Conclusion
Amalgamating analogue and digital works well enough for the most part...NZXT is acutely aware that the consumer PSU market is littered with numerous models using very similar technology. A modern supply is more of an exercise in marketing than technical brilliance for many.
This is why the new E-series mates the proven Seasonic Focus Gold platform technology with CAM software, resulting in a compact 80 PLUS Gold supply that carries a bevy of information.
Amalgamating analogue and digital works well enough for the most part, but other than provide a healthy amount of reporting and some small adjustments, we can't see the obvious merit in 'smartening' the PSU to the extent where the reviewed 850W model costs £140.
Though perfectly serviceable for a wide range of PCs, we'd recommend NZXT focus on either a fully-digital supply or a lower-cost platform. Straddling two worlds means the E850 feels betwixt and between.
Bottom line: a capable 80 PLUS Gold fully-modular PSU with the added benefit of hardware reporting. Knock £20 off the £140 asking fee to elevate it from average to very good value.
The Good The Bad 10-year warranty
Dual 8-pin connectors
Fully modular
Compact chassis Price, potentially
HEXUS.where2buy
The NZXT E850 PSU can be purchased from Scan Computers*
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*UK-based HEXUS community members are eligible for free delivery and priority customer service through the SCAN.care@HEXUS forum.