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    Downgrade 4k screen to a 1080p screen in a MSI GS73 8RF notebook

    Discussion in 'MSI' started by Dragoncentre, Jul 19, 2019.

  1. Dragoncentre

    Dragoncentre Newbie

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    I have a MSI GS73 8RF-020 laptop with a 4k screen.
    But don't like 4k due to use with RDP to older systems without scaling.

    So I'm really considering to do a (hardware) swap, so to put a 1080p 120hz screen in it.

    I.e. with this 1080p screen: https://www.laptopscreen.com/English/model/MSI/GS73+8RF+STEALTH/?hash=371833

    I contacted laptopscreen and they replied the 4k and 1080p screens are not swappable.
    They couldn't tell why and I'm wondering, because both has same 40-pin connector and mounting brackets.

    Did anybody swapped a 4k screen to a 1080p screen and can tell their experience?
     
    Dragoncentre, Jul 19, 2019
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  2. nader_rizk2003

    nader_rizk2003 Notebook Evangelist

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    i did before with the GT73 swapped the 4K with 1080p and worked without any problems.
     
    nader_rizk2003, Jul 19, 2019
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  3. Dragoncentre

    Dragoncentre Newbie

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    Thanks for the info!
    I'm wondering why laptopscreen says it is not compatible, could it be that a 4k cable has a different pinout than a 1080p?

    But for your GT73 that is not the case if it is working, or did you change cables or anything else?
     
    Dragoncentre, Jul 19, 2019
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  4. nader_rizk2003

    nader_rizk2003 Notebook Evangelist

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    No, did not change anything else. just replaced the screen only.
     
    nader_rizk2003, Jul 20, 2019
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  5. Bobbert9

    Bobbert9 Notebook Consultant

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    That is strange. It should swap out without issue, but I would contact them again and ask them to specify why they think it won't work. Normally they are very well informed and even if a panel doesn't appear as an option on your model's page, they will usually work if the number of pins is the same. And if not, there are cable adapters for that. The cable determines the resolution.

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
    Bobbert9, Jul 21, 2019
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  6. Dragoncentre

    Dragoncentre Newbie

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    That is what I thought so too and it is a downgrade, not an upgrade. So a 4k cable should handle a 1080p signal right?

    I asked them several times, but the guy from the chat/support ticket could only say that his colleague from compatibility department said it was not swappable -_- I could not get more info about it, only that my order could be canceled and refunded (I already ordered and paid).
     
    Dragoncentre, Jul 21, 2019
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  7. Bobbert9

    Bobbert9 Notebook Consultant

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    Well in that case, if you really want to swap, I suggest you just keep the order live, or re-order it if you cancelled. Check the return policy to make sure, but they used to have a very good return policy and their shipping methods are top shelf (I've ordered from them several times and never received a broken panel, so re-using their packaging should suffice if your new panel did indeed not work.)

    I've been on the fence myself wondering about upgrading my FHD panel to 4k, but held off as I'm not convinced that my GTX 1070 could push games as well at 4k as it does now. I also enjoy a 120hz refresh along with GSync, which I believe the 4k panels lack. Several people on here have swapped both directions, some with Titans like mine, and some with other models. Maybe do a quick search if you'd feel better talking with someone who has done it. Good luck and keep us posted with your results.

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
    Bobbert9, Jul 21, 2019
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