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MSI GE65 Raider 9SF Laptop Review: Huge Improvements Over the GE63

LFG raid. The GE65 is 19 percent smaller and 12 percent lighter than the outgoing GE63 while retaining all the same ports and most physical features. It's one of the lighter 15.6-inch gaming laptops you can buy from MSI outside of the GS65.

The upper mid-range MSI GE65 sits in between the cheaper MSI GL series and the pricier MSI GT series of gaming laptops. It directly supplants the GE63 with revised internal options and a brand new chassis design. More specifically, the newer model introduces narrow bezels for increased portability while dropping the GeForce RTX 2080 option in favor of the RTX 2060 or RTX 2070 only. 

Two major SKUs are available as of this writing: the GE65 9SF and GE65 9SE with a Core i7-9750H or Core i9-9880H CPU, RTX 2060 or 2070 graphics, up to 64 GB of RAM, and the choice between a 144 Hz or 240 Hz 1080p IPS display. Direct competitors include other upper mid-range gaming laptops like the Lenovo Legion Y740, HP Omen 15, Asus ROG Strix III or Hero III, Aorus 15, or the Dell Gaming G7 series.

More MSI reviews:

MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US (GE65 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i9-9880H 8 x 2.3 - 4.8 GHz, Coffee Lake-H
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile - 8 GB VRAM, Core: 1215 MHz, Memory: 1750 MHz, GDDR6, 441.66, Optimus
Memory
32 GB 
, 1333.3 MHz, 19-19-19-43, Dual-Channel
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, Sharp LQ156M1JW03, IPS, SHP14C5, 240 Hz
Mainboard
Intel HM370
Storage
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR, 1024 GB 
Soundcard
Nvidia TU106 - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
4 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 2 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm mic-in, 3.5 mm headphone-out (HiFi / SPDIF), Card Reader: SD reader
Networking
Killer E2600 Gigabit Ethernet Controller (10/100/1000MBit/s), Killer Wi-Fi 6 AX1650x Wireless Network Adapter (200NGW) (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/ax = Wi-Fi 6/), Bluetooth 5
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 26.9 x 357.7 x 248 ( = 1.06 x 14.08 x 9.76 in)
Battery
51 Wh Lithium-Ion, 6-cell
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 720p
Primary Camera: 0.9 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: Quad speakers 2x 2 W + 2x 3 W, Keyboard: SteelSeries chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, MSI Dragon Center, Driver and App Center, True Color, 12 Months Warranty
Weight
2.27 kg ( = 80.07 oz / 5 pounds), Power Supply: 988 g ( = 34.85 oz / 2.18 pounds)
Price
2600 USD
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
84.7 %
12/2019
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
i9-9880H, GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
2.3 kg26.9 mm15.60"1920x1080
84.8 %
10/2019
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
2.3 kg25 mm15.60"1920x1080
83 %
09/2019
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
2.2 kg18.3 mm15.60"1920x1080
81.1 %
11/2019
Maingear Vector 15
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
1.9 kg19.8 mm15.60"1920x1080
84.4 %
08/2019
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile
2.4 kg25.9 mm15.60"1920x1080

Case

One of our main complaints about the older GE63 was its large size. The thick chassis looked outdated when compared to even the budget HP Pavilion Gaming 15 which was a bit embarrassing for a mid-range gaming laptop from MSI. The latest GE65 addresses this by switching to a new display panel in order to minimize the bezels. Webcam positioning is preserved unlike on the Asus ROG Strix or Hero series while the rest of the laptop retains the look of the GE63.

There is some room for improvement. The bottom bezel, for example, is still very thick in relation to the three other sides. The chassis doesn't feel as firm or solid as on the Alienware m15 R2 or the aforementioned Asus alternatives, either. The lid of the GE65 is a bit more flexible while the base exhibits slight-but-audible creaking when attempting to twist its sides. We suspect that the creaking occurs because the busy chassis consists of many smaller pieces as opposed to the flatter, cleaner, and more unibody approach of the Asus ROG Strix or Hero.

