The importance of a high-quality PSU cannot be overstated. It provides stable and reliable power to your system, which is crucial for your computer’s optimal performance and longevity.
Since there is a wide range of PSU options available from different brands, it can indeed be overwhelming to choose the perfect model. Before you can decide which PSU option is perfect for you, you need to carefully understand its features and which brand and series can offer the best results in your case. Or, you can simply go with one of the top players like Corsair RM, which can easily offer you the best and most reliable performance out of all.
While almost all PSU models designed by Corsair are highly popular, a few options stand out in the crowd. The Corsair RM and RMx are the most popular options from Corsair right now and are compatible with many buyers. Therefore, we will compare these options in detail today and check out the major differences between both of these options regarding both specifications and performance.
What is Corsair RM?
Corsair RM is a series of power supply units manufactured by Corsair, a well-known computer hardware manufacturer. The RM series stands for “Reliable and Modular,” emphasizing these PSUs’ reliability and modular design features.
The Corsair RM PSUs are known for their high-quality components, excellent performance, and reliability. They are designed to deliver stable and efficient power to your computer system while offering modular cables for improved cable management. The RM PSUs are 80 Plus Gold certified, which meets certain energy efficiency standards. They are designed to convert AC power to DC power with minimal energy loss, resulting in lower electricity bills and reduced heat generation.
The RM series PSUs feature a fully modular design, where all the cables can be detached from the unit. This lets you connect only the necessary cables to your components, improving airflow and cable management inside your computer case. Corsair has designed the RM PSUs to operate quietly. The fan in the power supply is engineered to run at low speeds under normal loads, minimizing noise while still providing efficient cooling.
The RM series PSUs use high-quality Japanese capacitors, known for their reliability and longevity. These capacitors help ensure stable power delivery and contribute to the overall durability of the PSU. The RM PSUs have built-in overcurrent, overvoltage, and short-circuit protection mechanisms. These safety features help safeguard your computer components from potential damage caused by power fluctuations or electrical issues.
What is Corsair RMx?
Corsair RMx is an enhanced version of the Corsair RM series power supply units manufactured by Corsair. The RMx series builds upon the features of the standard RM series and offers some additional improvements and benefits. The Corsair RMx PSUs are also 80 Plus Gold certified, ensuring excellent energy efficiency. This certification means it offers reduced electricity consumption and lower operating costs than other choices.
The RMx PSUs also feature a fully modular design like the standard RM series. All cables are detachable, allowing you to connect only the necessary cables to your components. This modularity enhances cable management and improves airflow within your computer case, resulting in a cleaner and more efficient build.
The RMx series focuses on providing a quiet computing experience. These PSUs have a specially designed fan that operates silently under typical loads. The fan’s speed adjusts based on the PSU’s temperature and load, ensuring efficient cooling and low noise levels.
Corsair RMx PSUs are Corsair Link compatible. Corsair Link is a software utility that enables you to monitor and control various aspects of your system, including PSU efficiency, fan speed, and temperature. With Corsair Link, you can fine-tune the performance and customize the operation of your RMx PSU.
What are the Differences Between the Corsair RM and RMX?
Suppose you want to understand the core differences between various models available in the COrsair RM and RMx series PSUs. In that case, you need first to understand a few key factors such as capacitors, power efficiency, fan technology, modularity, etc. Only then can you distinguish between different choices available out there and see which options suit your needs the best. Therefore, we will ease the task for you by comparing both of these options and discussing the parameters thoroughly regarding both models.
1. Power Supply Capacitors
Both the Corsair RM and RMx power supply unit series utilize high-quality capacitors, but there are slight differences in capacitor specifications. The Corsair RM series PSUs typically employ high-quality capacitors from reputable manufacturers, including Japanese capacitors. These capacitors are known for their reliability, stability, and longevity. While Corsair does not explicitly mention the capacitor brand in its product documentation, they emphasize using top-tier components to ensure optimal performance and durability.
