Two of the major manufacturers have just announced new high-end power supplies targeting prosumers and gamers:
be quiet! Dark Power 14 with Titanium Efficiency
German manufacturer be quiet! has announced the Dark Power 14 series, scheduled to launch on October 28th. These units push into the highest efficiency tier, achieving both 80 PLUS Titanium and Cybenetics Titanium certifications with energy efficiency ratings reaching 95.6%.
The Dark Power 14 lineup will be available in three capacities: 850W, 1000W, and 1200W. Pricing starts at $229.90 for the 850W model, $274.90 for the 1000W version, and $309.90 for the flagship 1200W unit. All models utilize Full Bridge with Synchronous Rectifier and LLC technology, supported by Japanese capacitors rated to 105°C.
The power supplies feature a newly developed aluminum heat sink and offer users a choice between two cooling modes via a rear switch. The semi-passive mode stops the Silent Wings fan under low load conditions, while the balanced active mode maintains constant fan operation. The fan integrates directly into the heat sink to minimize vibration.
Compliance with ATX 3.1 standards ensures compatibility with both 12V-2×6 graphics cards (hopefully non-melting) and legacy PCIe connectors. The units also include a switchable rail configuration, which lets users toggle between multi-rail and single-rail modes based on overclocking needs.
Corsair HXi SHIFT: Rethinking Cable Management
Corsair’s HXi SHIFT series takes a different approach by addressing installation challenges. The defining feature is a side-mounted connector interface that relocates all modular cable connections from the back panel to the left side of the unit. This design aims to simplify cable routing in modern chassis where rear clearance is limited.
Available in 1000W, 1200W, and 1500W capacities, the HXi SHIFT units carry Cybenetics Platinum certification just like the be quiet models, delivering up to 91% efficiency. Pricing begins at $339 for the 1000W model, $399 for the 1200W version, and $459 for the 1500W unit. All models are available now worldwide.
The series integrates an iCUE LINK System Hub directly into the power supply, eliminating the need for a separate external hub. This allows connection of up to 24 iCUE LINK devices – including fans, coolers, and RGB lighting – directly to the PSU. Digital monitoring and control through Corsair’s iCUE software enables real-time tracking of power draw, temperature, and fan speed, along with the ability to switch between single-rail and multi-rail overcurrent protection.
You also get a a native 12V-2×6 600W GPU cable compatible with current and upcoming high-end graphics cards. The 1500W model includes two such cables to accommodate dual-GPU configurations. The power supplies meet ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 specifications, with 105°C-rated Japanese capacitors and a 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan that operates in Zero RPM mode under low loads.
The included Type-5 Micro-Fit cabling and debossed PVC cable kit with low-profile combs are designed to maintain cable organization while minimizing space requirements behind the motherboard tray.