The XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU Review: XPG Goes for the Gold

For the testing of PSUs, we are using high precision electronic loads with a maximum power draw of 2700 Watts, a Rigol DS5042M 40 MHz oscilloscope, an Extech 380803 power analyzer, two high precision UNI-T UT-325 digital thermometers, an Extech HD600 SPL meter, a self-designed hotbox and various other bits and parts. For a thorough explanation of our testing methodology and more details on our equipment, please refer to our How We Test PSUs – 2014 Pipeline post.

The XPG Core Reactor II 1200W power supply unit demonstrates commendable efficiency, aligning with its 80Plus Gold certification. Although the figures are not too high, it maintains good efficiency across a broad range of load conditions, resulting to a high average. In tests conducted with a 230 VAC input, the Core Reactor II achieves an average nominal load efficiency of 91.3%, a respectable figure within its category. This efficiency slightly decreases to 89.9% when tested under a 115 VAC input. While this reduction in efficiency is noticeable, it doesn’t significantly detract from the unit’s overall performance, which remains solidly high for a Gold-rated PSU.

The fan of the Core Reactor II 1200W PSU begins to operate when the PSU reaches 40% of its capacity. Despite its significant power output, the internal temperatures of the unit remain within reasonable limits, which is commendable given that the fan never reached its maximum speed during our room temperature testing.

During cold testing, the XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU’s fan initiates operation at 40% capacity. The fan speed is very slow up to a 60% load and increases progressively beyond this point. It will reach clearly audible figures once heavily loaded, even if only for a few seconds. However, even under heavy load conditions, the fan does not reach its maximum speed of 2300 RPM.

The XPG Core Reactor II 1200W is rated for operation at an ambient temperature of 50°C. In the realm of PC power supply units (PSUs), their categorization often hinges on their temperature ratings, where a 50°C rating is indicative of quality high-performance products. The unit’s 50°C rating is reassuring, especially for a mid-range product. This rating is a significant marker of its robustness and reliability, especially under high temperature conditions, underscoring its suitability for demanding applications and environments.

In the hot testing phase, the XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU shows a slight decline in efficiency compared to the cold testing results. While the cold test yielded an average nominal load efficiency of 89.9% at 115 VAC and 91.3% at 230 VAC, the hot test results are slightly lower at 89% for 115 VAC and 90.4% for 230 VAC. While the reduction is measurable, it is better than average for a product of this performance class. It is also worth mentioning that despite the very high temperatures there are no hints of thermal stress.

Under hot testing conditions, the cooling fan of the XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU exhibits a fairly typical operational behavior. The fan starts operating slightly earlier compared to the cold test conditions, reacting to the increased ambient temperature and load. Once operational, the fan’s speed increases steadily, particularly as the load approaches 1000 Watts. The fan reaches its maximum speed of 2300 RPM when the load is slightly over 1000 Watts, above which point temperatures will rise a bit sharply if the unit is forced to remain heavily loaded.

As part of our testing, we also check output parameters are within specifications, as well as voltage ripple and line noise.

The electrical performance of the XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU is notable, particularly for its focus on the primary 12V rail. This rail exhibits impressive regulation, maintaining a variance of only 0.7% across its nominal load range. Additionally, the PSU demonstrates effective voltage filtering, with a maximum voltage ripple of 30 mV on the 12V rail. The performance on the 3.3V and 5V rails is also commendable, showing voltage regulation of around 0.8% and maximum voltage ripples of 14 mV and 16 mV respectively. These figures are far better than design recommendations and are considered very good even for a performance product, indicating a well-engineered power supply.

In terms of primary protections, the XPG Core Reactor II has been thoroughly tested for Over Current, Over Voltage, Over Power, and Short Circuit protections. The results indicate reliable performance in these areas. Specifically, the Over Current Protection (OCP) on the 12V rail is effectively activated at 121% of the unit’s maximum capacity. The Over Power Protection (OPP) also engages appropriately, triggering at 121% under high load conditions, providing a robust safety mechanism for the PSU.

The XPG Core Reactor II 1200W PSU stands out as a strong contender in the high-wattage power supply segment. It boasts a robust build quality and unique aesthetics, with a matte black exterior and geometric embossed patterns that add a subtle decorative touch without compromising its functional focus. The unit’s internal design is efficiently organized, reflecting XPG’s commitment to quality and performance in the PSU market. The use of high-grade Japanese capacitors, including Nippon Chemi-Con and a few Rubycon capacitors, underscores the PSU’s reliability and durability.

In terms of power quality, the Core Reactor II excels with very good voltage regulation and effective filtering on every voltage rail. It achieves good energy conversion efficiency, with an average efficiency of 89.9% at 115 VAC and 91.3% at 230 VAC during cold testing, marking it as a competitive unit in its class. The efficiency remains steady across most of the load range, with the design’s weakest efficiency point being loads under 15% capacity.

Thermally, the Core Reactor II manages heat fairly effectively considering its power output and efficiency. The internal temperatures remain reasonable under various load conditions with the unit operating at or near room temperature. The fan, operating from 40% capacity, adjusts its speed according to the load, ensuring efficient cooling. The PSU’s noise levels are minimal at lower loads, increasing only under heavy usage, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern. The PSU will only get overly hot if heavily loaded inside a very warm operating environment, reaching temperatures that will provoke the OTP to kick in.

Priced at $185, the Core Reactor II offers good value, especially considering its all-around performance and the inclusion of a 10-year warranty. This positions it as an appealing option for users seeking a balance between cost, efficiency, and reliability. The Core Reactor II 1200W PSU, with its quality components, solid efficiency, and reliable thermal management, is a commendable choice for those in need of a robust and efficient power supply, offering a blend of performance and value that should be considered.