The dual hinges are different than on the GE63 as they even smaller this time around. While sufficiently firm at all angles with almost no teetering when typing, the hinges don't give a sense of longevity because of their size.

A defining characteristic of the GE65 is its small footprint when compared to most other 15.6-inch gaming laptops. In fact, its length and width are essentially the same as the more expensive MSI GS65 while weighing about 300 g more. The relatively thick 26.9 mm profile, however, gives the GE65 a noticeably boxier look than the super-thin Razer Blade series or Asus Zephyrus.

Lid opened to maximum angle (~160 degrees)
Lid opened to maximum angle (~160 degrees)
Same ports as on the GE63 but slightly rearranged
Same ports as on the GE63 but slightly rearranged
SteelSeries logo proudly on display as usual on most MSI laptops
SteelSeries logo proudly on display as usual on most MSI laptops
The symbols for the auxiliary keys and Power button are far too small and difficult to see
The symbols for the auxiliary keys and Power button are far too small and difficult to see
Smooth metallic texture for the outer lid and keyboard deck
Smooth metallic texture for the outer lid and keyboard deck
Plastic bottom is very busy with its numerous angles and oversized ventilation grilles
Plastic bottom is very busy with its numerous angles and oversized ventilation grilles
383 mm / 15.1 inch 260 mm / 10.2 inch 29.5 mm / 1.161 inch 2.6 kg5.67 lbs362 mm / 14.3 inch 265 mm / 10.4 inch 25 mm / 0.984 inch 2.3 kg5.03 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 274 mm / 10.8 inch 25.9 mm / 1.02 inch 2.4 kg5.29 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 263 mm / 10.4 inch 25 mm / 0.984 inch 2.4 kg5.25 lbs357.7 mm / 14.1 inch 248 mm / 9.76 inch 26.9 mm / 1.059 inch 2.3 kg5 lbs360.5 mm / 14.2 inch 276 mm / 10.9 inch 18.3 mm / 0.72 inch 2.2 kg4.76 lbs358 mm / 14.1 inch 248 mm / 9.76 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 2 kg4.35 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

Port options are identical to the GE63 save for the repositioning of the USB Type-A ports along the right edge. Thunderbolt 3 remains elusive as you'll have to upgrade to the higher-end MSI GS or GT series for Thunderbolt support. Port positioning is a mixed bag because all ports are tightly packed and they are located close to the front edges where cables are more likely to be intrusive.

Front: No connectivity
Front: No connectivity
Right: 2x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, SD card reader, AC adapter
Right: 2x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, SD card reader, AC adapter
Rear: No connectivity
Rear: No connectivity
Left: Kensington Lock, 1 Gbps RJ-45, Mini-DisplayPort, USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 2, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen. 2, 3.5 mm headphones, 3.5 mm microphone
Left: Kensington Lock, 1 Gbps RJ-45, Mini-DisplayPort, USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 2, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen. 2, 3.5 mm headphones, 3.5 mm microphone

SD Card Reader

Transfer rates from the integrated spring-loaded SD card reader have not improved over the GE63. Moving 1 GB of images from our UHS-II test card takes 40 seconds compared to just 7 seconds on the Dell XPS 15. It's disappointing that MSI continues to give SD performance the cold shoulder on its GE series of laptops.

Fully inserted SD card still protrudes slightly
Fully inserted SD card still protrudes slightly
SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Dell XPS 15 7590 9980HK GTX 1650
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
172.4 MB/s +566%
MSI GS73 Stealth 8RF-011
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
172 MB/s +564%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
78.4 MB/s +203%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
26.9 MB/s +4%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
25.9 MB/s
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
MSI GS73 Stealth 8RF-011
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
215 MB/s +621%
Dell XPS 15 7590 9980HK GTX 1650
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
192.1 MB/s +545%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
85.3 MB/s +186%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
31.34 MB/s +5%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
29.8 MB/s

Communication

All SKUs come standard with Killer 1650x wireless for Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. The module is functionally the same as the Intel AX200/AX201 albeit with specific Killer software features catered to enthusiasts. We didn't experience any WLAN issues during our time with the test unit.

