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So far, most power supplies with 80 PLUS Bronze, Cybenetics ETA-Standard, and ETA-A- efficiency levels with RGB lighting were mediocre offerings since they focused more on features that don't have to do with performance. This changes with the Corsair CX-F line, which uses a modern platform that achieves good overall performance and high efficiency for this category's standards.
The fully modular design and the option to control the unit's RGB lighting through a compatible mainboard or an optional RGB controller, besides manual control, affected the price. But besides a nice, aesthetically, product and good performance, you also get a five-year warranty from Corsair, which is well known for its support. Moreover, Corsair was wise enough to provide two color options in this line, with matching color cables. The only problem is that the white version is a bit more expensive from the already high-priced black version.
The Corsair CX650F performs well. Its main asset is that it doesn't have strong competitors with similar specifications. It would be nice to see lower ripple at 12V under full load, tighter load regulation, and better caps on the secondary side, but these changes would probably lead to an even higher price. So there wouldn't be any point in getting a Bronze or ETA-A- PSU, from the moment with a few dollars more, you would get a Gold or ETA-A one unless you are so desperate for rich RGB lighting features. If you can spend 30 dollars more, you should also look at the Super Flower Leadex III ARGB 650W, which offers higher performance and RGB lighting.
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Disclaimer: Aris Mpitziopoulos is Tom's Hardware's PSU reviewer. He is also the Chief Testing Engineer of Cybenetics and developed the Cybenetics certification methodologies apart from his role on Tom's Hardware. Neither Tom's Hardware nor its parent company, Future PLC, are financially involved with Cybenetics. Aris does not perform the actual certifications for Cybenetics.
