ASUS ROG Thor 1200W Platinum III power supply: features and specs

The ASUS ROG Thor 1200W Platinum III (model ROG-THOR-1200P3-GAMING) is a fully modular ATX power supply for high-end desktop PCs. It delivers 1200W, is 80 PLUS Platinum certified and complies with the ATX 3.1 standard. It also has a small OLED screen that shows how much power the system is drawing. Here is what those features mean.

What 80 PLUS Platinum means

The 80 PLUS programme certifies how efficiently a power supply converts mains AC into the DC your PC uses. Platinum is one of the higher tiers, which typically means less energy is lost as heat at normal loads. ASUS says the unit uses low-ESR capacitors and premium components to reach that efficiency.

GaN MOSFETs

ASUS says its GaN (gallium nitride) MOSFETs deliver up to 30% more power efficiency than standard MOSFETs, with a more organized internal layout for cooler operation. GaN switching components are generally able to switch faster with lower losses than traditional silicon parts. The 30% figure is ASUS's own claim.

ATX 3.1 and graphics cards

ATX 3.1 is a version of the ATX power supply standard that tightens voltage and current regulation for modern hardware, including graphics cards that briefly draw much more power than their average. ASUS says the unit is compliant, and Turbo Mode uses premium components and a tuned fan curve to support extended power excursions. If your graphics card uses a 12V high-power connector, check which cable the box includes.

GPU-First voltage sensing

ASUS describes a patented "GPU-First" voltage stabilizer that senses voltage at the graphics card and, according to the brand, improves voltage delivery to it by up to 45%. The goal is steadier power for the card during heavy gaming loads.

The OLED display

A magnetic OLED display shows real-time power draw. Because it is magnetic, it can be moved to either side of the unit, so it stays readable whether the PSU is installed with its fan facing up or down.

Cooling and build

The unit has ROG heatsinks and a fully aluminium enclosure. ASUS fits dual-ball fan bearings, which it says can last up to twice as long as sleeve bearing designs. The modular cables are etched with a pliable material to make routing easier. The unit measures 7.5 x 5.9 x 3.3 inches (about 19 x 15 x 8.4 cm) and weighs 5.3 lb (about 2.4 kg). The warranty is 10 years.

Who it suits

A 1200W unit suits PCs with a high-power graphics card and a powerful processor, or builders who want spare capacity for future upgrades. A typical mid-range gaming system needs far less, so match the wattage to your parts.

What to check before you buy

• Total system power: add up your processor and graphics card requirements and leave headroom.
• Case fit: confirm your case supports ATX power supplies of this size and has room for the cables.
• Connectors: make sure the included cables match your graphics card and motherboard.
• Installation: follow the manual, unplug the PC from the wall before working inside it, and follow local electrical codes for your outlets and wiring.
• Fan orientation: decide whether the fan will face up or down so you can position the display.
• Warranty terms: read the 10-year warranty conditions on the brand's site.

The short version

• 1200W fully modular ATX power supply, 80 PLUS Platinum certified.
• ATX 3.1 compliant, with GaN MOSFETs and GPU-First voltage sensing.
• Magnetic OLED display shows real-time power draw.
• Aluminium enclosure, dual-ball-bearing fan and 10-year warranty.

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