The Corsair RMx series also incorporates high-quality capacitors, including Japanese capacitors. Like the RM series, Corsair focuses on using premium components to enhance the overall reliability and performance of the PSUs. However, the RMx series may utilize capacitors from specific manufacturers known for their excellent reputation in the industry. Again, Corsair does not explicitly specify the capacitor brand in their product documentation, so it’s advisable to consult the manufacturer’s website or contact Corsair directly for precise information.
2. Warranty & Pricing
The RM series PSUs typically come with a standard warranty period ranging from 3 to 5 years, depending on the specific model. The warranty covers any manufacturing defects or failures during the specified period. Corsair provides customer support and handles warranty claims for RM series PSUs.
The RM series PSUs are generally priced in a more affordable range compared to the higher-end RMx series. The RM series offers a variety of models with different wattage options, allowing users to choose based on their budget and power requirements.
The RMx series PSUs generally offer an extended warranty compared to the RM series. Depending on the specific model, they typically come with a warranty period of 7 to 10 years. This longer warranty period provides additional coverage and peace of mind for the RMx series PSUs. Corsair handles warranty claims and provides customer support for RMx series PSUs.
The RMx series tends to be priced slightly higher compared to the RM series. This is due to the additional features, such as the Zero RPM fan mode and potentially higher efficiency ratings, contributing to the increased cost. The RMx series mainly targets enthusiasts and users with power-hungry systems, offering higher wattage options.
3. Power Efficiency
The Corsair RM and RMx power supply unit series are designed to provide high power efficiency, but there are slight differences between them regarding efficiency ratings.
The RM series PSUs typically carry an 80 Plus Gold certification, indicating high efficiency. The 80 Plus Gold certification ensures that these PSUs can convert AC power from the wall outlet into DC power for your computer components with minimal energy loss. They typically operate at 87% or higher efficiency levels under various load conditions.
The RMx series PSUs also hold an 80 Plus Gold certification, indicating high energy efficiency. Like the RM series, the RMx PSUs are designed to convert AC power to DC power with minimal energy loss. They also achieve efficiency levels of 87% or higher under different loads.
Although keep in mind that the efficiency ratings of individual models within the RM and RMx series may vary slightly, it’s recommended to refer to the specific product documentation or Corsair’s official website for detailed efficiency specifications of the exact PSU model you are considering.
Overall, both the Corsair RM and RMx series offer high power efficiency, meeting the 80 Plus Gold certification requirements. This means they are designed to minimize energy waste and provide efficient power delivery to your computer components, resulting in lower electricity consumption and reduced operating costs.
4. Fan Technology
The RM series PSUs employ a standard fan curve design. The fan speed adjusts based on the PSU’s temperature and load. Under normal operating conditions, the fan runs at low speeds to ensure efficient cooling while keeping noise levels relatively low. The fan used in the RM series may vary between models and generations.
The RMx series PSUs introduce an additional feature known as the Zero RPM fan mode. This mode allows the PSU’s fan to remain completely off during low to medium loads and when the PSU is operating within a certain temperature range. The fan will only start spinning when the PSU’s temperature rises above a specific threshold or when the load increases significantly, requiring additional cooling. The Zero RPM fan mode ensures silent operation during light usage scenarios.
5. Modularity
The RM series PSUs feature a fully modular design. This means that all the cables, including the main motherboard power cable, PCIe power cables, SATA power cables, and peripheral cables, can be detached from the PSU. With a fully modular PSU, you can connect only the necessary cables to your components, reducing cable clutter and improving airflow within your computer case. This modularity enhances cable management and simplifies the installation process.
Similar to the RM series, the RMx series also incorporates a fully modular design. All cables can be disconnected from the PSU, allowing for customizable cable connections and improved cable management. This modular design provides the same benefits as the RM series, including better airflow, reduced clutter, and easier installation.
6. Performance
Corsair emphasizes the use of high-quality components in both the RM and RMx series. These include reliable capacitors, such as Japanese capacitors, known for their longevity and stability. The choice of quality components contributes to the overall performance and durability of the PSUs.
Both series focus on efficient cooling and quiet operation. The fans in these PSUs adjust their speed based on temperature and load conditions to provide optimal cooling while keeping noise levels at a minimum. The RMx series introduces the Zero RPM fan mode, which allows the fan to remain off during low to medium loads, providing silent operation when system demands are low.
