MSI GP63 Leopard: At First Glance
The MSI GP63 Leopard is a gaming laptop renowned for its performance and features. It’s part of MSI’s gaming lineup, designed to cater to gamers seeking power, speed, and reliability in a portable device.
Introduced in 2018, the GP63 Leopard 8RE emerged as a successor to its predecessors with significant upgrades. Furthermore, it entered the market with the intent of providing a balance between affordability and high-performance gaming.
The history of the GP63 Leopard series traces back to MSI’s commitment to crafting top-notch gaming machines. It follows a lineage of gaming laptops that evolved alongside technological advancements, aiming to meet the ever-growing demands of gamers worldwide.
From its inception, the GP63 Leopard has been characterized by its powerful CPU, high-end graphics cards, and robust cooling system. Its customizable RGB keyboard and a range of connectivity options have also contributed to its popularity among gamers.
But does the laptop live up to expectations? Let’s find out as we explore the other sections of this review.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Design, Display, Ports, and Connectivity
The GP63 Leopard 8RE strikes a balance between gaming aesthetics and a sleek form factor. Except for the bottom which is made of plastic, every part of the laptop is made of brushed metal, including the lid and palm rest
This gives off a premium feel and a sense of excellence. Moreover, MSI’s dragon logo takes center stage on the lid, capturing attention with its design.
The subtle red accents and the emblem’s placement convey a sense of gaming prowess. Furthermore, the laptop’s angular design elements contribute to a modern and aggressive look.
The well-ventilated chassis ensures effective heat dissipation during intense gaming sessions, maintaining both style and functionality. Besides, the laptop opens smoothly thanks to its hinges.
The hinges on the GP63 Leopard 8RE are robust, providing a stable and wobble-free display experience. Speaking of the display, the GP63 Leopard 8RE boasts a 15.6-inch FHD display with vibrant colors and sharp contrasts.
Additionally, the display offers a commendable color reproduction, making it suitable for both gaming and content creation tasks. The display is well-suited for gaming enthusiasts who prioritize a visually engaging and immersive experience.
Moreover, the GP63 Leopard 8RE’s display offers satisfactory brightness, recording a maximum of 368.5 nits on our brightness test. This makes the laptop versatile for various use cases, from gaming in dimly lit rooms to working on productivity tasks in well-lit spaces.
However, in exceptionally bright outdoor conditions, the display might face some challenges in maintaining optimal visibility. Nonetheless, the anti-glare coating on the display helps mitigate reflections.
This contributes to better visibility and reduced eye strain during extended gaming or work sessions. Besides, the viewing angles of the GP63 Leopard 8RE’s display are generally good, thanks to the IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology.
This ensures consistent and accurate colors even when viewing the screen from different angles. It’s a crucial feature for multiplayer gaming or collaborative work scenarios where people might be viewing the screen from various positions.
However, like many laptops with IPS displays, there can be a slight loss of brightness and contrast when viewing the screen from extreme angles.
Similar to the viewing angles, the 120 Hz refresh rate of the display is also a standout feature. It enables the display to deliver smooth and fluid visuals, particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming.
The thin bezels surrounding the 15.6-inch display also contribute to a more immersive visual experience. It reduces distractions during gaming or content consumption.
This reduction in bezel size not only enhances the laptop’s aesthetic appeal but also has a tangible impact on the device’s dimensions. As with most laptops, a webcam is strategically located at the top bezel.
The 720p HD webcam delivers decent video quality for video conferencing, capturing clear and well-lit images in well-lit environments. However, the camera’s performance might exhibit limitations in low-light conditions, as is common with integrated laptop webcams.
A highlight of the GP63 Leopard 8RE is its SteelSeries RGB keyboard. The customizable per-key RGB backlighting not only adds a touch of personalization but also aids in quick key identification.
Furthermore, the tactile feedback and adequate key travel make for a satisfying typing and gaming experience. Also, the inclusion of a dedicated numeric keypad caters to gamers and professionals alike.
Below the keyboard is the Synaptics touchpad, which is responsive and generously sized. While most gamers prefer an external mouse for gaming, the touchpad serves well for everyday tasks.
Moreover, the dedicated left and right-click buttons on the touchpad offer a satisfying click. In addition to that, the Windows Precision drivers ensure precise tracking and gestures.
Moving away from the keyboard and touchpad, the GP63 Leopard 8RE doesn’t disappoint in terms of connectivity. The laptop’s left side features a Kensington Lock, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.1 port, HDMI port, and mini-DisplayPort.
