EVGA SuperNOVA 1000 G3 PSU Review

We already reviewed the SuperNOVA 850 G3, which left a good impression on us. Today, we're looking at the 1000 G3, this family's current flagship model. It's a physically diminutive PSU that offers high performance in every area.

By Aris Mpitziopoulos
published

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Pros, Cons, And Final Verdict

The following video footage shows our work behind the scenes, demonstrating what we do to break down the PSU.

EVGA dropped a bomb in the mid-range PSU market with its SuperNOVA G3 line. So far, both of the G3 units we've tested registered amazing performance in every area, including load regulation, ripple suppression, and efficiency. On top of that, they feature compact dimensions, which notably boost their power density scores. It seems SilverStone found a worthy opponent in EVGA's new 80 PLUS Gold-rated offerings; the company is no longer the only one with small, high-capacity PSUs.

The only significant downside we came across is the 1000 G3's increased noise output, mostly caused by a less-than-ideal fan profile and low-efficiency 5VSB circuit. An overpopulated PCB and the fan's small dimensions likely forced Super Flower to tune the fan profile aggressively. An extra-long 10-year warranty probably played a role in this decision, too. In order for a power supply to last that long, it must keep its internals operating at safe temperatures all of the time. As far as the 5VSB circuit goes, Super Flower apparently didn't pay enough attention there, so the 5VSB rail's performance isn't up to the standard set by the other rails. This is a great shame. Under light loads, increased vampire power totally cripples the 5VSB's efficiency, so the 1000 G3 can't keep consumption under 0.5W with up to 0.225W loads at standby and with 230V input, as the ATX spec recommends.

EVGA's new SuperNOVA G3 units are definitely improved versions of their predecessors, which couldn't have been easy to achieve given the G2's admirable qualities. With much smaller dimensions, fresh looks, an HDB fan, and an even more capable platform, the G3s will quickly become a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a reliable, high-performance PSU.

Only the folks who prioritize noise over other attributes will find themselves let down by the high-end G3 models. Unfortunately, Super Flower neglected to optimize this platform for quieter operation. We believe the 1000 G3 could be made to run stably at a slower fan speed without risking the PSU's reliability over its warranty period. We can only hope that whatever succeeds EVGA's P2 and T2 lines will be more suitable for quiet systems, since they'll sport higher efficiency.

In any case, if you don't mind the increased noise under mid-range and heavy loads, the 5VSB rail's poor efficiency, or bulkier than normal cables (some of them have extra filtering caps), then the 1000 G3 should cover your needs. A price point of $140 makes this a great bargain, while the normal price of $170 is still considered fair given the build quality and performance levels that this PSU achieves.

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Aris Mpitziopoulos
Aris Mpitziopoulos
Contributing Editor

Aris Mpitziopoulos is a Contributing Editor at Tom's Hardware US, covering PSUs.

13 Comments Comment from the forums
  • powernod
    140$. Exactly the same cost with Corsair's RMx1000 current pricing. Not sure which unit i would choose between those 2.
    Reply
  • BugariaM
    Nice.

    >>>The 1000 G3's single bulk cap is provided by Chemi-Con (400V, 820uF, 2000h @ 105°C, CE)

    Strangely, but I did not find "CE" series of capacitors in the Nippon Chemi-Con catalog
    Reply
  • 10tacle
    Wow. The price point of this and overall performance makes this a serious player even for those who were in the market for nothing more than 850W gold or even platinum PSUs. So many people out there say "you don't need more than a xxxW power supply for your build." I like to buy based on <60% of calculated max load use of my build for less fan noise, heat output, and higher efficiency wall draw.

    Buying a gold 600W PSU when my rig uses 500W for example does not make much sense to me. I'd prefer to spend a little more and buy a gold 850W ($110USD vs. $130USD in the example of these two 650 & 850 G3 series on NewEgg right now). Not only for a higher efficiency operation as described above, but for future headroom growth. But I understand many do not think that and look to save a few dollars everywhere...one being on the PSU.
    Reply
  • 10tacle
    19478429 said:
    140$. Exactly the same cost with Corsair's RMx1000 current pricing. Not sure which unit i would choose between those 2.

    Keep in mind when comparing the RM1000x that it was introduced at $180 in November 2015 and it took nearly a year to see the prices drop down below $150. The EVGA was originally released at $170 and has only been out for four months. Also keep in mind that the Corsair is marketed more for silent operation (drawback to that shown below).

    If none of the drawbacks described and shown here do not bother you, and if overall "hot" efficiency and exhaust temperature are among top priorities for you, then the EVGA is the better performer. Average efficiency result of 7 load line tests, and the average exhaust temps under each test:

    EVGA - 88.571%, 45.0C
    Corsair - 87.857%, 49.8C

    ^^While the <1% efficiency difference is nominal and will not be seen on your monthly power bill, that nearly 5C difference coming out can make a slight difference in the temperature of your room in the summer. So the Corsair being quieter has a drawback.

    http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story4&reid=494 (EVGA)
    http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story4&reid=449 (Corsair)
    Reply
  • Co BIY
    I would have liked to see the EVGA 1000 G2 in the performance tables as well. Both to see the generational improvement and to make a value comparison while both units are on the market.

    Is EVGA stopping production of the G2 series ?
    Reply
  • hst101rox
    10TACLE, if the efficiency of the EVGA and the Corsair are nearly identical, the ~5 degree C temp difference could be just from the amount of airflow being less in the Corsair. Power consumption is the only thing that equates to BTUs, heat.
    Reply
  • 10tacle
    19479497 said:
    10TACLE, if the efficiency of the EVGA and the Corsair are nearly identical, the ~5 degree C temp difference could be just from the amount of airflow being less in the Corsair. Power consumption is the only thing that equates to BTUs, heat.

    That's why I stated the downside to the Corsair is the hotter air coming out the back. Same thing with a video card: you have to sacrifice more heat output for a quieter fan speed.

    Reply
  • Aris_Mp
    I don't have 115V test results (but only 230V) for the G2s, so I couldn't add them to the graphs.
    Reply
  • Co BIY
    "We didn't get any OCP results because our unit died during the OPP test, meaning either that this particular sample had a problem or OPP is set very high."

    Seems like this would be a big deal ?

    Maybe at least one bullet in the Con column.
    Reply
  • Aris_Mp
    I have another one here, which come late, to test. If it dies as well then I will update the con list.
    Reply