Over the last few years, the emergence of multi-core processors, power-hungry motherboards, RAID hard drive configurations, and multi-GPU graphics cards has really put the pressure on your average power supply. Enthusiasts hammer their power supplies even more through overclocking and the potential of dual-card CrossFire or SLI setups. Unfortunately, while everyone seems to be interested in checking the next great video card, of an upcoming ultra-fast hard drive, most people don't pay enough attention to the newest power supplies. But the PSU market is filled with different choices, so whether configuring a budget system, or building a "money is no object" high-end system, a little research will yield a unit perfect for your needs.

Many of you know that the power supply is one of the most, if not the most, important piece of hardware in your system. It supplies the juice to all your system components, and if it's not up to the task, then get ready for some heartache. But that doesn't necessarily mean grabbing the highest power rating you can find, as while the top-end systems use massive 800W+ power supplies, midrange PCs will not find a need for such a unit. BFG knows this, and while it does supply the MX modular and the high-end ES models, their LS Series is designed for the mainstream consumer. A great example is the BFG Tech LS 680W power supply, which is the highest power rating the LS Series offers, and checks in at only $115.