Removable M.2 WLAN module
Removable M.2 WLAN module
Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200
1374 (720min - 1484max) MBit/s
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
629 (602min - 651max) MBit/s
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
548 MBit/s
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
507 MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200
1291 (1212min - 1379max) MBit/s
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
660 MBit/s
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
656 MBit/s
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
615 (508min - 642max) MBit/s

Maintenance

The bottom panel can be removed with just a Philips screwdriver and a sharp edge. Motherboard layout is very similar to the last generation GE63 but with some components and heat pipes rearranged in order to accommodate for the narrower bezels. A 'Factory Seal' sticker must be broken in order to gain access to the motherboard.

Bottom panel is secured by 12 Philips screws
Bottom panel is secured by 12 Philips screws

Accessories and Warranty

There are no notable extras in the box other than the AC adapter. The standard one-year limited warranty applies with potential extras for those who register their purchases online through MSI.

Input Devices

Keyboard

The SteelSeries keyboard remains unchanged from the GE63 despite the smaller footprint. This means that the per-key RGB lighting, uniform and firm key feedback, and moderate clatter are all back. Even the NumPad still feels cramped since its keys are narrower than the main QWERTY keys. If you've ever handled any other GS, GE, or GT series laptop from MSI, then you'll have a good idea of what to expect when typing on the GE65 as these SteelSeries keyboards are mostly consistent between models.

Touchpad

The touchpad is again identical to the GE63 in surface area (11 x 6.3 cm) and texture albeit without the tacky red rims of the last generation model. Fortunately, we didn't experience any cursor jumping issues that occurred on our GE63 unit. The dedicated mouse keys also return but with the same uneven feedback from the GE63. Clicking along the edges of the keys, for example, feels softer and with deeper travel than clicking from the center of either key.

The three buttons near the top right have been re-positioned. Otherwise, the keyboard is identical to the GE63
The three buttons near the top right have been re-positioned. Otherwise, the keyboard is identical to the GE63
Same smooth touchpad and clicky mouse keys as on the GE63
Same smooth touchpad and clicky mouse keys as on the GE63
Chiclet keyboard is comfortable to type on with slightly firmer feedback than the Asus ROG Strix or Hero
Chiclet keyboard is comfortable to type on with slightly firmer feedback than the Asus ROG Strix or Hero
Full-size Arrow keys with cramped and narrow NumPad keys
Full-size Arrow keys with cramped and narrow NumPad keys

Display

Our GE65 configuration utilizes the same 240 Hz Sharp LQ156M1JW03 IPS panel and SHP14C5 controller as found on the GS65 or Razer Blade 15. Subsequently, all three of these laptops share similar black-white and gray-gray response times, contrast levels, and gamut. The identical panels also explain how the GE65 and GS65 have almost exactly the same length and width. Display quality is actually not far from the 144 Hz AU Optronics panel on the last generation GE63 save for the higher native refresh rate.

Graininess is minimal despite the matte overlay for crisp texts and images. Uneven backlight bleeding, however, is noticeable around the edges of our test unit as shown by the picture below. MSI offers no OLED options on any of its laptops as of this writing unlike Razer or Dell.

Interestingly, pulse-width modulation occurs at exactly the same brightness levels (19 percent and under) and at nearly the same frequency as on the GS65 to suggest that MSI is using the same backlight components between the two models.

