Introduction

We would like to thank Cooler Master for supplying the review sample.



It has been a while since Cooler Master replaced its older VSM units with three low capacity V units featuring fully modular cables, a 3D circuit design, which increases efficiency, and a quality Silencio fan. All other features remained the same. These new V models with capacities ranging from 550-750 W are, as such, made by Enhance Electronics, sport 80 PLUS Gold efficiency, and are very compact. The stronger V units with capacities of 850 W, 1 kW, and 1.2 kW, though, are manufactured by Seasonic. The older VSM models also had rather affordable price tags, so we can't help but notice that Cooler Master's new V units are priced significantly higher, which makes them for enthusiasts willing to invest a large amount of money into a PSU. The fully modular cables, exclusive use of Japanese caps, and loop-bearing fan might increase production costs, but the price difference between these V and VSM units is so large that such changes do not fully justify the price hike.

The V650 will be put under our scope today. Its capacity is 100 W higher than the V550 we already reviewed some months ago. This PSU's most notable feature are its incredibly small dimensions, which, combined with its decent capacity, grant it a high power density score, making it a good alternative to SilverStone's offerings targeting those who need a small PSU with enough throughput. Based on our experience with the V550, we expect it to perform well, although its high price will make things difficult in terms of its price-to-performance ratio, a key buying factor for most of you.

Specifications

As has already been stated, efficiency is 80 PLUS Gold, and this unit is fully modular, Haswell ready, and capable of delivering its full power continuously at up to 40 °C, while the ATX specification recommends a threshold of 50 °C or more. All necessary protections are include, even OTP, which is nice to see since it is very important in PSUs. Cooler Master also used a new fan with an LDB bearing, which looks to be identical to an FDB bearing. This Silencio fan is quiet and will last for quite a while. Its inclusion is a major difference to the older VSM units that used double-ball bearing fans instead.

These new V units don't feature a semi-passive mode even though it is becoming a more and more prevalent feature lately. This isn't necessarily bad as long as the fan spins at low speeds at light loads. We actually prefer to have the fan spin at low speeds at light loads rather than not at all, which puts some stress on such sensitive parts as electrolytic caps. At only 14 cm deep, the V650 is incredibly compact, and it weighs very little. At five years, its warranty is also long enough, but it is expensive, which puts it up against some tough competitors.


The single +12V rail can deliver the PSU's full power on its own, which is typical of modern PSUs that use VRMs to generate the minor rails. Speaking of the latter, these can provide enough juice to feed every modern system a 650 W PSU could cover. The 5VSB rail is as strong as in most PSUs nowadays.

Cables & Connectors, Power Distribution

Compared to the V550, the V650 has two additional SATA and three additional 4-pin Molex connectors. We would prefer it if Cooler Master were to ditch these additional peripheral connectors for two more PCIe and another EPS connector. This PSU is strong enough to feed two high-end NVIDIA VGAs, and it is a great shame that it only has a PCIe cable with two connectors. Most high-end mainboards also feature an additional 12V socket aside from the standard EPS socket, and we are against the use of 4-pin Molex adapters to increase the number of EPS and ATX12V connectors.

The cables are long enough, as is the distance between connectors, although the 4-pin Molex connectors could afford to be a bit further apart to avoid compatibility issues. Every connector uses 18AWG gauges, which is as the ATX specification recommends.

Since this PSU features a single +12V rail, we do not have anything to talk about when it comes to its power distribution.

Packaging

At the front of the small box are a photo of the PSU, a model description, and a series of icons for the exclusive use of Japanese caps, five-year warranty, 80 PLUS Gold efficiency, and Silencio FP fan.


On one of two sides are a technical specifications table and the unit's power specifications.


On the back are the fan-speed and efficiency curves and a description of all connectors.

Contents

Inside the box, the PSU is well protected by packing foam. It is also inside a nice cloth bag.


The bundle includes several zip ties, a set of fixing bolts, the user's manual, and a nylon pouch.