Performance (40% of the final score) - when the Corsair TX850 arrived in the lab, I had the usual high expectations I have for all Corsair units, and it did not disappoint. Not only did it hold the rails more stable than little brother TX750 did, it also managed to beat it in almost every other meaningful way. Ripple and noise suppression was better, and efficiency was also better for the most part. That said, I do find myself wanting to dock half a point for not remaining above 80% efficiency in the hot box, test five. 9.5.
Functionality (20% of the final score) - what's good for the goose is good for the gander. Like the TX750, this unit isn't wanting for SATA and Molex connectors. Also helping it out is the fact that it bears four 6+2 pin PCI-E connectors. What's not to like? Oh yeah, the loose heatsink screws. Two points off for that. 8.
Value (30% of the final score) - with a projected MSRP of $149.99 and an estimated street price of $129.99, the TX850 continues the trend from Corsair to price just about everyone else out of the game. Not only is it cheaper than units like the also very capable Silverstone DA850, only the impressive BFG ES-800 really gives it a run for its money these days. 10.
Aesthetics (10% of the final score) - just like the TX750, the appearance of the TX850 is that same nice matte black I like so much. Except for the incomplete sleeving, there's nothing to complain about here. 9.5.
Performance
9.5
Functionality
8
Value
10
Aesthetics
9.5
Total Score
9.5
Summary
In what has become the norm for Corsair, their latest and greatest really is their latest and very nearly their greatest. Not only have they gone out and made the PSH platform into an excellent performer at the very top end of what it's capable of, they've produced yet another unit that will have enthusiasts far and wide using the word "Corsair" in every other sentence. And as long as they keep cranking the good units out like this, that's not a bad thing at all.
The Good:
extremely stable up to 849W at 45 degrees
better ripple and noise suppression than little brother
looks awesome
four 8 pin PCI-E connectors
fan delay on power off
The Bad:
efficiency got below 80% in the hot box, progressive load tests
soldering could be a bit better
The Mediocre:
heatsink screws loose again... this time, all of them
