20+4 or 24 pin. Is there a difference?

[cb4017]

Things sure have changed since my last computer build. I'm ordering parts for my next computer.
While considering the power supply, I see connectors listed as 20+4 or 24 pin.
Is there a difference?

Thanks
Cliff

 

[jokersgrin]

make sure you look at what the mobo needs..hence 20 or 24pin, I would recommend a atx dual 12v 24 pin for good upgradeablity! yes there is a difference....more power to mobo componets!!! ANd its a new build don't skimp on the PSU money wise... get one with a active PFC...do the research bro

stick with good manufactures like PC power and cooling, OCZ, seasonic, futron sourse

good luck

 

[theslug]

The difference is 24pin is one connector whereas 20+4 means a 24pin connector but the last 4 pins detach. This way the 20 pin connector can be used on a motherboard with 20 pins. (And the last 4 are just unused)

 

[mpjesse]

Almost all new motherboards use the 24pin connector. BUT just to be on the safe side, I would get a PSU W/ a 20+4 connector. If you can't, there are 24 pin to 20 pin adapters out there for like $2. They work.

-mpjesse

 

[cb4017]

That's what I needed to know. Until I started researching my next computer I didn't know there was such a thing as a 24 pin connector. My new MB uses 24 pin and I just wanted to make sure I got the right thing.
Got an Antec 550w on order.
Thanks!

 

[Admiral_Cecil]

Hello,

Any mobos requiring the 24 pin, is a good idea to plug in the 24 pin cable or use the 20-to-24pin cable adapter to do so.

 

[clueo8]

Will these new power supplies work on older motherboard with 20 pin only? The new ATX 2.01 standard has the 20+24 pin connector as well as a removed -5v wire/pin (18th pin) on that connector...

I'm looking to upgrade my PSU but not sure if the PSU will even work with my motherboard! Is it backward compatible with all older motherboards? When I say older, I mean like last year!! 😀

 

[Chenmaster]

You should not use a 20pin to 24pin adapter. If the power supply only has 20 pins, it was not built to deliver the extra juice newer motherboads need. An adapter will work out in some cases but may also cause system instability. Also there is no need to buy a 24pin to 20pin adapter since a 24pin connection can plug into a 20pin connection by just sliding it over. I agree that the power supply is a very important part of a computer (actually the most important) so if you have to compromise somewhere because of a budget, compromise on the CPU or RAM; the power is more important.