Seasonic Vertex PX-1200 ATX v3.0 PSU Review

Epilogue

Like the 1000W model, the Seasonic Vertex PX-1200 is a quality unit, but its high price sets my expectations equally high. The unit’s overall performance is not competitive since several much more affordable PSUs with similar max power and specs outperformed it. So, if pure performance is what you are after, there are better market choices. On the other hand, the PSU’s average noise output is among the lowest in this category, so if you want something with high enough performance and silent operation and you can afford its high price, the PX-1200 fits the bill.

A short breakdown of the PSU’s performance:

• Load regulation is within on the minor rails but slightly above that at 12V. And 1% load regulation is not exactly tight for today’s standards.
• Ripple suppression is good. The 1200W model achieved better performance here than the 1000W sample I tested.
• The transient response at normal loads is mediocre at 12V and 3.3V.
• Inrush currents are high.
• Efficiency is low at light loads. But high at a super-light load (2% of the PSU’s max capacity).
• The 5VSB rail is efficient.
• The average efficiency is high enough to meet the Cybenetics Platinum requirements.
• The average power factor readings are satisfactory.
• Vampire power exceeds 0.1W at 230V.

In the protection features section, which is crucial, the 1200W unit has properly set over current protection at 12V and correctly set over power protection triggering points under cold and hot conditions. Only the OCP triggering points on the minor rails need tuning.

Overall, the PX-1200 unit’s build quality is high, and the PSU meets all ATX v3.0 requirements. However, its price is sky-high, and it is a great shame that the unit doesn’t have the new 12V-2×6 connector in its modular panel but the pesky 12VHPWR. Many users will turn down this PSU because of the older 12+4 pin connector, and I cannot blame them, given all the drama about it.

I am unsure whether Seasonic will upgrade the Vertex PX line to ATX v3.1, but if you are wondering whether you should get an ATX v3.0 or a v3.1 PSU, read the following article:

• Should I get an ATX v3.1 PSU, or will an ATX v3.0 be fine? Everything you need to know!

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.