ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply

ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 1
ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 2
ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 3
ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 4
ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 5
ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply — image 6
86%
94%
Energy Efficiency
88%
Build Quality
87%
Cooling Performance
90%
Noise Level
78%
Ease of Installation
85%
Value for Money
92%
Warranty & Longevity
85%
Power Output Consistency
72%
Cable Management
90%
Compatibility
80%
Customer Support
86%
Long-Term Value
More

Overview

The ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply is a reliable solution for powering your PC with a strong 650W output and 80 Plus Gold certification. This power supply is designed to deliver consistent, efficient performance in a range of demanding systems. With a non-modular design, cable management can be a bit trickier, but the unit still delivers stable power for gaming, productivity, and creative tasks. Additionally, it comes equipped with intelligent fan control to keep the noise level under control, even when your system is under heavy load.

Features & Benefits

This power supply offers several standout features, starting with its 80 Plus Gold certification, which guarantees higher energy efficiency and lower operating costs. The built-in auto iCOOL fan control adjusts the fan speed based on load, providing quieter operation without compromising cooling performance. With a solid 5-year warranty, this unit offers peace of mind for long-term reliability, making it a great option for users who want a power supply that can keep up with their system’s demands while maintaining lower energy consumption.

Best For

The ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply is best suited for mid-range PC builds that require stable power without breaking the bank. Its non-modular design is ideal for users who don’t mind cable management challenges in exchange for a more affordable solution. It works well for gamers and productivity users who need a reliable power source that ensures stable performance during demanding tasks, but also for those seeking a quieter build with efficient power delivery. This PSU is perfect for anyone looking to balance performance and budget.

User Feedback

User reviews of this ASRock PSU are generally positive, with many praising the quiet fan performance, even under load. Several users also highlighted the solid build quality and noted that the 5-year warranty adds significant value. However, some users mentioned that the non-modular design can lead to more cluttered cable management, which may be a drawback for those building a neat system. Despite this, the value for money remains high, making it a great choice for budget-conscious builders.

#Internal Power Supplies
#Internal Components
#Computer Components
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • 80 Plus Gold certification helps reduce electricity costs by offering high energy efficiency.
  • The intelligent fan control keeps the unit quiet even under load, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
  • It provides a stable 650W output, suitable for most mid-range gaming and productivity setups.
  • The 5-year warranty offers peace of mind and ensures long-term reliability for extended use.
  • The build quality is solid, with many users commenting on its durability and overall robustness.
  • This PSU is a good value for those seeking efficient power at a budget-friendly price.

Cons

  • The non-modular design can make cable management difficult, particularly in tighter cases.
  • Some users feel that the 650W output may not be sufficient for high-end or future-proof gaming systems.
  • The fan can still be somewhat noisy under heavy load, which may be noticeable in very quiet rooms.
  • The lack of modularity may not appeal to users who prefer a cleaner, more customizable build.
  • The unit may not be the best choice for custom builds requiring higher wattages or extensive upgrades.
  • Some buyers have mentioned that the overall design feels less flexible compared to modular options.

Ratings

After analyzing a diverse range of user feedback from verified reviews worldwide, including multiple languages and platforms, we’ve compiled scores for the ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were excluded to ensure the results reflect only high-quality, authentic opinions. Both strengths and areas for improvement are reflected in the ratings, providing a well-rounded overview of this product’s performance and user satisfaction.

