MSI GE63VR / GE73VR Raider Laptops

In that case can u suggest me any other laptop?

 

So, current owners of the GE63 or 73, a couple of questions:

- How good are the speakers? MSI makes a big point of mentioning the speaker quality but after being extremely disappointed by the ones of the GS63 and 73 I can't exactly trust them. Are they actually good? Would you use them to listen to music?

- How noisy are they? I thought the GS63 and 73 were pretty tolerable on the fan noise front, even when playing, so if they're like that or even better, I think I'll be happy. I also had the Razer Blade for a bit but that was horrible.

 

I don't own it but the Raider speakers should be the best ever on a laptop given the large speaker chambers they are mounted in. The GS series has very bad speakers due to the size limitations.

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Received confirmation that the new system was delivered today!
Looks like it will be a long night tonight trying to get it setup in-between other commitments.
Trying to remember all the creative excuses I have used at work to leave early ....... it's best not to duplicate ..... Let's see ........

 

Please post thermals at idle and max loads. Please make sure you update us on what you think of it overall.

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Hey lads! Possibly a future owner of the GE63VR-7RE here.
Mine will be ordered from one of the reputable resellers in France, as I'll be moving there in less than a month. Price ranges from 1550 to 1699€ depending on which reseller I buy from. Laptop will cover the following specs:

i7-7700HQ
GTX 1060 6GB
8GB DDR4 2400Mhz
256GB SSD + 1TB HDD
1080p 120Hz 3ms
2.2Kg, 51Wh battery
Not sure if it'll have the 180W and 210W Power supply, but possibly 180.

Note that mine will have the factory paste. If anyone wants to see how this performs stock, I might be of a good use. I Will let you all know once I get hold of it!

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Please do. I'm thinking about ordering one as well. The thermals look great so far. Especially for a laptop it's size. I can only imagine how low they'd get with some good paste and an undervolt.

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Hoping @iunlock slides by some day and tames this new beast.

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Things have been delayed but at least wanted to get the normal use temps out. System has Coollaboratory Liquid Ultra on CPU/GPU. This is after downloading and installing programs. I had forgotten how much tweaking it takes to make a base unit your own.

Coming from the GT series this unit provides a number of changes. When time allows I will try to document.

Here are temps from War Thunder at medium graphics settings 120 FPS .....

Added temps from same game at max graphics setting 103-120 FPS.

I appreciate that this is not the latest game that stresses this system but to put it into perspective.... The GT72 with the 980 card ran medium settings of the game at 70 - 74c on medium. So far very please with what I am seeing.

Last one for now. Same game max settings for about 2 hours. Also running Discord, head tacking software and camera. I also include the graphics card range.

 

GS63VR has TB3.

 

Here are the MSI laptops known to have Thunderbolt 3 (40gbps):

MSI GS43VR
MSI GS63VR
MSI GS73VR
MSI GT73VR
MSI GT83VR

And these have a USB-C gen 3.1 (10gbps):

All MSI GL series
All MSI GP series
All MSI GE series
MSI GT62VR
MSI GT72VR

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Besides external GPU's, what other practical uses does Thunderbolt have?

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Two 4k 60Hz monitors, a 4K 120Hz, or a 5k 60Hz (correct me if I'm wrong, anyone!), dongles as well of course

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So if I never plan on running external monitors or external GPU's, I have no need for one?

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For any usage other than external 4K monitors and external graphics, a 10gbps port is more than enough.

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There is a lot of information on Thunderbolt peripherals, of which storage and docks have the most items to choose from compared to displays and external GPU's.

https://www.google.com/search?client=opera&q=thunderbolt+3+peripherals

It's taken a long time for new TB 3 peripherals to ship because of licensing costs and lack of demand for the high bandwidth available.

The current TB 3 standard isn't really fast enough for external GPU's when looping back to the laptop internal display, high density storage array's, higher resolution displays (8k, or higher refresh 4k), and support for more displays from one TB run.

