Introduction

Thermaltake's GF3 line consists of ATX v3.0 and PCIe 5.0 units with capacities ranging from 750 W to 1650 W. I have already evaluated the smallest member of the line, so I thought to give the 1000 W model a chance to prove itself against my Chroma electronic loads. The OEM is Channel Well Technology (CWT), and the platform's code name is CSZ. This is a modern enough platform to meet the increased demands of the ATX v3.0 spec for units with 12VHPWR connectors. These demands include transient tests with up to 200% load of the PSU's max-rated capacity for a short period. This is not the most challenging test, though, because of the short load application period. The 180% and 160% transient load tests are even more challenging because they last longer (1 ms and 10 ms, respectively).

The GF3 1000 is 80 PLUS Gold, and Cybenetics Gold certified in efficiency. It also has a Cybenetics Standard+ noise certification, so don't expect it to be whisper quiet. A selectable semi-passive operation stops the fluid dynamic bearing fan at light loads, allowing for zero noise output. The dimensions are compact with 160 mm depth, and the ten-year warranty is among the longest in the PSU industry (and not only). Lastly, the price at the time of review is $200, which is decent, given the product's features.

Specifications