Introduction
Gaming laptops have come a long way in terms of portability and performance, and the MSI Thin GF63 is a prime example of this evolution. This sleek and compact gaming laptop combines the power of an Intel Core i5 processor with dedicated graphics, providing gamers with a formidable machine that can handle demanding titles. In this review, we’ll explore the key features, performance, design, and overall value of the MSI Thin GF63.
Design and Build
The MSI Thin GF63 boasts a minimalistic and sleek design that is both stylish and portable. Its brushed aluminum chassis is both lightweight and durable, making it an excellent choice for gamers on the move. With a thickness of just 0.85 inches and a weight of around 4.1 pounds, this laptop is surprisingly thin and light for a gaming machine.
The laptop’s narrow bezels around the 15.6-inch display contribute to an immersive gaming experience. While the build quality is commendable, some users might find the plastic bottom panel less premium compared to the rest of the laptop.
Display
The 15.6-inch Full HD display on the MSI Thin GF63 offers a sharp and vibrant visual experience. The thin bezels not only enhance the aesthetics but also maximize the screen real estate. With an IPS panel, the laptop delivers wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction, making it suitable for both gaming and content consumption. The 60Hz refresh rate is decent for most games, but competitive gamers might wish for a higher refresh rate option.
Performance
The MSI Thin GF63 is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, offering a good balance of performance and power efficiency. The laptop also features NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics, which significantly boosts gaming capabilities. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA titles or handling demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering, the laptop can handle it with ease.
The system comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM, which is adequate for most tasks, but some users might consider upgrading to 16GB for better multitasking performance. In terms of storage, the laptop features a 256GB SSD, which provides fast boot times and snappy application loading. While the storage is sufficient for the OS and a few games, a larger SSD or an additional HDD might be needed for a more extensive game library.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard on the MSI Thin GF63 is comfortable and suitable for both gaming and typing. It has a good key travel distance, and the red backlighting adds a stylish touch. The touchpad is responsive and supports Windows Precision drivers, ensuring accurate tracking and gesture control. However, for gaming, most users will prefer an external mouse.
Ports and Connectivity
The laptop comes with a decent selection of ports. On the left side, you’ll find a USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, a USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A port, an HDMI output, and an Ethernet jack. On the right side, there are two more USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports and separate headphone and microphone jacks. While it’s a good mix of ports, some users might miss the absence of a Thunderbolt 3 port, which can be useful for high-speed data transfer and external GPU support.
Audio
The MSI Thin GF63 features stereo speakers with Nahimic 3 audio enhancement. The audio quality is decent for a laptop of this size, providing clear and balanced sound for gaming and multimedia. However, for a more immersive audio experience, users may want to invest in external speakers or high-quality headphones.
Cooling and Thermals
Effective cooling is crucial for gaming laptops, and the MSI Thin GF63 features a dual-fan thermal solution with dedicated heat pipes. This design helps keep the system cool under load, ensuring consistent performance. The laptop’s cooling system is generally efficient, but it’s important to note that it can get quite loud when running demanding games or tasks.
Battery Life
Gaming laptops are not known for exceptional battery life, and the MSI Thin GF63 is no exception. While the laptop is capable of basic web browsing and productivity tasks on battery power, intense gaming or video editing will require it to be plugged in. The laptop’s battery life is typical for a gaming laptop, offering around 5-6 hours of mixed usage before needing a charge.
Software
MSI preloads the laptop with Windows 10 and some proprietary software, including the Dragon Center, which allows users to monitor system performance, customize RGB lighting, and manage power settings. While this software can be useful, some users prefer a cleaner Windows installation without additional manufacturer-specific software.
Conclusion
The MSI Thin GF63 is a compelling option for gamers looking for a portable gaming laptop with solid performance. Its sleek design, powerful Intel Core i5 processor, and dedicated graphics make it suitable for a wide range of games. The laptop’s Full HD display, comfortable keyboard, and good selection of ports add to its appeal.
While it offers an excellent gaming experience for its size, some users may wish for a higher refresh rate display, more RAM, or a larger SSD, depending on their specific needs. In terms of value, the MSI Thin GF63 is a competitive choice in the mid-range gaming laptop market, offering a balance of performance and portability that many gamers will appreciate.
Thank you: masculinebrain
