be quiet! Power Zone 2 1200W Review

1. Introduction2. Bundle & Cabling3. External4. Internal5. Testing Methodology and Results6. Closing Thoughts7. View All Pages

This is our first look at a new be quiet! power supply in some time, and there is no doubt that the Power Zone 2 1200W is a very capable unit. It passed all of our testing without issue, and build quality is consistently high throughout.

First impressions are strong. The finish and mesh design look excellent, and the wide spacing around the fan intake is well thought out, allowing plenty of airflow to cool the internal components. The fan uses a rifle bearing design, it is not a fluid dynamic bearing implementation, but the results are excellent regardless. It remains extremely quiet across most of its operating range, only becoming audible when approaching the upper end of its speed, close to 2,000 rpm.

From a technical standpoint, the Power Zone 2 1200W performs well. Ripple suppression, while not best-in-class, is well controlled, and the unit passed our load regulation testing with ease. Efficiency is also strong, consistently meeting Platinum-level expectations without concern.

On a more negative note, it was surprising to find lower-grade Teapo capacitors used in this unit. At around the £200 price point, and for a Platinum-rated power supply, we would normally expect to see higher-grade Japanese capacitors from brands such as Nippon Chemi-Con, Rubycon, or Nichicon. While it is entirely possible that modern Teapo capacitors have improved compared to past generations, previous personal experiences leave some lingering doubts. This feels like an area where a relatively small additional cost could have removed any concerns altogether, and it is surprising that this was not challenged internally before finalising the design.

be quiet! does include a 10-year warranty, which is respectable, but it does fall slightly behind some competing Platinum units from brands such as Seasonic at a similar price point. They offer 12+ year warranty support.

UK pricing is expected to land around £200, with Scan already listing the Power Zone 2 1200W at £199.99 on preorder HERE.

Pros:

• Well made, nice finish
• Fully modular.
• 10-year warranty is good.
• Quiet.
• Ripple suppression.
• high levels of efficiency.

Cons:

• lower grade Teapo caps – not Japanese.
• Warranty is a little behind market leaders like Seasonic.

KitGuru says: The Power Zone 2 1200W is an excellent power supply that should do very well for the company. Hitting a price point just below £200 will ensure it appeals to a large enthusiast audience powering a high draw modern graphics card.

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