The component most suspect when you notice a burning electronics smell is the power supply (PSU in a PC, power adapter/brick in other devices).

Why the power supply is most likely

  • The power supply handles high voltage conversions and typically runs hotter than most other components.
  • When it fails, its internal components (transformer, capacitors, switching transistors, insulation) can overheat and produce that classic “burning electronics” or “burning plastic” odor.
  • Faults like overloads, short circuits, or worn parts often show up first in the power supply because it is the entry point for mains power and is under constant electrical stress.

Other suspects you should not ignore

Even though the power supply is the first suspect, several other parts can also cause a burning smell:

  • Overheated wiring, loose connectors, or damaged insulation (e.g., power cords, internal harnesses, outlet strips).
  • Circuit boards and components such as MOSFETs, regulators, and resistors that have shorted or overheated.
  • Motors, fans, and transformers in appliances, which can overheat due to mechanical wear or overload and give off a burnt odor.

Safety-first actions

  • Immediately power the device off and unplug it if safe to do so; do not keep using it “to see if it goes away.”
  • Do not open mains-powered equipment unless you are trained and understand the shock and fire hazards inside power supplies and high-voltage sections.
  • If the smell persists from the room or house wiring (not just one device), treat it as a potential electrical fire risk and have a qualified electrician inspect the installation.

In short: if you catch that acrid “burning electronics” smell, suspect the power supply first, but verify carefully and treat the situation as a safety issue, not just a nuisance.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.