The PSU of your PC unit is the electronic component that converts the AC to low-voltage DC flow and supplies the DC power to other parts of the PC. In simple words, it supplies power to the whole PC unit. While for regular users, the PSU quality may not matter altogether, for gamers, and programmers, the PSU unit is highly crucial. A good PSU can enhance the lifespan of the PC unit and improve the PC’s performance to a great extent.
While in traditional PC models, the PLAY comes with pre-installed cables. But, you need to attach or detach the cables, and managing the whole set of cables can be a daunting task sometimes. Thankfully, the modern semi-modular and modular PSU models have either fewer or no cables, making managing things bliss.
So, which one do you need? The semi-modular or the fully modular PSU? If you are confused, read the article to gain insight that can help you make better decisions while shopping.
What is a Semi-Modular PSU?
In a semi-modular PSU, only a few cables – the ATX 24-pin, one PCIe cable, 8-pin CPU, and EPS are permanently attached. Other cables like the SATA, peripheral cables, and the extra PCIe ones are removable, and you can detach them when unnecessary.
The semi-modular PSU units are affordable and help you to save money in the long run. Besides that, since there are not many extra cables, the PC cooling also is effective.
Pros
- You get all the benefits of a fully modular PSU unit, like better cooling, fewer cables, and better performance.
- More affordable than eth fully modular units
Cons
- You cannot use braided cables
- The motherboard power cable cannot be removed
What is a Full Modular PSU?
The full modular PSU units come with cables that can be attached or detached at your will. Each full modular PSU unit comes with marked output sockets where you need to attach the needed cables.
In other words, you can remove the ATX Cable 24 pin, ATX 12 V cable with 8 pins, and PCIe 8-pin cable. 12-pin SATA cable, or even peripheral pins as much as you want,
In the case of the full modular PSU units, only the ATX and EPS cables need to be attached to start the system. Other than these two, you can use any SATA cable, fan, or peripheral cable with the model. But in the case of most PSU units, there are manufacturer-designed cables that you can use only; other cables or regular cables will not work with them.
Pros
- Better cooling and airflow
- Better performance
- Better and clutter-free cable management
- Sin, you can remove cables and replace them at your will; it gives you better control over customization.
Cons
- Only a few full modular PSU units are available in the market, which are highly expensive.
Main Differences Between Semi-Modular and Full-Modular PSU
1. Cable Management
Modularity offers better cable management with less number of cables. Fully modular PSU units need only one or two cables which can also be removed at will. Hence, managing the cables becomes a breeze, and you do not get cluttered cables on the desk. You can also manage and choose which cables you need per your work requirement. On top of that, you can easily remove the PSU from the computer as the is not many connecting cables,
On the other hand, even though the semi-modular PSU units have fewer cables, some are not removable. Hence, you will have to work with those cables without removing them. It may seem a bit difficult. But, compared to non-modular units, managing the semi-modular PSU units is easier. You just need to understand the essential cables to manage them.
2. Airflow
Airflow offers effective cooling while the PC unit is being used. Overheating often occurs due to more cables, which can interfere with airflow, blocking the cooling channel.
The semi-modular and modular PSU units both have better cooling and airflow performance. But, if you check between these two, the modular PSU fares better, as you can remove all the cables when needed. But that doesn’t mean the semi-modular units are less. They also offer some decent airflow, better than the non-modular PSU units.
3. Electrical Efficiency
In the case of electrical efficiency, the fully modular unit is a winner. You can remove the cables as per your preference. Besides that, these machines also come with advanced components that make them noiseless and less heated with minimum power output. With advanced modular plugs, these machines are highly efficient.
Now, in the case of the semi-modular PSU units, the difference is less as these units come with some cables. While the defense is not drastic, it ultimately depends on your purpose.
4. Reusability
In this case, both the semi-modular and full-modular units fare well. You can reuse the old cables when changing the PSU units as long as they are compatible with the models.
5. Cost
The Semi-modular PSU units are in the medium budget range. These are not too expensive, and if you need a trusted PSU unit that will last longer, going for the small amount of extra money you spend will be rewarding. A regular semi-modular PSU unit can cost from $105- $200.
On the other hand, the full modular PSU units are highly expensive. The cost starts from $150 and goes higher with more features. Hence, if you do not mind splurging, go for it!
6. Size
Since the fully modular and semi-modular PSU units need very few cables, their sizes are larger than the regular non-modular models. The size of the semi-modular units is a bit larger than the traditional PSU units. On the contrary, the full modular PSU units are larger and need larger cases to fit.
7. Temperature
Temperature is also a concern when choosing PSU units. The more cables in your PSU, the more temperature it has.
A semi-modular unit has a few cables, while the full-modular ones do not need cables. Hence, the semi-modular units emit more temperature than the full-modular counterparts. But, overall, the semi-modular ones also emit less temperature than the non-modular ones. Please note that the temperature difference between a fully modular and a semi-modular unit is quite large. But, if you are not into hardcore gaming or programming, a semi-modular model can be enough for you.
8. Materiality
In the case of the full modular PSU units, the built quality and the material quality are the highest; as these are advanced machines, the companies use only the best quality material to design them. On the other hand, the semi-modular PSU units lie in the middle, with decent build but not advanced like the fully modular units.
Which One Do You Need, Semi-Modular or Full Modular PSU?
In the end, it depends on your preference, the nature of your work, and your budget. If you are a gamer or a programming expert who needs high performance without a hectic cable management task, go for a fully modular PSU unit. You will get the best performance out of your PC with better aesthetic appeal, proper heat management, and convenience.
On the contrary, if you are unwilling to spend much and do not have a hardcore working routine on the PC, you can go for the semi–modular units. These offer some features of a modular PSU unit while keeping the cost at a lower range.
Semi-Modular Vs Full Modular PSU FAQs –
Ans: Most semi-modular PSU units have four or more modular cables. The cables of PCIe, SATA, peripherals, and MOLEX components are modular in nature and can be detached.
Ans: Yes, it can support two or more graphics cards as the GPU units are connected with modular cables.
Ans: The full modular PSU offers better cable management as these need only three to four cables, two to start the machine, and the rest can be customized at your convenience. Hence, it offers better convenience and customization while designing a PC unit.
Ans: When choosing a fully modular power supply, you should consider the cost, convenience, performance, cable management, airflow, performance, and warranty clause.
Conclusion –
Between the semi-modular and the full modular PSU units, the latter is highly advanced with a higher price tag. But, the semi-modular machines also offer a decent experience, with some advantages similar to the full modular units. You can choose the one depending on your budget, work schedule, and personal preference
