Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II Review: Powerful, Silent, and Efficient PSU

The Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II power supply unit (PSU) stands out in the high-performance computing market. Known for its remarkable blend of power, quiet operation, premium components, and intelligent design, this PSU is an ideal choice for gamers, content creators, and power users demanding a robust and efficient power supply for high-end setups. Below is an in-depth review covering its design, features, performance, and value proposition.

The ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II, part of the Republic of Gamers (ROG) lineup by Asus, combines an impressive 1200 watts of power with an 80 Plus Platinum certification, promising users high energy efficiency and stability even under intense workloads. Its key features include Lambda A++ Certification for quiet performance, Aura Sync compatibility for customizable RGB lighting, and OLED monitoring for real-time power tracking. This unit stands as one of the quietest in its class, making it an appealing option for silent computing enthusiasts and professionals.

Build Quality and Design

Premium Materials and Robust Build

The ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II sports a high-quality, matte black finish with an understated yet stylish aesthetic that matches Asus’s ROG branding. This PSU is built with low ESR capacitors, which are known for their stability and durability in high-performance environments. The use of these components is essential in achieving the 80 Plus Platinum Certification, underscoring Asus’s commitment to quality.

Dimensions and Weight

At 190 x 150 x 86 mm and weighing 2.37 kg, the PSU’s relatively compact form factor accommodates easy installation across a wide range of cases. Despite its power, the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is manageable in size, which is ideal for enthusiasts and builders who want to avoid bulky setups without sacrificing performance.

Aura Sync RGB Lighting

One of the more visually striking features of the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is its Aura Sync compatibility. Users can synchronize the PSU’s RGB lighting with other compatible ROG components, allowing for a cohesive and customizable lighting experience. This lighting feature is not only a visual perk but also an integral part of the ROG ecosystem, designed to elevate the aesthetic quality of high-end builds.

Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II
Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II

Thermal Performance and Cooling Features

ROG Heatsinks

The ROG heatsinks employed in this PSU are larger than those found in many other units, covering critical components to ensure lower operational temperatures. By dissipating heat effectively, the heatsinks help reduce the fan workload, translating to reduced noise levels. This passive cooling system is crucial in extending the unit’s lifespan while ensuring it operates quietly under standard and high loads.

135mm Axial-tech Fan with PWM Control

Asus has equipped this PSU with a 135mm Axial-tech fan with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control, which allows it to operate at variable speeds based on system temperature and load. The PWM-controlled fan adapts dynamically, delivering effective cooling when needed while maintaining quiet operation under lighter loads. This fan design is optimized for better airflow and reduced noise, thanks to the larger blades and advanced engineering.

0dB Fan Technology

When it comes to silent operation, the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II excels with its 0dB Technology. This feature allows the fan to remain off entirely during low to moderate loads, providing a completely silent experience. This setting can be toggled using a 0dB Fan Button, allowing users to manually control the fan’s operation. In cases where continuous cooling is preferred, users can disable the 0dB feature to keep the fan spinning even under lighter loads.

Enhanced PCIe Connectors with Superior Thermal Conductivity

The upgraded PCIe connectors not only ensure stable power delivery but also contribute to reduced connector temperatures by as much as -12.28°C, promoting efficiency and reliability. The higher thermal conductivity in these connectors is especially beneficial for users running high-performance GPUs that require sustained power under heavy loads.

Power Efficiency and Certifications

80 Plus Platinum Certification

The 80 Plus Platinum Certification on the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II signifies a high level of power efficiency, rated at up to 92% efficiency under typical load conditions. This certification reflects Asus’s attention to reducing energy waste and lowering operating costs over time. For power users who leave their systems running for extended periods, this efficiency translates to both cost savings and environmental benefits.

Lambda A++ Noise Certification

Another standout feature is the Lambda A++ noise certification, indicating that this PSU is one of the quietest in its class. Certified by Cybenetics, the Lambda A++ rating is a reliable measure of the unit’s acoustic performance. Given that a common drawback with high-powered PSUs is noise, this certification underscores the ROG Thor 1200W’s success in addressing this issue, providing quiet operation even under heavier workloads.

Real-Time Monitoring and Connectivity

OLED Display

The OLED power monitoring display on the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is an innovative addition, offering users real-time insight into the PSU’s power draw. This feature is particularly beneficial for users managing high-performance systems where understanding power consumption is critical. By simply glancing at the OLED display, users can monitor energy use and adjust system settings accordingly to optimize performance and efficiency.

