The MSI GL63 8RD is a gaming laptop model known for housing Intel’s 8th generation processors. These processors, released in 2017, offered a significant performance boost compared to previous generations, making them suitable for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The MSI GL63 8RD combined this processing power with dedicated graphics and other features targeted at gamers. Specific configurations varied, offering choices in RAM, storage, and graphics card options, allowing users to tailor the system to their needs and budget.
Important Points about the MSI GL63 8RD with Intel 8th Gen
- Performance: The 8th generation Intel Core processors provide a noticeable improvement in performance compared to their predecessors. This translates to smoother gameplay, faster rendering times, and improved multitasking capabilities. The processors often featured multiple cores and threads, allowing for efficient handling of complex tasks. Combined with a dedicated graphics card, the MSI GL63 8RD offered a robust platform for gaming and other demanding applications.
- Cooling: The MSI GL63 8RD typically incorporates MSI’s Cooler Boost technology, designed to manage the heat generated by powerful components. This system utilizes multiple heat pipes and fans to dissipate heat efficiently, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal performance during extended gaming sessions. Effective cooling is crucial for sustained performance and longevity of the internal components. Proper airflow management is a key element of this design.
- Display: The laptop generally features a Full HD display with a fast refresh rate, contributing to a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The anti-glare coating reduces reflections and improves visibility in various lighting conditions. The size of the display typically falls within the 15.6-inch range, offering a balance between portability and screen real estate.
- Storage: Configurations often include a combination of a solid-state drive (SSD) for the operating system and frequently used applications, and a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) for mass storage. The SSD contributes to faster boot times and quicker loading of programs, while the HDD provides ample space for storing large game files and media libraries.
- Connectivity: The MSI GL63 8RD offers various connectivity options, including USB ports, HDMI output, and an Ethernet port. These features allow users to connect peripherals such as external displays, gaming mice, and keyboards. Wireless connectivity options typically include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless networking.
- Keyboard: Gaming laptops often feature keyboards designed for gaming, and the MSI GL63 8RD is no exception. The keyboard may include features such as customizable backlighting, anti-ghosting technology, and optimized key travel for a responsive and comfortable typing experience. This enhances precision and control during gameplay.
- Audio: The audio system is designed to provide an immersive gaming experience, often incorporating enhancements like Nahimic audio software. This technology enhances sound clarity and spatial awareness, allowing gamers to pinpoint the location of in-game sounds more accurately. The built-in speakers are typically positioned for optimal sound projection.
- Battery Life: While gaming laptops are not known for their exceptional battery life, the MSI GL63 8RD offers reasonable battery performance for everyday tasks. However, during intensive gaming sessions, the battery life will be significantly reduced, and it is recommended to connect the laptop to a power source for optimal performance. Power management settings can be adjusted to optimize battery life when needed.
Laptop Specifications and Features
| Processor | Intel 8th Generation Core i5/i7 |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB DDR4 |
| Storage | SSD + HDD combinations |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050/1060 (varies) |
Four Recommendations
- Consider your gaming needs: Before purchasing, assess the types of games you play and their system requirements. This will help you determine the appropriate configuration of the MSI GL63 8RD to meet your performance expectations. If you primarily play less demanding games, a lower-spec model might suffice, while more demanding titles may require a higher-end configuration.
- Compare prices and configurations: Different retailers may offer various configurations and prices for the MSI GL63 8RD. Take the time to compare options and find the best deal that suits your budget and performance requirements. Consider factors such as RAM, storage capacity, and graphics card when making your decision.
- Read reviews: Before making a purchase, read reviews from other users to get insights into their experiences with the MSI GL63 8RD. This can provide valuable information about the laptop’s performance, build quality, and any potential issues. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to get a balanced perspective.
- Think about future upgrades: Consider the possibility of upgrading components in the future. Check if the RAM and storage are easily accessible and upgradable. This can extend the lifespan of your laptop and allow you to adapt to evolving gaming requirements. Knowing the upgrade options can save you money in the long run.
