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PSU (ATX 3.1 PCIe 5.1 vs ATX 3.0 PCIe 5.0)

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For new builds with high-end GPUs, ATX 3.1 is the better choice, primarily for the more secure 12V-2x6 connector, which addresses melting issues seen with ATX 3.0’s 12VHPWR connector. ATX 3.0 is still sufficient for most users, especially those with AMD/Intel GPUs or using a high-quality ATX 3.0 PSU, but ATX 3.1 is the safer, more future-proof option for the latest flagship GPUs

ATX 3.1 (PCIe 5.1)

Pros
  • Features the more secure 12V-2x6 connector, which has shorter sensing pins and longer conductors to prevent melting issues with high-power GPUs, say GameMax and Corsair.
  • Recommended for NVIDIA’s 50-series GPUs and other high-end components, notes GameMax.
  • Slightly improved efficiency due to a shorter hold-up time (12ms vs 17ms).

Cons
  • Generally more expensive than ATX 3.0 units, though availability is increasing.
  • The internal 12VHPWR vs 12V-2x6 PCB header on the PSU side is the only difference; the cable itself is the same, though it is not recommended to mix them, says an ASUS ROG Forum post.

ATX 3.0 (PCIe 5.0)

Pros
  • Fully capable of handling modern components, including most high-end GPUs, according to GameMax.
  • Often more affordable than ATX 3.1 models.
  • ATX 3.0 power supplies are designed to be compatible with older ATX standards like ATX 2.2 and ATX 2.4, notes GameMax.

Cons
  • Uses the 12VHPWR connector, which was prone to melting when it was not fully plugged into the GPU.
  • May not be ideal for the absolute newest, highest-power flagship GPUs