No edge-to-edge glass or 4K UHD options
No edge-to-edge glass or 4K UHD options
Narrow bezels are essentially identical to the GS65
Narrow bezels are essentially identical to the GS65
Moderate uneven backlight bleeding along the corners
Moderate uneven backlight bleeding along the corners
Subpixel array
Subpixel array
256.6
cd/m²
268.8
cd/m²
248.7
cd/m²
269.3
cd/m²
277.4
cd/m²
266.9
cd/m²
265.7
cd/m²
267.4
cd/m²
255.9
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Sharp LQ156M1JW03 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 277.4 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 264.1 cd/m² Minimum: 14.26 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 277.4 cd/m²
Contrast: 1156:1 (Black: 0.24 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 1.51 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 1.77
ΔE Greyscale 3.7 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
99.1% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65.1% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
70.7% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
98.9% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
69.3% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.23
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Sharp LQ156M1JW03, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
AU Optronics B156HAN07.1, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
BOE NV156FHM-N4J, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
Sharp LQ156M1, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
Panda LM156LF-GL02, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
BOE NV156FHM-N4K, IPS, 15.60, 1920x1080
Display
-7%
-5%
-6%
-41%
-6%
Display P3 Coverage
69.3
65.1
-6%
67.7
-2%
65.3
-6%
40.13
-42%
65.3
-6%
sRGB Coverage
98.9
91.7
-7%
91.6
-7%
95.1
-4%
60.3
-39%
91.8
-7%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
70.7
65.9
-7%
67.1
-5%
65.9
-7%
41.48
-41%
66.5
-6%
Response Times
17%
-17%
0%
-113%
-30%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
13.2 ?(7.2, 6)
8.8 ?(4.4, 4.4)
33%
19 ?(9, 10)
-44%
16.4 ?(7.6, 6.8)
-24%
26 ?(13.6, 12.4)
-97%
13.6 ?(7.2, 6.4)
-3%
Response Time Black / White *
11.2 ?(6, 5.2)
11.2 ?(5.2, 6)
-0%
10 ?(6, 4)
11%
8.8 ?(4.4, 4.4)
21%
25.6 ?(14.8, 10.8)
-129%
10 ?(6, 4)
11%
PWM Frequency
23150 ?(19)
23810 ?(24)
3%
200 ?(99)
-99%
Screen
-7%
2%
-51%
-84%
-29%
Brightness middle
277.4
268.3
-3%
477
72%
324.2
17%
290.1
5%
312.7
13%
Brightness
264
261
-1%
431
63%
304
15%
274
4%
305
16%
Brightness Distribution
90
84
-7%
84
-7%
90
0%
86
-4%
90
0%
Black Level *
0.24
0.2
17%
0.175
27%
0.38
-58%
0.54
-125%
0.27
-13%
Contrast
1156
1342
16%
2726
136%
853
-26%
537
-54%
1158
0%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
1.51
2.65
-75%
4.17
-176%
5.01
-232%
5.16
-242%
4.57
-203%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
4.93
4.67
5%
6.97
-41%
12.7
-158%
18.09
-267%
6.81
-38%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
1.77
2.76
-56%
2.51
-42%
1.64
7%
4.35
-146%
2.91
-64%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.7
2.2
41%
3.49
6%
7.9
-114%
4.4
-19%
4.3
-16%
Gamma
2.23 99%
2.33 94%
2.5 88%
2.35 94%
2.1 105%
2.29 96%
CCT
7061 92%
6862 95%
7076 92%
8455 77%
7362 88%
7098 92%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
65.1
59.3
-9%
60
-8%
60.8
-7%
38.1
-41%
59.4
-9%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
99.1
93.3
-6%
91
-8%
95.5
-4%
60
-39%
91.3
-8%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
1% / -4%
-7% / -2%
-19% / -34%
-79% / -80%
-22% / -25%

* ... smaller is better

Color space covers sRGB in its entirety and approximately 65 percent of AdobeRGB to be similar to most high-refresh rate 15.6-inch panels currently in the market. If deeper colors are desired, then you'll have to consider the Razer Blade Pro 120 Hz model or non-gaming laptops with 4K UHD IGZO or OLED options.

vs. sRGB
vs. sRGB
vs. AdobeRGB
vs. AdobeRGB

The display is well-calibrated out of the box especially for a mid-range gaming laptop. Average grayscale and color DeltaE values sit at just 2.9 and 1.7, respectively, to be better calibrated than most other gaming laptops in this price range. Our attempts to calibrate the display even further did not produce better results.

