Many computer component manufacturers continue to develop new computer power supplies to meet the growing power requirements of the next generation of processors and graphics cards. However, most are content to adapt their product range without really innovating.
With this in mind, Corsair sets itself apart with its recent RMx SHIFT power supply series. This range introduces an innovative approach by moving the modular cable connection interface from the rear to the side of the power supply. This simplified design makes PC assembly much easier, while offering tidier cable management.
Corsair RM1000x SHIFT design
The Corsair RM1000x SHIFT is presented in carefully designed packaging, featuring the brand’s distinctive yellow and black colors. On each side of the box are detailed illustrations of the power supply, as well as its name and key features.
Inside the outer packaging, the RM1000x SHIFT power supply is meticulously protected in a bag, accompanied by a cardboard box containing the various modular cables, power cable, cable ties, Corsair interface cable and user manual.
The RM1000x SHIFT is distinguished by its new design, featuring triangular openings and an innovative side connector for cable interface, offering refined aesthetics and enhanced functionality. Designed with first-rate components, the Corsair RM1000x SHIFT power board is assembled with Japanese-quality capacitors, guaranteeing reliable, long-lasting performance.
Inside its power supply, Corsair integrates the NR140P fan measuring 140 mm, operating at 12 V and 0.22 A. According to the company, this fan’s blades are carefully balanced to attenuate resonance at high speeds. This is a fluid-dynamic bearing model, which helps to extend its service life while reducing the overall noise level of the power supply.
What really sets this power supply apart, however, is its side connectors. Whereas all other power supplies have their connectors at the front of the PC, this one has its connectors on the right-hand side, making cable management and connection much easier, whether you’re adding cables or removing them, without having to remove the power supply and systematically dismantle it.
To give you a clearer idea of the cables present on Corsair’s RM1000x SHIFT power supply, here’s the list:
- Modular ATX cable (24-pin)
- EPS / ATX 12 V 8-pin (4 4)
- 12VHPWR (12 4-pin)
- PCIe 8-pin (6 2) (6 2)
- PCI-E 8-pin (6 2)
- SATA (4 SATA)
- PATA (4 pin)
The cables are of good quality and quite long, making them suitable for large cases without difficulty. Their plain black color offers a sober look that blends in well without the need to purchase additional cables.
Corsair RM1000x SHIFT features
| Model | Corsair RM1000X Shift |
| Continuous power (W) | 1000 W |
| ATX 12V | Version 3.0 |
| Software | No |
| Voltage (Vac) | 100 – 240 |
| Frequency | 50 – 60 Hz |
| Weight | 3.9 kg |
Corsair RM1000X Shift performance
Before talking about the power supply’s performance, it’s essential to see what configuration it was used with. The power supply was used in a PC with the following configuration:
- Processor: Intel Core i9 13900K
- RAM: Corsair Dominator Titanium First Edition
- Motherboard: Asus Z790 Gaming-E Wi-Fi II
- Watercooling: Be Quiet! Pure Loop 2 360 mm
- Graphics card: MSI Radeon RX 6900 XT
- SSD: Crucial T700 Pro
- Case: Be Quiet! Dark Base 701
Let’s move on to the 80 Plus standard to understand it. Here, the power supply is certified 80 Plus Gold, which I find a bit of a shame, whereas Platinium or even Titanium certification would have been more interesting, but nothing dramatic. In any case, its performance remains very good, and here is a performance table for this standard:
| 20% load | 87% efficiency |
| 50% load | 90% efficiency |
| 100% load | 87% efficiency |
More precisely, here’s the efficiency table for all 80 Plus standards, showing that the Gold version is well positioned, with an ideal compromise between performance and price:
| 20% load | 60% load | 100% load | |
| 80 Plus | 80% | 80% | 80% |
| 80 Plus Bronze | 82% | 85% | 82% |
| 80 Plus Silver | 85% | 88% | 85% |
| 80 Plus Gold | 87% | 90% | 87% |
| 80 Plus Platinium | 90% | 92% | 89% |
| 80 Plus Titanium | 94% | 96% | 94% |
Here, I’ve used a graphics card that tends to consume quite a lot of power, with a processor that’s also a power hog. In fact, the 13900K consumes up to around 250W, while the graphics card has gone even further. But with a 1000W power supply, that’s enough without any worries about overvoltage.
Even if only 900 watts of the 1000 watts are available, there’s still plenty to power the rest of the components. Not to mention the fact that with a processor like this, it’s the processor that’s going to have trouble before the power supply, because this model is such a furnace.
No need to worry about the power supply, it works perfectly, and the main advantage is that it’s easy to install. In fact, there’s no messing about with cables – everything is on the side, which is much more practical.
Corsair RM1000X Shift Review
I think it’s a shame that this power supply is only 80 Plus Gold certified, but that’s the only complaint I have. Performance is good, with demanding but not extreme components. What’s more, the lateral cable connection is magnificently practical; I can’t understand why all manufacturers don’t do it this way.