the best option there. Also in the Picture menu are the frame counter and aiming point options. The reticles come in dot, cross and angle shapes, red or green in color.

The 34WQHD240-C has full PIP/PBP functions with user-selectable positions for the PIP window. You can view two sources simultaneously, swap their positions and control which one plays audio through the 3.5mm jack.

If you’re looking for variable brightness, it’s in the Screen Life Management menu, called Brightness Stabilizer. For maximum light output, leave this off. It gives the image more impact with brighter highlights. You’ll have to use different brightness settings if you turn it on because then, the peak is about 50% lower. I did all my gaming with the stabilizer turned off for maximum punch.

Corsair Xeneon 34WQHD240-C Calibration Settings

The 34WQHD240-C’s standard picture mode is the best choice for all content. It uses the monitor’s full native color gamut, which is huge, over 110% of DCI-P3. While that isn’t strictly correct for SDR material, few users will choose less color. If you are one of those few, the sRGB mode is also very accurate and can be calibrated. I found a very small improvement by adjusting the RGB sliders in the Custom color temp. You can also change gamma presets if you like. My recommended settings are below.

HDR signals turn on two additional modes, HDR and HDR Peak Brightness. The latter has a peak HDR brightness of over 460 nits with accurate luminance tracking. The 34WQHD240-C delivers superb HDR quality.

Picture Mode	Standard
Brightness 200 nits	43
Brightness 120 nits	24
Brightness 100 nits	19
Brightness 80 nits	14
Brightness 50 nits	7
Contrast	50
Gamma	2.2
Color Temp User	Red 96, Green 97, Blue 100

Gaming and Hands-on

The 240 Hz OLED gaming monitors I’ve reviewed so far have been highly consistent. They have no motion blur and no perceptible input lag. They have infinite contrast with deep blacks and state-of-the-art HDR quality. The only difference is Quantum Dot or not Quantum Dot. The 34WQHD240-C is the latter so it is visibly more colorful than displays without the technology. Tests show 10-15% more color volume and that can easily be seen in a side-by-side comparison.

The importance of bright highlights cannot be understated. Though deep blacks and detailed shadow areas are awesome, specular reflections contribute equally to a sense of dimensionality. In the opening screens of Doom Eternal, there’s a camera pan across the Space Marine that is very telling. The 34WQHD240-C rendered a shade of green you won’t find on a non-QD monitor. And the highlights, tiny though they are, really make the figure pop from the background. A good Mini LED can approach this quality but won’t match it.

The other thing that makes the 34WQHD240-C and every other 240 Hz OLED a superior gaming monitor is video processing. I say this in every OLED review, but it remains true. There is absolutely no motion blur, none, zip, nada. No matter how fast an object or background moves, it is perfectly rendered with the same clarity as its static counterpart. With the 34WQHD240-C’s WQHD resolution, it isn’t too difficult to achieve a consistent 240fps. This makes both offensive and defensive moves much easier to execute. Aiming is precise, movement is precise and ultimately, the player is more successful.

If you’re considering different monitor sizes and shapes for your OLED purchase, the 34-inch 21:9 format is a good balance between player immersion and physical footprint. You can go wider with a 45 or 49-inch display, but that comes with a greater space requirement. You can go high with a 32-inch 16:9 panel but that removes some width and most of them are flat. The 34WQHD240-C hits that sweet spot and with its 1800R curve, there is no image distortion to distract from productivity tasks in text-based apps like Word or Excel. You can also keep a browser open next to a document with that extra width.

Takeaway: The 34WQHD240-C represents an ideal format that balances needs between gaming and general use. It offers the typical and substantial OLED benefits which are superior contrast and perfect video processing. With its Quantum Dot tech, it is more colorful than displays without. It’s a premium purchase that no one will regret making.

To compare the 34WQHD240-C’s performance, I’ve included the newest 34-inch ultra-wide OLEDs from my database. 240 Hz is a relative newcomer to this category. Older models run at 165 and 175 Hz, and they are visibly less smooth. They are Samsung’s Odyssey OLED G8, Philips’ 34M2C8600 and Alienware’s AW3423DWF. 240 Hz monitors in this grouping include the review subject, plus Gigabyte’s MO34WQC2 and the Asus PG34WCDM.

Pixel Response and Input Lag

Click here to read up on our pixel response and input lag testing procedures.

Tom's Hardware

The three 240 Hz screens take the same 4ms to draw a full white field. Observing moving test patterns from BlurBusters shows no difference in video processing. They all deliver perfect motion resolution. That means moving elements have the same clarity as static ones.

