Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My use of the Apevia Spirit ATX-SP700 Power Supply with 120mm Fan (2024)
Introduction
I recently purchased the Apevia 700W Spirit ATX Gaming Power Supply for my home gaming setup. After using it extensively, I’ve identified its strong points as well as areas that potential buyers might want to consider.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Name | spirit | Brand | Apevia |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer | Connector Type | atx, floppy, pci, sata |
| Output Wattage | 700 Watts | Form Factor | ATX |
| Wattage | 700 watts | Cooling Method | Air |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.9 x 6.3 x 3.4 inches | Item Weight | 3.8 Pounds |
Photos
Click on photos to enlarge them:
Prices
Check prices of the Apevia ATX-SP700 ATX Power Supply on:
Power Supply Performance
In assessing the performance of the Apevia 700W Spirit ATX Gaming Power Supply, I’ve observed that it handles energy delivery with competence. The support for Dual/Quad/Multi-core CPUs and compatibility with a single 12V output is noteworthy for those with higher power requirements. In my experience, the range of connectors has been sufficient for my system’s needs.
Performance Aspects:
+12V Rail: The 53A on the single +12V rail supplies ample power for most mid-range systems and a few high-end components.
Cooling: The auto-thermally controlled 120mm black fan does an adequate job of maintaining temperature, keeping the system cool even under stress.
Sound: While the unit is marketed as having a silent fan, my perception is that it may not be the quietest on the market, potentially an area for improvement.
The power supply’s thermal performance has consistently been within acceptable ranges, so it effectively dissipates heat and maintains stability during operation. The provided connectors: 1 x 20/24pin Main Power, 1 x 4+4pin 12V, 2 x PCI 6+2pin, 4 x SATA, 4 x Peripheral, cover the basic necessities without issue.
I’m particularly relieved about the heavy-duty protections like Short-Circuit and Over-Temperature Protect, providing a safety net for my components. I do must underscore that proper installation is critical. The power supply will not power on until all cables are correctly connected, an important detail that can’t be overlooked.
The split connector design—which includes options for 8pin CPU, 8pin PCI-E GPU, and 24pin motherboard connections—adds flexibility for a range of motherboard requirements. This design has simplified my setup process, particularly when dealing with different motherboard configurations.
On a subjective note, the fan noise level is something to consider. While it is not distractingly loud, it’s perceptible when compared to other units I’ve used in the past. This could be an inconvenience for those keen on quiet operation.
In my experience, the output voltages such as +3.3V@16A, +5V@20A, and the others have held steady which indicates a stable performance. A concern for potential buyers may be the absence of modular cables, but in my configurations, cable management was manageable and did not hinder airflow or aesthetics significantly.
It’s fair to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of louder operation or the lack of modularity, yet in my build, the Apevia ATX-SP700 has delivered a reliable performance conducive to gaming and business applications alike. And considering its price point, those minor shortcomings might be an acceptable trade-off for budget-conscious builders.
Design and Connectivity
From the moment I laid eyes on the Apevia 700W Spirit ATX Gaming Power Supply, its design resonated with me. The black sandblasted casing is sleek and unassuming, which fits seamlessly into my gaming rig without drawing unnecessary attention away from my setup’s RGB lighting. When it comes to connectivity, this unit provides a generous assortment of connectors:
1 x 20/24pin Main Power
1 x 4+4pin 12V (CPU power)
2 x PCI 6+2pin (GPU power)
4 x SATA (storage devices)
4 x Peripheral (molex for older devices or additional accessories)
The versatility is a major plus, as it supports a wide range of components, from Dual/Quad/Multi-core CPUs to high-end GPUs that require a single 12V output for robust power usage.
Another aspect that stands out is the auto-thermally controlled 120mm black fan. It’s a design element that smartly marries functionality with subtlety—keeping the power supply cool without a lot of noise. However, it’s worth noting that some users might find the fan a bit louder than expected; it hasn’t been a deal-breaker for me, but it’s something to be mindful of if your setup requires a near-silent environment.
The power supply’s built-in protections are a testament to Apevia’s attention to safety - a serious consideration for any build. These protections include Short-Circuit, Over-Current, Over-Voltage, Over-Power, Under-Voltage, and Over-Temperature.
That said, installation for newcomers might require a bit of research. The power supply won’t kick into action just by plugging it into the wall—you have to ensure all cables are properly connected to the respective PC parts. It’s not a con per se, just a detail that demands attention.