Grayscale before calibration
Grayscale before calibration
Saturation Sweeps before calibration
Saturation Sweeps before calibration
ColorChecker before calibration
ColorChecker before calibration
Grayscale after calibration
Grayscale after calibration
Saturation Sweeps after calibration
Saturation Sweeps after calibration
ColorChecker after calibration
ColorChecker after calibration

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
11.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 6 ms rise
↘ 5.2 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 25 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
13.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 7.2 ms rise
↘ 6 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 21 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 23150 Hz ≤ 19 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 23150 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 19 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 23150 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

Outdoor visibility is the same as on the GE63 since brightness and contrast are nearly identical between them. Viewing angles are wide, but contrast will degrade if viewing from more extreme angles.

Outdoors on an overcast day
Outdoors on an overcast day
Outdoors under shade
Outdoors under shade
Outdoors on an overcast day
Outdoors on an overcast day
Wide IPS viewing angles
Wide IPS viewing angles

Performance

LatencyMon
LatencyMon

As an upper mid-range gaming laptop, MSI has equipped the GE65 with upper mid-range components including up to the Core i9-9880H CPU and GeForce RTX 2070 GPU. Higher-end components like the unlocked Core i9-9980HK and GeForce RTX 2080 are reserved for MSI's top-of-the-line GT series instead. There are no Max-Q options here unlike on the ultra-thin GS series.

Optimus comes standard to automatically exclude G-Sync. The 240 Hz refresh rate lessens the advantages of G-Sync since tearing becomes more infrequent the higher the native refresh rate.

Processor

Unlike the disappointing 8th gen Core i9-8950HK, the 9th gen Core i9-9880H is able to offer much faster performance than the Core i7-8750H or i7-9750H due to its extra two physical cores. Multi-thread performance is about 30 percent faster than the Core i7-9750H to be one of the fastest mobile consumer Intel CPUs available. While MSI doesn't offer the unlocked i9-9980HK for its GE series, we wouldn't have recommended it anyway since performance advantages over the i9-9880H have proven to be marginal at best.

Performance sustainability is pretty good although still a step below the larger GE75 equipped with the same CPU as shown by our graph below. When running CineBench R15 Multi-Thread in a loop, performance would drop by about 8 percent over time.

See our dedicated page on the Core i9-9880H for more technical information and benchmark comparisons.

CineBench R15
CineBench R15
CineBench R20
CineBench R20
09018027036045054063072081090099010801170126013501440153016201710Tooltip
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR; CPU Multi 64Bit: Ø1496 (1486.55-1622.78)
MSI GE75 9SG GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR; CPU Multi 64Bit: Ø1619 (1602.44-1728.31)
MSI P65 Creator 9SF-657 GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i9-9880H, 2x Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ (RAID 0); CPU Multi 64Bit: Ø1439 (1417.84-1545.36)
HP Omen 17-cb0020ng GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9880H, 2x Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ (RAID 0); CPU Multi 64Bit: Ø1291 (1278.24-1450)
Cinebench R20
CPU (Single Core)
AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
514 Points +8%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS
509 Points +7%
Medion Erazer X15805
Intel Core i9-8950HK
498 Points +5%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
Intel Core i9-9980HK
479 Points +1%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H
474 Points
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Core i7-10710U
460 Points -3%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H
  (441 - 474, n=7)
459 Points -3%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H
434 Points -8%
Dell G3 3590
Intel Core i5-9300H
422 Points -11%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
416 Points -12%
Razer Blade Stealth i7-1065G7 Iris Plus
Intel Core i7-1065G7
388 Points -18%
Asus Zephyrus GX501
Intel Core i7-7700HQ
382 Points -19%
CPU (Multi Core)
AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
6910 Points +97%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS
4463 Points +27%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
Intel Core i9-9980HK
3795 Points +8%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H
3505 Points
Average Intel Core i9-9880H
  (2953 - 3712, n=7)
3271 Points -7%
Medion Erazer X15805
Intel Core i9-8950HK
2924 Points -17%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H
2643 Points -25%
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Core i7-10710U
2598 Points -26%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
2333 Points -33%
Dell G3 3590
Intel Core i5-9300H
1864 Points -47%
Asus Zephyrus GX501
Intel Core i7-7700HQ
1765 Points -50%
Razer Blade Stealth i7-1065G7 Iris Plus
Intel Core i7-1065G7
1411 Points -60%
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS
215 Points +9%
AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
209 Points +6%
Medion Erazer X15805
Intel Core i9-8950HK
203 Points +3%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
Intel Core i9-9980HK
202 Points +2%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H
198 Points
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Core i7-10710U
191 Points -4%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H
  (181 - 198, n=11)
190.1 Points -4%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H
184 Points -7%
Dell G3 3590
Intel Core i5-9300H
172 Points -13%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
171 Points -14%
Asus Zephyrus GX501
Intel Core i7-7700HQ
160 Points -19%
Razer Blade Stealth i7-1065G7 Iris Plus
Intel Core i7-1065G7
149 Points -25%
CPU Multi 64Bit
AMD Radeon RX Vega 64
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
3049 Points +88%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS
1962 Points +21%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
Intel Core i9-9980HK
1821 Points +12%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H
1623 Points
Average Intel Core i9-9880H
  (1317 - 1721, n=11)
1506 Points -7%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H
1231 Points -24%
Medion Erazer X15805
Intel Core i9-8950HK
1217 Points -25%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
1116 Points -31%
MSI Prestige 15 A10SC
Intel Core i7-10710U
1103 Points -32%
Dell G3 3590
Intel Core i5-9300H
790 Points -51%
Asus Zephyrus GX501
Intel Core i7-7700HQ
735 Points -55%
Razer Blade Stealth i7-1065G7 Iris Plus
Intel Core i7-1065G7
676 Points -58%
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
198 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
1623 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
131 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Help

