In our workshop, there’s a constant, insatiable hunger for one thing: clean, reliable 12-volt DC power. Whether it’s firing up a new 3D printer build, bench-testing a car audio amplifier, powering a massive array of LED strip lights for an installation, or running a ham radio transceiver, the need is always there. For years, this meant cobbling together solutions—repurposing old ATX computer power supplies, which are bulky and often have safety features that trip unexpectedly, or daisy-chaining smaller wall-wart adapters, creating a messy and inefficient setup. The problem is that many of today’s demanding DIY and electronics projects require not just 12 volts, but a significant amount of current—10, 20, even 30 amps. Failing to provide this steady stream of power can lead to flickering lights, underperforming equipment, strange electronic behavior, and in the worst cases, permanent damage to your expensive components. Finding a single, compact, and affordable unit that can deliver this kind of muscle is the holy grail for hobbyists and professionals alike.
- Input: 100V-240V, 50/60Hz; Output Voltage:12V DC, Output Current: 0 ~ 30A,Output Voltage adjustable range: ±10%
- High quality switching power supply, stable 12V output, protect your electronic products from destruction
- Smart chip provide overcharge/ overload/ short-circuit/ over-heat protection, Auto-recovery protection
What to Consider Before Buying a Universal Switching Power Supply
An internal power supply is more than just a box that converts AC to DC; it’s the heart of your electronic project. It’s the critical component that ensures everything from your sensitive microcontrollers to your power-hungry motors receives a stable, regulated voltage, protecting them from the unpredictable fluctuations of wall power. The main benefit of a universal regulated switching power supply is its ability to take a wide range of AC input voltages (typically 100V to 240V) and convert it efficiently into a precise DC output. This makes them incredibly versatile for various applications, from intricate computer projects to robust CCTV security systems.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a DIY enthusiast, a hobbyist, a small-scale manufacturer, or a technician who needs a reliable, high-current 12V source for custom projects. This includes 3D printer builders, ham radio operators, RC hobbyists charging LiPo batteries, or anyone setting up extensive LED lighting. However, this type of open-frame power supply might not be suitable for those who need a plug-and-play solution with no exposed terminals. If you are uncomfortable with basic wiring (connecting live, neutral, and ground wires) or require a fully enclosed, consumer-ready product, you might consider an enclosed desktop-style power adapter or, for computer-specific needs, a standard ATX power supply.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: These units are compact for their power output, but they are not tiny. The metal-caged design is meant for ventilation and requires adequate clearance. Before buying, measure the intended installation space, ensuring there will be enough airflow around the unit to prevent overheating, especially under heavy load. The SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply measures 8.46 x 4.53 x 1.97 inches, a common form factor for this power class.
- Capacity/Performance: This is paramount. Don’t just look at the maximum output. A good rule of thumb is to have a power supply rated for at least 20% more than your project’s maximum continuous power draw. For this 360W (12V at 30A) model, it’s best suited for projects that will continuously draw 24A (around 288W) or less. This buffer ensures the unit doesn’t run at its absolute limit, which extends its lifespan and improves stability. Also, check for features like voltage adjustment—a critical feature for applications like ham radio that often require 13.8V.
- Materials & Durability: Most switching power supplies in this category use a perforated aluminum or steel case. This is for heat dissipation and basic protection. Internally, the quality of the capacitors, transistors, and transformers makes a significant difference in longevity and power cleanliness. While budget-friendly models get the job done, premium brands like Mean Well often use higher-grade components, which is reflected in their price.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: “Ease of use” for these units refers to the clarity of the terminal block markings (L, N, G, +V, -V). Maintenance is minimal, but it’s crucial to keep the ventilation holes free of dust and debris. A blast of compressed air every few months can go a long way in preventing heat buildup and ensuring the internal fan operates effectively.
Keeping these factors in mind, the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply stands out in several areas, particularly its high power-to-price ratio. You can explore its detailed specifications and current pricing here.
