MSI Vector 16 HX AI review
The MSI MSI Vector 16 HX AI ranks as the #196 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 78. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #78-ranked performance among 700 laptops. Consider the MSI Creator Z16 or MSI Prestige 16, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI is a gaming laptop that packs high-end specs at an affordable price point. It's a departure from the usual i9-equipped laptops in the 50 series, which are now mostly out of reach for gamers due to their exorbitant prices. The Vector, on the other hand, offers excellent performance without the fluff, making it a great option for those looking for a top-spec gaming device without breaking the bank. While its design is somewhat bulky and loud, the laptop's performance and display make up for these shortcomings, making it worth considering for gamers who want a powerful machine without the hefty price tag.
Build
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI boasts a bulky design that's more fat than futuristic. While some might find the retro look appealing, others will be turned off by its chunky build. The copper heat sinks and blue feet add an interesting touch, but the inclusion of saw blades near the wrist rest raises questions about their purpose. Despite this, the laptop's Cosmic Gray color is a nice touch. Consider discovering the power of MSI Stealth 16 AI, featuring the latest advancements in build.
Display
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI boasts a 16in 240Hz QHD+ IPS display, which is decent for gaming. While not an OLED panel, the colors are pleasing and vibrant, making it enjoyable to play games on. The brightness is sufficient, but may not be ideal in direct sunlight. One notable feature is the display's responsiveness, making fast-paced games look smooth. However, the lack of maximum brightness may be a drawback for some users. Overall, the display is adequate for gaming, but its limitations are noticeable. A good effort from MSI, but not a standout in terms of display quality. You might prefer MSI Prestige 16 Studio, designed with an upgraded display for a better experience.
Performance
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI is a powerhouse laptop that delivers exceptional performance. With an i9 processor, it handles demanding tasks with ease. The 5070Ti graphics card and 12GB of VRAM provide seamless gaming experiences. I maxed out the settings in Expedition 33 without any issues, and the laptop remained cool to the touch. Performance-wise, this laptop is a winner, making it an excellent choice for gamers who demand top-notch specs without breaking the bank. For a superior performance, MSI Creator Z16 could be the right choice.
Battery and Charging
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI boasts impressive specs, but its battery life is somewhat lacking. With an estimated 5-6 hour runtime in normal usage, it falls short of expectations. However, the 330W charger makes up for this with fast replenishment, taking only around 1.5 hours to reach a full charge. This balance between power and portability means gamers can enjoy extended sessions without worrying about running out of juice. A solid compromise, but not the longest-lasting option on the market.
Connectivity
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI boasts an impressive array of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and an Ethernet jack, making it well-suited for multitasking and gaming. The charger also pushes out a respectable 330W, hinting at the laptop's high-performance capabilities. You may find MSI Stealth 16 AI a better fit, thanks to its superior connectivity.
Features
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI boasts impressive specs, including an i9 processor, 12 GB VRAM, and a 240Hz QHD+ display. Its design features a retro-style bulkiness, copper heat sinks, and blue feet. The keyboard has 24 RGB backlight zones, but the trackpad is standard Windows quality. If you’re after a better features, MSI Creator Z16 could be the ideal option.
Support and Maintenance
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI offers good support and maintenance features. The laptop's design allows for easy access to components, making repairs and upgrades relatively straightforward. Additionally, the laptop's cooling system is effective in managing temperatures during intense gaming sessions. However, the loud fan noise may be a concern for some users. Overall, the Vector 16 HX AI provides solid support and maintenance capabilities.
Pros
1. The new MSI Vector 16 HX AI offers excellent performance, thanks to its i9 processor.
2. The laptop's RAM and SSD packages are very good, making it ideal for gaming.
3. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the Vector still delivers great performance.
4. The keyboard is decent to type on, with a chiclet style that's comfortable to use.
5. The webcam is decent, with 30fps 1080p resolution and a feature to close off the camera.
6. The display is good, with a 16in 240 Hz QHD plus IPS panel that's perfect for gaming.
7. The Vector's design language is interesting, with copper-colored accents and a sleek look.
8. The laptop's cooling system may be old-school, but it gets the job done and doesn't overheat.
Cons
1. The laptop can get very loud when gaming, making it hard to sneak in a session at work.
2. Most of the heat is sent out the back of the laptop, which can make it uncomfortable to hold during extended use.
3. There's no fancy slim vapor chamber cooling system, just a traditional blow-on-it method.
4. The Vector can get hot when gaming, but this doesn't seem to affect its performance much.
5. The speakers are not bad, but they're not great either - audio quality is not the laptop's strong suit.
6. There's no optical drive or SD card slot on this model, which might be a drawback for some users.
7. The Vector weighs 2.7 kilograms, making it not the lightest gaming laptop on the market.
8. The charger pushes out 330 W, which is higher than usual but still manageable.
FAQ
Compare with other laptops
See how this item stacks up against any other model
Choose two different items to see a detailed comparison of their specifications, performance, and features