SFX and TFX power supplies are made for small computers: Mini-ITX cases, small gaming PCs, slim office systems and home media PCs. Our range has over 50 SFX, SFX-L and TFX models, including LIAN LI, GAMEMAX, ASUS, CHIEFTEC and SHARKOON.
How to choose an SFX or TFX power supply
Form factor. Check which format your case supports before anything else. SFX-L is about 30 mm deeper than SFX, which is why it often carries a larger fan, while TFX is thin and elongated for slim systems. Our range includes SFX, SFX-L and TFX models.
Wattage. Choose the wattage according to your graphics card and processor. An office or media PC needs only a modest unit, but a gaming system with a discrete graphics card needs more power plus some headroom. Start from the power supply wattage the graphics card maker recommends.
Connectors and cables. Count the SATA power connectors you need for drives, and check which connector your graphics card uses (8-pin PCIe or 12VHPWR). Our range includes units with 2, 3, 4 and 6 SATA power connectors. Modular units are easier in a small case, because unused cables do not have to be stuffed into a cramped interior.
Fan and noise. A smaller fan has to spin faster, so it is usually easier to hear. Our range includes units with 8, 9 and 12 cm fans. If the PC will sit near your desk, choose a 12 cm model or a unit whose fan only starts under higher load.
Efficiency. An 80 PLUS certificate shows how much energy the unit loses as heat. Higher tiers (Gold, Platinum) give off less heat, which matters in a closed small case with limited airflow.
Brands we carry
- LIAN LI: known for aluminium PC cases, and the brand with the most models in this category.
- CORSAIR: its SF series SFX units are well known among builders of small gaming PCs.
- ASUS: makes motherboards and graphics cards, with the ROG line aimed at gaming systems.
- Be Quiet: a German manufacturer known for quiet cooling and power supplies.
- THERMALTAKE: offers cases, cooling and power supplies for gaming PCs.
- CHIEFTEC: a Taiwanese manufacturer that has made cases and power supplies for many years.
- FSP: specialises in making power supplies.
- STREACOM: known for passively cooled, fanless cases.
Also in our range: GAMEMAX, SHARKOON, INTER-TECH and LC-POWER.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SFX, SFX-L and TFX power supplies?
They differ in size and shape. SFX and SFX-L are small and box-shaped, but SFX-L is about 30 mm deeper, so it often has room for a larger 12 cm fan. TFX is thin and elongated, made for slim systems. Check the format listed in your case specification before buying.
Can I use an SFX power supply in an ATX case?
Yes, but you will usually need a mounting adapter, because an SFX unit is smaller than ATX. Some manufacturers include the adapter in the box, so check the product description. For a full-size case, an ATX unit is the usual choice, as there are more of them.
What wattage SFX power supply does a gaming PC need?
Choose a unit with at least the wattage the graphics card maker recommends. Also take the processor's consumption into account. With some headroom the unit does not run near its limit, so the fan spins more slowly and the PC is quieter.
Are SFX power supplies noisier than ATX ones?
Often slightly, because most SFX units have a smaller fan that has to spin faster. SFX-L units with a 12 cm fan are usually quieter. Higher efficiency and spare wattage also help to reduce noise.
