Silverstone ST850F-GS Strider Gold S Power Supply Review

As overclockers we often look at the highest capacity PSUs for our systems, not because we need them but because we want to make sure everything we run has adequate power. 80Plus Gold power supplies deliver on those desires and do so with less heat and better overall efficiency.  The interesting thing is that for most high-end gaming rigs you don’t need a 1200w monster and may not need a 1000w unit either.  So, the question is why buy an oversized PSU when you can get the same power delivery in a much smaller package.

The Strider Gold S is currently available in five configurations starting at 550w and ending at 1500w.  All of them feature 80Plus Gold certifications and a single 12v power rail.  Aside from the ST1500-GS they all come with the same 150mm footprint and are fully modular with interchangable cables from Silverstone.  Of course the smaller size is the distinguishing feature of the Strider Gold S ST85F-GS and the footprint allows you to install this PSU into a variety of different systems including the ultra modern Silverstone Raven 5 and an endless number of classic cases from yesteryear.  Likewise, modders may also enjoy the smaller footprint since it will allow them more space and still get 850w of 80Plus Gold power.   

Overall we like the Silverstone Gold S, the modular design is nice and optional cable kit is a great feature for those looking to move into a SFF chassis or just need a different look.  The cable ends don’t explicitly lock together but feature tabs that ensure all of the plugs install at the same height.  This seems to be the norm these days and short of a locking cable or solid plug we’ll take it.

Speaking of cables included with the Strider Gold S are all of the flat ribbon variety which has been considered a good thing by many system builders.  The idea is that since they are no longer round and sleeved they are easier to run and will take up less space.  We actually find them somewhat difficult to work with but like the approach. 

80Plus Gold Rating for 90% efficiency
2-way Video Card Support
900w Peak Power Output
Fully Modular Design
Super Small Footprint @ 150mm Deep
Flat Ribbon Cables

No storage bag
Both 12v CPU power cables should be the same length
Flat ribbon cables take longer to route