System Performance

PCMark benchmarks are higher than expected as they narrowly edge out the Eurocom Nightsky RX15 with the pricier Core i9-9980HK CPU. While we experienced no software or hardware issues during our time with the unit, the MSI pop-ups can be annoying. We recommend becoming familiar with the Dragon Center software as key system controls can be adjusted here.

PCMark 10 Standard
PCMark 10 Standard
PCMark 8 Home Accelerated
PCMark 8 Home Accelerated
PCMark 8 Work Accelerated
PCMark 8 Work Accelerated
PCMark 10
Score
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
6452 Points
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
6283 Points -3%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (5826 - 6452, n=2)
6139 Points -5%
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
5938 Points -8%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
5374 Points -17%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
5316 Points -18%
Essentials
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
9752 Points
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
9518 Points -2%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (9146 - 9752, n=2)
9449 Points -3%
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
9364 Points -4%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
8917 Points -9%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
8791 Points -10%
Productivity
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
8273 Points
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
8209 Points -1%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (8025 - 8273, n=2)
8149 Points -1%
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
7381 Points -11%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
7180 Points -13%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
6947 Points -16%
Digital Content Creation
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
9034 Points
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
8617 Points -5%
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
8220 Points -9%
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (7311 - 9034, n=2)
8173 Points -10%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
6675 Points -26%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
6584 Points -27%
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
5661 Points +21%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
4679 Points
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (4578 - 4679, n=2)
4629 Points -1%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
4207 Points -10%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
4124 Points -12%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
3758 Points -20%
Work Score Accelerated v2
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
6095 Points
Average Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (5919 - 6095, n=2)
6007 Points -1%
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
5870 Points -4%
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, 2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
5706 Points -6%
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
5577 Points -8%
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
4677 Points -23%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
4679 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
6095 points
PCMark 10 Score
6452 points
Help

Storage Devices

Three storage bays are available much like on the GE63: 2x M.2 2280 PCIe x4 and 1x 2.5-inch SATA III. Our test unit comes equipped with the same 1 TB MZVLB1T0HALR Samsung PM981 NVMe SSD as found on our GE75. Samsung M.2 SSDs are some of the fastest in the consumer space and so it's not surprising to see it outperforming the mid-range WD SN520 and Intel 660p. Nonetheless, there's a chance that the GE65 may come equipped with these slower SSDs instead depending on the reseller.

See our table of HDDs and SSDs for more benchmark comparisons.