While I appreciate the offering of different power connector configurations, like the 8pin CPU that can split into 4+4pin, the manual manipulation to transform the connectors might be a minor inconvenience, especially if you’re not expecting to get hands-on.
Overall, I find that the Apevia 700W Spirit ATX Gaming Power Supply strikes a commendable balance between design and connectivity. It provides a breadth of connection options that would cater to most systems and a design that favors utility over unnecessary frills. Despite a few considerations regarding fan noise and the hands-on approach for cable adjustments, it’s been a reliable unit that melds into my setup with ease.
Reliability and Longevity
When assessing the reliability and longevity of the Apevia Spirit ATX-SP700 power supply, key factors come to mind. I’ve had a keen interest in the components that power my computer, always with a wary eye on stability and longevity. Here are the most salient points gathered from personal use and shared feedback:
Heavy-duty Protections: The inclusion of short-circuit, over-current, over-voltage, over-power, under-voltage, and over-temperature protections instill confidence in the ability of this power supply to handle a variety of electrical scenarios that can threaten the longevity of internal components.
Single 12V Rail: Designed to support high power usage and favorable for stable and strong power delivery, particularly important for systems with high-end GPUs or multiple hard drives.
Cooling: The auto-thermally controlled 120mm fan is a great feature for maintaining optimal operating temperatures, helping to extend the life of the power supply and the overall system.
However, even with these promising features, the longevity of an Apevia power supply can come into question based on the mixed user experiences reported. While I’ve experienced a solid performance with no noise and stable power output, others have reported issues such as random restarts or even ** DOA (Dead on Arrival) units**, which can be a considerable drawback.
In my personal experience, the power supply has been part of my setup for several months now. I use my computer regularly for both work and gaming, pushing the components to their limits. Despite this, the Apevia ATX-SP700 has not faltered once, suggesting that it has good build quality and reliability when it works as intended. What has really caught my interest is the consistency in power output and the silent operation of the fan, both of which have not degraded over time.
That said, while I haven’t personally encountered any significant issues, the fan noise has been a point of contention for some users. While not a deal-breaker for me, a louder fan could be indicative of potential long-term wear and tear, and I remain mindful of any changes in sound or performance.
In essence, while the Apevia ATX-SP700 seems to offer a lot in terms of protective features and a well-designed single rail system, its reliability and longevity can be somewhat hit or miss, largely hinging on whether you land a fully functional unit out of the box. I do question the quality control given the range of experiences but for now, the value proposition and stability it offers make it a mainstay in my system. My recommendation would be to purchase with some amount of caution, considering the price point and warranty coverage, just in case.
Value for Money
When assessing the Apevia 700W Spirit ATX Gaming Power Supply, I’ve compiled a list of aspects that particularly stand out to me in terms of value for money:
Price: At under $40, it’s highly affordable compared to other units delivering similar wattage.
Power: With 700 watts on tap, it’s more than adequate for my mid-range build, future-proofing somewhat for potential upgrades.
Connectivity: It hosts a decent array of connectors, ensuring compatibility with a variety of components.
Efficiency: While it may not be the most efficient model on the market, its performance is satisfactory for my needs.
Balancing cost with functionality is crucial, and this power supply does just that. It’s impressive that it hasn’t skimped on essential features like over-voltage or over-temperature protections, safeguarding my build against potential damage. I value the presence of a single 12V rail, as it gives me confidence when running power-hungry GPUs or CPUs.
However, I’m mindful of the limitations. The fan noise can be noticeable, which could be a drawback for those seeking a quiet build. A louder fan suggests that it may not have the most advanced bearing technology, which might not bode well for longevity. Additionally, my experience differs from some users who reported defective units, but I’ve experienced no such issues.
It appears that Apevia has made some design trade-offs to keep costs down. The unit’s sandblasted casing and overall design are basic but functional. It lacks some of the aesthetic qualities and modular cable design found in pricier models, which isn’t a deal-breaker but could be considered a con for those who prioritize looks and cable management within their builds.
Despite these drawbacks, the Apevia power supply has performed reliably so far. The ease of setup with the 8pin CPU and PCI-E GPU connectors which can be configured to match the needs of my motherboard and graphic card’s power requirements, is a plus that shouldn’t be overlooked.
To sum up, the Apevia ATX-SP700 poses a compelling argument for those on a tight budget. Its robust wattage, essential protections, and decent connectivity underscore its value as a prudent choice for cost-conscious builders who need a workable power supply without the bells and whistles. It’s not without its compromises, but for the price point, it’s a reasonable trade-off.