While the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply is an excellent choice for many DIY projects, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, especially if your focus is on powering a personal computer, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Replacement power supply for Xbox One S (Slim) 1681, fits all Xbox one Slim Version ( From 2016-2017)
- Perfectly fits for xboxonex console power supply and replacement internal power board.
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First Impressions: A Utilitarian Power Brick
The SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply arrived in a simple, no-frills cardboard box. Inside, the unit itself was nestled in bubble wrap—nothing more. There are no power cords, no instructions, no mounting screws. This is expected for a component-level product; it assumes the user knows what they’re doing. The first thing we noticed was its surprising heft for its size. At 1.5 pounds, it feels solid. The perforated metal casing is standard for this type of PSU, designed more for function (ventilation) than form. The terminal block is clearly marked, which is a relief for anyone who has dealt with poorly labeled electronics. A small green LED indicates when power is on, and a tiny yellow potentiometer screw is accessible for voltage adjustments. A quality control sticker was present, but as some user feedback suggests, this can be hit or miss. Our unit, thankfully, arrived in perfect condition, with no dents or scratches, unlike the experience some buyers have reported. It looks every bit the utilitarian workhorse it’s designed to be, ready to be integrated into a larger project.
Key Benefits
- Provides a very stable and clean 12V DC output, even under significant load.
- Voltage is user-adjustable (approx. ±10%), perfect for specific needs like ham radio (13.8V).
- Excellent value, delivering a high 30A current capacity at a budget-friendly price point.
- Versatile for a wide range of high-power DIY projects, from 3D printers to car audio.
Potential Drawbacks
- The cooling fan runs constantly and is very loud, regardless of load or temperature.
- Inconsistent quality control can lead to receiving damaged, used, or non-functional units.
Performance Deep Dive: Power, Precision, and a Persistent Problem
A power supply’s worth is measured not by its looks, but by its output. Over several weeks, we put the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply through its paces, hooking it up to a variety of demanding loads on our test bench. We wanted to see if its real-world performance could live up to its on-paper specifications and determine if its low cost came with any critical compromises. We focused our evaluation on three key areas: the quality and stability of its power output, its real-world versatility, and the effectiveness of its thermal management system—an area that proved to be its most controversial feature.
Power Stability and Voltage Regulation: The Star of the Show
The single most important job of a power supply is to deliver stable voltage. We’re happy to report that in this critical area, the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply excels. Out of the box, we connected our Fluke multimeter to the output terminals and measured a steady 12.02V with no load. The real test, however, comes when you start drawing current.
We first connected a 150W load (a bank of high-power resistors), drawing 12.5A. The voltage drop was impressively minimal, falling only to 11.99V. Pushing it further, we hooked it up to a car subwoofer amplifier for a bench test, creating dynamic loads peaking around 20A. As one user expertly noted, the AC ripple voltage was negligible, and the voltage drop at 20A was a mere hundredth of a volt. This is the kind of stability that gives you confidence. It means your 3D printer’s heaters will maintain consistent temperature, your LED lights won’t flicker, and your audio equipment will have the clean power it needs to perform properly.
Perhaps the most celebrated feature among hobbyists is the small yellow adjustment potentiometer. For our ham radio setup, which prefers 13.8V for optimal transceiver performance, this was a godsend. A few careful turns with a small screwdriver brought the output voltage to a perfect 13.81V, where it held steady. This simple feature transforms the unit from a generic 12V supply into a highly adaptable tool for specialized electronics. Many users purchase this unit specifically for this capability, and we can confirm it works exactly as advertised. For projects demanding stable, adjustable, high-current DC power, this power supply delivers performance well above its price tag.
Versatility in Action: The DIY Dream
Beyond the raw numbers, we wanted to see how the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply fared in the kinds of projects it’s marketed for. We set up a mock “tiny house” lighting system using nearly 40 feet of high-density LED strips, drawing a continuous 15A. The power supply didn’t break a sweat, providing consistent brightness across the entire length with no signs of strain or overheating.
