Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 850W

The Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 is an 850W ATX 3.0 power supply that boasts an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating. It features a PCIe5 12VHPWR connector and is designed for SLI/Crossfire configurations with robust protection features.
Popularity: Low
Specifications:
Model: Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 850W
Watt: 850.0 W
ATX Version: ATX 3.0
Modular Design:
Dimensions: 150mm(W)x86mm(H)x140mm(D)
Weight:
Power Efficiency Rating: 80 PLUS® Gold
Cooling System: 12cm FDB Fan
MTBF (Hours): 100,000
Connectors: PCI-E 6+2PIN: 4, PCI-E 12+4PIN: 1
Protection Features: OVP/UVP/OCP/OPP/OTP/SCP
Safety Certifications: FCC/ICES/CB/cTUVus/S-mark
Zero RPM Mode:
Manufacturer Page: Link
Review
The Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 850W is a modern power supply designed for high-performance PC builds, boasting an 80 PLUS Gold efficiency rating and compatibility with the latest SLI/Crossfire configurations. With a solid design aimed at providing energy efficiency and robust performance, it stands out as a strong candidate for powering demanding systems.
Technical Specifications
- Model: TPD-850AH2NLG
- Wattage: 850W
- Efficiency: 80 PLUS Gold Certified
- Type: ATX 3.0
- Cooling System: 12cm Fluid Dynamic Bearing Fan
- Protection Features: OVP/UVP/OCP/OPP/OTP/SCP
- Connectors: Includes PCIe5 12VHPWR
These features underscore the power supply's capacity to support modern GPUs and CPUs, offering flexibility and future-proofing for a variety of high-demand setups. However, one slight limitation is its non-modular design, which could affect cable management in some cases.
Performance and Testing Insights
A recent review by El Chapuzas Informático highlights that the Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 850W delivers solid performance with a steady voltage supply across all rails during stress testing. The voltages remained stable under supreme workloads, demonstrating its reliability for high-powered systems. Additionally, the Smart Zero Fan technology—which keeps the fan idle below 30% load—translates to a quieter performance. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who engage in tasks that demand minimal power, offering silent operation when the system is not under heavy load.
Design and Build Quality
The Toughpower GX3, while non-modular, exhibits a robust physical design with dimensions of 150mm x 86mm x 140mm. The included 12VHPWR connector makes it apt for newer graphics cards, although it is restricted to 300W, potentially limiting compatibility with power-hungry GPUs like the RTX 4090 without adapters (El Chapuzas Informático). The power supply is housed in a traditional black chassis, with cooling facilitated by a 12cm fan equipped with Fluid Dynamic Bearings, enhancing its durability and reducing operational noise under load.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality components and build
- 80 PLUS Gold Certification ensures efficiency
- Smart Zero Fan for quieter operation
- Comprehensive protection features
Cons:
- Non-modular design can complicate cable management
- 12VHPWR connector limited to 300W
Conclusion
Overall, the Thermaltake Toughpower GX3 850W is a commendable choice for mid-range to high-end systems, offering substantial power output and efficiency. While it may not be the best fit for the latest extreme GPU models due to its 12VHPWR connector limitations, its strong focus on efficiency and protection makes it a reliable choice for many users. The power supply's combination of cost-efficiency, solid performance in benchmark tests, and innovative fan technology place it firmly among the preferred options for daily rigs and light gaming setups.