Introduction

We would like to thank be quiet! for supplying the review sample.


As I have already evaluated the 850 W model, it was only a matter of time before the Pure Power 11 FM 1000 W got its turn—it is the Pure Power 11 FM flagship, after all. Owing to reasonable pricing and the good name be quiet! has made for itself in this market, I expect these new products to garner attention. With a price close to $160, or €142–145 incl. VAT in Europe, it is notably more affordable than its main competitor, the Corsair RM1000x (2021). The latter is supported by a ten-year warranty, has a topnotch ML fan, and uses a special-CWT platform exclusive to Corsair. At the same time, the Pure Power 11 FM comes with a five-year warranty, has a rifle-bearing fan, and uses a specially designed HEC platform. HEC is mostly known for its budget PSUs, but can apparently deliver higher-end platforms if properly guided. While small, be quiet!'s PSU team is highly capable and very knowledgeable—talking with and exchanging information with them as needed for this review was a pleasure, too. However, as per usual, I will remain just as picky as in my other PSU reviews.

At only 160 mm deep, the FM 1000 is compact. For comparison, the new RM1000x measures 180 mm deep. While I am not a big fan of compact PSUs, 160 mm is fine. Compact PSUs have over-populated PCBs, which restricts airflow and makes the fan work harder, at high speeds, so output noise is high, too. The FM 1000 is both 80 PLUS and Cybenetics Gold certified for efficiency, and also has the Cybenetics Standard++ noise certification, so overall noise output is between 30 and 35 dBA. There is no semi-passive operation, but I don't have a problem with that since I prefer the fan to be operating all the time as it prevents internal heat build-up. Lastly, the maximum temperature for continuous full-power delivery is restricted to 40°C, while the RM1000x has a 50°C temperature rating. That said, I will still be pushing the FM 1000 hard at higher temperatures.

Specifications

EPS and PCIe connectors would ideally not use the same rail, but this PSU only has two +12 V rails, so compromises had to be made.