So, should you choose an MSI gaming laptop for your next big-ticket purchase? What merits does it have over its competitors? Will it be worth its salt, considering that the average MSI gamer comes in at over $1000?
In this feature, we have examined MSI gaming laptops in-depth to give you an overview of the broad landscape.
The gaming landscape is fiercely competitive, and so is the world of gaming computer manufacturers.
As the demand for laptops that support gameplay has risen, more and more laptop makers have jumped onto the bandwagon. One of the top slots in the competition goes to MSI or Micro-Star International, a Taiwanese major.
MSI, a tech company that initially became popular because of its motherboards and graphics cards, is now a leading provider of gaming laptops. In fact, MSI is considered one of the top brands favored by gamers.
In the world of gaming laptops, MSI has established a wonderful—and well-deserved—reputation.
The products under its umbrella are known for being powerful, robust and reliable—exactly what you demand in a gaming companion. Such is the finesse with which MSI designs its products that the company has managed to hold its own in a fiercely competitive landscape.
But what’s even better is that besides being dependable, MSI gamers also deliver on display, audio and connectivity.
You can frequently find new-age features even in relatively cost-effective laptops, such as Nahimic 3 audio, surround sound, ergonomic design and per-key backlighting.
This contributes to a wholesome gaming experience which appeals to both professional gamers and hobbyists.
Within the brand umbrella are computers of various sizes and competencies, designed to cater not only to players but also multimedia enthusiasts and creative professionals.
Table of Contents
- Gaming Essentials: Minimum Features to Look For
- Our Picks: Top 10 MSI Gaming Laptops 2023
- 1. Best Overall: MSI Raider GE67Hx 15.6″ OLED QHD 240Hz Gaming Laptop
- 2. 4K MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Titan GT77 17.3″ UHD 120Hz
- 3. Best 17-inch MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Raider GE77Hx 17.3″ QHD 240Hz
- 4. Most Powerful MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Titan GT77 17.3″ UHD 120Hz
- 5. Budget MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Stealth 15M
- 6. MSI 360Hz Lightweight Gaming Laptop: MSI Stealth GS66
- 7. 240Hz MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Raider GE66
- 8. MSI Vector GP76 17.3″ FHD 360Hz Gaming Laptop
- 9. Best Cheap MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Katana GF66
- 10. MSI Mid-Range Gaming Laptop: MSI Pulse GL76 17.3″ FHD 144Hz
- MSI Gaming Laptop Line-Ups: How to Choose
- Special Features in MSI Gaming Laptops
- Powerful, up-to-date CPU and GPU
- Efficient heat dissipation systems for long-lasting performance
- Blazing fast refresh rates
- Mechanical keyboards with per-key lighting
- Excellent audio and speaker system
- Improved experience for streaming and online gaming
- Good-looking, robust construction
- Relatively long unplugged usage/battery life
- Final Words
Gaming Essentials: Minimum Features to Look For
Before checking out our list of the best MSI gaming laptops, take note of the minimum configuration you should look out for. While several MSI computers are highly customizable, ensuring that they meet these basic criteria will help you settle for a good deal.
- Processing prowess: Gaming is a CPU-intensive exercise. Look for a laptop that offers at least an Intel Core i5 or above, along with 16GB RAM and plentiful storage space to store all your gaming paraphernalia. For instance, many MSI gaming machines are driven by 10th gen. Intel Core i7 CPUs and offer SSD storage to the tune of 512GB.
- GPU: A dedicated graphics processor is essential to deliver a competent A/V experience for your game. MSI laptops offer NVIDIA GTX and RTX cards that can support most modern games fluently.
- Display: What fun would a game be without the colors, effects and visual details? MSI equips its gaming laptops with splendid displays, wide color spectrums, IPS support, and optimal screen resolutions.
- Sound: To get the most out of gameplay, you need good audio output that does not miss out on detail. With MSI, you can get excellent sound systems, contemporary speaker design, and distortion-free audio.
- Heat Dissipation: An efficient cooling mechanism is crucial for sustainable, long-lasting gameplay. MSI is famous for its top-of-the-rung heat dissipation systems that ensure nothing comes in the way of uninterrupted gaming.
- Build: This will depend partly on what matters the most to you: performance or portability. But fortunately, MSI also has several mid-rung gaming laptops that are high on performance minus the bulk. If you need a travel-friendly machine, look for a sleek computer in the range of 4–5 lbs.
