Best PSU for Intel Core i9-13900K and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
+
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
Configuration Analysis
System Performance Assessment
This system represents a top-tier gaming and content creation powerhouse. The i9-13900K and RTX 4090 combination will effortlessly handle any modern game at maximum settings, including ray tracing, at 4K resolution and beyond. It's also ideal for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations, delivering exceptional performance.
Recommended Power Supplies
CORSAIR RM1000e (2025) Fully Modular Low-Noise ATX Power Supply with 12V-2×6 Cable – ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 Compliant, Cybenetics Gold Efficiency, 105°C-Rated Capacitors, Modern Standby Mode – Black
CORSAIR RM1000x Fully Modular Low-Noise ATX Power Supply – ATX 3.1 Compliant – PCIe 5.1 Support – Cybenetics Gold Efficiency – Native 12V-2×6 Connector – Black
The RM1000x is perfect! Its 1000W and PCIe 5.1 support comfortably handle your 4090 and 13900K, with headroom for overclocking.
Corsair RMX Series (2021), RM1000x, 1000 Watt, Gold, Fully Modular Power Supply (Renewed)
The RM1000x provides ample, stable, and efficient power for your hungry i9 and RTX 4090, with headroom for future upgrades.
Comparison Table
| Model | Wattage | Efficiency | Form Factor | Modularity | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORSAIR RM1000e (2025) Fully Modular Low-Noise ATX Power Supply with 12V-2×6 Cable – ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 Compliant, Cybenetics Gold Efficiency, 105°C-Rated Capacitors, Modern Standby Mode – Black | 1000W | 80+ Gold | ATX | Full-Modular | $169.99 | Overall Value |
| CORSAIR RM1000x Fully Modular Low-Noise ATX Power Supply – ATX 3.1 Compliant – PCIe 5.1 Support – Cybenetics Gold Efficiency – Native 12V-2×6 Connector – Black | 1000W | 80+ Gold | ATX | Full-Modular | $189.99 | Energy Efficiency |
| Corsair RMX Series (2021), RM1000x, 1000 Watt, Gold, Fully Modular Power Supply (Renewed) | 1000W | 80+ Gold | ATX | Full-Modular | $119.95 | Energy Efficiency |
Why This Wattage?
Power Calculation
The recommended PSU wattage is calculated based on the total power draw of your CPU (Intel Core i9-13900K) and GPU (NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090), plus approximately 100W for other components like motherboard, memory, and storage devices.
Extra Headroom
We add an additional 30% headroom to ensure optimal efficiency, handle power spikes, and allow for future upgrades. This ensures your system runs stable and your PSU operates in its optimal efficiency range.
Efficiency Standards
We recommend power supplies with 80 Plus certification, which represents higher energy efficiency and more reliable performance. Power supplies are most efficient at 50-60% load, so having adequate headroom is important.
Power Efficiency Tips
Utilize the NVIDIA GeForce Experience software or similar tools to optimize game settings for a balance between performance and power consumption.
Enable Intel's Speed Shift Technology in the BIOS and Windows power settings to allow the CPU to dynamically adjust its clock speed based on workload.
Consider setting a reasonable frame rate cap in games to prevent the GPU from unnecessarily drawing power when exceeding your monitor's refresh rate.
Special Installation Note
Ensure you use the native 12V-2×6 connector from the chosen PSU to directly power the RTX 4090. Avoid using adapter cables as they can introduce potential instability or safety concerns.
Usage Scenarios
Gaming Domination
Ultra settings, 4K resolution, and high refresh rates are easily achievable in any modern game. Ray tracing? No problem!
Content Creation
Effortlessly handles video editing, 3D modeling, and complex simulations with blazing-fast rendering times and smooth performance.
AI Development
Train complex machine learning models and run demanding AI simulations with unparalleled speed and efficiency, maximizing research output.
Installation Tips
Position Properly
Most cases have a dedicated PSU bay at the bottom. Ensure the PSU fan is facing down if your case has bottom ventilation, allowing it to draw cool air from outside.
Cable Management
With modular PSUs, connect only the cables you need. Route cables behind the motherboard tray when possible for better airflow and cleaner appearance.
Proper Connections
Ensure all power connectors are fully seated and locked. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 will require dedicated PCIe power connectors from the PSU.
Test Before Completing
Before fully closing your case, connect the essential components and test that your system boots correctly with the new power supply.
The RM1000e gives your power-hungry 13900K/4090 build plenty of headroom and future-proofs you with its ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 compliance.