The new GPU's Volta and Navi will benefit from even faster TB 3.1/4.0 - 2x 40 gbit/s to 80 gbit/s is a guess, but I can't find (right now) anything definitive about the follow-on TB standard from 3.0:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunderbolt_(interface)#Beyond_Thunderbolt_3

TB3 can be used for external storage, but USB 3.1 seems to be getting more of a following from vendors, but that could change.

A laptop having full TB3 also seems to be a good gauge of how serious it is about high performance, so TB3 speed is still a good inductor for deciding on what kind of laptop to buy, even if you don't plan on using TB3.

 

Does a 15'' model have integrated GPU ? Is a laptop loud when idling ? Under load ? Need some more inside info please .

 

I just got my GE73VR Raider-045. I'm in the process of doing a clean install. As for the M.2 slots, one of them is PCIe 3.0 x4, the other is PCIe 3.0 x2. So The x2 slot will still be faster than a SATA, but not by much.

 

Will either of the slots support SATA M.2 SSD's? They are much cheaper and run a lot cooler, and important aspect for use in a thin and light laptop.

 

In the early stages of configuring the system to meet my needs but here are my thoughts so far. As reference keep in mind I am coming from the GT series which are very good systems.

Positives
If your coming from an entry level system everything will be great
Over 2 lbs lighter but able to match/exceed older GT's
Desk top GTX 1070 graphics card
The 120 hz 17" screen is awesome. It may take a period of adjustment since your games will look so clear and crisp
Cooling is the best so far. Using Coollaboratory Liquid Ultra since it was a free offer. Highest temp I have seen after a 2 hours of gaming was 71c on one core.
The keyboard is a little different but lighting is good with even illumination that shows through and wraps each key. Not a fan of the rainbow option but some will enjoy.
Enough memory to create a high performance RamDisk for lighter games to reside on
Sound is great though I usually use headset
Intel WiFi. To me it seems to play better with more routers.

Negatives / not the same as larger GT's
Less USB ports. 3 vs 6. When you have mouse, head tracking camera, Audio headset DAC and Yubikey there is not room for something else. Will look for a good portable USB hub in future and keep in mind that this is a more portable desktop replacement
Placement of the USB ports and power plug. 2 ports and power plug are on the right side. Nothing but exhaust in the back. If you have limited desk space and are right handed you may have to make an adjustment in using your mouse. Lefty's are not off the hook either as you have Ethernet, USB etc on that side.
Some will find the keyboard software frustrating to learn how to change (I did)
No dedicated button to switch the on-board graphics and the GTX 1070. Or maybe I have not discovered it yet. This must be done on an application bases in the Nvidia control panel or set as a global option. Spent the first day wondering why there was no heat coming from the 1070. If you use Nvidia Experience this may not be an issue for you.
Depending where you place your hand it is warmer (not hot) than what I was use to. Then again I tend to have my left hand near the top of the system since my "key pecking" could never be mistaken for typing.
Longevity with daily gaming and transporting? We will have to see. The GT's could drive a nail for you and still boot.

So far I am very pleased with the system and the customization that was provided by GenTechPC. MSI has done a good job providing a more portable desktop replacement with a focus on gaming. Pay attention to the other poster's concerning saving money when you choose a PCIe SSD. I have a pair of 960 pro's because I could and it would lighten the system a little bit more. They are fast but the real world benefit will not be seen most of the time. I will be taking it on it's first trip next week and look forward to having what I have grown accustom to in a lighter package.

Hope this helps someone that is waiting to pull the trigger.

 

You just talked me into it bro. I've been waiting so long to make this purchase. I literally have spent a total of 15 hours over the past two weeks reading reviews, the forums and watching YouTube reviews.

Thermal management is the most important thing to me and I was all set on buying another (Clunk Box) GT72 Dominator. Sorry to those who like them but they look so clunky. It's not that I think all large laptops look clunky but thats definitely the first word that comes to mind in regards to the GT72.

