Performance and Gaming Experience
When it comes to gaming laptops, performance is key, and the MSI Stealth 18 does not disappoint. The ability to achieve 120 frames per second while playing Doom Eternal on Ultra settings is impressive, showcasing the laptop’s power and capabilities. Even in more demanding games like Starfield, the laptop managed to maintain around 70 fps on Medium settings. While dropping down to 50 fps on Ultra, enabling frame generation helped boost it up to 80 fps, providing a smoother gaming experience.
One feature that may not appeal to everyone is the frame generation option, which can sometimes lead to weird smoothing effects. However, this is a personal preference, and some users may find it beneficial in enhancing their gameplay. The nearly 100-watt-hour battery is substantial, but the power draw is equally high, requiring users to keep their charger nearby during gaming sessions. On heavy gaming usage, the battery lasted around three hours, while more typical use extended it to six to seven hours.
Workhorse Capabilities
Despite its gaming prowess, the MSI Stealth 18 also excels as a workhorse laptop. Running media editing applications like DaVinci Resolve and Blender is smooth, with minimal performance issues. The new Meteor Lake CPU offers a bit of future-proofing, especially with companies like Blackmagic working on adding support for NPUs. This makes the laptop a solid investment for those looking for a versatile device that can handle both work and play seamlessly.
While there may be better laptops purely focused on gaming, such as the Razer Blade 18 with its impressive 300-Hz refresh rate, the Stealth 18 offers a balance between performance and functionality. The inclusion of a NumPad is a convenient feature for tasks like video editing, and the keyboard design, reminiscent of past Sony branding, adds a unique touch to the laptop’s aesthetics.
Design and Features
The design of the MSI Stealth 18 may lean towards a more “gamer” aesthetic, but it comes with a range of extra features that enhance the overall user experience. The presence of a NumPad is a welcome addition for productivity tasks, and the keyboard design, with its striking font and chiclet-style keys, provides a comfortable typing experience. The trackpad, while smooth, could be slightly larger, but it functions well for everyday use.
In terms of connectivity, the laptop offers an Ethernet port, HDMI port, and a proprietary charging port at the rear, making it convenient for desk setups. The dedicated fingerprint sensor adds a layer of security and ease of access for users, streamlining the login process and enhancing overall usability. At a price point of $3,300 for the RTX 4080 model, the MSI Stealth 18 offers a competitive option for users seeking a high-performance laptop without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, the MSI Stealth 18 is a powerhouse in the gaming laptop market, offering a blend of performance, functionality, and design. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, it provides value for users looking for a versatile device that can handle both work and play with ease. With its impressive gaming capabilities, solid workhorse performance, and thoughtful design features, the MSI Stealth 18 stands out as a compelling choice for gamers and professionals alike.
