be quiet! Dark Power 14 1200W, ATX 3.1, 80 Plus® Titanium, Modular Power Supply, Active and semi-Passive Cooling, PCIe 5.1, PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 Graphics Cards, 12V-2x6 Cable Included, Silent Wings
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AI Verdict
A 1200W ATX 3.1 80 PLUS Titanium modular PSU with dual 12V-2x6 connectors for high-end, future-proof systems.
This PSU offers 1200W, ATX 3.1, and dual 12V-2x6 connectors, making it technically capable for high-end systems. However, recurring user reports of unexpected shutdowns under heavy GPU loads, particularly with RTX 5090 cards, introduce significant uncertainty for demanding users pushing their systems to the limit.
If you're running a top-tier GPU like an RTX 5090 and pushing it hard, consider PSUs with a proven track record for handling extreme transient loads without tripping protections.
Regret Score™
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Pros
- Achieves 95.42% energy efficiency with 80 PLUS Titanium and Cybenetics Titanium certifications.
- Features ATX 3.1 compatibility with two native 12V-2x6 connectors for PCIe 5.1 GPUs and four 6+2-pin connectors for current-gen GPUs.
- Offers switchable active and semi-passive cooling modes via a rear button, with a Silent Wings fan for quiet operation.
- Includes a button to switch between multi-rail and single-rail modes, providing full overclocking control.
- Utilizes premium Japanese capacitors and advanced full bridge LLC technology for stable operation and longevity.
- Backed by a 10-year warranty.
Cons
- Some users report unexpected PC shutdowns under heavy GPU loads, particularly with RTX 5090 cards.
- Experienced immediate restarts during power stress tests for some users.
- Cables are sleeved but not individually sleeved, which some users prefer for aesthetics.
Dimension Scores
Achieves 95.42% efficiency with 80 PLUS Titanium and Cybenetics Titanium certifications, providing 1200W and ATX 3.1 with dual 12V-2x6 connectors.
Features a Silent Wings fan and switchable semi-passive cooling, earning an A++ Lambda rating from Cybenetics for average noise levels below 15 dBA.
Incorporates premium Japanese capacitors, Active Rectifier, and full bridge LLC technology, backed by a 10-year warranty.
Offers fully modular cabling and includes velcro ties for organization, though cables are sleeved rather than individually sleeved.
Best For
- High-end gaming PCs with next-generation GPUs requiring ATX 3.1 and 12V-2x6 connectors.
- Workstations with power-hungry components where energy efficiency is a priority.
- Overclocking enthusiasts who need flexible rail configuration.
- Users prioritizing minimal noise output from their power supply.
Not Recommended For
- Budget PC builds that do not require 1200W or Titanium efficiency.
- Users running specific high-end GPUs like the RTX 5090 who demand absolute stability under extreme, sustained transient loads.
- Compact ITX builds, as its 175mm length might be too long for some cases.
Watch Out For
- Frequent PC shutdowns reported by users with RTX 5090 under GPU-heavy tasks like ComfyUI, even when power draw is below 750W.
- Some users experienced immediate restarts when running power tests like OCCT, suggesting issues with transient power handling.
- The included 12V-2x6 cable might be a point of failure for some, with users finding temporary relief by switching to multiple 6+2-pin PCIe cables.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0FVW6NKVB |
| Brand | be quiet! |
| Wattage | 1200 watts |
| Model Name | BP021US |
| Item Weight | 10.36 pounds |
| Manufacturer | be quiet! |
| Connector Type | ATX |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Item model number | BP021US |
| Product Dimensions | 6.88 x 5.9 x 3.38 inches |
| Power Supply Design | Full Modular |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 6.88 x 5.9 x 3.38 inches |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising finding is the recurring reports of unexpected PC shutdowns under heavy GPU loads, specifically with RTX 5090 cards, despite the PSU's 1200W rating and Titanium efficiency. Users praise its quiet operation and high efficiency, but the stability under extreme transient loads seems to be a point of concern for some.