The 34WQHD240-C ekes out a victory in the total lag test with a very quick 20ms score. Currently, it is the fastest 240 Hz ultra-wide gaming monitor you can buy. While my skills are not enough to tell a 3ms difference, pro gamers might gain an advantage from the Corsair. The lower refresh rate monitors aren’t far behind, but they will show a slight bit of motion blur during the fastest movements.

Test Takeaway: 240 Hz OLED monitors like the 34WQHD240-C are the current performance pinnacle. No other class of display can match their complete lack of motion blur. And only a few 360 and 500 Hz screens boast lower input lag. Even a 360 Hz OLED won’t be more than a millisecond or two faster. It truly can’t get much better than this.

Viewing Angles

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

The 34WQHD240-C’s off-axis image quality is superb. Though any OLED will shine in this test, this one is just a smidge better than average. There are no visible differences between the head-on and 45-degree views. Light output, gamma and grayscale all remain consistent. Even the top view shows almost no change. It is a bit lighter in gamma but otherwise the same. This is excellent performance.

Screen Uniformity

To learn how we measure screen uniformity, click here.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

Nearly all the OLEDs I’ve reviewed show premium quality screen uniformity. This is as it should be for a high-end category like this. The 34WQHD240-C is consistent with its 6.13% score. There are no visible issues in the 10% field I measured, nor are there flaws in any other patterns. Color fields are completely uniform as well.

To read about our monitor tests in-depth, please check out Display Testing Explained: How We Test PC Monitors. We cover brightness and contrast testing on page two.

Uncalibrated – Maximum Backlight Level

Tom's Hardware

To see the 34WQHD240-C’s maximum output, the Brightness Stabilizer must be turned off. That will brighten up highlight areas of the image. It also means I must use 25% window patterns to determine peak luminance. It’s over 462 nits here which is typical of the category. If you want constant brightness, turn the stabilizer on and the peak will be around 260 nits. Black levels do not change so contrast in either case cannot be measured.

After Calibration to 200 nits

Tom's Hardware

I adjusted the 25% window to 200 nits, corresponding to a slider value of 43. If you turn Brightness Stabilizer on, 200 nits comes at 83. As before, black levels and contrast are unaffected. You’re only adjusting peak luminance here. The ANSI test exhibits the same behavior. The black squares emit no light so intra-image contrast is unmeasurable.

Test Takeaway: The 34WQHD240-C exhibits the same true blacks and unmeasurable contrast as any OLED monitor. In these tests, there is no appreciable difference between products. You can choose between constant or variable brightness, and I recommend variable (Brightness Stabilizer Off) for the most impactful highlights.

OLEDs are consistently accurate out of the box and the 34WQHD240-C is no exception. It can be used in its Standard mode without adjustment. It also has an equally accurate sRGB mode if you need that smaller color gamut.

Grayscale and Gamma Tracking

Our grayscale and gamma tests use Calman calibration software from Portrait Displays. We describe our grayscale and gamma tests in detail here.

Portrait Displays Calman

The 34WQHD240-C nails the out-of-box grayscale test with no visible errors and all values under 2dE except 90% brightness which just cracks the line. Gamma isn’t quite perfect though with a slight rise at 10% and a drop in values at 80 and 90%. This means some highlights will be a tad too bright. I doubt many users will complain.

Calibration lowers the grayscale error by more than half. You won’t see this difference in actual content, but it gives users more cred when bragging about their new OLED monitor. Gamma is unchanged. Though it would be best if the line were on the reference at all points, the shift at 90% is a minor anomaly.

The sRGB mode has no visible grayscale errors and the same gamma tracking with some too-bright highlights. It is possible to calibrate this mode, but those values will carry over to the other picture modes.

Comparisons

Tom's Hardware

The 34WQHD240-C delivers accurate grayscale tracking whether you calibrate or not. This is as it should be for this price segment. A few tweaks take the value from 1.53 to 0.62dE, excellent performance. Gamma is less st,ellar with a 0.48 range of values and a 2.27% deviation from 2.2. This is a minor issue but if you’re super picky, it should be considered.

Color Gamut Accuracy

Our color gamut and volume testing use Portrait Displays’ Calman software. For details on our color gamut testing and volume calculations, click here.

