Modular vs Hard-wired

Bottom line - I am not a fan of modular power supplies for several reasons I will explain below.



I started this thread because I noted in OklahomaWolf's recent review on the Rosewill Hive 1000W supply, a 1/2 point was deducted from "Functionality" because the supply was only semi-modular. OkW clearly indicates that is his opinion with his comment, "That's just how I roll", so I am okay with that.



I question (in my mind) if modularity is really a matter of function. But more importantly, if the advantages of modular supplies justify their existence, added costs, spare cable storage requirements/inconvenience, and the substantial increase in points for potential problems?



Frankly, other than minimizing cable clutter, I see no advantage to modular supplies. I don't even see them as convenient.

1. They do NOT increase performance, efficiency, or regulation. In fact, that review shows where a flakey ATX connector degraded performance and regulation.
   


2. They add to the complexity of the design, increasing the number of components [that may fail] without adding to performance.
   


3. They add to the cost of the supply, again, without adding to performance.
   


4. As seen in that review, they may result in the wrong cable being connected.
   


5. Even the best connectors in any circuit (vs hardwired direct) add some resistance, are subject wear and tear and a loose "mechanical" connection (essential for minimal resistance in the "electrical" connection) over time.
   


6. Unused PSU modular connectors (unless covered with dust caps - not typically supplied :() are exposed to dust and dirt.
   


7. Unused cables (if not carefully stored) may be exposed to dust and physical damage - potentially degrading the "mechanical" connection.
   


8. This is a big one for me - There is no ATX Form Factor type industry standard for modular cables so you cannot mix and match cables from different makers (potentially a big problem if you have multiple computers you are responsible for). You cannot even be sure cables from different supplies from the same maker are interchangeable. This means if you have multiple modular supplies, you must carefully store your unused cables for each supply individually - for years!!!
   
   
   
   Storing all the different drive mounting rails and brackets, external drive bay covers, and other unique spare parts for every computer case (again, for years!) is already a PITA (IMO). Having to do the same for every modular PSU is hardly convenient, nor do the spare parts stored separately from the case add to functionality. And this inconvenience only increases with each additional modular PSU you are responsible for.

The ONLY advantages I see to modular supplies are (1) they present a tidier appearance and (2) a smaller "rat's nest" will collect less dust. But I contend choosing a case that provides good cable management, along with careful routing, stuffing, and tying back of cables does the same thing - without impacting desired air flow through the case too. A tidy case is no doubt important, but I tend to stare at my monitors, not inside my case.



With all that in mind, I hope we can all agree modular supplies do NOT offer better performance (tighter regulation, lower efficiency) for the money. And their added complexity in design and the substantial higher number of parts just naturally increases the potential for something to go wrong (vs a comparable hardwired PSU).



So obviously, my personal preference for my own computers, and those I am responsible for, is hardwired supplies.



What are your personal preferences, and why? And if you prefer modular, please indicate how many PCs (and their spare parts) you are personally responsible for maintaining.

Modular vs Hard-wired