1. How many watts?

Add up the graphics card and processor consumption and add about 150 W for the rest and headroom. Typical values:

550–650 WPCs with an entry/mid-range GPU (RTX 5060, RX 9060 XT).
750–850 WHigh-end GPU (RTX 5070 Ti, RX 9070 XT).
1000 W+Top-end (RTX 5090) and overclocking.
HeadroomA power supply running at 50–70% load is quieter and more efficient.

2. 80 Plus certification

It measures efficiency: how much of the wall power reaches the parts. 80 Plus Gold is the ideal balance of price and efficiency. Bronze suits budget PCs. Note: certification does not guarantee component quality — look for independent reviews of the specific unit.

3. ATX 3.1 and the 12V-2x6 connector

Recent NVIDIA cards use a 16-pin connector (12V-2x6). An ATX 3.0/3.1 power supply provides this cable natively, avoiding adapters. Always push it in all the way.

4. Modular, semi-modular or fixed

With modular units you connect only the cables you need, which eases cable management and airflow. It is comfort, not performance.

5. Common mistakes

  • Generic unbranded units with an exaggerated “peak power”.
  • Reusing a very old power supply in a new, powerful PC.
  • Buying just enough: with no headroom the fan works harder and is noisier.
Summary: 80 Plus Gold, ATX 3.1, from a known brand and with 20–30% headroom over the PC's consumption. Compare power supplies →