Corsair HX1200i 1200W Modular Power Supply: features, specs and who it suits

The Corsair HX1200i is a 1200-watt ATX power supply for desktop PCs. It's a fully modular, digitally monitored unit from Corsair's HXi series, meant for high-performance builds, such as systems with powerful graphics cards or several GPUs. Here is what its main specs mean for a build.

What 80 PLUS Platinum means

A power supply converts the wall's AC into the lower DC voltages that PC parts use, and some energy is lost as heat in the process. The 80 PLUS programme certifies efficiency at set load levels, and Platinum is one of its upper tiers. Corsair rates the HX1200i at 92% efficiency at real-world load.

In practice, higher efficiency typically means less wasted energy and less heat to remove from the case. The effect is largest in systems that run under heavy load for long periods.

Fully modular cables

"Fully modular" means every cable detaches from the unit, including the main motherboard cable. You connect only the cables your build needs, which reduces clutter and can improve airflow through the case. Corsair describes the cables as low profile, which usually makes routing tidier in a compact case.

The listing mentions 16 SATA and 12 PATA connectors across the cable set, which covers plenty of drives. It lists ATX12V and EPS12V compatibility, so check the cable types your motherboard and graphics cards need.

ZeroRPM and the 140mm fan

The unit has a single 140mm fluid dynamic bearing fan. In ZeroRPM mode the fan stays off at low loads, so the supply is silent while you browse or do office work. Corsair says it spins up as needed, under thermal control, when the load or temperature rises. Fluid dynamic bearings are typically chosen for quiet running and a long life.

Digital monitoring with Corsair Link

The "i" in HXi refers to digital control. With Corsair Link integration, you can monitor the supply's performance, adjust fan speed and switch between multi-rail and single-rail operation from your desktop. The listing gives a single +12V rail in its specifications.

Single-rail units deliver all the +12V power through one pool, which is simple for high-draw graphics cards. Multi-rail splits it into separate limits. Which suits you depends on the parts you use.

Power, input and build quality

The HX1200i delivers 1.20 kW and accepts 120V or 230V AC input. Its outputs are 3.3V, 5V, 12V and -12V DC. Corsair says it uses Japanese 105°C capacitors and aims for tight voltage control. It carries a ten-year warranty, which Corsair says should last across several system builds. Check the warranty terms with the seller or Corsair.

The listing gives dimensions of 15.4 x 8.9 x 6.0 inches as shipped and an approximate weight of 7.92 lb (about 3.6 kg).

Who it suits

It suits enthusiast builds with high-end CPUs, one or more demanding graphics cards, and plenty of drives, and people who want a quiet system when idle. For a modest PC, a lower wattage is usually enough, so add up your parts' power needs first.

What to check before you buy

• Total power need: add up the rated draw of your CPU and GPU, then leave some headroom.
• Case fit: confirm your case supports a full-size ATX unit of this length, plus space for the cables.
• Connectors: check the GPU power connectors (for example 8-pin or 12-pin) and the CPU cables your board needs.
• Cable standards: use the cables supplied with this model, as modular cables aren't normally interchangeable between brands or series.
• Software: Corsair Link monitoring needs a compatible setup, so check Corsair's current software support.
• Mains supply: follow local electrical codes and the manual when installing.

The short version

• 1200W ATX12V/EPS12V power supply with 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency (92% rated).
• Fully modular, low-profile cables.
• ZeroRPM fan mode and a 140mm thermally controlled fan.
• Corsair Link digital monitoring and fan control.
• Ten-year warranty.

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