You will also find another USB 3.1 port, a USB Type-C port, a microphone jack, and a headphones jack. Meanwhile, the right side of the laptop accommodates an SD card reader, two more USB 3.1 ports, and the power jack.
However, it lacks an optical drive. Nonetheless, the variety of ports ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals, contributing to the laptop’s versatility.
Apart from its impressive port collection, the GP63 Leopard 8RE has an efficient cooling system. The cooling system features dual fans strategically positioned to draw in cool air and expel hot air efficiently.
The placement of these fans is well-thought-out, with one fan located on each side of the laptop. This dual-fan configuration helps maintain a balanced airflow, ensuring uniform cooling across critical components.
The fans are intelligently placed to complement the laptop’s overall design. Moreover, during gaming marathons or resource-intensive applications, users can appreciate the cooling system’s ability to keep temperatures in check.
Now for the dimension and weight. With dimensions measuring 383 x 260 x 29 mm, the laptop manages to house high-end components without compromising its sleek and modern aesthetic.
Weighing in at 2200 g, the GP63 Leopard 8RE impressively weighs less than most of the gaming laptops in its class. For instance, the HP Omen 15-ce002ng and Lenovo Legion Y720 80VR002XGE weigh 2621 g and 3098 g, respectively.
While it isn’t the lightest gaming laptop, the GP63 Leopard 8RE’s weight ensures that users can carry it comfortably for extended periods without feeling burdened. This is particularly crucial for gamers attending LAN parties, where the ability to transport one’s gaming rig easily becomes a key factor.
In conclusion, the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE impresses with its well-thought-out design and robust build quality. From the enticing dragon logo to the responsive SteelSeries keyboard, every aspect is crafted to enhance the gaming experience.
Therefore, I will rate the laptop a nine out of ten in this design review section.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Processor Specs Performance
At the heart of the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE’s formidable performance lies the Intel Core i7-8750H processor. Engineered for gaming and multitasking, this 8th-generation CPU boasts six cores and a 9 MB cache.
This provides a potent blend of high clock speeds and multi-core processing capabilities. The Intel Core i7-8750H is a workhorse, delivering a clock speed range of 2.2 GHz base up to 4.1 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost.
This processing powerhouse is a key component that elevates the GP63 Leopard’s performance, enabling seamless execution of resource-intensive tasks. From demanding AAA gaming titles to content creation and productivity applications, this processor is up for the task.
In gaming scenarios, the i7-8750H ensures smooth gameplay, leveraging its multi-core architecture to handle the computational demands of modern games. The processor’s prowess extends beyond gaming, making the GP63 Leopard a versatile tool for users engaged in 3D rendering, and other CPU-intensive activities.
Therefore, gamers and content creators alike benefit from the processor’s ability to handle demanding workloads with ease. This results in faster rendering times, quicker load speeds, and an overall smoother computing experience.
The CPU’s multi-threading capabilities also enhance multitasking efficiency, allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously without sacrificing performance. Whether engaged in heavy gaming sessions or juggling various productivity tasks, the GP63 Leopard’s Intel Core i7-8750H ensures a responsive performance.
To provide a better representation of the laptop’s CPU performance, I put it through a Cinebench R15 test. Cinebench R15 is a benchmark test that focuses on assessing the performance of a computer’s CPU (Central Processing Unit).
The benchmark involves rendering a photorealistic 3D scene, and the test measures how quickly the CPU can complete this rendering task. Furthermore, the test evaluates both the multi-core and single-core performance of the processor.
The multi-core performance test gauges a processor’s ability to handle tasks that can be divided among multiple threads. Conversely, the single-core performance test examines the speed and efficiency of an individual processing core.
The result is presented as a numerical score. Hence, higher scores indicate better CPU performance, as they reflect the CPU’s ability to render processes efficiently.
So, on the Cinebench R15 single-core test, the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE scored 170 points. However, it recorded a score of 964 points on the multi-core performance test.
Comparatively, the laptop’s single-core score is on par with the ASUS Zephyrus M GM501‘s single-core score. However, this ASUS laptop recorded a higher multi-core score – 1168 points.
It is worth mentioning that the ASUS laptop uses the same processor as the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE.
With all that being said, I will rate the MSI GP63 Leopard an eight out of ten in this section.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Memory Specs Performance
The MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE embraces the power of DDR4 RAM, a notable leap forward in memory technology. Equipped with two memory slots, this gaming laptop offers users the flexibility to enhance their system’s performance by upgrading the RAM.
Out of the box, the GP63 Leopard 8RE impresses with its standard memory configuration. With options ranging from 8 GB to 16 GB, the laptop provides a solid foundation for gaming and multitasking.