Comprehensive Cable and Connector Support

The ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II provides an extensive range of cables and connectors to support diverse setups, including:

  • 24-pin Motherboard Connector x1
  • CPU 4+4-pin Connectors x2
  • PCI-E 16-pin Connector x1
  • PCI-E 6+2-pin Connectors x8
  • SATA Connectors x12
  • Peripheral Connectors x6

Additionally, cable combs and sleeved cables are included, providing a clean, organized, and durable setup. The variety of connectors ensures that this PSU can support multi-GPU configurations, complex storage arrays, and high-powered CPUs without issue.

Protection and Reliability

Built-In Protection Features

The ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II comes equipped with a range of protective measures to prevent system damage from electrical faults. These include:

  • Over Power Protection (OPP)
  • Over Voltage Protection (OVP)
  • Under Voltage Protection (UVP)
  • Short Circuit Protection (SCP)
  • Over Current Protection (OCP)
  • Over Temperature Protection (OTP)

These built-in protections are essential for safeguarding both the PSU and connected components, especially valuable in high-end systems where component failure can be costly.

Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II
ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II – images: Asus

High MTBF and ROHS Compliance

With an MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of over 120,000 hours at 25°C, the PSU promises exceptional durability. The unit is also ROHS compliant, meaning it adheres to regulations restricting the use of hazardous materials, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

Performance Under Load

Stable Power Delivery

The Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II delivers up to 1200 watts of consistent power. With its Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) and low ESR capacitors, it maintains a stable output, even under the stress of overclocked components and intensive workloads. This consistency is vital for gamers and professionals alike, as fluctuations in power can lead to system instability, crashes, or potential hardware damage.

Support for High-Performance GPUs

Given the PSU’s support for PCIe 16-pin connectors and its ability to deliver high current on the +12V rail (up to 100A), it is perfectly suited for high-performance GPUs and multi-GPU setups. The PSU’s efficiency and robust construction ensure that even the most demanding graphics cards receive adequate and stable power.

User Experience and Value Proposition

Ease of Installation

Installation is straightforward, thanks to the modular design and the included variety of cables. The modular cables mean users only need to connect the required cables, reducing clutter and improving airflow. With detailed instructions provided in the user manual, users of all experience levels should find setup manageable.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

Priced as a premium product, the ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II’s cost reflects its high-end specifications and advanced features. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, the quality, durability, and enhanced features it offers justify the investment for enthusiasts and professionals who need reliable and efficient power management for their systems.

Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High Efficiency: 80 Plus Platinum certification ensures excellent energy efficiency.
  • Quiet Operation: Lambda A++ certification and 0dB technology contribute to minimal noise output.
  • Robust Build Quality: Low ESR capacitors and premium components ensure durability and performance.
  • Customizable Lighting: Aura Sync compatibility enhances system aesthetics.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: OLED display allows for instant power consumption tracking.
  • Extensive Protection Features: Comprehensive protections safeguard components.

Cons

  • Price: Positioned as a premium PSU, it may be costly for budget-conscious users.  (ROG-THOR-1200P2 price:  $324)
  • Limited Fan Control Customization: Fan speeds are generally automated, with only a binary on/off 0dB mode.
  • RGB Lighting Preferences: For users uninterested in RGB, the Aura Sync compatibility might be superfluous.

The Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II is a top-of-the-line PSU engineered for demanding users who prioritize efficiency, stability, and aesthetics. Asus has crafted a PSU that not only delivers power reliably but also excels in thermal management and noise reduction, thanks to features like ROG heatsinks, PWM fan control, and 0dB technology. The real-time OLED power monitoring and customizable RGB lighting further set this unit apart, making it a sophisticated choice for those building high-end rigs. While it may be priced above some alternatives, the Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II offers a compelling mix of performance, durability, and visual appeal that makes it a worthy investment for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Final Verdict

Rating: 9.5/10

The Asus ROG Thor 1200W Platinum II excels across nearly every category, offering high efficiency, quiet operation, and impressive build quality. While the cost may be a consideration, the features and benefits it provides justify the premium. This PSU is an ideal choice for users building or upgrading high-performance PCs who need both power and polish in one remarkable package.

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