The biggest strength of the MSI GS75 is also responsible for its biggest weakness

Unlocked octa-core Core i9-10980HK CPU, GeForce RTX 2080 Super Max-Q graphics, 300 Hz display, and 32 GB of upgradeable RAM — these impressive specifications read like they belong on a bulky gaming laptop worth its weight in gold. However, MSI are able to offer all the above in an ultra-thin 17.3-inch gaming laptop that's several hundred grams lighter than most others in its category.

As explained in our review, the MSI GS75 is notable for having an extreme level of performance relative to its 2.3 kg weight. Competing alternatives like the Alienware m17, Razer Blade Pro, Asus Zephyrus GX701, or the Lenovo Legion Y740-17 would weigh 2.6 kg, 2.7 kg, 2.7 kg, and 3 kg, respectively, to be noticeably heavier than MSI's system. We commend MSI for cramming such high-end processors in a lightweight design and then running said processors at decent clock rates no less.

Unfortunately, being so much lighter and smaller than the competition without sacrificing performance takes its toll on other characteristics of the system. Namely, the chassis or skeleton of the GS75 is noticeably easier to warp, bend, twist, or damage when compared to other 17.3-inch gaming laptops. We're even able to hear a bit of creaking when twisting the base or lid with moderate pressure. The weaker chassis rigidity gives poorer first impressions relative to the stiffer gaming systems from Razer or Dell.

To MSI's credit, they are probably aware of the design benefits and trade-offs of the GS75. The older 15.6-inch GS65, for example, was also criticized for its weaker first impressions which led to the newer, redesigned GS66 being slightly bigger and heavier for increased chassis rigidity. It's a potential path that the future "GS76" may follow as well.

Sale off - Buy MSI GS75 Stealth-1074 now on Amazon