Enermax Revolution D.F.12 850W PSU Review

Epilogue

The Enermax Revolution D.F.12 850W is a tiny PSU close to the SFX-L form factor. I cannot say that I hugely support compact PSUs because the compact PCB size doesn’t help airflow while increasing thermal loads. This is exactly the case here, with the average noise output exceeding 37 dBA, which is a pretty high level. So, I cannot suggest this unit to users with noise output as their top priority. That said, at up to 460W, noise is within the 25-30 dBA range, so it will be tolerable by normal users.  You should not forget that such a compact PSU is destined for an equally small ATX chassis, where users should not be so demanding regarding noise output anyway.

The overall performance is decent. The PSU doesn’t stand out from the crowd but is not far away from other, larger offerings. The overall performance would get a nice boost with tighter load regulation and better transient response on the minor rails. Nonetheless, what matters the most is the 12V rail’s performance since this is the one primarily used in today’s system, and in this PSU, the 12V rail performs well under all scenarios. One thing that needs improvement is the high inrush currents. A larger NTC thermistor or an additional one is required to lower them.

The previous record for compact ATX PSUs was 130mm, achieved by the EVGA SuperNOVA G7 line, with the flagship model of the line offering 1000W max power. Now, Enermax can claim that it has the smallest ATX v3.1 PSU with 122mm length, which is impressive given that I tested it at up to 200% loads for 0.1ms, and it managed to pass all tests. At 140 dollars, this PSU is not as affordable as other similar capacity and spec ones, but in computer hardware, usually the smaller something in size, the more expensive it gets. On top of that, the individually sleeved cables add to the production cost.

The Enermax Revolution D.F.12 850W is a one-way road if you want the smallest available ATX PSU in today’s market, offering high efficiency, high enough overall performance, and ATX v3.1 compatibility. There is also a white version, costing ten dollars more ($150) than the black version. Enermax should find a way to lower the price tags of the D.F.12 models to make them more competitive by at least 20 dollars.

Before investing in a new power supply, read my Best ATX v3.x PSUs article to check all alternative PSU offerings. You help me a lot by using my affiliate links, which don’t increase the product’s price. I get a commission from Amazon every time you do it, which can make a difference for me, especially now that I am on my own, working exclusively for my media and not for someone else.