The MSI GE76 Raider gaming laptop is gaining popularity as a gamers preferred choice of laptop. This is because it has great CPU performance, robust speakers, and quiet fans. Additionally, the RGB customization options make it a great choice for gamers who want to add a bit of personality. However, the battery life is relatively small compared to other laptops on the market, and the unique design can feel bulky for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MSI GE76 Raider is still a reliable and powerful laptop that is perfect for gaming.
Pros:
- Quiet fans
- 1080p webcam
- RGB customization options
- Strong speakers
Cons:
- Short battery life
- Design feels bulky/large
Specifications
| Brand | MSI |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-11800H 8 cores |
| Processor Speed | Base clock speed 2.3GHz, max turbo to 4.6GHz |
| RAM Memory | 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4 3200MHz |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 with 6GB GDDR6 VRAM |
| Boot Drive | 1TB SSD |
| Native Display Resolution | 1920 x 1080 pixels |
| Screen Size | 17.3 Inches |
| Touch Screen | No |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Webcam | 1080p FHD Webcam |
| Laptop Dimensions | 15.63 x 10.57 x 1.08 inches |
Currently, this laptop is sitting at a $1,640.99 price point. There are several different configurations to choose from. Looking at the 2021 models, it would seem that the average configuration carrying the RTX 3060 tends to be close to $1,500. In this review we will be looking at the specifications above but keep in mind that the RAM and storage are upgradeable.
CPU Performance
Intel has built a reputation on delivering high quality processors. This laptop is a clear example of their reputation. The i7 processor series is Intel’s line of high-end performance CPU. With their minimum 8 cores, any device with an i7 is guaranteed to execute any task in a timely manner. Below is a CPU comparison chart provided by https://www.cpubenchmark.net/. Cpubenchmark.net is a website that compares all data among processors and graphics cards. The comparison below shows where the i7-11800H ranks among other processors:
Image was screenshotted from https://www.cpubenchmark.net/.
As you can see, the i7-11800H carries a pretty high ranking against other processors. Although there are stronger processors on the market, this laptop was assembled as an entry level high-end laptop. There are significant upgrades that can be done to the RAM and graphics card. However, those configurations will raise the price significantly as well. As far as price for performance goes, the i7-11800H is an excellent processor to pair this laptop and it’s intended user.
Graphics Card Performance
The MSI GE76 carries the NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics card with 6GB GDDR6 VRAM. The 3000 graphics card series was revolutionary when it was released. It featured a performance increase by a larger percentage than any of its predecessors. But what made it even more incredible was the pricing. NVIDIA promised to deliver high performance while making cards afforadable for the average gamer. They certainly did not dissappoint with the starting price at $400 for a standard RTX 3060 graphics card. The pandemic unfortunately made these cards indecridbly rare to find, however, they are much easier to find now. If you choose to buy a laptop in 2022, you would benefit greatly from buying any RTX 3000 series and above.
Laptop Design
Laptop design is important to help keep the computer cool with proper air flow. If the laptop gets too hot, it can damage the computer. This laptop has plenty of space for its fans which is a great sign for its design. However, a common review for this laptop includes that it feels bulky to the average user. Looking at it from the sides, it would appear that it may be due to one side sticking out more than the rest of the laptop. This could make it slightly uncomfortable in a backpack or a flat surface.
Laptop Ports
This laptop includes the following ports:
- 2 x Type-A USB 3.2 Gen 1
- 1 x Type-A USB 3.2 Gen 2
- 1 x Thunderbolt 4 USB4 (Supports DisplayPort and Power Delivery);
- 1 x Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2
- 1 x HDMI (supports 4K @ 120Hz, 8K @ 60Hz),
- 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4
- 1 x RJ45
- 1x SD Card Reader SD7.0 (XC/HC)
- 1 x Audio Combo (1/8″)
There is no lack of connection when it comes to this laptop. It has every port that an average school student or office employee would need from card readers to USB connection ports. Currently, Thunderbolt 4 has the highest bandwith possible for a USB.
Display and Resolution
Gaming laptops need to have a respectable display to even be referred to as gaming laptops. This PC comes with a 17.3 inch screen with a 144Hz refresh rate. High refresh rates help gamers who like to play FPS (First-Person Shooter) games. Refresh rates process more frames per second allowing gamers to have a more accurate display of what’s going on.
Our Conclusion
The MSI GE76 Raider laptop is a respectable gaming laptop to say the least. Each of it’s components were assembled with a clear audience in mind. This laptop is perfect for gamers and content creators that need a powerful machine while remaining within a budget. Content creators and serious eSports athletes require a computer that can process tasks quickly to avoid lag or delays. Every second counts for both audiences meaning they need more cores and hyperthreads. The i7 series was built for that purpose and minimum requirements. Paired with NVIDIA’s entry 3000 series graphics card, this laptop is guaranteed to last a long time!
Joel Duarte
Howdy ya'll. I'm a PC gaming enthusiast from Texas that loves discussing gaming and technology. I've been building computers for over 10 years and have learned much about custom PC gaming throughout that time. I hope that my experience and wisdom will guide young gamers to higher scores.