Introduction and Features
Entry level PSUs with four models ranging from 450W to 750W.
Introduction
Cooler Master recently updated the MasterWatt Series, which now includes four new MasterWatt power supplies ranging in output capacity from 450W up to 750W. All four power supplies feature semi-fanless operation, modular cables, 80 Plus Bronze level efficiency, and come backed with a 5-year warranty. Note: the two MasterWatt Maker 1200W PSUs are 80 Plus Titanium certified and come with a 7-year warranty while the two MasterWatt Lite PSUs are 80 Plus white, have fixed cables and come with a 3-year warranty. We will be taking a detailed look at the MasterWatt 550W PSU in this review.
Cooler Master MasterWatt 550W PSU Key Features:
• 550W Continuous DC output at up to 40°C
• Semi-fanless operation (under 15% load)
• Modular cables
• 80 PLUS Bronze certified
• DC-to-DC converters for +3.3V and +5V outputs
• Single +12V output
• Quiet 120mm Silencio cooling fan
• Active Power Factor correction with Universal AC input (100 to 240 VAC)
• Safety protections: OPP, OVP, UVP, OCP, OTP and SCP
• MSRP: $59.99 USD
• 5-Year warranty
Here is what Cooler Master has to say about their new MasterWatt PSUs:
“The MasterWatt is a 80 Plus Bronze power supply with an innovative semi-fanless mode. Under 15% load, the MasterWatt fan remains idle, offering zero dBA. When demand for power increases, a gradual fan curve provides measured cooling with little to no noise at any output level. Dual forward / DC-to-DC topology are employed to keep the voltage stable in all conditions. For increased performance, MaterWatt is equipped with 16 AWG power cables, which reduce resistance thereby increasing efficiency.”
Surprisingly good for the
Surprisingly good for the price. Is there really any practical difference in functionality of any system components between this powersupply and, say, seasonic platinum 550 watt?
Good question. The practical
Good question. The practical functionality is similar (they both convert AC mains power to the DC voltages required for a PC to operate) but how they do it, how well they do it, and potentially for how long they keep doing may be quite different. The MasterWatt PSU is a mainstream PSU targeted towards the mass market/average user while the Seasonic Platinum PSU is targeted towards PC enthusiasts looking for a premium PSU.
Compared to the MasterWatt, a Seasonic Platinum PSU uses a more sophisticated design, more components, higher quality components, and includes a longer warranty. These differences result in higher efficiency, better voltage regulation, and reduced AC ripple and noise on the DC outputs, which can potentially make your system more stable and live longer.
Thanks for the detailed
Thanks for the detailed answer!
I would like to know the OEM
I would like to know the OEM for this supply. Coolermaster has a history of using seasonic as an oem which is a good thing.
No, the MasterWatt 550W is
No, the MasterWatt 550W is not made by Seasonic. Cooler Master appears to be using HEC (based in Taiwan) as the OEM for the MasterWatt series.
Could you test room
Could you test room temperatures at the different watt % usages ? I would like to know how much the room temp rises at each level of power usage.