Energy Efficiency
94%
Many users appreciate the 80 Plus Gold certification, which ensures a highly efficient power supply. This translates to lower electricity consumption, which is a significant benefit for users looking to reduce their energy costs over time. It's particularly praised by gamers and productivity users who run their PCs for extended hours.
A few users have noted that while the energy efficiency is great, it doesn't always translate to significant savings on monthly utility bills for those who use the PC only occasionally. Some also mentioned that more advanced efficiency certifications could make it a more future-proof option.
Build Quality
88%
The power supply is built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and long-term reliability. Reviewers often highlight its sturdy construction, which gives confidence for long-term use in mid-range PC builds. The solid build also contributes to its ability to perform well under heavy loads.
A few users mentioned that while the build quality is solid, the non-modular design can result in more tangled cables. This can slightly detract from the overall build experience, especially for those looking for a more streamlined and customizable setup.
Cooling Performance
87%
The intelligent fan control technology is widely praised for reducing noise without compromising on cooling. It adapts well to different workloads, ensuring stable temperature regulation even during extended gaming sessions or heavy productivity tasks. Many users appreciate the balance it strikes between performance and noise reduction.
Some users feel that while the cooling performance is generally good, the fan noise increases under maximum load. A few even reported that the 120mm fan could be louder than expected when pushing the PSU to its limits, which could be a downside for those seeking near-silent operation.
Noise Level
90%
Several buyers commend the quiet operation of the Challenger 650W, even under load. Thanks to its intelligent fan control system, it remains notably quieter than many other power supplies in the same price range. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize a silent setup, especially in environments where noise can be a distraction.
While many find the noise level acceptable, a small number of users feel the fan gets louder during prolonged gaming or heavy-duty tasks. The noise isn't unbearable, but it might be noticeable for those who are particularly sensitive to sound in their working or gaming environment.
Ease of Installation
78%
22%
The power supply is straightforward to install, with clear instructions and all necessary cables included. Users appreciate how easy it is to get it up and running in a mid-range PC setup, especially for those who are not highly experienced in PC building.
Some reviewers felt that the non-modular design made cable management more cumbersome than expected. Although the cables are generally long enough, there are no options for users to remove unneeded cables, which can create a mess inside the case and complicate airflow optimization.
Value for Money
85%
For its price, the Challenger 650W offers excellent value with a combination of efficiency, reliability, and cooling performance. The 80 Plus Gold certification and a 5-year warranty add to the overall appeal, making it a strong contender in the mid-range power supply market. Buyers feel it delivers quality without breaking the bank.
Some users feel that the price, while competitive, could be a bit high considering its non-modular design. While it offers good performance, buyers on a tighter budget might look for alternatives with more modular options at a similar price point.
Warranty & Longevity
92%
The 5-year warranty is frequently praised by users, providing peace of mind for those investing in long-term components. The warranty, paired with the product’s reputation for reliability, is a key selling point for buyers who want to ensure they’re making a solid investment for years to come.
A small number of users wish that the warranty was longer, especially given the competitive market for power supplies. However, this is more of a preference than a significant drawback, as most buyers find the 5-year coverage adequate.
Power Output Consistency
85%
Users have found that the Challenger 650W provides stable power delivery even under heavy loads. The reliable output has been highlighted by those using it for gaming and productivity tasks, ensuring that the power supply meets the demands of most mid-range systems without issues.
A few users have noted that while the power output is generally stable, it may struggle in high-performance builds that require more power, such as extreme gaming rigs or workstations. Some feel that the PSU could benefit from higher wattage options to support more power-hungry systems.
Cable Management
72%
28%
While the non-modular design limits customization, many users appreciate the quality and length of the cables provided. The cables are generally long enough to reach most components and offer decent flexibility for basic cable management.
The non-modular design makes cable management a bit more challenging, as users have to deal with excess cables that can't be removed. This can make it harder to keep the interior of the PC tidy, especially for those who prioritize clean builds or have limited space inside their cases.
Compatibility
90%
This power supply offers wide compatibility with most ATX-based PC cases and supports the latest PCIe and ATX standards. Users find it easy to integrate into a variety of builds without worrying about connector issues.
A few users mentioned that while the PSU is compatible with most builds, it might not be the best option for users with niche setups, such as small form-factor cases or highly specialized components that require specific power configurations.
Customer Support
80%
20%
ASRock’s customer support has been noted as generally responsive and helpful. Users appreciate quick responses to inquiries and the assistance they provide when issues arise with the power supply.
Some users mentioned that while customer support is decent, the response times can vary depending on the volume of inquiries. A few have noted that getting a direct solution for more complex technical problems can sometimes take longer than expected.
Long-Term Value
86%
For users looking to make a long-term investment in their PC build, the power supply offers strong value. With its solid warranty, durable build quality, and energy efficiency, many users feel confident that it will continue to deliver reliable performance over the years.
Some buyers felt that while the power supply offers good long-term value, there are other competitors that provide more flexible modular designs or higher wattage options for a similar price point, which might offer better versatility in the long run.

Suitable for:

The ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply is ideal for PC builders looking for a reliable and efficient power source for mid-range systems. Its 80 Plus Gold certification makes it a great choice for users who prioritize energy efficiency and want to lower their electricity costs without sacrificing performance. Additionally, the quiet fan operation, thanks to the intelligent cooling system, makes it a solid option for those who prefer a noise-free environment, whether for gaming or productivity tasks. With a 5-year warranty, it's a reliable choice for long-term use in a variety of setups, from home offices to gaming rigs.