Next, we used it to power a diesel heater on our test bench, another application mentioned by users. These heaters have a significant initial current draw for their glow plugs, which can trip less robust power supplies. The SUPERNIGHT handled the initial surge and the continuous fan/pump load flawlessly. We also confirmed its suitability for powering multiple RC LiPo battery chargers simultaneously. We were able to run four chargers at once, pulling a combined 18-20A, without any issues. This versatility is its core strength. It’s a single, affordable solution for a multitude of power-hungry projects that would otherwise require much more expensive or cumbersome equipment. The multiple mounting holes on the back and sides of the chassis make it easy to securely integrate into custom enclosures or project frames.
The Fan Conundrum: A Loud and Unfortunate Reality
Now, we must address the elephant in the room: the cooling fan. The product description and even the label on the box of some units claim it features “Temperature control: when temperature is up to 45℃, the fan will work to dissipate heat.” Our testing, corroborated by a significant number of user experiences, proves this to be false. The fan in our unit, and in the replacement units many users received, is not thermostatically controlled. It is wired to run at full speed, 100% of the time that the unit is powered on.
The moment we supplied AC power, even with zero load connected, the fan spun up to a loud, distinct whir. It is not a subtle hum; it is easily the loudest component on our workbench. This is a major design flaw and a misrepresentation in the product’s marketing. For a workshop, garage, or industrial setting, this constant noise might be tolerable, drowned out by other machinery. But for a desktop 3D printer in a home office, a ham radio shack, or a quiet bedroom car audio setup, the noise is incredibly intrusive and annoying. As one user aptly put it after inspecting the internals, the unit is “completely devoid of the components required to thermostatically control the fan.” This isn’t a fluke; it appears to be the standard design.
This single issue is the most significant trade-off for the unit’s low price and high performance. If your project will be located in an environment where noise is a critical concern, you should seriously consider a different, likely more expensive, fanless or thermostatically controlled power supply like the MeanWell LRS-350 that users often choose as an alternative.
What Other Users Are Saying
Diving into feedback from other hobbyists and technicians reveals a consistent story. The praise for the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply is nearly unanimous on one front: its electrical performance for the price. One user, powering a car stereo system, used a calibrated Fluke multimeter to confirm our findings, stating, “12V power is very stable… voltage drop at 20A is ~0.01Vdc.” Another, a ham radio operator, successfully adjusted the output to 13.8V, calling it a “perfect setup” and a “great value.” This sentiment is echoed by those powering diesel heaters, LiPo chargers, and large LED arrays.
However, the praise is almost always followed by a major caveat: the fan. “What I don’t like is how loud the fan is. And it has run non-stop since I powered up the unit,” one user lamented, a feeling shared by many who call the lack of temperature control “just not true.” The other major issue highlighted is quality control lottery. While our unit arrived fine, numerous buyers report receiving units that were “broken out of the box,” had “arc burn marks on one of the terminals,” or were bent and showed signs of internal corrosion, suggesting they were either poorly handled or possibly refurbished. This inconsistency is a risk potential buyers must be aware of.
Alternatives to the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply
While the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply is a powerful and affordable component for DIY projects, it’s not the right fit for every situation. Here’s how it compares to other options in the broader power supply market.