- Battery Life: Again, this one matters primarily if you intend to run your gaming laptop unplugged for a considerable period. It is unusual for powerful gaming computers to offer long battery life and not unsurprisingly so. However, you can find MSI gamers that support unplugged usage for 7–8 hours.
Note: Another crucial choice that will be involved in your purchase decision is the screen size. MSI’s offerings are abundant in both the 15 Inch and the 17 Inch sizes. The latter definitely has an edge in display and available real estate to dive into an alternate world.
But the 15” size can be a good choice as well to strike a balance between visual splendor and practicality. Plus, MSI employs a thin-bezel design which ensures you get the maximum bang for your buck.
Our Picks: Top 10 MSI Gaming Laptops 2023
MSI has got a brilliant spread when it comes to gaming computers. In the list below, you will find MSI gaming laptops that cater to different needs, such as no-holds-barred performance, portability and excellent visuals.
In this article, we have prepared an assorted list of some of the very best MSI has to offer. You can choose from different line-ups based on your needs, budget and priorities such as portability and battery life.
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Best MSI Gaming Laptop – Recommended Specs |
|
| Processor | 12th Generation Intel Core i7-12800HX 14-Core Processor (Up to 4.8GHz) |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080Ti 8GB dedicated GDDR6 VRAM |
| Memory | 16GB DDR4 2933MHz Memory |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD |
| Display | 15.6″ 144Hz Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Weight | Under 6 lbs. |
| Battery | Up to 8 Hours |
| Keyboard | 4-Zone RGB Backlit Keyboard |
| OS | Windows 11 Home 64-bit |
We have covered notebooks in both the 15-inch and the 17-inch screen sizes, so that you can choose based on your requirement.
1. Best Overall: MSI Raider GE67Hx 15.6″ OLED QHD 240Hz Gaming Laptop
MSI has a well-rounded portfolio of devices and when it comes to the gaming laptops, the MSI Raider GE67Hx is hands down the best pick of the lot.
Powered by the 12th Gen. Intel Core i7-12800HX processor, the model delivers maximum gaming efficiency with uninterrupted gameplay experience.
Furthermore, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti GPU is backed with the NVIDIA 2nd gen RTX architecture for cutting-edge AI features and superior responsiveness, especially while tackling some of the most intensive games. It is also equipped with a 15.6” OLED QHD display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCl-P3 color gamut support.
What further propels the performance in this gaming laptop from MSI is the combination of 1TB SSD storage and 16GB RAM configuration. It is integrated with Thunderbolt 4 port, which adds to the versatility connectivity.
Reasons to buy
- Premium design
- Responsive processors
- Faster storage configuration
Reasons to avoid
- A little on the bulkier side
- Thermal management could be better
2. 4K MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Titan GT77 17.3″ UHD 120Hz
If you are particular about the visual quality when it comes to gameplay, the MSI Titan GT77 doesn’t disappoint.
Equipped with an expansive and stunning 17.3” UHD display panel with 120Hz refresh rate and 100% DCl-P3 color gamut that provides with more vivid color reproduction like no other.
Not just the display, MSI doesn’t compromise on the performance too. The MSI Titan GT77 is powered by the latest 12th Gen. Intel Core i7-12800HX processor with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU for an uninterrupted and realistic gameplay from start till the end.
The gaming laptop features a stunning backlit keyboard and is integrated with 1TB SSD storage with 32GB RAM configuration for blazing fast performance. It runs on the Windows 11 OS.
Reasons to buy
- Uninterrupted performance and gameplay
- Backed with cutting-edge AI features
- Faster display
Reasons to avoid
- Quite expensive
- Port selection could be better
3. Best 17-inch MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Raider GE77Hx 17.3″ QHD 240Hz
Although we have discussed about its 15.6” variant, the 17.3” display variant deserves a special mention in the list.
A fair-budget gaming laptop, this version of the Raider GE77Hx is also powered by the latest 12th Gen. Intel Core i7-12800HX processor that supports maximum gameplay and superior productivity like no other.
Not just the primary processor, the gaming laptop also boasts the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti GPU, which offers cutting-edge AI features and ray-traced graphics. However, amidst it all, what stands out is the stunning 17.3” QHD display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCl-P3 color gamut for vivid and vibrant visuals.