The utilization of DDR4 also ensures higher bandwidth and improved energy efficiency, contributing to a more efficient computing experience.
The GP63 Leopard 8RE’s maximum memory capacity stands at an impressive 32 GB. This expandability option caters to power users, gamers, and content creators who demand a higher memory threshold for resource-intensive applications.
Upgrading to the maximum supported memory enhances the laptop’s ability to handle complex tasks. This provides a future-proofing element for evolving computing needs.
That being said, my review model comes with 16 GB of RAM. With this amount of RAM, the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE will be able to run most high-end games and multitask with ease.
Talking of multitasking, I launched Chrome with multiple tabs open, each loaded with content-rich websites, to measure the laptop’s multitasking prowess. As expected, the GP63 Leopard 8RE handles this demanding scenario with finesse.
The 16 GB RAM ensures that Chrome operates smoothly, even with a multitude of tabs, extensions, and web applications running concurrently. Browsing remains responsive, and the laptop effortlessly manages the memory overhead, preventing any noticeable slowdowns or tab reloading.
The GP63 Leopard’s multitasking capabilities extend beyond the Chrome browser. Running resource-intensive applications alongside everyday tasks is a fluid experience.
Whether it’s gaming while streaming or toggling between multiple productivity tools, the laptop maintains optimal performance. To make things even better, the laptop excelled in a PCMark 8 test, which I put it through to further evaluate its performance.
PCMark 8 is a benchmarking tool that assesses the overall performance of a Windows-based computer. It is part of the PCMark benchmarking suite, which is widely used to evaluate different aspects of a system’s capabilities.
PCMark 8 focuses on measuring a system’s performance in various real-world usage scenarios. It is designed to simulate typical computing tasks that users might encounter in everyday use, such as web browsing.
On the test, the GP63 Leopard with 16 GB RAM delivered an outstanding score of 4415 points. This score is above the 4115 points achieved by the Lenovo Legion Y720 80VR002XGE.
Taking all that into consideration, I will rate the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE a nine out of ten.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Storage Options and Performance
The MSI GP63 Leopard flaunts a well-balanced storage architecture, offering users the flexibility of two distinct storage options. These include a 2.5″ SATA HDD and an NVMe PCIe SSD.
These storage options cater to the diverse needs of users. Moreover, both storage options support a maximum storage capacity of 1 TB.
However, as an SSD, the NVME PCIe SSD option offers rapid system boot times, swift application launches, and seamless data transfers. It significantly enhances the laptop’s overall responsiveness, contributing to a snappy and efficient computing experience.
Moreover, on a standard laptop, 1 TB of maximum storage capacity is more than enough for most users. It is ample storage capacity for users with extensive multimedia libraries and data-heavy applications.
However, for a gaming laptop, I must say, 1 TB of storage space is quite limited. This is due to the fact that a majority of high-end games nowadays consume storage space a lot.
For instance, Call of Duty: Warzone requires at least 125 GB of storage space for installation. Hence, if you install a couple of such games on the laptop, you will run out of storage space in no time.
In that case, an external storage drive will be required. Fortunately, the MSI GP63 Leopard features an SD card reader for storage expansion.
Also, it supports a combo option for its storage. This allows you to configure the laptop with a combination of both the 2.5″ SATA HDD and NVMe PCIe SSD.
This gives users the best of both worlds. Therefore, users can strategically allocate files based on performance requirements.
Basically, you can store large media libraries on the HDD while keeping the operating system and frequently accessed applications on the lightning-fast SSD. This arrangement optimizes both storage capacity and data access speed, providing a tailored solution for a variety of user needs.
That being said, this review focuses on the MSI GP63 Leopard with the SSD storage option. With this storage option, I put the laptop through a CrystalDiskMark test.
CrystalDiskMark is a popular disk benchmarking software designed to measure the performance of storage devices. Developed by Hiyohiyo, CrystalDiskMark provides an easy way to assess the read and write speeds of storage devices, offering insights into their overall performance.
Read and write speeds refer to the speed at which data can be retrieved (read) from or stored (written) to a storage device. According to the CrystalDiskMark test, the MSI GP63 Leopard’s NVMe PCIe SSD has a sequential read speed of 539.2 MB/s.
Also, it has a sequential write speed of 482.5 MB/s. Sadly, the laptop was humiliated by one of its closest rivals, the Dell Inspiron 15 7000 7577.
On the CrystalDiskMark test, this Dell laptop delivered a sequential read and write speed of 3323 MB/s and 1189 MB/s, respectively.
