Catheter ablation using radiofrequency (RF) energy has been widely used to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The optimal levels of power and duration to increase the success rate while minimizing complications have not been fully established. Different centers continue to use various power protocols for catheter ablation of AF. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the impact of power output on efficacy and safety of RF ablation for AF. High power short duration (HPSD) ablation can be performed safely with similar procedural efficacy as low power long duration (LPLD) ablation strategy. HPSD ablation has the potential to shorten procedural and RF times and create more durable and localized lesions.