The integrated Thunderbolt port supports faster data transfer and responsiveness, which is a bonus too. It runs on the Windows 11 Pro OS.
Reasons to buy
- Expansive display configuration
- Backed with Thunderbolt port
- Superior performance
Reasons to avoid
- Thermal configuration could be better
- Battery life is average
4. Most Powerful MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Titan GT77 17.3″ UHD 120Hz
It is one of a kind and brings superior gaming experience to the table, something that advanced gamers are highly appreciative of.
The gaming laptop is powered by the 12th Gen. Intel Core i9-12900HX processor that maximizes productivity and streamlines gaming experience like no other. It is further paired with the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU with cutting-edge AI functionalities to tackle some of the most intensive online games.
MSI has also equipped the model with a large 17.3” UHD display panel with 120Hz refresh rate and 100% DCl-P3 color gamut for vibrant and vivid visuals. It runs on the Windows 11 OS and is integrated with Thunderbolt 4.0 port.
Reasons to buy
- Premium build quality
- Responsive processing power
- Ray-traced graphics
Reasons to avoid
- Quite bulky
- Expensive
5. Budget MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Stealth 15M
The MSI Stealth 15M is one of the most reasonably priced gaming laptops you can consider buying.
It is powered by the Intel Core i7-1260P processor with RTX 3060 GPU for the ultimate gameplay and performance.
Besides that, the gaming laptop also features a 15.6″ FHD display panel with 144Hz refresh rate for the ultimate responsiveness and performance without glitches and buffers. Backed with the Cooler Boost 5 thermal solutions, the laptop doesn’t get overheated even after prolonged usage.
Featuring a stunning build and backlit keyboard, the Stealth 15M is literally a steal, especially with the combination of 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM configuration. It comes pre-integrated with Windows 11 Pro OS.
Reasons to buy
- Affordable pricing
- Responsive performance
- Windows 11 Pros OS
- Optimal thermal solutions
Reasons to avoid
- Storage configuration isn’t the best
- Audio output is average
6. MSI 360Hz Lightweight Gaming Laptop: MSI Stealth GS66
The same becomes a possibility with the MSI Stealth GS66, especially with the combination of a lightweight build and responsive performance.
The model is powered by the Intel Core i7-12700H processor and RTX 3070 Ti GPU for the ultimate gameplay and performance. The combination of 512GB SSD and 16GB RAM further contributes to the immaculate multitasking as well.
If you are concerned about the display, the Stealth GS66 is equipped with a 15.6” FHD ultra-thin display panel with 360Hz refresh rate to live through each frame in the game you are playing. The model comes with the latest Thunderbolt 4.0 port as well.
Reasons to buy
- Ultrathin and lightweight
- Responsive performance
- 360Hz refresh rate
Reasons to avoid
- RAM and storage configuration could be better
- Thermal solutions aren’t the best
7. 240Hz MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Raider GE66
Considered a high-range and high-performance gaming laptop, the MSI Raider GE66 is another beast that you can’t get enough of.
Backed with a mix of premium functionalities, the gaming laptop is backed with a combination of Intel Core i7-12700H processor with RTX 3070 Ti GPU for the ultimate gameplay performance.
Not just that, MSI has also integrated the model with 1TB SSD storage and 32GB RAM that render the most immaculate gaming performance like no other. The price point can be a little out of reach for some users but this versatile laptop is ideal for gaming, productivity and content creation.
The Raider GE66 is equipped with a 15.6” QHD display panel with 240Hz refresh rate for smoother gaming experience. Also, it comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home OS.
Reasons to buy
- Premium performance and build
- Optimal RAM configuration
- Latest GPU configuration
Reasons to avoid
- A bit bulky
- Port selection could be better
8. MSI Vector GP76 17.3″ FHD 360Hz Gaming Laptop
From the performance to the ultimate display and visuals, the MSI Vector GP76 provides with the best of both worlds.
Fueled by the Intel Core i7-12700H processor and RTX 3070 Ti GPU, the model works effortlessly and without any glitches or buffers in the process.
The model also packs in a combination of 1TB SSD and 32GB RAM configuration, which further streamlines the overall user experience and performance like no other. From tackling the most intensive games to rendering the online editing apps, the device is equipped to handle both.