Both of these options are built to provide stable power output and reliable voltage regulation. They incorporate advanced voltage regulation technologies to maintain consistent and precise voltage levels across different load conditions. This helps ensure the stable operation and longevity of your computer components.
When choosing between the RM and RMx series, consider your power requirements, budget, desired features (such as fan noise level and modularity), and compatibility with your components. Evaluating these factors will help you select a PSU with the performance and features that align with your needs.
7. Protection Functions
Both the RM and RMx series incorporate Over Voltage Protection, which monitors the voltage levels and prevents them from exceeding safe thresholds. This protection function helps safeguard your components from potential damage due to excessive voltage.
The RM and RMx series also include Under Voltage Protection, which ensures that the voltage supplied to your components does not fall below a certain threshold. UVP prevents instability and potential damage caused by insufficient power delivery. SCP is also available with both of these options, a critical protection feature. In the event of a short circuit, this function immediately shuts down the PSU to prevent further damage to the PSU itself and the connected components.
Both series incorporate Over Power Protection, which prevents the PSU from delivering more power than its rated capacity. OPP helps prevent overloading and potential damage to the PSU and connected components. The RM and RMx series have built-in Over Temperature Protection to monitor the temperature of the PSU. If the temperature rises to a critical level, OTP triggers a shutdown to prevent overheating and potential damage.
| Parameters | Corsair RM 1000 | Corsair RM 1000x |
| Power Supply Capacitors | High-quality, low-noise capacitors | 100% All Japanese 105 capacitors: |
| Warranty | 7 Years | 10 Years |
| Price | Approximately $320 | Approximately $285 |
| Fan Size | 140 mm | 135 mm |
| SATA Connectors | 8x SATA power connectors | 8x SATA power connectors, 2 cables. |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX12V |
| Power Efficiency | 80 Plus Gold Certified | 80 Plus Gold certified |
| Modularity | Fully Modular | Fully Modular |
Corsair RM Vs Corsair RMx – FAQs
Ans: Yes, the Corsair RMx series power supply units are known for their quiet operation. The RMx series implements a Zero RPM fan mode, which allows the PSU’s fan to remain completely off during low to medium loads and when the PSU is operating within a certain temperature range. This feature ensures silent operation during light usage scenarios, as the fan doesn’t spin and generate noise when the system demands are low.
When the system load or temperature increases beyond a certain threshold, the fan will start spinning to provide additional cooling. However, Corsair designs its fans to operate at low speeds during typical usage, resulting in minimal noise levels.
Ans: Yes, the Corsair RM and RMx power supply units suit gaming PCs. These series are designed to provide reliable and stable power delivery, making them well-suited for high-performance systems, including gaming rigs. The RM and RMx series offers a range of wattage options, allowing you to select a PSU that meets the power requirements of your gaming PC. Whether you have a mid-range gaming system or a high-end gaming rig with multiple graphics cards, suitable options are available.
Ans: Yes, both the Corsair RM and RMx power supply units can support multi-GPU setups. These PSU series are designed to provide sufficient power for high-performance systems, including configurations with multiple graphics cards. The Corsair RM and RMx series offer various wattage options, ranging from lower wattages suitable for single-GPU setups to higher wattages for multi-GPU configurations.
Multi-GPU setups also require multiple PCIe power connectors to supply power to each graphics card. Both the RM and RMx series provide ample PCIe power connectors, including 6+2-pin or 8-pin connectors, depending on the specific model and wattage option you choose.
Conclusion
Today, we have discussed the Corsair RM and RMx power supply unit series and compared them in various aspects. The RM series is a line of power supplies known for their reliability, high efficiency, and affordability. They offer a fully modular design, solid build quality, and a range of wattage options to meet different system requirements. The RMx series is an upgraded version of the RM series, offering additional features and enhanced performance. It also features a fully modular design, high efficiency, and reliable operation. The RMx series introduces improvements like the Zero RPM fan mode, which ensures silent operation during low to medium loads.
Choosing between the Corsair RM and RMx series depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors such as power requirements, budget, desired features (such as fan noise level and modularity), and compatibility with your components.
