MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) gaming laptop RTX 4070 GPU
review

MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) gaming laptop
review
MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) gaming laptop
review

In the world of high-performance gaming laptops, the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) stands out as a formidable contender. With its robust configuration featuring an Intel Core i9 14900HX processor, RTX 4070 GPU, and a suite of top-tier components, this machine is built to impress. But does it justify its hefty price tag of $2,299 (£2,399)? Let’s dive in.

The MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) is a formidable gaming laptop that brings together robust performance and a large, vibrant display. At the heart of this machine lies the Intel Core i9 14900HX processor, which is a powerhouse capable of handling the most demanding tasks with ease. This CPU is paired with an Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU, ensuring that even the latest games run smoothly on high settings. The laptop also boasts 32GB of DDR5-5600 memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD, providing ample space and speed for all your gaming needs. The 17-inch 2560 x 1600 IPS display with a 240 Hz refresh rate offers a delightful visual experience, whether you’re gaming or consuming media¹.

However, the Vector 17 HX is not without its drawbacks. Users have reported that the fan noise can be quite intrusive, which may detract from the overall gaming experience. Additionally, the CPU cooling seems to be less than optimal, leading to potential thermal throttling under heavy loads. The lack of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) or High Dynamic Range (HDR) support might also be a dealbreaker for gamers who value these features for a more immersive gaming experience. Moreover, the keyboard has been described as lifeless, which could affect the comfort and responsiveness during prolonged gaming sessions¹.

In terms of design and build, the Vector 17 HX retains much of its predecessor’s chassis, ports, and battery setup. This might disappoint those looking for a design overhaul or improved portability. On the plus side, the laptop does offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1 ports, though the Wi-Fi 6E module’s performance has been noted as subpar. Despite these issues, the laptop’s gaming performance remains its strongest selling point, thanks to the high-end components that drive its core capabilities. If you can overlook its shortcomings, the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) is still a solid choice for gamers seeking top-tier performance in a laptop form factor¹².

Design and Build MSI Vector 17 HX

The MSI Vector 17 HX carries forward the design ethos of its predecessors, with a focus on performance over portability. The chassis is sturdy, with a weight of 3 kg, making it a laptop that prefers desk-bound life over being a frequent travel companion.

Display of MSI Vector 17 HX

The 17-inch IPS display boasts a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a refresh rate of 240 Hz, promising crisp and fluid visuals. The color reproduction is excellent, making it not just a gaming marvel but also a friend to content creators.

Performance of MSI Vector 17 HX

Under the hood, the Vector 17 HX is a beast. The Intel Core i9 14900HX is a high-end CPU designed for demanding tasks. Paired with the RTX 4070, which has a generous power limit of 140W, gaming and creative workloads are handled with ease. However, this power comes with the cost of significant heat generation, which can be a concern.

Cooling of MSI Vector 17 HX

The cooling system is an area where the Vector 17 HX shows weakness. Despite the powerful internals, the laptop struggles to keep temperatures in check during peak performance, leading to potential throttling and loud fan noise.

Keyboard and Touchpad of MSI Vector 17 HX

The keyboard offers a satisfactory typing experience, though it lacks the tactile feedback that enthusiasts might seek. The touchpad is precise and responsive, suitable for everyday use.

Battery Life of MSI Vector 17 HX

With a 90 Whr battery, the Vector 17 HX provides decent battery life for a gaming laptop. However, for extended gaming sessions, you’ll want to stay plugged in.

Connectivity of MSI Vector 17 HX

The laptop includes a comprehensive set of ports and connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, though the wireless performance was found to be subpar in some reviews.

Conclusion

The MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) is a powerhouse that’s capable of handling almost anything you throw at it. It’s an excellent choice for gamers and professionals alike, provided you can overlook its cooling challenges and are willing to invest in its premium price.


This review encapsulates the key aspects of the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024), offering a balanced view of its capabilities and drawbacks. For those seeking a high-end gaming laptop, the Vector 17 HX is certainly worth considering. However, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons, especially regarding thermal performance and cost.

Q: What are the key specifications of the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024)?
A: The MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) features an Intel Core i9 14900HX processor, Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU, 32GB DDR5-5600 memory, and a 1TB NVMe SSD. It also has a 17-inch 2560 x 1600 IPS display with a 240 Hz refresh rate¹.

Q: What are the main pros and cons of this laptop?
A: Pros include its great gaming performance, large display, and fast storage. Cons reported by users include intrusive fan noise, weak CPU cooling, no VRR or HDR support, and a lifeless keyboard¹.

Q: How does the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) handle thermal management?
A: The laptop has been noted to have weak CPU cooling, which can lead to thermal throttling under heavy loads. This is due to the high performance of the Intel Core i9 14900HX processor creating significant heat¹.

Q: Are there any connectivity issues with the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024)?
A: While the laptop offers a wide range of connectivity options, the Wi-Fi 6E module’s performance has been reported as subpar, with lower than expected download rates¹.

Q: Can the RAM and storage be upgraded on the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024)?
A: Yes, the laptop supports upgradable RAM and storage, allowing users to expand these components if needed².

Q: Is the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) considered heavy for its size?
A: Yes, at 3 kg (6.62 lbs), it is considered heavy compared to other laptops in its size class².

Q: What is the price range for the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024)?
A: The price for the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) starts at around $2,299 | £2,399¹.

These FAQs should provide a quick overview of the MSI Vector 17 HX (2024) gaming laptop for those interested in its features and performance. If you have more specific questions, feel free to ask!

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