MSI Raider A18 HX review
The MSI MSI Raider A18 HX ranks as the #149 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 79. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #94-ranked performance among 729 laptops. Consider the MSI Raider GE78 HX or MSI Vector 17 HX, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The MSI Raider A18 HX is a mixed bag. While its performance is impressive, the price tag of $5,600 makes it a hard sell. The laptop's screen and trackpad are major misses, feeling subpar for a device at this price point. When two-thirds of the experience is compromised, it's difficult to justify the cost. For $1,400 less, you can get the Asus SCAR with a 4090 GPU, which outperforms the Raider A18 HX. The Intel system with the 5080 chip also performs similarly for nearly the same price. Overall, this laptop feels overpriced and underwhelming in its essential components.
Build
The MSI Raider A18 HX's build is a mixed bag. The laptop's size and power are impressive, with two big beefy fans and six heat pipes, including an optional seventh for the Gen 5 SSD. Upgradable RAM and dual SSDs are also notable features. However, the battery life falls short, clocking in at around 4 hours despite its large capacity. The Wi-Fi card is also replaceable, but the MediaTek option on the AMD system may cause connectivity issues. Overall, while the build has some impressive features, it's not enough to justify the $5,600 price tag. MSI Vector A18 HX might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded build.
Display
The display on the MSI Raider A18 HX is a mixed bag. While the HDR feature offers decent colors, it's marred by inconsistent brightness levels and poor contrast ratio. The screen also struggles with motion blur, making it less ideal for fast-paced gaming. Additionally, the webcam fares no better, with subpar image quality that borders on unusable in certain lighting conditions. However, the display itself is sharp and vibrant, with good color accuracy. Overall, while not a complete disaster, the display falls short of expectations, particularly considering the laptop's hefty price tag. For an improved display, MSI Vector A18 HX is worth considering.
Performance
The MSI Raider A18 HX delivers decent performance, with the Intel system's RTX 4080 GPU performing similarly to the $1,400 cheaper RTX 4090 in the strict SCAR. The laptop's two SSDs and upgradeable RAM are welcome features, but the battery life falls short, lasting only around 4 hours on a single charge. While the CPU handles tasks efficiently, the GPU's performance is hindered by the display's subpar HDR capabilities. Overall, the Raider A18 HX's performance is average, considering its high price point of $5,600. The RTX 4080's hefty cost also affects the overall value of the laptop, making it a tough sell in today's market. You might want to check out MSI Stealth GS77, featuring an upgraded performance for a superior experience.
Battery and Charging
The battery life is disappointingly short, with the Intel version lasting around 4 hours despite its large capacity of 99.9 Wh. The weight of the laptop is already substantial at 3 lbs, making it impractical to take on long trips or use in libraries for extended periods. While the charging time is not explicitly mentioned, it's clear that this laptop requires frequent recharging, which can be inconvenient for users who need a reliable device throughout the day.
Connectivity
The MSI Raider A18 HX's connectivity options are somewhat lacking. The Wi-Fi card is replaceable, but the MediaTek version found in the AMD system can cause connectivity issues. Additionally, there's no USB 4 or Thunderbolt 4 ports, which may be a drawback for those who require faster data transfer speeds. If you're after top-notch connectivity, consider MSI Vector A18 HX.
Features
The MSI Raider A18 HX boasts impressive features, including a powerful processor, upgradable RAM (32GB), and two upgradeable SSDs. The laptop also features dual beefy fans, six heat pipes (plus a seventh for Gen 5 SSD), and a replaceable Wi-Fi card. However, the battery life is disappointing at around 4 hours. It’s worth checking out MSI Vector A18 HX, delivering remarkable features.
Support and Maintenance
The MSI Raider A18 HX falls short in essential aspects, with an annoying trackpad and subpar screen that can't be overlooked, even at $5,600. The keyboard, which is crucial for interaction, also receives no special mention. In contrast, a MacBook Air offers a better overall experience. The laptop's design prioritizes gaming performance over usability.
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