Dual M.2 bays sit perpendicular to one another
Dual M.2 bays sit perpendicular to one another
2.5-inch SATA III bay is adjacent to the WLAN module
2.5-inch SATA III bay is adjacent to the WLAN module
AS SSD
AS SSD
CDM 5.5
CDM 5.5
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
Alienware m15 R2 P87F
2x Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV512G (RAID 0)
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
Intel SSD 660p SSDPEKNW512G8
MSI GE75 9SG
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
AS SSD
-31%
-39%
-1%
-19%
2%
Seq Read
1211
904
-25%
1372
13%
1925
59%
1280
6%
1358
12%
Seq Write
2420
1344
-44%
746
-69%
2371
-2%
905
-63%
2381
-2%
4K Read
27.11
24.99
-8%
35.42
31%
37.2
37%
48.73
80%
27.02
0%
4K Write
88.9
107.4
21%
99.9
12%
108.9
22%
107
20%
89.2
0%
4K-64 Read
1665
631
-62%
302.1
-82%
1177
-29%
321.1
-81%
1642
-1%
4K-64 Write
1831
731
-60%
191.4
-90%
1135
-38%
761
-58%
1799
-2%
Access Time Read *
0.089
0.131
-47%
0.132
-48%
0.065
27%
0.058
35%
0.067
25%
Access Time Write *
0.208
0.099
52%
0.037
82%
0.108
48%
0.046
78%
0.05
76%
Score Read
1813
746
-59%
475
-74%
1407
-22%
498
-73%
1805
0%
Score Write
2162
973
-55%
366
-83%
1481
-31%
958
-56%
2127
-2%
Score Total
4956
2126
-57%
1065
-79%
3633
-27%
1711
-65%
4899
-1%
Copy ISO MB/s
2483
1187
-52%
1062
-57%
2073
-17%
1519
-39%
3193
29%
Copy Program MB/s
776
673
-13%
426
-45%
576
-26%
749
-3%
198.2
-74%
Copy Game MB/s
1621
1295
-20%
650
-60%
1426
-12%
943
-42%
1054
-35%

* ... smaller is better

Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 3309 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write Seq Q32T1: 2398 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K Q32T1: 537 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K Q32T1: 407.1 MB/s
CDM 5 Read Seq: 1987 MB/s
CDM 5 Write Seq: 2361 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K: 45.04 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K: 125.7 MB/s

GPU Performance

The mobile GeForce RTX 2070 is about 10 to 15 percent slower than a "proper" desktop GeForce RTX 2070. Moving down to the mobile RTX 2060 SKU entails another 15 percent performance deficit. Be sure to enable DX11 whenever possible as the Nvidia Turing series is better optimized for Microsoft's latest API than the last generation Pascal series.