Tips and Details
- Update drivers: Keep your drivers updated, especially for the graphics card, to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest games. Regular driver updates can also address bugs and improve stability. Check the MSI website or the graphics card manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
- Monitor temperatures: Use monitoring software to keep an eye on the laptop’s temperatures during gaming sessions. This can help you identify potential overheating issues and take preventative measures. High temperatures can impact performance and potentially damage components over time.
- Clean the fans: Dust accumulation can hinder the cooling system’s effectiveness. Periodically clean the fans and vents to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating. Use compressed air to remove dust and debris carefully.
- Adjust power settings: Optimize the power settings to balance performance and battery life. Choose a high-performance profile for gaming and a more balanced profile for everyday tasks. This can help you maximize battery life when not gaming and ensure optimal performance when needed.
The MSI GL63 8RD represents a specific point in the evolution of gaming laptops. Its release coincided with a period of significant advancement in mobile processing power, making it a viable option for gamers seeking a portable yet powerful gaming experience. The combination of 8th generation Intel processors and dedicated NVIDIA graphics provided a substantial performance boost compared to previous generations.
One of the key advantages of the MSI GL63 8RD was its affordability compared to higher-end gaming laptops. This made it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers who still desired a capable machine. While it might not have boasted the top-of-the-line specifications, it offered a solid balance between price and performance.
The design of the MSI GL63 8RD often incorporated a sleek, gamer-centric aesthetic. The chassis typically featured aggressive lines and red accents, reflecting its gaming pedigree. The keyboard backlighting further enhanced the gaming experience, allowing for customization and improved visibility in dimly lit environments.
The inclusion of an SSD in many configurations significantly improved boot times and loading speeds. This contributed to a smoother overall user experience, reducing waiting times and enhancing responsiveness. The addition of a traditional HDD provided ample storage space for large game libraries and media files.
Connectivity options on the MSI GL63 8RD catered to the needs of gamers. Multiple USB ports allowed for connecting various peripherals, while the HDMI output enabled connection to external displays for a larger gaming experience. The Ethernet port provided a stable and reliable internet connection for online gaming.
The cooling system played a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance during extended gaming sessions. MSI’s Cooler Boost technology, with its multiple heat pipes and fans, helped dissipate heat effectively, preventing overheating and ensuring consistent performance. This was essential for preventing thermal throttling and maintaining frame rates.
The audio system on the MSI GL63 8RD aimed to provide an immersive gaming experience. Features like Nahimic audio software enhanced sound clarity and spatial awareness, allowing gamers to pinpoint the location of in-game sounds more accurately. This added another layer of immersion to the gameplay.
While the MSI GL63 8RD represented a specific generation of gaming laptops, it paved the way for future advancements in mobile gaming technology. Its combination of performance, affordability, and features made it a popular choice among gamers and contributed to the continued evolution of portable gaming machines. It served as a stepping stone for even more powerful and sophisticated gaming laptops in subsequent years.
Frequently Asked Questions
John: Can the MSI GL63 8RD handle modern games?
Dr. Tech: While the MSI GL63 8RD can handle many older and less demanding games well, its ability to run modern, graphically intensive titles at high settings will be limited due to its older hardware. Adjusting graphics settings can improve performance.
Sarah: Is it possible to upgrade the RAM or storage on this laptop?
Prof. Laptop: Yes, the MSI GL63 8RD typically allows for RAM and storage upgrades. Refer to the laptop’s service manual or contact MSI support for specific instructions and compatibility information before attempting any upgrades.
Ali: What operating system does it come with?
Dr. Tech: The MSI GL63 8RD typically shipped with Windows 10. However, it’s likely compatible with Windows 11, but verifying driver support is crucial before upgrading.
Maria: What is the average battery life I can expect?
Prof. Laptop: Battery life varies depending on usage, but for general tasks, expect around 3-4 hours. Heavy gaming will significantly reduce this time, necessitating a power source for extended sessions.
David: Are there any known issues with this model?
Dr. Tech: Some users have reported issues with overheating, particularly during extended gaming sessions. Ensure drivers are up to date and consider using cooling pads to mitigate this. Also, be sure to clean the fans regularly.