Need PSU buying help ASAP

[Icarusintel]

I'm looking to upgrade my PSU from a 480W to at least a 700W to get ready for an SLI system. Newegg posted an OCZ GameXStream 700W PSU today for only $140 after rebates. I had been looking at this PSU, but had started also looking at the Thermaltake Toughpower 750W.

Should I get the OCZ one since the price is right or wait for the Thermaltake to drop in price?

 

[Garfield_]

Nah go with the OCZ it's for sure better

 

[NetGuru42]

agreed. Thermaltake's new PSU lineup is less than impressive. You will be very happy with the OCZ.

 

[Icarusintel]

Alright, thanks, I guess I'll get to buying it then.

 

[Garfield_]

Atleast in my opinion, Thermaltake isn't commited to quality while OCZ is and is mostly built for high-performance

 

[Sedako]

The main thing you want to make sure of if you're planning on going SLI is if the 12v rail has at least 38a total, although I would stress 40a. This will ensure that your cards are not being choked during heavy loads. That OCZ PSU certainly looks like a great choice however, as you could probably continue using it well past your next upgrade.

You could also go with http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817711001 for a little less. Although it is 600w instead of 700, the 12v rail will be supplying 20a to each vid card instead of 18a the other one will give you.

 

[Asus]

Thermaltake's line has always been average, quality wise. Some good, some bad. They have a different manufactures making different models so they are not consistant.

OCZ has some good solid rails from what I've seen on most of their powersupplies.

 

[NetGuru42]

You could also go with http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817711001 for a little less. Although it is 600w instead of 700, the 12v rail will be supplying 20a to each vid card instead of 18a the other one will give you.

Actually, this may or may not make any difference. 18a is the maximum output each rail is rated for. Meaning, if you have 3 12v rails and 38a available total, two of the 12v rails could output 18a, but the third would only be able to output 2a. What you have to look at is the total amperage output for all of the 12v rails.

Also, inform me otherwise if you know of any, but I don't know of any video cards that will take advantage of the extra 2a you get from the 20a rating.