[ASK] Anyone know good review for MSI EX625?

These are the results I got using the default drivers

 

Max resolution, and as you can see, the CPU score was a bit lower, the SM3 score on the other hand quite higher.

 

Check the realtek sound manager for some options. it should be in your system tray.

 

I see that when I had i-net connection problems and I was nervious about that I typed many of noncens. Didn't saw them to be posted when I click Post reply. But now I see that they are posted... Sorry for that. By the way - why there is no delete button?

To stickciv
320 unified pipelines tells everything.
I saw your max res. is 1366x768, but still the card is way better that GF9600M GT, and better than GF9700M GT. I did my tests on 1280x1024... So with my config and one HD4670 I will go over 7000 points. I see that notebookcheck shows that GF9700M GT is better but your results say different. I hope you'll say some words about gaming performance. Can you run Crysis flawlessly on medium settings - 1024x768 (my fps - 35-40)? or your native res? I also play Assassin's Creed (25-40 fps, all high), for now these are my game experience with mine. Because syntetic tests is now always true. Thanks.

 

//Genna: Delete is under Edit//

How hot does this card get under load in this notebook? And how hot would it get in a GX620?
I remember reading in the GX620 thread that TRF-Inferno said the fan starts spinning sooner with the 9600m GT, than with the 4670.
However, on Notebookcheck, the comsumption for 4670 is 28-30W, and for 9600m GT its 23W...

Any ideas?

 

The underside of this notebook gets slightly warm, but the thing is, the heatsinks and heatpipes are not making any contact with the underside, so all that is transfered is ambient heat inside the notebook case.

I also dont have crysis unfortunately ( game never appealed to me and I wasnt gonna shell out 50$ for a benchmark game) but I do have some copies of Far Cry 2 ( got one with my last motherboard, GPU, CPU and PSU) so Ill load that up and report back later tonight.

 

Hey, I've been following this thread for the past few days and is receiving my own EX625. Earlier in this thread, I believe that stickiv tried installing 64bit version of Windows and was unsuccessful. I was wondering if anyone has tried reinstalling 64bit or even tried it and was successful? Or even tried Windows 7 32/64 bit? Just was out of curiosity. Thanks if anyone has an answer or insight on this topic.

 

You know, that brings up a good point. Someone should try it, at least with their new EX625. Mine worked with Vista x64 for a while, until it was bumped a bit. Im wondering if that had anything to do with Vista x64 not working any more or if it was just a big coincidence

 

If anyone hasn't had the chance to try Windows Vista 64bit, I'll try it out myself once I get my own EX625. Hopefully it will be done "processing" sometime this week and get it by the end of the week. If you're wondering, I got it straight from MSI, and not Frosty Computers like everyone else.

If anyone else is curious, I will be testing the EX625 with Windows 7 32bit and 64 bit, BETA Builds' 7068 (64) and Build 7086 (32). I also checked MSI's website and I noticed that they only have Windows Vista 32 bit support and if anyone has had recent success with running a 64 bit OS, it would be greatly appreciative for the information on system functionality and other stuff.

Drivers: http://www.msi.com/index.php?func=proddesc&maincat_no=135&cat2_no=269&prod_no=1678

Site: http://www.msimobile.com/level3_productpage.aspx?id=98

Just as an FYI, I'm not good at taking pictures nor have a good digital cam so sorry if there will be a lack of images in the hopeful, near future.

 

Sorry for the double post and slightly off topic... topic. But has anyone actually used the ReadyBoost feature that Windows Vista comes with? Only reason why I'm asking is because the EX625 has a SD card reader. (Along with 2 other card readers) And if someone has experience with the ReadyBoost feature, does it actually do what Microsoft says it does? And if so, how would this increase performance in real time? As in would it affect the scores in 3dMark06, for example?

Link to ReadyBoost feature: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista/features/readyboost.aspx

 

I dont know how much effect it will have, but I doubt it will be anything major. If I can find an SD card somewhere around the house Ill try it out.

 

If you don't find one, I already ordered one just for kicks and hopefully a slight improvement. Also, do you happen to know where the HDD is located? I intend on replacing the 320 GB 5400 RPM HDD with a 500 GB 5400 RPM I bought from Amazon.com. And was wondering if you've taken a look under the hood and know the placement of the HDD. If not, then that's alright. If you advise against this, I could always return it.

 

You have to take off the main compartment door on the bottom of the notebook, being held down by 4 screws. Hard drive's on the bottom right corner, below the video card.

 

Thanks for the info, Inferno. But I got another question for you: Is there space or even an extra port that would allow someone to add a second HDD internally? Because I changed my idea of swapping out the 320 for a 500, and instead swapping the 320 for a 60GB SSD. (Was recently going through the SSD forum section and was rather intrigued on performance gains it has over HDD's.)

I was kind of hoping there was enough room and even an extra SATA port internally, but I know those hopes are slim at best. If you could help confirm or repute this, it would be most helpful. Thanks.

 

No, there isn't any space for a secondary drive at all, much less an extra SATA port.