1. Apevia ATX-PR600W 600W 80+ Gold Power Supply
- Supports Dual/Quad/multi-core CPUs. Supports single 12V output for higher power usage
- Dc to DC converter design, provides superior dynamic response, greater system stability and maximizes the 12V DC rail output
- Multi-gpu technologies supported; 6 pin and 8 pin PCI-E connectors support all GPU platforms. Built in 1 x auto-thermally controlled black 135mm fan
The Apevia ATX-PR600W represents a completely different class of power supply. This is a standard ATX PSU designed specifically to be installed inside a desktop computer case. It comes fully enclosed with a suite of dedicated connectors (24-pin motherboard, 8-pin CPU, PCIe for graphics cards, etc.). While it provides a 12V rail, it’s not designed for direct connection to raw project terminals. You would choose the Apevia if your goal is to build or upgrade a gaming or desktop PC. Its 80+ Gold certification signifies much higher efficiency than the SUPERNIGHT, and its large fan is thermostatically controlled for quiet operation under light loads. It’s a polished, consumer-ready product for a specific purpose, whereas the SUPERNIGHT is a raw component for custom electronics.
2. EZDIY-FAB PSU Cable Extension Kit Black
- Our PSU cable extension kit uses 18AWG wire, meeting ATX3.0/3.1 specification standards. Low resistance and high efficiency, ideal for high-power GPUs and CPUs, it ensures stable power during peak...
- Designing highly conductive terminals can significantly improve the stability and reliability of power transmission, making it ideal for users who seek the ultimate gaming experience and graphics...
- Our cable extensions harmonize perfectly with PC components, offering a customized and tidy appearance. The kit includes cable combs for better organization and airflow. At 30 cm long and made from...
This product is not a power supply at all, but rather an accessory for one. The EZDIY-FAB kit provides sleeved cable extensions that connect to the existing cables of an ATX power supply like the Apevia model above. Their purpose is purely aesthetic, allowing PC builders to create a clean, color-coordinated look inside their computer case by hiding the stock, often plain-looking, PSU cables. Someone would purchase this *in addition to* a power supply. It is irrelevant for users of the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply, as the SUPERNIGHT unit uses a terminal block for direct wire connections, not modular cables.
3. iUniker 20W USB-C Power Supply with Switch
- iUniker Raspberry Pi 4 Power Supply - USB C Type C power supply specially designed and tested for the Raspberry Pi 4. Compatible with (Pi 4 Model B), 1GB / 2GB / 4GB / 8GB Version.
- Raspberry Pi 4B Power Supply with UL Listed Certification - UL Listed. Input: 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz, 0.8A. Output: 5.25V 4A 21W. Cable length: 5ft/1.5m.
- Raspberry Pi 4 Charger with on/off Switch Design - With on/off switch, it's convenient to power on or off your Raspberry Pi 4.
The iUniker 20W power supply exists on the opposite end of the power spectrum from the SUPERNIGHT. It’s a small, low-power wall adapter designed to provide 5V (not 12V) at up to 4A, specifically for single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi or Orange Pi. With a maximum output of 20W, it is vastly less powerful than the 360W SUPERNIGHT model. A user would choose the iUniker supply for a single, small electronic device that requires regulated 5V power via a USB-C connector. It’s a specialized, plug-and-play solution for a completely different set of applications and highlights the importance of matching your power supply’s voltage and amperage to your project’s specific needs.
Final Verdict: A Powerful Performer with a Noisy Personality
After extensive testing, our conclusion on the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply is clear: it is a fantastic value proposition with one major, undeniable flaw. Electrically, it is an excellent performer, delivering clean, stable, and adjustable high-current 12V power that is perfect for a huge range of demanding DIY projects. For hobbyists building 3D printers, powering car audio on a bench, running ham radios, or setting up large LED installations, the power and stability it offers for its price are nearly unmatched.
However, this performance comes at the cost of peace and quiet. The constantly running, loud fan makes it a poor choice for any application in a noise-sensitive environment like a home office or living space. Coupled with the gamble of inconsistent quality control, it’s a product best suited for the workshop or garage, where its noise will be less of a nuisance and its utilitarian nature can truly shine. If you need raw 30A power on a budget and can tolerate the noise, this is an incredible workhorse. If quiet operation is a priority, you should look elsewhere.
If you’ve decided the SUPERNIGHT 360W Switching Power Supply is the right fit for your high-power project, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API