Should I replace my 800W PSU before upgrading to an RX 9070 series GPU?
Asked by
MellowCedar47
I've been using an RX 5600 XT for about six years and am considering upgrading to an RX 9070 GRE or RX 9070 non-XT. My current power supply is an 800W Gamemax 80 Plus Bronze VP-800-M-RGB, which has worked without problems so far and appears powerful enough on paper. Since prices are especially high where I live, I'd rather avoid replacing it unnecessarily. Is the wattage sufficient, or is the PSU's quality and age enough reason to buy a new one?
Answers
The GPU upgrade may not be the only thing to check. If the rest of your system is from the same era as the RX 5600 XT, your CPU could limit the new card, especially at 1080p. It would help to consider your processor, resolution, and refresh rate before deciding how much to spend on the upgrade.
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The main concern is the PSU’s quality, not its 800W rating. A good 650W or higher unit should be enough for these cards, but this particular Gamemax model isn’t one I’d trust with an expensive, power-hungry GPU. If you can afford it, replace it with a reputable, independently tested unit from a reliable manufacturer.
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The recommended wattage is around 650W, so the capacity of your current PSU is fine. However, wattage alone doesn’t tell you whether it’s safe or reliable. Make sure a replacement has enough separate PCIe power cables rather than relying on one daisy-chained cable.
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I’d replace it for peace of mind. Low-quality units may technically meet the wattage requirement but can struggle with transient power spikes or lack good protections. Look for a well-reviewed 650–750W model, or 750–850W if you want extra headroom for a future upgrade.
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