Best PSUs for AMD Ryzen 5 3600X in 2020

EVGA 650W Supernova PSU
EVGA 650W Supernova PSU (Image credit: EVGA)

AMD's Ryzen 5 3600X isn't much of a power-hungry CPU. It can get by with even more modest capacities. I'd still recommend going with at least 500W for a single GPU configuration, but just be sure not to save too much money on the PSU as it's incredibly important. These picks will work wonders with the Ryzen 5 3600X.

EVGA SuperNOVA P2 650

EVGA SuperNOVA P2 650

Tried & Tested

When it comes to reliable PSUs for your next PC build (or as an upgrade to your current rig), EVGA is a strong brand to go with. We're pretty big fans of the SuperNOVA P2 for its reliability, high build quality, and performance.

NZXT E500

NZXT E500

Smart Power

Did you know NZXT also makes PSUs, as well as cases and AIO coolers? The E series is a result of a partnership with Seasonic, but with some pretty neat smart features baked into the product, as well as the usual exceptional reliability from Seasonic.

EVGA 500 W1

EVGA 500 W1

Budget-friendly

EVGA is here again with a more affordable supply of power. The 500W W1 is a solid, budget-friendly PSU without going into the cheap territory. It has an 80+ White efficiency certification, which isn't bad, and will work just fine with the 3600X.

Seasonic Prime PX-1000

Seasonic Prime PX-1000

Enthusiast-grade

You won't really need this 1,000W PSU from Seasonic, but it's good to know it's available should you venture into overclocking and add a second GPU to your system. If you also plan on upgrading at a later date, this is an excellent option to have installed, rocking a full 12-year warranty.

Choosing the right PSU is important

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It's hard not to stress just how important choosing a solid, reliable PSU is. One that's unbranded and comes with a mid-range PC case just isn't going to cut it. It may work fine throughout the lifespan of your PC, but the chances of it going horribly wrong are increased. The same goes for cheap PSUs. Is it better to spend an extra $20 on a better PSU or risk forking out an additional $300 to replace the GPU?

This is why you'll only find us recommending tried and tested PSUs, like the 650W EVGA SuperNOVA P2, which may be a little on the expensive side, but you get a great PSU that will last years and has enough capacity for a single GPU enthusiast build. This PSU also comes with a 7-year warranty.

The E500 from NZXT and Seasonic is a solid choice for those wanting a little more from their PSU, allowing you to check statistics and make sure everything is running within desired parameters. All you need is a free USB 2.0 internal header on your motherboard. A 10-year warranty comes with this PSU.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.