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There is increased demand, it seems, for more affordable PSUs that use less advanced platforms to reduce costs. Instead of group-regulated schemes or mag-amp amplifiers, though, PSUs like the Thermaltake Smart BM2 750Q use DC-DC converters to generate the minor rails, so they are more efficient and can handle unbalanced, among the rails, loads more effectively.
CWT's CSB platform is a good choice for an affordable PSU line. You will also find this platform in the new XPG Pylon series models, with some component upgrades. For example, the Pylon 750W uses a larger bulk cap for increased hold-up time and a larger NTC thermistor for lower inrush currents.
The Thermaltake Smart BM2 model with 750W max power is worth considering if you are interested in a mid-level power supply and don't want to pay a lot. Unfortunately, the increased demand and the high shipping cost greatly affected all IT products. This is why Bronze and Silver (in the Cybenetics scale) efficiency PSUs are popular among users, since they are much more affordable than Gold ones. The major opponents of the Smart BM2 750 are the XPG Pylon with similar capacity (we will soon review it), which offers increased performance thanks to the part upgrades but it lacks modular cables. If you are into RGB, you should take a look at the Corsair CX750F. There are also other options in this category, including the Corsair CX750 and CX750M and the Cooler Master MWE Bronze 750.
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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.
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