“Man, I thought this 1200W Titanium beast would handle my 5090 no problem, but it just keeps shutting down during my renders, even when it's not pulling max power. So frustrating!”
Common Praise
- It's 'dead quiet even under high load' during stress testing other components.
- Reviewers 'never heard this PSU make any noise' during their testing.
- The PSU is 'nicely quiet' even with the fans running, not just in zero-fan mode.
- Offers the 'highest efficiency possible' with its Titanium rating.
Common Complaints
- The 'PSU protection seems to kick in when I do something intensive,' leading to shutdowns.
- PC 'shuts down instantly' during GPU-heavy tasks like stable diffusion operations.
- Experienced 'immediate restarts' when running power tests like OCCT.
- Multiple users reported the 'same problem with DARK POWER 1200 and 5090' GPUs.
Ownership Tips
- Some users found that switching from the 12V-2x6 cable to multiple 6+2-pin PCIe cables might alleviate shutdown issues.
- The semi-passive cooling mode functions as advertised, keeping the fan off at low loads.
- The overclocking key for switching between single and multi-rail modes is a unique and functional feature.
- The PSU's physical dimensions are 175mm (L) x 150mm (W) x 86mm (H).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the be quiet! Dark Power 14 1200W PSU quiet?
Yes, it features a Silent Wings fan and a semi-passive cooling mode, allowing the fan to stop under low loads for virtually inaudible operation. It has an A++ Lambda rating from Cybenetics for low noise.
Does this PSU support the latest graphics cards?
Yes, it is an ATX 3.1 PSU and includes two native 12V-2x6 connectors for next-generation PCIe 5.1 graphics cards, as well as four PCIe 6+2-pin connectors for current-gen GPUs.
Can I use this PSU for overclocking?
Absolutely. It has a dedicated button on the rear that allows you to switch between the default four 12V-rail mode and a single-rail mode, giving you full control for overclocking.
What does 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency mean?
80 PLUS Titanium means the PSU is extremely energy efficient, achieving up to 95.42% efficiency. This reduces power consumption, generates less heat, and contributes to quieter operation.
What is the warranty period for this power supply?
The be quiet! Dark Power 14 1200W comes with a 10-year warranty, indicating the manufacturer's confidence in its reliability and longevity.
Why is my PC shutting down unexpectedly with this PSU?
Some users, particularly those with high-end GPUs like the RTX 5090, have reported unexpected PC shutdowns under intensive GPU loads. This could be due to the PSU's protection mechanisms triggering from transient power spikes.
Buying Guide
Your power supply unit (PSU) is crucial; it converts wall power for all your PC components. You need enough wattage to comfortably power your system, especially your graphics card. Higher efficiency ratings mean less wasted electricity and less heat generated. Modular cables make building easier and improve airflow inside your case.
Wattage
This number tells you the maximum power the PSU can deliver. A 1200W PSU is for very powerful systems, typically with high-end graphics cards, multiple GPUs, or significant overclocking, ensuring all components get enough juice.
80 PLUS Titanium
This is an energy efficiency certification. Titanium is the highest tier, meaning the PSU converts at least 90% of the power it draws into usable power, and up to 95.42%. This saves you money on electricity, generates less heat, and contributes to a quieter system.
ATX 3.1 & 12V-2x6
ATX 3.1 is the latest standard for PSUs, specifically designed to handle the high and rapidly changing power demands (transient loads) of modern graphics cards. The 12V-2x6 is the new, dedicated connector for these powerful PCIe 5.1 GPUs, ensuring stable power delivery.
Alternatives
If this PSU doesn't fit your needs, consider models with higher wattage if you plan on running multiple extreme GPUs, or look for PSUs with a proven track record for handling transient power spikes from specific high-end GPUs if absolute stability under those conditions is your primary concern.
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