Not suitable for:

This power supply may not be the best option for users with high-performance or custom PC builds that demand more flexibility. The non-modular design can make cable management challenging, which could be frustrating for those looking to create a clean and optimized build. While it performs well in mid-range systems, users with high wattage needs or those planning to upgrade to more power-hungry components might find the 650W output insufficient. Additionally, users seeking completely silent operation may be disappointed, as some report noise under heavy load, despite the intelligent fan control.

Specifications

  • Wattage: Provides 650W of total power to support a variety of mid-range gaming and productivity PC builds.
  • Efficiency: 80 Plus Gold certification ensures high energy efficiency, minimizing power loss and reducing electricity costs.
  • Cooling Method: Features intelligent fan control that adjusts speed based on temperature, offering quiet operation and efficient cooling.
  • Fan Size: Equipped with a 120mm fan to provide effective airflow while maintaining low noise levels under load.
  • Form Factor: Designed in the standard ATX form factor to fit most mid- and full-sized PC cases.
  • Warranty: Comes with a 5-year warranty, offering long-term reliability and peace of mind.
  • Connector Type: Includes ATX and PCIe connectors, compatible with a wide range of motherboard and graphics card setups.
  • Dimensions: Measures 140mm x 150mm x 86mm, providing a compact size suitable for most ATX cases.
  • Weight: Weighs 4.8 pounds, making it moderately lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
  • Cooling Features: Auto iCOOL technology reduces fan noise while maintaining optimal cooling performance, even under heavy load.
  • Modular Design: Non-modular design means all cables are permanently attached, which may impact cable management flexibility.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most personal computers, including gaming, productivity, and mid-range systems.
  • Input Voltage: Supports a wide input voltage range, typically between 100V to 240V, to accommodate different regions.
  • Overcurrent Protection: Equipped with overcurrent protection to safeguard against electrical surges and prevent component damage.
  • Short Circuit Protection: Features short circuit protection to help protect your PC's internal components in the event of an electrical fault.
  • Active PFC: Includes an active power factor correction (PFC) circuit to optimize efficiency and reduce harmonic distortion.
  • System Cooling: Offers efficient system cooling with a combination of fan speed adjustment and optimized airflow design.
  • Input Frequency: Operates at an input frequency of 50-60Hz, suitable for global use in various countries.
  • Output Rail: Provides multiple 12V rails for stable and efficient power delivery to system components.

FAQ

The ASRock Challenger 650W Power Supply offers reliable 650W power with 80 Plus Gold efficiency, making it an excellent choice for mid-range PC builds. Its energy-efficient design reduces electricity costs while providing stable power, making it ideal for gaming and productivity systems.

To install this PSU, first make sure your PC is powered off and unplugged. Mount the power supply in your case using the provided screws, ensuring the fan is oriented properly for airflow. Then, connect the 24-pin ATX connector to the motherboard and the necessary PCIe cables to your graphics card. Finally, connect power to storage devices and any other peripherals.

The 80 Plus Gold certification means this power supply is highly energy-efficient, converting at least 87% of the power from your wall outlet into usable power for your system. This results in lower electricity costs and less heat generation, which also helps prolong the life of your PC components.

While the 650W output is suitable for most mid-range gaming systems, it may fall short for very high-end setups with powerful GPUs or multiple high-performance components. If you're building a system with multiple GPUs or overclocked components, you may want to consider a higher-wattage PSU.

Users generally appreciate the quiet operation of this power supply, thanks to its intelligent fan control system. The fan adjusts its speed based on temperature, keeping noise to a minimum even under load, though some users still report slight noise during heavy usage.

The non-modular design means all cables are permanently attached, which can make cable management more challenging, especially in smaller cases. However, if you're not overly concerned with having a clean, customized cable setup, this design can be a more cost-effective solution.

This power supply comes with a 5-year warranty, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and provides support in case the unit fails within the specified period.

With dimensions of 140mm x 150mm x 86mm, this PSU fits into most standard ATX cases. However, in very compact or small form factor cases, you may need to check clearance to ensure it fits properly and provides adequate airflow.

If your power supply stops working, first check the power cables and connections to ensure everything is securely plugged in. If the issue persists, consult the 5-year warranty to check if a replacement is covered. Be sure to only use certified technicians for any repairs if the unit is outside of warranty.

While this power supply can handle moderate gaming and productivity loads, overclocking may push it beyond its limits, especially with power-hungry GPUs and CPUs. For overclocked systems, it's advisable to use a PSU with higher wattage to ensure stable power delivery and prevent potential instability.