Question I want to buy/configurate a new PC. How do I know how much Power my PC needs?

[tzuzu100]

I want to buy/configurate a new PC. How do I know how much Power my PC needs?

 

[richiestang_78]

What do mean by power? If you are talking computational performance that depends on what you plan on using it for.


If you are talking electrical power as what power supply wattage you need that depends on what components it will have

 

[lumineZ]

Simple answer?

Low end computer = 400 - 550 watts

Mid-range computer = 550 - 850 watts

High end computer = 850 watts and up


Or you have to find the wattage on eatch component you want in the system. You also have to think about if you are going to overclock or not.

 

[araujo.tiago]

There are some tools available online that might help you to estimate the power demand.

Here is an example: https://outervision.com/power-supply-calculator

 

[Dashman9000]

Here is another power supply calculator....just an fyi from my experience a good 600 w - to 800 w works fine for most applications.
https://www.corsair.com/us/en/psufinder

 

[tzuzu100]

thanks, if my PC has 500W, does it use all of it all the time or only when its needed?

 

[Archaic59]

thanks, if my PC has 500W, does it use all of it all the time or only when its needed?

The system only draws power as needed regardless of how many watts the PSU is capable of.