MSI Pulse GL66 review
The MSI MSI Pulse GL66 ranks as the #706 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 66. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #378-ranked connectivity among 667 laptops. Consider the MSI Modern 15 or MSI Modern 14, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The MSI Pulse GL66 offers an impressive combination for 1080p gaming, with a powerful i7 processor and RTX 3060 GPU. While it's pricey at Rs 1.4 lakhs, its thermal department is next-level, keeping temperatures in check despite loud fans. For gamers, this laptop delivers on its promises. However, content creators may want to look elsewhere due to the panel's lack of color accuracy. With some extra spending, you can get similar specs from competitors like Acer and Asus. Ultimately, it's worth considering for gamers willing to invest in a great thermal system, but not ideal for content creation.
Build
The MSI Pulse GL66 has a sturdy build that exudes premium quality. The body is made from majorly plastic, with a metallic lid adding a touch of sophistication. The IO layout is well-placed, with convenient ports on either side, including a charging port and USB Type-C 3.2 port (albeit not Thunderbolt 4). Despite the compact design, the laptop doesn't feel lightweight or fragile. The matte finish display looks sleek and modern, although it's not particularly color-accurate, which may be a drawback for content creators. Overall, the build quality is solid, making the MSI Pulse GL66 a dependable daily driver for gamers and professionals alike. For an improved build, MSI Crosshair 15 is worth considering.
Display
The MSI Pulse GL66's display is a gaming laptop's dream come true. With a full HD 144Hz panel and 3ms response time, it provides a smooth and fast visual experience. The matte finish helps reduce glare, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. However, color accuracy takes a hit, making it less suitable for content creators. While this may not be an issue for gamers, those who rely on accurate colors will want to invest in a separate monitor. Overall, the display is top-notch and perfect for its intended purpose - delivering high-quality visuals for gaming enthusiasts. You might want to check out MSI Crosshair 15, featuring an upgraded display for a superior experience.
Performance
The MSI Pulse GL66's performance is truly impressive. Equipped with an Intel Core i7-11800S processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 laptop GPU, this laptop flies through benchmarks with ease. It delivers perfect 1080p gaming performance, effortlessly averaging around 100 fps on major titles without breaking a sweat. The thermal department is also commendable, thanks to the dual fan setup and next-level heat pipes. However, the fans can get quite loud during intense gaming sessions. Overall, the MSI Pulse GL66's performance makes it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a powerful laptop that can handle demanding games with ease. Take a look at MSI GV15 Thin - its improved performance sets a new standard.
Battery and Charging
The MSI Pulse GL66 features a 53.5Wh battery that lasts around four hours in normal usage. However, in demanding scenarios such as gaming, the battery life drops to approximately three and a half hours. The laptop supports fast charging and can be replenished from 0-80% in under an hour. While it's not ideal for those who require long battery life, the GL66's compact size and efficient hardware make up for this limitation.
Connectivity
The MSI Pulse GL66 boasts an impressive array of ports, including USB-A 3.2, USB-C 3.2, HDMI, and an RJ45 port. However, the USB-C port is not Thunderbolt 4 compliant, which may be a drawback for some users. The laptop's connectivity options are otherwise comprehensive, making it easy to connect external devices and peripherals. It’s worth checking out MSI Thin GF63, delivering remarkable connectivity.
Features
The MSI Pulse GL66 boasts impressive specs, including an i7-11800H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 laptop GPU. The 14" FHD 144Hz display with 3ms response time provides a seamless gaming experience. A single-zone RGB keyboard offers great key travel and feedback. Additional features include a 720p webcam, dual bottom-firing speakers, and an M2 slot for extra storage. Give MSI Raider GE67 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled features.
Support and Maintenance
The MSI Pulse GL66 offers top-notch performance with its 11th gen Intel processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU. However, the laptop's loud fan noise during intense gaming sessions may be a drawback. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Pros
1. The laptop has a great combination for 1080p gaming, with an i7 11800s processor coupled with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 laptop GPU.
2. The thermal department is next level thanks to all of this dual fan setup and the next level heat pipes.
3. The battery life lasts around four hours which is decent considering it's a beefy gaming machine.
4. The webcam is surprisingly good, making it suitable for video calls and small video footage.
Cons
1. The starting price of 1.4 lakhs may not be justified considering the competition from other brands like Acer and Asus at lower prices.
2. The panel isn't super bright and the body isn't lightweight either, which might be a concern for some users.
3. The fans get super loud to the point where you can't hear game audio, making it necessary to use headphones.
4. The color accuracy of the panel is not great, which may be an issue for content creators who require accurate colors.
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