When it comes to gaming laptops, the MSI GF63 is a popular choice among gamers on a budget. With its affordable price tag and decent specs, it’s no wonder why many are drawn to this laptop. But the question remains: is the MSI GF63 good for gaming? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the laptop’s features, performance, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
The Specs: A Balanced Configuration
The MSI GF63 comes with a range of configurations, but the most popular model features an 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8300H processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card. Here’s a breakdown of the key specs:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8300H |
| RAM | 8GB DDR4 |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
| Display | 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) |
| Storage | 256GB NVMe SSD + 1TB HDD |
On paper, these specs seem decent for a budget gaming laptop. The Core i5-8300H processor provides a strong foundation for gaming and general productivity, while the GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card is capable of handling entry-level to mid-level graphics demands.
Gaming Performance: Hits and Misses
So, how does the MSI GF63 perform in gaming? The answer is a mixed bag. With the GeForce GTX 1650, you can expect smooth performance in esports titles like League of Legends, Overwatch, and Dota 2 at high settings (60 FPS+). However, more demanding games like Fortnite, PUBG, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey will require significant sacrifices in graphics quality to maintain a stable framerate.
In our benchmarking tests, the MSI GF63 struggled to reach 30 FPS in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey at ultra settings, even at 1080p. This is where the laptop’s limitations become apparent. The GTX 1650 is an entry-level graphics card, and it shows in resource-intensive games.
But here’s the thing: the MSI GF63 is not designed to be a powerhouse gaming laptop. It’s meant to provide a balance between performance and affordability. For casual gamers and those who primarily play less demanding titles, the GF63 will suffice.
Temperature and Noise: A Concern
One area where the MSI GF63 falls short is temperature management. During intense gaming sessions, the laptop can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 95°C (203°F) on the keyboard deck. This can be uncomfortable for lap use and may even lead to thermal throttling.
The fans can also get loud, reaching up to 45 decibels during peak usage. While this is not unusual for gaming laptops, it’s worth noting that the GF63’s cooling system could be improved.
Display and Audio: A Mixed Bag
The MSI GF63’s 15.6-inch Full HD display is a highlight of the laptop. With good color accuracy and a decent brightness level, it’s suitable for gaming and general use. However, the display’s 60Hz refresh rate may be a limitation for fast-paced games.
The audio department is a different story. The GF63’s speakers are lacking in bass and clarity, making them unsuitable for gaming and entertainment. You’ll want to invest in a good pair of gaming headphones to get the most out of your gaming experience.
Build and Design: A Solid Effort
The MSI GF63’s build quality is surprisingly good, considering its budget price. The laptop features a sturdy aluminum construction, with a smooth, matte finish that resists fingerprints. The keyboard deck is also well-designed, with a comfortable typing experience and decent travel.
The only notable design flaw is the rather large bezel surrounding the display, which makes the laptop look a bit dated. However, this is a minor complaint in an otherwise well-built laptop.
Battery Life: A Pleasant Surprise
One area where the MSI GF63 exceeds expectations is battery life. With moderate use, you can expect around 6-7 hours of runtime, which is impressive for a gaming laptop. This makes the GF63 a great option for those who need a laptop that can handle both gaming and general productivity on the go.
Value for Money: A Budget Champion
So, is the MSI GF63 good for gaming? The answer depends on your expectations. If you’re a hardcore gamer who demands the latest and greatest graphics, the GF63 may not be the best choice. However, if you’re a casual gamer or on a tight budget, the GF63 offers an incredible value proposition.
For under $1,000, you get a laptop that can handle entry-level to mid-level gaming, along with decent performance for general productivity. This makes the MSI GF63 an attractive option for those who want to dip their toes into gaming without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: A Worthy Companion for Budget Gamers
The MSI GF63 is not a perfect gaming laptop, but it’s a great option for those on a budget. With its balanced configuration, solid build quality, and impressive battery life, it’s an excellent choice for casual gamers and those who want a laptop that can handle both gaming and general productivity.