Also, the Vector GP76 is equipped with a larger 17.3” FHD display panel with 360Hz refresh rate for the ultimate gaming experience. You get to live through each and every move on the display, thanks to the true color reproductive and vivid visuals.
Reasons to buy
- Uninterrupted and unparalleled performance
- High-end RAM configuration
- Expansive display panel
Reasons to avoid
- Slower SSD performance
- Battery life is average
9. Best Cheap MSI Gaming Laptop: MSI Katana GF66
Powered by the Intel Core i5-12500H processor and RTX 3050 GPU configuration, the model is quite responsive and fuels uninterrupted performance.
It is integrated with 512GB SSD storage with 8GB RAM, which can be a little disappointing, especially for the high-end and advanced gamers. If you run extensive online games and editing applications, this isn’t the model for you. However, basic gameplay and lightweight apps run effortlessly on the model.
The Katana GF66 is equipped with a 15.6” FHD display with 144Hz refresh rate, which is a blessing as well. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 OS.
Reasons to buy
- Affordable price range
- Responsive processors
- Faster SSD configuration
Reasons to avoid
- RAM configuration is disappointing
- Battery life is average
10. MSI Mid-Range Gaming Laptop: MSI Pulse GL76 17.3″ FHD 144Hz
What further propels the performance of this beast is the storage and RAM configuration with 512GB SSD and 16GB RAM for the ultimate gameplay and productivity. It features an RGB-backlit keyboard, which enhances the credibility and gaming experience of the users.
As for display, the Pulse GL76 is equipped with a larger 17.3” FHD display panel with 144Hz refresh rate. It is backed with Cooler Boost 5 technology and runs on the Windows 11 OS.
Reasons to buy
- Faster loading speed
- Comfortable typing experience
- Expansive display
Reasons to avoid
- Speakers are average
- Battery life is disappointing
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MSI Gaming Laptop Line-Ups: How to Choose
Now, coming to the million-dollar question: which MSI line-up should you consider for your requirements? The gaming product portfolio is quite extensive and variably priced, which means you need to align your choice carefully with your requirements. Broadly, you can explore the following:
GT Titan
This is the best performer of the bunch. These machines come with overclockable processors, impressive graphics, and top-notch cooling systems. It is almost a desktop-replacement line-up.
Naturally, it is designed only for those who see gaming as second nature and don’t want to make any compromises at all with performance. Also, this is not really a portable series.
So, if you are looking for a supremely powerful laptop to fuel your gaming sessions at home, this one fits the description to a T.
GS Stealth
Not nearly as powerful as the Titan series but magnificent nevertheless is the Stealth line-up. It is a neat combination of power and portability.
These laptops are much lighter. Some of them even have considerable battery life, which further adds to their overall mobility.
GE Raider
Bring on the razzmatazz! This MSI gaming line-up is stylish and slick, featuring anodized diamond cut covers and keyboards with RGB back-lighting. It also offers decent performance and good resilience.
The package makes it perfect for gamers who are fond of the enthusiasm and glamour associated with the arena.
GP Leopard
This one is a highly customizable series. Some Leopard laptops offer high-end configurations for extreme performance while some others cut several corners to provide better prices, portability, etc.
Simply put, this is one series that you can tailor to your requirements and find exactly what you want.
GF Thin
A beautiful line-up, the GF Thin blends performance with aesthetics to offer total dazzle to gamers. As the name suggests, this series is best known for its thin profile and overall slim design.
Prestige
This is a recently launched series intended to cater to contemporary, fashion-oriented audiences. Within this are two sub-series: PX for high-end performance and PE for a smoother balance between form and function.
Now that you know the highlights of various MSI gaming laptops, go ahead and make your choice based on what matters the most to you.
We would recommend the Titan only for really passionate gamers who are willing to pay a premium for unparalleled performance and graphics.
The Stealth and the Raider series are both perfectly competent without being bulky and are a sensible option for street-smart gamers.
If standing out in a crowd is what floats your boat, you can go with the GF Thin series or the newly launched Prestige.
The Leopard is an excellent choice for anyone who wishes to customize the specifications of his/her gaming machine finely.
Special Features in MSI Gaming Laptops
First, let us understand what MSI has going for itself when it comes to its gaming offerings.
