I'm upgrading from an RTX 2060 to an RTX 5080 and currently have a Corsair RM850 power supply. Should I replace it with a 1000W unit, especially since my CPU is an Intel Core i9-12900K? I'm not planning to overclock either component, and I'm also wondering whether the existing PSU will provide the right GPU power connector.
3 Answers
You should definitely see a major performance increase going from an RTX 2060 to an RTX 5080. The 12900K is still a capable gaming CPU, although it can limit the card in some CPU-heavy games or at lower resolutions and very high refresh rates. A CPU upgrade is not automatically necessary just because you’re installing a faster GPU.
The 12900K can draw a lot of power under heavy all-core workloads, so the combination could get close to the practical limit of an older 850W unit, especially with transient spikes. Without overclocking, it will probably work, but a quality 1000W ATX 3.x PSU gives you more headroom and is the safer long-term upgrade.
An 850W supply may be enough for a stock i9-12900K and RTX 5080, but check the exact RM850 model and its age. Newer ATX 3.x units with a native 12V-2x6 connector are preferable; otherwise, use the GPU’s properly seated adapter rather than assuming a new PSU is automatically required.
The graphics card should include the required adapter, although a native compatible connector on the PSU is generally cleaner and more convenient.
I’m not planning to overclock, so I may be okay with the current unit if it’s in good condition, but I’ll check its specifications and age before deciding.