 

Bummer. Thanks for the info, again. Hopefully UPS is accurate and sends in both my SSD and EX625 Thursday. (Gets on knees and prays)

 

Sorry for the double post, yet again, but there is one thing that was bugging me and now wants out. I have a question: (mostly towards stickciv)

When Windows Vista 64 bit was installed, was there any driver issues? Like some features were disabled because compatibility issues? Because I understand that MSI only gives support for 32Bit Vista and nothing else. Insight would be helpful. Thanks.

 

There is an E-SATA port. So you can potentially try to find a 2.5" E-SATA capable enclosure.

When Vista x64 was installed, I could not get the laptop to boot at all. It got stuck on either crcdisk.sys or the green loading bar. So, try Vista x64 at your own risk, but be warned, it will most likely not work. I have a feeling the storage controller has problems with Vista x64.

Once you get your SSD, could do you like a monthly performance report? Just something to see how performance is affected over time? I read the Anandtech article on SSD performance degredation, but would love to see some more results.

 

I would be glad to give a monthly performance report. The only thing is that I do not know of the name of the programs used (too lazy to look up also) that can show HDD/SSD performances. If I could find a name of the programs used to show performance, freeware or professional is fine, then I can properly show you the SSD's performance over time. If you're curious, I'm using this SSD:

(<3 Amazon): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PMUSOA

And if you think that it's the storage controller that's causing the issues, ever try Windows XP 64 bit? Or even Windows 7 Beta 64bit? Or do you think it's just 64Bit OS in general? Since my sister has my 32Bit Vista Ultimate DVD, I'm going to try Windows 7 32 and 64 bit (if 64bit doesn't allow me to operate my laptop).

And I just received my EX625 and currently loading all the crap it normally loads and Making Recovery Disks.

*Edit*
Also, my SSD should be coming in tomorrow and I should be able to have everything replaced, installed and ready to go by Friday.

 

So far, it would seem I would not have the need to upgrade to a 64bit edition of Windows because surprisingly, 32bit OS recognizes all 4 gigs. That's a plus side. But as of right now installing Windows 7 Beta Build 7086 32Bit. Should be done in a matter of minutes.

When my SSD comes in tomorrow, I will update anything that's worth updating. Hopefully the Upgrade to Windows 7 Beta will still allow me to utilize all 4 gigs.

(Sorry for double post)

*Edit*
-Sigh- Apparently I was over optimistic. Stupid me about 32bit using 4 gigs of ram. Going to try 64bit Vista Ultimate and Windows 7 Build 7068.

 

32-bit OS's can 'see' 4GB of RAM, but they can really only address 3 or so of them.

Check out Anandtech articles on SSD's to see how they measure their performance.

 

Alright, thanks for the tip stickciv.

Right now, I just finished installing Windows 7 Beta Build 7068 x64 onto my 60 GB SSD. So far, it was an upgrade from Windows Vista Ultimate x64. Just as a small tip, if you're going to upgrade to a 64 bit architecture, make sure you uninstall something called Windows PowerShell. Apparently you can't upgrade to the Windows 7 Beta while that is installed. It comes standard with one of Window's updates.

So far, I have no issues with the EX625, no bugs (except from the Beta OS) and got all the buttons, except Eco and CinemaPro, to work. Even though out of the box, I couldn't even get those buttons to work or even comprehend on how to work them. Anyways...

Windows 7 x64 is running smoothly and will update when anything occurs. And I will also check out Anandtech articles on SSD's as well.

P.S. Yay x64. Can utilize all 4 gigs. Lol.

 

What do you mean with MXM compatibility? So is it possible to change the GPU and put in an Nvidia 9800m GS or something else? Or to exchange it with something like an Ati Mobility 5650 (when the times comes)? Is the GPU easy accessable and the BIOS is "o.k." for other MXMs?

Another question I have to the reviewer. I would like to know the exact behaviour of the fan:
Does the fan run on constant speed always (which I would prefer), lets say: less speed (very silent) on Office/Idle, high speed on Gaming
OR
Does the fun is uneasy, with always switching off and on every 3 minutes (that would be kind of annoying)?

 

You can use another MXM I/II card in this laptop, assuming there is no VBIOS restrictions. MXM III cards such as the 9800M GS will not fit in this notebook due to the component layout (The hard drive sits directly below the video card). I've put a 9600M GT in the EX625 and it works without any issues.

