Review

The Pure Power 12 M 850W Modular power supply from be quiet! is an intriguing option for anyone in need of a reliable power source for their PC. Offering 850 watts of power and an 80 Plus® Gold efficiency rating, this power supply is designed to handle demanding PC builds with ease. Its modular design allows for flexibility and tidiness in cable management, appealing to both novice and seasoned PC builders.

Designed under the ATX 3.0 standard, this PSU supports the latest PCIe 5.0 GPUs alongside traditional 6+2 pin connectors. This compatibility makes it suitable for enthusiasts looking to future-proof their setups with the latest graphics cards. The silent 120mm be quiet! fan ensures that cooling is efficient and noise levels are kept to a minimum, living up to the manufacturer's name.

The power supply's robust safety features further add to its appeal. This includes advanced protections such as Over Temperature Protection (OTP), Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Power Protection (OPP), Short Circuit Protection (SCP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Under Voltage Protection (UVP), and Surge & Inrush Protection (SIP). These comprehensive protections ensure that the PSU operates safely under various conditions.

Performance and Efficiency

Boasting an efficiency rating of 80 Plus® Gold, the Pure Power 12 M 850W Modular stands out for its energy efficiency. The high efficiency ensures that less power is wasted as heat, promoting not only environmental friendliness but also cost savings in electricity bills over time. This efficiency is backed by a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of over 100,000 hours, which speaks to the long-term reliability you can expect from this unit.

Installation and Usability

When it comes to installation, some reviewers have highlighted challenges. According to a review from LDLC, while the PSU operates quietly and performs well in general, there were noted issues with connection tightness on the motherboard and PCIe cables, requiring significant effort to secure the connections fully. This may be a point of concern for builders who want a smooth and hassle-free installation experience. It’s worth considering if perhaps other models like Corsair or Seasonic might ease the process in this area. These connection issues seem to be isolated cases but are worth keeping in mind during installation.

Value Proposition

Priced at $124.9, the Pure Power 12 M 850W Modular power supply presents solid value given its features, safety certifications, and performance. It's a competitive option for those looking to power a high-performance gaming rig or a workstation without compromise. The combination of modular design, gold-standard efficiency, and extensive safety features makes it a formidable choice in the mid to high-end PSU market segment.

Conclusion

Overall, the Pure Power 12 M 850W Modular offers excellent capabilities with some foreseen challenges in the installation process. Leveraging this PSU could ensure future-proofing with PCIe 5.0 compatibility for next-gen GPUs, all while maintaining quiet and efficient operation. Despite minor issues mentioned by users, it’s a solid option worth considering for your next build.