Portrait Displays Calman

The effect of the 34WQHD240-C’s Quantum Dot layer is apparent in the gamut test. There is extra color on all sides of the triangle with red being the boldest shade. The saturation points progress linearly so there is no loss of clarity as the picture becomes more vivid. Anyone will be perfectly happy to use the monitor this way for all SDR content. Calibration lowers the error value slightly, but there is no visible change here.

The sRGB mode is spot-on in every respect. If you need the 34WQHD240-C for color grading and post-production, it is fully qualified. And unlike most monitors, sRGB grayscale can be calibrated, and its brightness can be adjusted.

Comparisons

Tom's Hardware

It’s impressive that this class of monitors is so accurate. That the 34WQHD240-C comes in last with a color accuracy score of 1.82dE means that none of them are even close to putting a foot wrong. Of course, it should be this way when you’re paying $1,000 or more, but I’m happy, nonetheless.

The 34WQHD240-C just squeaks by the Gigabyte to become the most colorful 34-inch OLED I’ve yet tested. With 110.95% coverage of DCI-P3, it is beautifully saturated for both SDR and HDR content. The sRGB calculation is 105% which comes from a slight bit of bonus red. It’s not enough to cause issues for critical applications. This is excellent performance.

Test Takeaway: The 34WQHD240-C is extremely colorful and accurate with or without calibration. Even out of the box, it’s a pro-level display that can be used for post-production and photo editing. You can employ an accurate sRGB mode when needed, which is an extra point for flexibility. The only nit-pick was a gamma anomaly which makes some highlights a tad too bright. This issue is hard to spot in real-world content.

Our HDR benchmarking uses Portrait Displays’ Calman software. To learn about our HDR testing, see our breakdown of how we test PC monitors.

The 34WQHD240-C accepts HDR10 signals and switches modes automatically with two presets available, HDR and HDR Peak Brightness. Appropriately, the second one is brighter and the option I used for both testing and gameplay.

HDR Brightness and Contrast

Tom's Hardware

Monitors in this category are all very close to one another in peak HDR brightness except for the Asus which pushes its panel a little harder for more highlight impact. The visual difference is small, but if you want every last nit, the PG34WCDM is the one to choose. The 34WQHD240-C is on par with the rest and in practice, it delivers HDR that’s every bit as good as the very best. Regardless of peak luminance, black levels and contrast cannot be measured.

Grayscale, EOTF and Color

Portrait Displays Calman

The 34WQHD240-C maintains its high accuracy in the HDR tests. Grayscale is without visual error as all values are below 3dE. The EOTF trace starts out slightly dark until it meets the reference line at 35% brightness and maintains a consistent rise to the tone map transition at 65%. This is the correct value for the measured white level. All detail present in the original content will be clearly rendered from the deepest shadows to the brightest highlights.

HDR color is generally and linearly over-saturated with even coverage of the DCI-P3 gamut and bonus color at the triangle perimeter. Hue points are on or close to their targets and there is no loss of detail or clarity in any part of the image. In the BT.2020 test, the same over-saturation is seen until the 34WQHD240-C runs out of color at 95% red, 80% green and 95% blue. This is consistent with all the Quantum Dot OLED monitors I’ve tested.

Test Takeaway: The 34WQHD240-C delivers stellar HDR with accurate grayscale, EOTF and gamut tracking. Color is generally and consistently over-saturated which delivers extra impact without muddying detail. Contrast is unmeasurable like all OLEDs and peak output is on par with the competition. You will enjoy the best possible HDR from the Corsair, and any OLED monitor.

As I conclude another OLED gaming monitor review, I have little new to say. The Corsair Xeneon 34WQHD240-C delivers the same stellar image with deep contrast and saturated color as every other OLED. Its Quantum Dot layer widens the gamut over displays that lack the tech, and it has the lowest input lag I’ve measured from a 34-inch ultra-wide. In addition to that, it has sleek and unique styling and a couple of points over the competition. But realistically, buying a bad OLED gaming monitor is still impossible, especially in the 240 Hz category.

(Image credit: Corsair)

I could complain about its lack of internal speakers or LED lighting, but how much do those things impact gameplay? Not one bit. If you want a light show or tinny sound, there are other monitors out there, but you won’t get the 34WQHD240-C’s cool look. It isn’t the only white display available, but it is one of the rare examples. If nothing else, that might be a decider for some buyers.

(Image credit: Tom's Hardware)

If you have around $1,100 to spend on a gaming monitor, an OLED like the Corsair Xeneon 34WQHD240-C is a no-brainer. There is nothing about its features or performance that makes me hesitate to recommend it.