MSI Raider 18 HX review
The MSI MSI Raider 18 HX ranks as the #150 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 79. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #95-ranked performance among 730 laptops. Consider the MSI Raider A18 HX or MSI Raider GE78 HX, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The MSI Raider 18 HX is an extremely powerful laptop that delivers the ultimate 4K gaming experience. However, it's a behemoth of a machine with a hefty price tag to match. While it excels in performance, its bulkiness and weight may deter some users who prioritize portability. Despite this, the Raider 18 HX offers impressive thermal management, plenty of self-upgradability options, and a stunning mini LED display. For those willing to sacrifice portability for top-notch gaming performance, this laptop is worth considering. However, for those on a budget or seeking a more portable solution, it may be wise to look elsewhere. Ultimately, the question remains: is this pricey powerhouse worth it? If you're an avid gamer who values raw power and doesn't mind carrying around a larger device, then yes. But if portability and affordability are your top priorities, there may be better options available.
Build
The MSI Raider 18 HX boasts a sturdy build with a focus on ergonomics. Measuring 43.9 x 31.5 x 2.4 cm, it's a compact powerhouse that doesn't compromise on functionality. The laptop's design is sleek and modern, with a subtle flair of elegance. Weighing in at 3.5 kg, it's certainly not the lightest device, but its build quality makes up for it. Two DDR5 slots and two M.2 slots ensure easy upgradeability, while the dedicated cooling system keeps temperatures under control. The metal chassis provides a solid foundation for the impressive hardware within. Overall, the MSI Raider 18 HX's build is robust and well-designed, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable gaming laptop. For an improved build, MSI Raider A18 HX is worth considering.
Display
The MSI Raider 18 HX boasts an impressive display that justifies its hefty price tag. The mini LED panel offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratio, making it ideal for gaming and multimedia use. With a resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), every detail is rendered with stunning clarity. The HDR10 support further enhances the viewing experience, ensuring that every scene pops with rich, lifelike colors. Overall, the display is one of the highlights of this laptop, making it perfect for those seeking an immersive visual experience. You might want to check out MSI Raider A18 HX, featuring an upgraded display for a superior experience.
Performance
The MSI Raider 18 HX delivers an exceptional gaming experience with its powerful performance. Equipped with a completely exhaustive cooling system and a dedicated cooling pipe for the PCI Gen 5 M.2 slot, this laptop stays cool even during intense gaming sessions. The 99.9Wh battery provides a decent 4 hours of runtime, but it's best used plugged in to get the most out of its performance. With two DDR5 slots that can be upgraded to 96GB and two M.2 slots, self-upgradability is a breeze. The laptop's performance shines through with impressive thermal management and fan noise levels as low as 60dB under peak loads. Overall, the Raider 18 HX is a powerhouse of a laptop that delivers exceptional gaming performance. Take a look at MSI Raider A18 HX - its improved performance sets a new standard.
Battery and Charging
The battery life of the MSI Raider 18 HX is somewhat underwhelming, with a 99.9Wh hour capacity that translates to around 4 hours of run time with balanced use. Gaming on battery will further reduce this time. As expected for a gaming laptop with such powerful hardware, portability isn't the primary concern. Ideally, it's best to keep this device plugged in to maximize its capabilities.
Connectivity
The MSI Raider 18 HX boasts two DDR5 slots (up to 96GB) and two M.2 slots, including one PCI Gen 5 slot. This allows for easy upgradability and flexibility in configuring storage. Additionally, the Wi-Fi module is M.2 based, making it easily swappable when newer versions become available. It’s worth checking out MSI Raider A18 HX, delivering remarkable connectivity.
Features
The MSI Raider 18 HX boasts an impressive feature set, making it an ultimate 4K gaming laptop. It comes equipped with a 18-inch mini LED display, 7 discrete cooling pipes, and a powerful two-fan system for efficient heat management. The laptop also features 2 DDR5 slots (upgradable to 96GB), 2 M.2 slots (including one PCI Gen 5 slot), and a dedicated cooling pipe for the M.2 slot. Its six-speaker audio system provides immersive sound, while a 99.9Wh battery ensures all-day gaming on the go. Give MSI Raider A18 HX a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled features.
Support and Maintenance
The MSI Raider 18 HX boasts an exhaustive cooling system with seven discrete pipes and two powerful fans, ensuring minimal blockage and efficient heat dissipation. The thermal management system is equally impressive, producing a modest noise level of around 60 dB under peak loads. Additionally, the laptop features self-upgradability options, including two DDR5 slots and two M.2 slots, allowing users to upgrade their hardware as needed.
Pros
1. This laptop delivers the ultimate 4K gaming experience.
2. The thermal management system is amazing, with minimal blockage and a noise level of approximately 60 dB under peak loads.
3. You get plenty of options for self-upgradability, including two DDR5 slots (upgradable to 96 GB) and two M.2 slots (including one PCI Gen 5 slot).
4. The battery life is 99.9 Whr, although this doesn't necessarily mean much in a gaming laptop with powerful hardware.
5. The speaker system is decent, with good volume, highs, and mids, as well as some bass.
6. The build quality is good, and you get plenty of ports to work with.
7. This laptop is designed for those who want the ultimate gaming experience on-the-go.
Cons
1. It's an 18-inch laptop that's heavy, bulky, and not designed for portability.
2. The trade-offs are quite visible, making it feel more like a mini desktop than a traditional laptop.
3. Gaming on battery life is limited due to the powerful hardware.
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