Let's dive deep into the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ, a power supply unit (PSU) that's been making waves in the PC building community. If you're looking for a reliable, efficient, and powerful PSU for your gaming rig or workstation, the 850 GQ might just be what you need. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know, from its features and performance to its pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let’s get started!

Overview of the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ

The EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ is an 850-watt power supply unit with an 80+ Gold certification, meaning it boasts excellent energy efficiency. This PSU is designed to provide stable and clean power to your components, ensuring your system runs smoothly even under heavy loads. With its semi-modular design, it offers a balance between cable management and cost-effectiveness. The 850 GQ is built with high-quality components, promising longevity and reliability. Its features cater to both seasoned PC builders and newcomers alike, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of systems.

Key Features

When it comes to the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ, several key features set it apart. First off, the 80+ Gold certification ensures that it operates at around 90% efficiency under typical loads. This not only saves you money on your electricity bill but also reduces heat output, which can help prolong the lifespan of your components. The semi-modular design allows you to use only the cables you need, reducing clutter inside your case and improving airflow. Additionally, it includes a 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan that operates quietly, even under heavy loads. The comprehensive protection suite, including Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Under Voltage Protection (UVP), Over Power Protection (OPP), and Short Circuit Protection (SCP), ensures your components are safe from power-related issues. These features combine to make the 850 GQ a solid choice for any PC build.

Why Choose an 850W PSU?

So, why should you consider an 850W PSU like the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ? Well, the wattage you need depends on the components you're running in your system. High-end CPUs and GPUs can draw significant power, and it's essential to have a PSU that can handle the demand. An 850W PSU provides ample headroom for most gaming rigs, even those with overclocked components or multiple GPUs. It also gives you room for future upgrades without needing to replace your PSU. Choosing a PSU with more wattage than you currently need is a smart move, as it allows for flexibility and ensures your system remains stable, especially during demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. Plus, a higher wattage PSU often runs more efficiently at lower loads compared to a lower wattage PSU running near its maximum capacity.

Performance and Efficiency

Let’s dig into the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ's performance and efficiency. The 80+ Gold certification is more than just a label; it translates to real-world energy savings and reduced heat generation. When a PSU is 80+ Gold certified, it means that it operates at a minimum of 87% efficiency at 20% load, 90% efficiency at 50% load, and 87% efficiency at 100% load. This level of efficiency not only lowers your electricity bill but also keeps your system cooler, which can extend the lifespan of your components. The 850 GQ consistently delivers stable voltage, ensuring that your CPU, GPU, and other components receive the power they need without fluctuations.

Testing and Results

During various tests, the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ has proven to be a reliable performer. Voltage regulation is tight, meaning the voltage supplied remains consistent even under varying loads. Ripple and noise are minimal, which is crucial for maintaining the stability of sensitive components like your motherboard and GPU. In stress tests, the PSU maintained its efficiency and didn't exhibit any signs of overheating or instability. These results indicate that the 850 GQ is a well-engineered PSU capable of handling demanding workloads without breaking a sweat. Whether you're gaming, rendering videos, or running other intensive applications, you can trust this PSU to deliver consistent and clean power.

Noise Levels

Another important aspect of any PSU is its noise level. The EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ uses a 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan, which is known for its quiet operation. Under light to moderate loads, the fan spins at a low RPM, making it virtually silent. Even under heavy loads, the fan noise remains reasonable and doesn't become overly distracting. This makes the 850 GQ a great choice for those who value a quiet computing experience. If you're building a silent PC, this PSU won't be the loudest component in your system. The fan's intelligent speed control ensures that it only ramps up when necessary, keeping noise levels to a minimum.

Design and Build Quality

When you invest in a PSU like the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ, you expect it to be well-built and durable. Fortunately, this PSU doesn't disappoint. It's constructed with high-quality components, including Japanese capacitors, which are known for their reliability and longevity. The internal layout is clean and organized, promoting good airflow and efficient heat dissipation. The exterior features a sleek, black design that will look great in any PC case. The semi-modular design is a nice touch, allowing you to use only the cables you need, which reduces clutter and improves airflow inside your case.

Components and Materials

The choice of components in the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ reflects a commitment to quality. Japanese capacitors are used throughout the PSU, which are more resistant to heat and degradation compared to capacitors from other regions. This ensures that the PSU will continue to perform reliably for years to come. The high-quality fan is designed to last, and the overall construction feels solid and robust. EVGA clearly didn't cut any corners when it comes to the materials used in this PSU. This attention to detail gives you confidence that you're investing in a product that's built to last.

Semi-Modular Design

The semi-modular design of the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ is a practical feature that enhances the building experience. With a fully modular PSU, all cables are detachable, while a non-modular PSU has all cables permanently attached. The semi-modular design strikes a balance by having the essential cables (like the ATX 24-pin and CPU power cables) permanently attached, while allowing you to detach the peripheral and PCIe cables. This reduces cable clutter and improves airflow, as you only need to use the cables that your system requires. It also makes cable management easier, resulting in a cleaner and more organized build. The semi-modular design is a thoughtful compromise that offers many of the benefits of a fully modular PSU without the added cost.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ:

Pros:

• 80+ Gold Certification: High efficiency reduces electricity costs and heat output.
• Semi-Modular Design: Improves cable management and airflow.
• High-Quality Components: Japanese capacitors ensure reliability and longevity.
• Quiet Operation: The 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan keeps noise levels low.
• Comprehensive Protection Suite: Protects your components from power-related issues.
• Ample Wattage: 850W provides plenty of headroom for most gaming and workstation builds.

Cons:

• Semi-Modular vs. Fully Modular: Some users may prefer the complete customization of a fully modular PSU.
• Price: While not the most expensive PSU, it's not the cheapest either.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, efficient, and powerful PSU. Its 80+ Gold certification, semi-modular design, and high-quality components make it a standout performer in its class. While it may not be the cheapest option, the investment is well worth it for the peace of mind and performance it provides. Whether you're building a gaming rig, a workstation, or just upgrading your current system, the 850 GQ is a PSU that you can trust. So, if you're in the market for a new power supply, be sure to give the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GQ a serious look. You won't be disappointed!