Second time ordering through Xotic, 10 years between orders. These guys are the best...order came in ahead of schedule and is everything I expected and more. I'll never buy a pc from anyone else.
Pros: powerful, easy access from back panel
Neutral: somewhat slim, keyboard
Cons: bad audio (see details), manufacturer RAM is not great
Design and first impressions: I've been using this laptop for a week after owning an NP8967, also a 16.1" slim design, which failed after 5 years of great service. This laptop is supposed to be slim, but there is a bit of wasted internal space that could have been used more efficiently (additional ssd, less cramped components, see picture). There is a "protrusion" (for lack of better term) behind the screen lid, I think it looks a bit ugly and I wish they kept the shell design of previous slim models. I do like that the back panel can be removed easily without having to undo screws from underneath the keyboard. I added a second SSD very quickly. It's worth noting that the laptop came with silicone heat pads for the SSDs so that they make contact with the back panel for cooling. CrystalDisk confirms that both SSDs stay below 40 C when idle and 50 C when in use. The main laptop surfaces (back panel, shell, etc.) are metal and feel sturdy.
Performance: I've had the chance to play a couple of games and it runs really well, constant 60 FPS (my limit) at 2K + max quality and the fans can be set to run quietly while keeping the CPU below 85 C and the GPU below 70 C, which is pretty good for a laptop. Overall, I'm very happy with performance and I expect this laptop to last many years.
RAM: I opted for the 2x16 GB RAM deal and the laptop came in with an unknown brand that isn't great (46 CL). CPU-Z detects it as "SK Hynix" but the label says "Neo Forza". I expected something better TBH, my first Sager shipped with Kingston and still runs great after 11 years. It's good enough for me, but my recommendation is to choose the cheapest RAM option, then sell it immediately and buy a better one, you'll save money and will get better performance.
Audio: It's bad. The audio hardware seems to be combination of Realtek and Intel Smart Sound Technology. As with all things "smart", it literally doesn't work. It worked at first, but then stopped after I installed the drivers from Sager. To make it work again I had to uninstall them, but they kept getting reinstalled automatically. This means that neither speakers not microphone work, they don't even appear in the device manager. I don't care too much about internal audio because I use speakers and headphones most of the time, but this is bad. If you plan to use internal audio, good luck (and avoid installing audio drivers at all costs).
Bought this as an upgrade and it is a night and day difference. The price was very reasonable and actually a bit less than what it would have cost me to upgrade everything I already had to the same quality as what I got. Playing games on this is a night and day difference. Top of the line materials and parts. They make sure your computer is crafted to an extremely high standard and packed to be protected. Everything was ready to go right out of the box.
First Impressions and Design From the moment you unbox the MSI Vector 16 HX, it makes a strong impression with its sleek, understated design. The brushed metal finish feels premium and gives off a sturdy vibe, although it does pick up fingerprints quite easily. The laptop feels solid in hand, and while it’s a bit on the heavier side, it strikes a good balance between portability and performance hardware.Display and Visual ExperienceThe 16-inch QHD display is one of the standout features. Whether gaming or streaming movies, the visuals are crisp and vibrant. The high refresh rate is noticeable during fast-paced games, providing a buttery smooth experience that feels more responsive. Colors are vivid and accurate, which also makes this laptop a solid choice for creative work like photo editing. However, the reflective screen can sometimes be an issue in brightly lit environments.Performance in Real-World UsePerformance-wise, the MSI Vector 16 HX does not disappoint. It handles everything from heavy multitasking to the latest AAA games with ease. In my experience, games like "Cyberpunk 2077" and "Call of Duty: Warzone" run smoothly at high settings, thanks to the powerful Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 40-series GPU. The laptop stays surprisingly cool under pressure, thanks to its effective cooling system, though the fans can get quite loud during intensive tasks.For productivity, this laptop is a beast. Editing videos in Adobe Premiere and working with large datasets in Excel was seamless, and the generous RAM and fast SSD make a noticeable difference in day-to-day tasks. The keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions, and the customizable RGB lighting is a fun touch, though it can be a bit gimmicky for some.Battery Life and PortabilityBattery life is where the MSI Vector 16 HX starts to show its limitations. It’s not terrible for a gaming laptop, but if you’re using it on the go, expect to carry the charger with you. With moderate use, I got around 4 hours of battery life, which dropped significantly during gaming or other heavy tasks. This makes it less ideal for travel or long commutes without access to a power outlet.Audio and ConnectivityAudio quality is decent but not exceptional. The built-in speakers get loud, but they lack depth, especially in the bass department. I found myself reaching for my headphones most of the time for a better audio experience.Connectivity options are excellent, with plenty of ports for all your peripherals. The addition of USB-C is great for future-proofing, and Wi-Fi 6E support ensures fast, reliable internet connectivity.Overall ThoughtsThe MSI Vector 16 HX is a powerful, versatile laptop that excels in performance, whether for gaming, productivity, or creative work. Its design is sleek and durable, and the display is excellent for both gaming and content creation. However, its weight and battery life are less ideal for those who need a more portable solution.Would I recommend it? If you’re looking for a high-performance laptop primarily for gaming or heavy workloads and don't mind staying close to a power outlet, the MSI Vector 16 HX is a fantastic choice. For those who prioritize portability and battery life, you might want to consider a lighter option.Rating: 8/10 — Great for performance-focused users, but slightly less versatile for those on the move.
I am pretty much wowed by my MSI Titan 18. You'd think the difference between a 17 inch screen and an 18 was negligible. But turning the Xotic on was a beautiful wonder.