As the power demands of PC hardware keep pushing the limits, the need for a more capable PSU is becoming increasingly important, and the NZXT C1000 Gold Power Supply seems to be ready to take on the challenge. This ATX 3.1 power supply is designed for the modern desktop, aimed at users needing a reliable power solution for top-tier graphical and processing hardware. At 1000 watts, it comfortably sits among heavy hitters, and its feature set reflects an eye for detail across stability, efficiency, and build quality.
As with most NZXT PSUs, the C1000 arrives with the typical white and purple packaging we have come to expect from the brand, with each cable neatly organized. It’s fully modular, meaning only required cables are connected, giving builders more flexibility while keeping the case tidy—a detail appreciated by anyone aiming for clean cable management in a high-performance setup. The included 12V-2×6 connector stands out here, as it can supply up to 600W to NVIDIA’s future RTX 50 Series GPUs, giving plenty of room to expand your build as you build your pc over time.
When installed in our test system, NZXT’s C1000 Gold delivers a consistently smooth experience. Internal testing shows efficiency that meets, and in some cases exceeds, expectations for an 80 PLUS Gold-rated power supply. Its Cybenetics Gold certification further supports that performance, reflecting sustained efficiency under realistic load conditions. In typical operation, efficiency ranged between 89 and 91 per cent at common voltages. At roughly 500 watts, or about half load, the unit reached nearly 91 per cent efficiency, outperforming many competitors in its class. For a power supply likely to spend much of its time operating at this level, those results are encouraging for users mindful of both power consumption and heat output.
As output approaches 1,000 watts, noise levels become just as important as efficiency, particularly for users building streaming systems, creative workstations or quiet gaming PCs. NZXT equips the C1000 Gold with a 135-millimetre fluid dynamic bearing fan, paired with a Zero Fan Mode. During everyday workloads and light gaming, fan speeds remain low enough to allow silent operation, preventing system noise from becoming a distraction. When the fan engages, the measured acoustic output remains within approximately 20 to 25 decibels (measured with my smartphone). That level sits comfortably below the ambient noise of most rooms.
“NZXT’s C1000 Gold delivers a consistently smooth experience. Internal testing shows efficiency that meets, and in some cases exceeds, expectations for an 80 PLUS Gold-rated power supply.”
Internally, the C1000 Gold uses high-quality Japanese capacitors, contributing to minimal voltage ripple and improved hold-up time. These design choices help ensure clean, stable power delivery to sensitive components. In brownout testing, the unit sustained a 22-millisecond power drop at full load, a result that surpasses many competing models and is particularly valuable for users in areas with less stable power conditions.
Build quality is evident in the unit’s weight and internal layout. While some power supplies cut corners with cable sleeving or internal organization, NZXT’s approach prioritizes moderate cable flexibility and durable sleeving. This not only simplifies installation but also supports long-term maintenance. The compact dimensions further improve compatibility with a wide range of cases, an increasingly important consideration for builders working with smaller form factors.
All expected protection circuitry is present for a power supply carrying a Gold efficiency rating. The C1000 Gold supports modern safety standards, including overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, short-circuit and over-temperature protection. These safeguards engage quickly if issues arise, helping protect both the power supply and connected components. NZXT’s 10-year warranty adds an extra layer of confidence, signalling trust in the unit’s durability and long-term reliability.
The ATX 3.0 standard introduced major improvements for handling transient power spikes from modern GPUs, and ATX 3.1 further refines voltage behaviour and safety mechanisms. The C1000 Gold incorporates these updates, making it well-suited for modern systems built around high-end gaming hardware or professional workloads. The fully modular design, compact footprint and updated connector standards position it as a practical choice as PC hardware continues to evolve.
In real-world installation, NZXT’s C1000 Gold ATX 3.1 delivers the power required without getting in the way of surrounding components. It operates quietly, provides clean power with minimal ripple and remains cool under load thanks to its cooling design and overall build quality. While there are more exotic power supplies on the market, including models with higher wattage ratings or platinum efficiency certifications, the C1000 Gold focuses on a balanced and dependable approach that will suit most advanced users. For builders running high-wattage GPUs or multiple high-end components, its mix of efficiency, low noise and reliability makes it a compelling option, particularly when paired with a 10-year warranty.
There are some considerations around ultra-low load efficiency, a topic often discussed in enthusiast circles. For typical North American PC builds, however, this is a power supply that delivers where it matters, doing so in an efficient and quiet manner consistent with expectations from NZXT. The C1000 Gold combines forward-looking engineering with a clear emphasis on stability and low noise. For anyone seeking a power supply that can quietly support a powerful new system, it remains a strong contender.
- ATX 3.1 — Compliant with the ATX 3.1 standard to fuel high-performance PC components with stability, efficiency, and power spike resistance.
- 40 SERIES READY — Durable, heat-resistant 12V-2×6 connector pumps up to 600 watts to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics cards.