It looks like MSI really did the cooling right on this machine. The display and speakers looks like a winner as well. I wish Asus would have put a really thermal system like this in their GL702. Probably would have purchased it last week if they did.

Anyway, how is the displays brightness? Does it get bright enough?

Still can't get over those thermals this chassis is getting. What were the max GPU Temps by the way?

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Does that laptop have Optimus?
I believe only the Titan series has the Mux switch to switch to the intel iGPU. Some of the older series (GT62VR?) may have also had it.

 

I'm hearing a continuous whining noise and I have no idea what it is. Have you experienced this?

Also which drivers would you say are unnecessary? Would you recommend that I uninstall the Nahimic audio drivers?

 

All GE series have Optimus.
The only laptops I'm aware of, having the MUX switch are the GT73VR and the GT75VR. The GT62VR and GT72VR have the iGPUs completely disabled.

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What kind of battery life are you guys getting with normal tasks like browsing and watching videos? Thanks

 

Assuming an undervolt is performed and Optimus works properly with no funny power draws, with the dGPU and its fans completely off, 4 hours at max

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I feel the brightness is fine. In fact I am running it less than 100 % so in a dim room it looks better. Maybe if you are using it outside some 1000 nit monitor would be better but for my use it works.

Look at post #159 for thermals. Not the in depth testing of maximum but real world what I am getting with what I do.

I generally dislike someone making a major decision based on my observation be it good or bad .....some get the jewel and some get the lemon ..... luck of the draw. I have purchased my last 3 systems from a forum supporting vendor and they have all been good. With the customization configuration you generally get the system has been somewhat tested. I feel that is much better than luck of the draw from the robot pulling the box so you can receive delivery in 2 days.

 

Sorry to hear that. My system does not make an irritating noise. In fact it is a little quieter than my GT72. The fan noise is a different pitch but not irritating. I do not know where you purchased but would contact them to get it fixed or replaced. The system cost to much to put up with something that bothers you for the next 3-4 years!

On drivers/ programs it depends on what you use. I have a clean install of windows done so I was able to load what I wanted. All systems these days seem to come loaded with junk since the vendors pay them for placement. I do not use Nahimic since I have BlasterX G5 DAC but it seems to offer you options to modify your sound that plain drivers would not. So if you use something daily..... keep it and research for the best drivers.

 

Trust me bro. This decision is not being made off your reporting alone. I've done a total of 15 hours of research over the past two weeks.

After all of the research, I believe the GE73 is the one.

Also, I noticed you got it from Gentech. What PSU did they give you with the 1070 version of this laptop?


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Kevin from Gentech. I have a quick question for you.

What PSU comes with the 1070 version of the GE73vr? I only ask because your website says it comes with a 180 Watt PSU. I really hope that's just a typo and not the case.

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To be fair, the 7700HQ can't draw more than 45W (it can go briefly higher then it will TDP lock back), and the 1070 is locked to 115W, so that's 160W maximum. No idea if the rest of the system can pull more than 20W, nor what happens if total exceeds 180W. Clearly, MSI is going to be using hybrid power again but someone will need to test max AC draw from the wall, as well as how much battery drain is going to happen, and any extra throttling if your CPU isn't even pulling 45W, but the system somehow goes over 180W.

This is MSI's decision of course. But 180W is pushing it...

 

Thanks. I feel better now. I use to steer people away from Apple products but came to realize that most non-technical folks were born to use that product.

here is the info from my PSU:
Model: ADP-203EB T
Input: 120-240 volts @ 3.2a
Output: 19.5 v @ 11.8a

So it appears to be a 230 - 240. It fact it looks identical to my GT72 PSU.

 

Thanks. On the Gentech website, when you go to customize the GE73 with the 1070, it says 180 Watt PSU so I think it's just a typo.

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Pretty sure you meant "230EB" not "203EB".

 

Thank you for the correction. Did not have my readers on when looking at it.