If you’re willing to make some compromises on graphics quality and performance, the MSI GF63 can be a worthy companion for your gaming adventures. Just be aware of its limitations, and you’ll be all set for a fun and affordable gaming experience.
Is the MSI GF63 a good gaming laptop for beginners?
The MSI GF63 is an excellent choice for beginners who want to dive into the world of gaming without breaking the bank. It offers a great balance of performance and affordability, making it an ideal option for those who are new to gaming. With its 15.6-inch full HD display, 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card, the GF63 is capable of handling popular games at medium to high settings.
Moreover, the GF63 is a great laptop for beginners because it’s easy to use and maintain. It has a sleek and slim design, making it portable and convenient to carry around. Additionally, MSI’s Dragon Center software allows users to easily customize their gaming experience, adjust performance settings, and monitor system temperatures.
Can the MSI GF63 run demanding games like Fortnite and PUBG?
While the MSI GF63 is not designed to run the most demanding games at ultra-high settings, it can still handle popular titles like Fortnite and PUBG at medium to high settings. The laptop’s NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card is capable of delivering smooth gameplay at 1080p resolution. However, you may need to make some compromises on graphics quality and frame rates to achieve optimal performance.
That being said, the GF63 is not designed for 4K gaming or extreme graphics settings. If you want to play games at very high settings, you may need to consider a more powerful laptop. However, for casual gaming and playing popular titles at medium settings, the GF63 is a great choice.
How does the MSI GF63’s cooling system perform during long gaming sessions?
The MSI GF63 features a dual fan cooling system that is designed to keep the laptop running at optimal temperatures during long gaming sessions. The dual fans work in tandem to dissipate heat away from the CPU and GPU, ensuring that the laptop remains cool and quiet even during intense gaming.
In practice, the GF63’s cooling system performs well, with temperatures staying within a safe range even during extended gaming sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the fans can get a bit loud when the laptop is under heavy load. Overall, the GF63’s cooling system is designed to provide a balance between performance and noise levels.
What are the MSI GF63’s storage and memory options?
The MSI GF63 comes with a range of storage and memory options to suit different budgets and needs. The base model comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD, which provides fast loading times and responsive performance. There are also options to upgrade to 16GB of RAM and larger storage capacities, including a 1TB hard drive for those who need more storage space.
In terms of storage, the GF63 has an M.2 slot that supports NVMe SSDs, allowing users to upgrade their storage capacity and speed in the future. Additionally, the laptop has a range of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI, making it easy to connect external devices and accessories.
Is the MSI GF63’s display suitable for gaming?
The MSI GF63 features a 15.6-inch full HD display that is suitable for gaming. The display has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which provides clear and vibrant visuals. The display also has a fast response time and a 45% NTSC color gamut, making it well-suited for fast-paced games.
One minor drawback of the display is that it has a relatively low brightness level, which can make it difficult to see in bright environments. However, for indoor gaming, the display is more than sufficient, and the lack of brightness is made up for by its fast response time and vibrant colors.
How long does the MSI GF63’s battery last?
The MSI GF63 has a 51Wh battery that provides around 4-5 hours of battery life on a single charge, depending on usage patterns. While this may not be the best battery life for a laptop, it’s still decent considering the GF63’s powerful performance and gaming capabilities.
It’s worth noting that battery life can be extended by adjusting power settings, reducing screen brightness, and turning off unnecessary features. Additionally, the GF63 supports fast charging, which can quickly top up the battery when it’s running low.
Is the MSI GF63 worth the price?
The MSI GF63 is an excellent value for its price, offering a great balance of performance, features, and affordability. With its powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and fast storage, the GF63 is capable of handling demanding games and tasks with ease.
While the GF63 may not be the most premium or feature-rich laptop on the market, it offers an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. For those on a budget, the GF63 is an excellent choice for gaming and general use, and its price makes it an attractive option for those who want a reliable and powerful laptop without breaking the bank.