As a result, I will rate the MSI GP63 Leopard a seven out of ten in the storage department.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Graphics Card Performance
Now for the star of the show – the graphics card. The MSI GP63 Leopard features the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, a graphics card renowned for its balance of performance and efficiency.
Furthermore, it has a based GPU frequency of 1404 MHz and a boost GPU frequency of 1670 MHz. This discrete GPU delivers impressive graphical capabilities to users seeking an immersive gaming experience.
Its 6 GB GDDR5 VRAM provides ample video memory for rendering high-resolution textures and complex graphics. This contributes to a visually stunning gaming environment.
In popular AAA titles like Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the GTX 1060 proves its mettle by delivering smooth and responsive gameplay. To be more specific, the laptop delivered an impressive 138.2 fps while playing the game in medium graphics settings.
The GPU’s excellent performance extends to titles like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, recording a frame rate of 138.7 fps. In fact, popular games like Apex Legends and Fortnite are comfortably playable on the laptop, even at high settings
However, demanding title AAA games, like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, might require adjustments in graphical settings for optimal performance. Nonetheless, the GTX 1060 opens the doors to virtual reality (VR) experiences, allowing users to delve into immersive VR gaming.
It’s compatible with popular VR headsets, providing a compelling VR experience for those interested in exploring the realms of virtual reality gaming. In fact, the MSI GP63 Leopard outshined most of its competitors on a 3DMark 11 test.
3DMark 11 is a benchmarking tool designed to assess and evaluate the graphics performance of a computer system. It includes a set of graphics tests that simulate the rendering workload of actual gaming scenarios.
On the test, the MSI GP63 Leopard delivered a score of 15411 points, surpassing the likes of the HP Omen 15-ce002ng. To be specific, this HP laptop with the same GPU scored 13279 points on the test.
To conclude this GPU review section, I will rate the MSI GP63 Leopard a nine out of ten for its impressive performance.
MSI GP63 Leopard: Battery Life and Performance
The MSI GP63 Leopard is equipped with a 6-cell, 51 WHr Li-ion battery, providing the necessary power for on-the-go usage. However, generally, gaming laptops often face challenges in delivering extensive battery life.
This is often due to the high power demands of their performance-oriented components. Therefore, it didn’t come as a surprise that the GP63 Leopard’s battery life is, unfortunately, on the shorter side.
How do I know this, you may ask? Well, I put the laptop through a series of battery tests to figure out its battery life.
Firstly, I left the laptop turned on, but idle and on the lowest brightness level. After 7 hours and 31 minutes of sitting idle, the laptop went off.
Meanwhile, on a Wi-Fi web-surfing test, the laptop died after just 4 hours and 46 minutes. To make things worse, the MSI GP63 Leopard only lasted for about 50 minutes during maximum operation, including continuous gaming.
That battery life is about 10 minutes less than the 1-hour that the Lenovo Legion Y720 80VR002XGE delivered. Hence, with the MSI GP63 Leopard, users should anticipate relatively limited unplugged usage, especially during gaming sessions.
Thus, the laptop is not getting more than a seven out of ten rating in the battery department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The MSI GP63 Leopard features an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 GPU. Also, it has a 15.6-inch display and a combination of SSD and HDD storage.
Yes, the GP63 Leopard allows for RAM upgrades, as it comes with two RAM slots.
Yes, the GTX 1060 GPU allows the GP63 Leopard to run many of the latest AAA games smoothly. However, settings may need adjustment for some demanding titles.
No, the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE doesn’t feature Thunderbolt.
The GP63 Leopard features an effective cooling system with multiple fans and heat pipes. This cooling system manages the thermal demands of its powerful components, ensuring optimal performance during extended gaming sessions
Conclusion
In wrapping up our journey through the MSI GP63 Leopard 8RE, let’s cut to the chase – this gaming laptop is a bold contender that demands attention.
If you’re on the lookout for a no-nonsense gaming experience that doesn’t compromise on performance, the GP63 Leopard has your back. Games? Consider them conquered.
The laptop delivers where it counts, dragging you into gaming realms with buttery smooth graphics. However, this stellar performance comes at a cost – the battery life.
If you’re planning marathon gaming sessions on the go, consider this fair warning. The GP63 Leopard is a powerhouse that loves being plugged in, and it’s not shy about it.
But here’s the thing – if you want a laptop that doesn’t flinch regardless of whatever you throw its way, the GP63 Leopard is a good choice.
So, should you buy it? If you’re after uncompromising gaming performance and don’t mind staying close to an outlet, the answer is yes. However, if you’re looking for a marathon runner on battery power alone, you might want to look elsewhere.
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