It is immediately evident from the price point, packaging and aesthetics that this is a no-compromise enthusiast grade power supply which is reflected by it’s performance. Corsair has tried to create a high wattage unit that gives enthusiasts everything they need, and from what I have seen, they have succeeded! It is evident that some compramises have been made which is the reason they have their ultra-premium AX line, such as the voltage stability. Although compramises have been made, the regulation is extremely tight and is nothing that would negatively effect any part of your system- however if you really need that extreme performance, you are going to have to shell out for AX series units.
This unit beats the competition not though novelty features or fancy looks, but by simply outperforming them which speaks volumes for Corsair’s ethic and how well the unit caters for it’s target audience. It does not compromise on features however, including a well thought out modular design and plenty of accessories.
The only thing that lets this unit down is the marginal undervolting which is a non-issue but more of a surprise. That and, of course, the price. Weighing in at around £165 from Scan it is directly competing with Silverstone’s Strider 1000W PSU which beats it in terms of stats and costs the same as well as Silverstone’s Strider 1200W PSU which beats it in terms of power but not efficiency which costs only £1 more. Tough competition for Corsair- but the quality of the unit as well as Corsiar’s reputation for enthusiast-grade products should be enough to give the HX1050 the edge.
Overall, if you are looking for a powerful PSU to drive your high-end rig and watercooling loop without shelling out for Corsair’s AX-series then the HX1050 is a really solid option providing you with fantastic quality, aesthetics and, most importantly, power!
Great review and surprising results indeed… 80+ silver? they over did themselves lol