Corsair CX-M Series, CX450M, Modular Power Supply, 80 Plus Bronze
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AI Verdict
This 450-watt, 80 Plus Bronze, semi-modular ATX power supply is for budget PC builds needing clean power for a single GPU.
This 450-watt, 80 Plus Bronze power supply is a solid choice for entry-level to mid-range systems with a single GPU, offering semi-modular cabling for cleaner builds. Its 140mm length fits most ATX cases, and the Japanese capacitors provide reliable power delivery. It's not for power-hungry components, but for typical use, it gets the job done without fuss.
If you plan on running a more powerful GPU or CPU, look for a PSU with at least 650-750 watts and 80 Plus Gold certification for better efficiency and headroom.
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Pros
- Semi-modular cabling reduces clutter by allowing you to connect only necessary cables.
- Japanese 105°C-rated capacitors deliver consistent and reliable power.
- 80 PLUS Bronze certification means it uses power efficiently and runs cooler.
- Robust DC-DC conversion for +3.3V and +5V provides stable power to components.
- The 140mm length offers flexibility for various build configurations.
- Users report the fan is quiet under light loads, making it barely audible.
Cons
- The single pigtailed PCIe cable with two 6+2 pin connectors might be limiting for some dual-GPU setups or specific high-power single GPUs.
- Some users have reported the fan can be audible under heavier loads.
- The platform is considered somewhat outdated compared to newer designs.
- The main 24-pin and 8-pin CPU power cables are permanently attached, which can make cable management slightly harder in smaller cases.
- The rifle bearing fan, while quieter than conventional bearings, is not as advanced as fluid dynamic bearing fans found in higher-end PSUs.
Dimension Scores
The 80 PLUS Bronze certification guarantees at least 81.997% efficiency at 10% load and 88.554% at 50% load, providing consistent 450-watt output.
It features a rifle bearing fan for low-noise operation, with reported noise levels around 20.5-20.7 dB(A) under light to moderate loads, though some users find it audible under heavy load.
It uses Japanese 105°C-rated capacitors and robust DC-DC conversion, which contribute to reliable power delivery and component longevity.
Semi-modular cabling allows for connecting only the necessary cables, reducing clutter, and the flat black cables aid in a cleaner build.
Best For
- Budget-conscious PC builds with a single mid-range graphics card.
- Compact PC cases where semi-modular cabling helps with space management.
- Systems prioritizing stable power delivery for core components.
- Upgrading an older, non-80 Plus certified power supply.
Not Recommended For
- High-end gaming rigs with multiple power-hungry GPUs.
- Enthusiast builds requiring fully modular cabling for pristine aesthetics.
- Silence-focused builds where any fan noise under load is unacceptable.
Watch Out For
- The single PCIe cable with two 6+2 pin connectors can be a limitation if your GPU requires two separate 8-pin power inputs, potentially leading to instability or compatibility issues.
- While generally quiet, some users noted the fan can become audibly louder when the system is under significant load.
- The 450-watt capacity is sufficient for many builds but can quickly become a bottleneck if you plan to upgrade to a more powerful CPU or GPU in the future.
- The platform, despite performing well, is based on an older design, which might not offer the same cutting-edge efficiency or features as newer PSUs.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B09HWTHDVZ |
| Brand | Corsair |
| Series | CX450M |
| Wattage | 450 watts |
| Model Name | CX450M |
| Form Factor | ATX |
| Item Weight | 3.3 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Corsair |
| Connector Type | PCI Express |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Output Wattage | 450 |
| Item model number | CP-9020219-NA |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Product Dimensions | 5.91 x 5.51 x 3.39 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.91 x 5.51 x 3.39 inches |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 5.91 x 5.51 x 3.39 inches |
What Buyers Say
Many users have kept this power supply running for years in various budget and mid-range builds without issues, often praising its durability. The semi-modular design is a recurring positive, making cable management less of a headache than with non-modular units. While generally quiet, a few people mentioned the fan noise picks up when the system is really pushing it. The single pigtailed PCIe cable is a common point of discussion, as it can limit options for some modern GPUs or dual-card setups.
“Honestly, this PSU just works, had it in my budget gaming PC for like 3 years now with a 1660 Super and it hasn't skipped a beat, cables are easy enough to manage too, just wish it had two separate PCIe cables for my next GPU upgrade.”
Common Praise
- Semi-modular design makes cable management much easier for a cleaner case interior.
- Runs reliably for years in various PC configurations, including those with dedicated GPUs.
- The fan is barely audible during light use and idle states.
- Provides stable and consistent power to components, even under load.
- Black-sleeved cables look much better than older 'ketchup and mustard' cables.
Common Complaints
- The fan can get noticeably louder when the system is under heavy load.
- The single PCIe cable with two 6+2 pin connectors can be restrictive for GPUs requiring two separate power cables.
- Some users felt it was pricey at full retail, recommending to buy it on sale.
- The 450-watt capacity can be limiting for future upgrades to more powerful hardware.
Ownership Tips
- The semi-modular design really does make a difference in keeping the case tidy, especially in smaller builds.
- The fan is quiet most of the time, but you'll hear it spin up if you're really pushing your CPU and GPU.
- The included cables are sufficient for most single-GPU setups, but that single pigtailed PCIe cable can be a headache if your GPU needs two dedicated power inputs.
- It feels sturdy and well-built, not like some cheap, flimsy power supplies.
- The 450W is fine for a lot of builds, but if you're thinking about a beefier GPU down the line, you'll probably need to upgrade this too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this power supply fully modular?
No, it is semi-modular. The main 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS12V CPU power cables are permanently attached, while other cables like PCIe and SATA are detachable.
What kind of fan does it use?
It uses a 140mm rifle bearing fan, designed for low-noise operation and longer life compared to conventional bearings.
Can this PSU power a gaming PC?
Yes, it can power a gaming PC with a mid-range graphics card, like a 1050ti or 1660Ti, as reported by users. However, 450 watts limits options for high-end GPUs.
Does it come with all necessary cables?
Yes, it includes the essential cables for a personal computer, including one EPS12V connector and two 8-pin (6+2) PCIe power connectors on a single cable, plus SATA and peripheral connectors.
What is the warranty period?
The Corsair CX-M Series, CX450M comes with a five-year warranty.
Is the fan loud?
The fan is designed for low-noise operation and is reported to be silent under light loads. Some users have noted it can become audible under heavy system load.
Buying Guide
When you're picking a power supply, you're basically choosing the heart of your PC. It needs to deliver enough stable power to all your components without overheating or making too much noise. You want to match its wattage to your system's needs, but also consider its efficiency and how easy it is to build with. Don't cheap out here, because a bad PSU can take out other expensive parts.
Wattage (450 watts)
80 PLUS Bronze certification
Semi-modular
Japanese capacitors (105°C rated)
Alternatives
If you need more power for a high-end GPU or plan extensive upgrades, look for power supplies with 650 watts or more and at least an 80 Plus Gold efficiency rating. For maximum cable management flexibility, consider fully modular units.
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