Conclusion and Verdict
I would not recommend running this power supply like I did for the testing. I was using on PCI-e cable on each card, when it is recommended to use one cable per connector. But hey, its testing so let’s see what happens right? I didn’t notice any cables getting hot or any crashes, so this power supply was working quite well. As you can see, I was pulling 583 watts while I loaded the system with everything it had. And thanks to the readout I could see the temp reading, fan speed, and wattage. Those are the features I was talking about in the intro. These very cool to have on a nicely lit up display. I can see this being an issue with some cases though. I am also not sure why it said 400W and the gauge I was using stated a much higher usage? Maybe measuring the output, the power supply is actually delivering?
The operation of this power supply was quiet and cool. The only audible noise was at first start when you could hear a click when the power button was pressed. These is also an audible noise when you shut the unit down. Completely normal operation. The RGB was nicely done and could be fully customized with the software. This does require the use of a USB header on your motherboard. The testing held up and the power provided plenty of power for a 3070 and 3060Ti running at the same time!
Efficiency Requirements for 80Plus Certification
A higher wattage doesn’t necessarily mean you are getting a better power supply. So be careful if you aren’t getting one from a reputable brand. Also if you go Gold or even higher Platinum you are getting a very efficient power supply. You can think of it in this way, an 80 Plus Gold power supply provides 90 percent of its rated wattage as power, and loses the other 10 percent as heat.
I can’t tell you how many times I have been saved by a good power supply. I work with an open test bench and am always unplugging and plugging stuff in while my system is on. Having a capable Current protection can be big a sigh of relief. And this power supply has you cover with OVP, OPP, SCP, OCP, UVP, OTP protections. This can be a life saver, if you plug something in wrong!
Now for the big question will this power supply power the new cards? Yes the power supply meets the requirements for the 3090 and everything below. For the 3090 you will need a minimum of 750W and 2 PCIe 8 pin connectors. This power supply offers the 850W and has a total of 2 – 8 pin connectors. So rest assured this power supply will work with the top tier, new cards from Nvidia. The only Card that is going to require a higher PSU is the AMD RX 6900XT at, 850W recommended.
One thing and the most important thing to remember when swapping out power supplies, IS NEVER REUSE CABLES FROM ANOTHER POWER SUPPLY! I would even caution this idea if its the same brand. I learned this the hard way in my past learning because I didn’t want to re-cable a case and come to find out some power supplies connectors vary brand to brand. Here is good explanation of what I am saying. Luckily when I did this I only lost some lights because the power supply was semi modular and that probably saved my mother board and CPU. Anyways take the time and use the cables that come with your power supply at all times!
The Cooler Master XG850 Plus Platinum Power Supply can be found on NewEgg and other e-tailers for around $334.99 USD. I am not sure of the MSRP. You can also buy the Cooler Master XG850 Plus Platinum Power Supply 
Pros:
- 80 Plus Platinum
- LED Display Readout
- RGB
- Cool Operation Temps
- Durable Flat Cables
Cons:
- None
Final Thoughts:
The Cooler Master XG850 Plus Platinum Power Supply is a power supply ready for action and the RGB is well done. The informative display readout is an outstanding feature to have on a power supply. With this being the first go at a power supply, Cooler Master has set the bar high!
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