Powerful, up-to-date CPU and GPU
MSI has always been highly performance-oriented when it comes to gaming machines. Nothing inferior or passable goes; you will find only the latest processors and graphics cards to run the show.
For instance, several MSI gaming laptops are powered by Intel i9 CPUs and are fitted with NVIDIA RTX cards. The latter comes with enthralling features such as real-time ray tracing and images enhanced by artificial intelligence.
Let us just say this: the difference to gameplay is tremendous. Another major plus of going with a manufacturer who believes in staying updated is that you get great forward compatibility and future-readiness.
Note: Some MSI laptops tread on the side of bulky. But unless traveling is a key part of your lifestyle, this is a small price to pay for extreme performance.
Efficient heat dissipation systems for long-lasting performance
For any gaming laptop with promise, an effective cooling mechanism is essential. MSI understands this and how. The Cooler Trinity system is not only efficient at warding off heat, but it also ensures that your computer will be by your side for a good long time. A neat assortment of fans and heat pipes works towards consistently cooling both the CPU and the GPU.
Blazing fast refresh rates
Some MSI gaming machines come with refresh rates as high as 240Hz, while the industry standard remains 144Hz. A high refresh rate directly impacts your overall gaming experience, especially when you play titles that involve numerous transitions.
Frequently, MSI gaming laptops also boast of terrific response times to the tune of 3ms. You will not miss out on any detail—something that makes an enormous difference during competition on the arena.
Mechanical keyboards with per-key lighting
MSI keyboards are among the best you will find in the industry. The mechanical keyboard by SteelSeries, for instance, is not only comfortable to use and durable, but also offers per-key backlighting. The color options are numerous—almost 16 million! This goes beyond a cosmetic win, as a keyboard as dazzling as this can elevate any gaming session to brilliant.
Excellent audio and speaker system
MSI gaming laptops are renowned for providing exceptional audio. Many come with the Dynaudio system, while others offer Nahimic 3 for audio immersion and GIANT speakers for louder, clearer sound. Good-quality sound output can make or break your game, which makes this a significant win for MSI.
Improved experience for streaming and online gaming
Lovers of competitive gaming, rejoice! MSI has equipped several of its offerings with Killer Ethernet and 802.11ax Wi-Fi. While the former prioritizes your game to improve the overall experience, the latter ensures reliable and high-speed connectivity.
Good-looking, robust construction
Traditionally, MSI laptops used to be big and black, better suited to workstation use than being carried around in backpacks. However, with time, MSI has focused on functional but sleek design, and this is apparent in its present-day line-up.
The dragon logo is the highlight and lends the laptop a powerful, ahead-of-the-curve aura. New lines like the Stealth series have also been making significant triumphs as far as the thinness of the profile goes.
Part of this is courtesy of the thin-bezel design of the monitors. It is a double victory: minimal external interference during gameplay and extra glamour to your favorite AAA titles.
Relatively long unplugged usage/battery life
Why is this relative? Well, gaming laptops are not typically known for their battery backup. All that power comes at a cost, after all. But MSI has been successful at producing laptops that can blend performance with unplugged usage.
Some MSI gaming computers can run on a single charge for 7–8 hours, depending on your usage. This is great not only for gamers, but also for multimedia users or creative professionals who need the laptop for A/V projects.
Final Words
So, did you find an MSI gaming laptop that suits your needs? For passionate gamers, MSI is a treasure-house. It blends performance with form and delivers well-built, resilient laptops that support long hours of gaming.
With time, MSI has also mastered the art of design and many of its products are great-looking, sleek, and sustainable. In recent times, the manufacturer has also invested heavily in portable construction, keeping in mind the needs of the modern-day audience that is forever on the run.
Depending upon your priority, you can choose extreme power or long battery life, splendid graphics or comfortable mobility. For instance, the MSI GE67Hx Raider gaming computer supplies great audio and is a smart choice for consistent internet connectivity.
Likewise, the MSI GS66 Stealth laptop is a good pick if you need a high degree of portability.
The MSI family tree also provides gaming laptops that prioritize immersive experiences, durability, and seamless usage across various devices.
The trick to zero down on your ideal gaming companion lies in narrowing your list of considerations. Decide which trade-offs you are willing to experiment with and freeze which requirements you cannot go without.
Choose well, and get gaming!