 

Nah. If any company sends a 180 Watt PSU with a 1070 notebook then I want no parts if it. At that point they are cheaping out and obviously their bottom line matters more to them then the end user experience.

20 watts left over is nothing for the rest of the system and whatever else you need to plug into it such as headphones, mouse, cooler fan and external drives.

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Not arguing with that. I wouldn't want a 180W either. Just saying it isn't Gentech's fault if it actually ships with a 180W.
What I don't want is my battery being drained from gaming and my CPU throttling.

 

Looks like it's just a typo on Gentechs behalf.

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My power supply is 19.5V, 11.8 A, 230W.

edit.
Also, the coil whine that I have been hearing is coming from my power brick. I will try to RMA this.

 

I have the same laptop and i chose this because of the new cooler boost 5 and 2 extra vents on each sides expecting a very low temperatures. Can you please post your battlefield 1(ultra preset) temperature about 10-15 minutes into the game? I am worried i may have a faulty unit. Im getting around 80-85C without cooler boost and 77-80C with cooler boost. since i bought this laptop few weeks ago, i want to change/replace my unit if its faulty. btw im running in stock thermal paste and no cooling pad.

 

Are those numbers for the CPU or GPU?

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1- Are you running on the GTX 1060 or 1070? If it's the 1070 trying to achieve up to 120fps on ultra graphics, then these temperatures are to be expected. They are still better than what you'd see on the likes of HP Omen or the ASUS GL702VS.

2- A CPU with stock voltage can hit high temperatures as well regardless of the cooling solution.

So... No, you just need to properly tweak the software before (and after) doing any intensive work.

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Those temps are great for a thin laptop out of the box. After undervolting the CPU the temps will be even better under load.

If someone has already done an undervolt you can use their working undervolt for an idea of where to start, otherwise for a new laptop where you are the first I try -100mV and work up / down from there.

How loud is Cooler Boost, what does DGC say is the fan spin rate max in both modes? Have you made a custom fan curve to make a halfway point between Auto and Cooler Boost mode?

Maybe a custom fan curve can get the temps down if you feel you want them lower without the full on noise of Cooler Boost / Full Fan mode. And, don't forget to undervolt to get the load temps even lower.

 

I'd be willing to bet you could get the CPU Temps on this laptop down to the low 70's with some decent paste and an undervolt.

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Here's another magic trick: MSI always tends to underpower the CPU cooling in favor to the GPU by extending 1 or 2 CPU heatpipes and sharing them with the GPU, which makes the latter a bit hotter, if the CPU overheats. Though If the CPU is undervolted and repasted, the GPU will be automatically cooler.

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Unfortunately I do not have that game. I do have another FPS game that I will try when time allows.

It appears the thermal limit for the CPU is 100c and 90c for the graphics card so you are within the limits considering how thin the laptop is.

Lower is always better so I would take the advice of the previous posters if you are concerned. In particular having a proper fan curve which ramps the fans higher at a lower temp than the system would on it's own.

It is better to keep the system from getting to hot than to try to cool it after it already is. Many will laugh but to insure I have good air flow on my systems I use cheap rubber furniture leg pads to elevate the system. They are easy to throw in the backpack and cheap enough to have a set at home and work. Here is picture of what I am talking about. $2 for something they want $15 - $30 for if it is classified a "Laptop Accessory".

 

You have to see how much temperature differences elevating the AW17 R4 can make XD an extraordinary 15 to 20 degrees!

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I am definitely making this my next laptop. Sadly it hasn't come to Canada yet so I can do little but wait

 

BTW has any of you purchased the bundle version of this laptop? Are the "goodies" worth paying extra 80 or so bucks? I can possibly get the non-bundle version right now from Newegg Canada so I wonder if its worth waiting for the bundle model to become available

Oh and I also can't seem to find a clear answer as to what's included in the bundle...

Any views on this?

 

Its for the CPU . GPU temperature stays below 70C