 

Should i get the compaq presario cq61
Operating System Windows Vista Home Premium Edition
Processor Type Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed 2.0 GHz
Chipset Info n/a
Hard Disk Capacity 250 GB
RAM 3 GB
RAM Type DDR 2
RAM Slots 2
Screen Size 15.6 inch
L2 Cache 2 MB
Graphics NVIDIA GeForce G 103M
Video Memory 512 MB
Wi-Fi Yes
Bluetooth Yes
Infrared No
Fax/ Modem 56 kbps
Ethernet Card 10/100
Optical Drive DVD Super Multi
Battery Cells 6
Dimension 37.8 cm (L) x 25.2 cm (W) x 3.51 cm (min H) / 4.367 cm (max H)
Weight 2.75 kg
Webcam Yes
Fingerprint Reader No
Remote Control No

or the msi ex620
Operating System Dos
Processor Type Intel Core Duo
Processor Speed 2.0 GHz
Chipset Intel 945PM
Hard Disk Capacity 250 GB
RAM 2 GB
RAM Type DDR 2
RAM Slots 2
Screen Size 16 inch
L2 Cache 2 MB
Graphics ATI Mobility RADEON HD 3470
Video Memory 256 MB
Wi-Fi Yes
Bluetooth Yes
Infrared No
Fax/ Modem No
Ethernet Card 10/100/1000
Optical Drive DVD Super Multi
Battery Cells 6
Dimension 374(L) X 246(D) X 35.5~41.5(H)mm
Weight 2.7KG
Webcam Yes
Fingerprint Reader No
Remote Control No .

IS THE HEAT PROBLEM IN THE EX620 A SERIOUS ONE. WILL IT AFFECT THE 620S PERFORMANCE AND LIFE?

 

If anyone is looking for an EX625 from a well-known retailer, Newegg has them for $749: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152108

 

Ah nice find, sadly the States only. The CPU could be better - notebookcheck has received a model with P8600 from Poland, a test (in german language only) is available.

I wonder when it ships to europe and how the price will be..

 

So, another question about this MSI EX625 ( i'm really about to give a try on MSI brand )...

Does have a fingerprint reader ? I know that may sound weird, but is really that important to me.

I'm about to buy it, so if anyone can confirm this info ( because newegg says that this does have a fingerprint reader http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152108 ) i'm in your debt.

Many thanks.

ps: By the away, hello to you all (!?).

 

No MSI comes with fingerprint reader, at least AFAIK.

 

Ah well, and what is AFAIK ?

 

As far as I know- AFAIK ,slang.

Neither my GT725 has one nor can I see one in the pics of EX625.

 

My bad!
Never thought it cud be there and MSi does nt advertise this on website so I missed it.

 

Man this could be strange as hell but...

I love you inferno, i love you.

*!?8

Going to buy one now

 

Seriously considering this laptop. Just wondering if Newegg's listed dimensions are accurate: 13.66" x 9.68" x 1.4-1.63", 5.95 lbs? I've been looking at some 14" Asuses that are barely smaller. Are those specs legit?

Also, anyone successfully install Linux on it?

 

Yes, that's correct. This laptop is small for a 16" chassis, it's only half an inch wider than my 15.4" laptop.

 

nopes its wrong...its physically impossible for a 16" widescreen to fit in that width...the actual width is 14.72"

 

Okay, that's probably right. I don't have the laptop anymore, so that was a ball-park figure.

Notebookcheck has a review of the EX625: http://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-MSI-EX625-Notebook.16060.0.html

 

Hey guys, I have been looking at this thread for a little bit now and am interested in getting this laptop, however I do have a few questions:

-Was anyone able to get 64 bit Vista running on this? I know that stickciv was trying to get it install and that he was having issues, is it a no go?

-TRF-Inferno, I see that your GF played WoW on this. Since that is the only game I will be running on it I was curious as to what her FPS were and what settings she was using.

I think this laptop would fit my needs well, but just looking for more testimonials.

 

-I was able to get Vista Ultimate x64 running without any issues.

-I know she had the resolution at native screen resolution (1366 x 768) with all settings except shadow and anti-aliasing on maximum, and it was smooth throughout most of the game (30+ FPS) except for raids.

 

Sweet, Thank you very much for your reply TRF-Inferno, this is on my short list of ones to purchase in the near future here.

 

Very interested in this laptop. Anyone played 3D games on battery power?

Wondering if games such as Crysis/ Farcry 2 etc still play under battery power.

I see there is a Gaming battery mode option. Most gaming laptops usually get huge framerate reduction switching from mains to battery - does this help?

 

Like above person, I'm also interested in buying this laptop. I am certain that this will run the games that I'm expecting (Sims 3, Modern Warfare 2, SC2/D3) on mid-high settings.

However, I would like to ask how it performs as to video editing.

Also, Does anyone know where I could purchase this in Singapore? Or how much it would cost to import it from Taiwan itself (I live in the Philippines, BTW).

 

COD5 cant run on medium on this laptop.
So less probable that COD6 would.

 

Ya.
At least in mine:
GTA IV Power: 32FPS
GTA IV Battery: 05FPS(totally unplayable)

 

Hey I am buying this laptop soon and here is where I am buying it. Is this a good deal??

http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152108

Note: This is for Canada, all you have to do is change the .ca to .com to make it US.

And does this laptop come with MXM?

 

Yes its MXM. The GPU can be taken out.

 

What GPU could I replace it if I wanted to and is that a good deal??

 

NVM forgot its Canada,

Not sure what other GPU's will work.. I doubt you could put a better one in there due to the system runs pretty hot with the 4670 in there.

 

True.

This is the US version now is this a good deal?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152108