Power Supply Unit (PSU) cables play a critical role in delivering stable power to your hardware, but evolving standards can cause confusion. This guide breaks down the differences between Type-3, Type-4, and Type-5 cables, explores Generation 4 vs. Generation 5 advancements, and helps you choose the right cables for your setup.
Type-3 (Legacy, Pre-2016):
Features a 10-pin + 14-pin connector for the PSU side, used in early modular PSUs (e.g., Corsair AX750).
Only the 24-pin motherboard cable is unique; all other cables (SATA, PCIe) are compatible with Type-4 PSUs.
Identifying feature: Labeled "Type-3" or no text on the cable.
Type-4 (Modern, 2016-Present):
Upgraded to a 10-pin + 18-pin connector for the PSU, enhancing signal stability with additional ground and control pins.
Widely used in PSUs like the RMx series, supporting high-power components (e.g., RTX 4090, Intel 14th Gen CPUs).
24-pin cables are not cross-compatible with Type-3, but other cables (e.g., PCIe) work seamlessly, as pin reconfigurations only involve 12V pathways.
If you’ve bought a Corsair PSU in the last 8 years, it likely uses Type-4. Only the 24-pin cable differs; all other Type-3 cables can safely connect to Type-4 PSUs.
Type-4: Standard modular connectors, ideal for ATX cases.
Type-5 (2020-Present):
Features Micro-Fit connectors, 30% smaller than Type-4, designed for compact PSUs like the SHIFT and SF-L series (perfect for ITX builds).
Same power rating (supports up to 30A on 12V rails) but with a low-profile design for easier cable management in tight spaces.
PSU-side connectors are not compatible with Type-4, but device-side ports (24-pin, CPU 8-pin, PCIe 12VHPWR) remain standard.
Type-5 solves the pain of managing cables in small-form-factor cases without compromising power delivery.
Uses nylon-braided sleeving with seamless，eliminating fraying risks from older Gen 2 cables (with visible heatshrink).
Flexible and durable, passing 100,000 bend tests, suitable for users prioritizing aesthetics.
Replaces braided sleeves with laser-embossed TPE material, mimicking a sleeved look while offering:
20% smaller diameter (5.2mm vs. 6.5mm) for easier routing in tight spaces.
Enhanced flexibility and resistance to fraying, with a smoother surface for faster cable management.
Eco-friendly design: Uses recyclable TPE, reducing carbon footprint by 25%.
Currently included with premium PSUs and sold as standalone 12V-2x6 cables.
Gen 2 (Left): Heatshrink sleeving, bulky.
Gen 4 (Middle): Braided sleeving, sleek.
Gen 5 (Right): Embossed TPE, minimalist and flexible.
Check cable labels: "Type-3", "Type-4", or "Type-5" is printed on the cable.
Use compatibility tools: Corsair’s online tool matches your PSU model to the correct cables.
ATX/Full-Tower Cases: Type-4 Gen 4 or Gen 5 for balanced performance and aesthetics.
ITX/SFF Builds: Type-5 Gen 5 for compact connectors and easy 理线.
Legacy Systems: Type-3 cables for PSUs pre-2016 (ensure 24-pin compatibility).
Gen 4: Best for traditional braided cable looks.
Gen 5: Ideal for modern builds needing flexibility, durability, and eco-friendliness.
Integrated Smart Features: E-Marker chips for dynamic power allocation (e.g., auto-adjusting power for GPUs).
Eco-Materials: Biodegradable TPE and recycled copper aiming for 70% carbon footprint reduction by 2026.
Unified Connectors: Potential integration of PCIe 6.0 12VHPWR into standard 24-pin cables to minimize clutter.
Type-3, Type-4, and Type-5 cables represent incremental improvements in modularity, space efficiency, and user experience, while Generations 4 to 5 focus on material innovation and ease of use. The key takeaway? 24-pin cables are the only non-compatible component between Type-3/4/5, while other cables (SATA, PCIe) work across generations. By matching your PSU model, case size, and aesthetic preferences, you can ensure a stable, clutter-free build—no confusion required.
