14 DAY TRIAL // Power supply units can look similar on the surface, since they're all blocks of metal on the outside, but their performance and efficiency variety is very wide. The new Xigmatek Maverick S line is probably among the best mid-range ones ever.
It's not that hard to invent a high-end PSU if you own the technology or the patents for them. When price is a distant concern, all you have to do is pack all the best stuff you can think of and just make sure the circuits are tough enough to handle the load.
Admittedly, that's a pretty simplified way to say it, but it's the unofficial truth, although the actual fabrication may prove challenging.
However, it's making mainstream models that's the real trick, since there are lots of things to balance while trying to fit in a certain price envelope.
Meet Xigmatek's Maverick S line
You'd expect a product called “Maverick” to be among the best in the world, but a case can also be made for the name being better suited for a product that does a good job while under certain resource restrictions. Under pressure as it were, figuratively speaking.
Pressure, in this case, is public opinion, and the result needs to be a good blend of output, efficiency, and affordability.
The Maverick S line is made of PSUs smaller than the usual ATX ones, with the same width and height but lesser depth. Thus, they measure 150 x 85 x 123 mm / 5.9 x 3.34 x 4.84 inches. This is known as the PS3 form factor.
The output is of 400W, 500W, or 600W, delivered via a single +12V rail and active PFC (power factor correction). All common electrical protection systems are included (over/under voltage, overload, short-circuit).
Moreover, the 80 Plus Bronze certification means that the efficiency is of 82% at 20% load, 85% at 50% load, and 82% at 100% load.
Add to that the semi-modular design (essential cables built in, SATA/MOLEX and others detached) and you've got a nice level of customizability and cable routing as well. Good for system cooling. Speaking of which, the PSU uses a 120mm fan to keep the heat low.
Availability and pricing
The Xigmatek Maverick S PSUs are said to be priced at “points deep inside the $100 [€100] mark,” which likely means that the 400W and 600W are cheaper and more expensive, respectively. All models have ATX 2.3/EPS 2.92 support. Normal-size versions with depth of 158 mm / 6.22 inches should be selling as well, for comparable prices.
