Corsair's AX1600i Power Supply Gets Crucial Upgrades

If there's one component in your gaming PC that you should never cheap out on, it's the power supply unit (PSU), especially if you're using a high-end CPU and graphics card. Corsair's AX1600i has long been the PSU of choice for many enthusiasts, but its design has been somewhat outdated in recent years. Fortunately, Corsair has brought it up to date with a whole host of much-needed upgrades.

The Corsair AX1600i has always been a top-tier PSU, offering excellent performance and reliability, but it lacked some modern features. For example, the current version doesn't include dedicated 12V-2x6 sockets, a compact form factor, or a monitoring system that easily integrates with the rest of Corsair's software ecosystem. However, the latest update addresses these shortcomings head-on.

Key Upgrades to the AX1600i

The new AX1600i has been given several important upgrades that make it more suitable for modern gaming and high-performance builds. Let's take a closer look at what's changed.

  • 12V-2x6 Sockets: The new AX1600i now features two 12V-2x6 sockets (updated to 12VPWR), allowing users to use any compatible cable without the need for an adapter. While Corsair recommends using its own cables, such as the ThermalProtect model, the new sockets are fully compatible with third-party options.
  • Pin Monitoring System: A new pin monitoring system reports back to iCUE, Corsair's software suite. The updated AX1600i includes an iCUE Link hub and a USB Type-C port, making it easier to integrate with other Corsair components. This allows users to enable single or multi-rail over-current protection and receive warnings via software if any pins are overheating.
  • Compact Design: Corsair has reduced the length of the AX1600i by 30 mm, bringing it down to 170 mm. This was achieved by using compact GaN components and applying the Shift PSU design, which places the power connectors on the side of the unit instead of the end.

A More Versatile PSU for Modern Builds

The result of these updates is the Corsair AX1600i Shift, a top-end power supply that now fits into many mid-tower cases. This makes it more versatile for modern builds, especially those featuring high-end RTX graphics cards that require a lot of power. The new design and features make it a more attractive option for users looking to build a high-performance gaming rig without compromising on space or compatibility.

Naturally, you'll want to know what all these changes have done to the already high price tag. While the cost hasn't been officially announced, it's safe to assume that the AX1600i Shift will be priced accordingly. However, if you're already investing heavily in high-end components like the RTX 5090, the additional cost of a new AX1600i may be a small price to pay for the improved performance and flexibility it offers.