3DMark 11
3DMark 11
Cloud Gate
Cloud Gate
Fire Strike
Fire Strike
Fire Strike Ultra
Fire Strike Ultra
Port Royal
Port Royal
Time Spy
Time Spy
3DMark
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
33935 Points +62%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2080 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 (Desktop), R7 2700X
27228 Points +30%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
25497 Points +21%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2070 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (Desktop), R7 2700X
23373 Points +11%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
20997 Points
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
20917 Points 0%
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (18169 - 21138, n=19)
20123 Points -4%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
18055 Points -14%
Alienware 17 R5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, i7-8750H
17792 Points -15%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
17419 Points -17%
Maingear Vector 15
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
14718 Points -30%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile, i7-8750H
11332 Points -46%
Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15IRH 81LK00BMGE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, i5-9300H
9221 Points -56%
2560x1440 Time Spy Graphics
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
14492 Points +81%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2080 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 (Desktop), R7 2700X
11099 Points +38%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
9854 Points +23%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2070 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (Desktop), R7 2700X
9364 Points +17%
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
8036 Points 0%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
8028 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (7006 - 8028, n=18)
7651 Points -5%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
6910 Points -14%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
6387 Points -20%
Alienware 17 R5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, i7-8750H
5689 Points -29%
Maingear Vector 15
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
5534 Points -31%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile, i7-8750H
3626 Points -55%
Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15IRH 81LK00BMGE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, i5-9300H
3517 Points -56%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
165374 Points +24%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
155800 Points +17%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2080 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 (Desktop), R7 2700X
143576 Points +8%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
132852 Points
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2070 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (Desktop), R7 2700X
130614 Points -2%
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
129506 Points -3%
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (64283 - 135881, n=18)
117543 Points -12%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
116593 Points -12%
Alienware 17 R5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, i7-8750H
115714 Points -13%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
114009 Points -14%
Maingear Vector 15
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
97136 Points -27%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile, i7-8750H
80615 Points -39%
Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15IRH 81LK00BMGE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, i5-9300H
54393 Points -59%
2560x1440 Port Royal Graphics
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
9021 Points +108%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
5799 Points +33%
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
4713 Points +8%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
4346 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (3958 - 4627, n=13)
4294 Points -1%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
3742 Points -14%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
3738 Points -14%
3DMark 11
1280x720 Performance GPU
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
43576 Points +69%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2080 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 (Desktop), R7 2700X
39651 Points +53%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
34846 Points +35%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2070 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (Desktop), R7 2700X
31595 Points +22%
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
29052 Points +12%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
25845 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (23335 - 27298, n=21)
25775 Points 0%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
23734 Points -8%
Alienware 17 R5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, i7-8750H
23414 Points -9%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
21861 Points -15%
Maingear Vector 15
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
19670 Points -24%
Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15IRH 81LK00BMGE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, i5-9300H
13270 Points -49%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile, i7-8750H
12620 Points -51%
1280x720 Performance Combined
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i9-9900KS
18934 Points +16%
MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop), R9 3900X
18534 Points +13%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H
16364 Points
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2070 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 (Desktop), R7 2700X
13950 Points -15%
Asus ROG Strix RTX 2080 OC
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 (Desktop), R7 2700X
13883 Points -15%
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (8716 - 16364, n=21)
12534 Points -23%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H
12450 Points -24%
Maingear Vector 15
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
12192 Points -25%
SCHENKER XMG Neo 15 XNE15M19
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H
12064 Points -26%
Alienware 17 R5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, i7-8750H
11288 Points -31%
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701GXR
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
9212 Points -44%
Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15IRH 81LK00BMGE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, i5-9300H
7593 Points -54%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile, i7-8750H
6839 Points -58%
3DMark 11 Performance
22592 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
48855 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
18601 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
8110 points
Help

Gaming Performance

Expect around 10 percent slower performance than the RTX 2080 Max-Q when gaming or about 10 percent higher performance than the last generation GTX 1080. All titles will be playable at maximum or near maximum 1080p settings at over 60 FPS. To better exploit the 240 Hz refresh rate, however, users may want to lower the in-game settings while maintaining the native 1080p resolution for sharpness to increase the frame rate even further. Fast-paced competitive games like CS:GO or Overwatch will benefit the most from this approach.

See our dedicated page on the mobile GeForce RTX 2070 for more technical information and benchmark comparisons.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 1920x1080 Highest Preset AA:T
Corsair One i160
Intel Core i9-9900K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop)
142 fps +49%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile
124 fps +31%
Razer Blade Pro 17 4K UHD 120 Hz
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
105 fps +11%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
95 fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (74.2 - 97, n=11)
88.7 fps -7%
SCHENKER XMG Ultra 17 Coffee Lake Refresh
Intel Core i9-9900K, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Mobile
87 fps -8%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile
83 fps -13%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
67 fps -29%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q
45 fps -53%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
Intel Core i7-8750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile
43 fps -55%
The Witcher 3 - 1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+)
Corsair One i160
Intel Core i9-9900K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (Desktop)
131 (110min - 147max) fps +67%
Eurocom Sky X4C i9-9900KS
Intel Core i9-9900KS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile
95.5 fps +22%
Razer Blade Pro 17 4K UHD 120 Hz
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
92.7 fps +18%
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
Intel Core i9-9880H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
78.4 fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile
  (64 - 82.1, n=21)
74.3 fps -5%
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile
68.9 fps -12%
SCHENKER XMG Ultra 17 Coffee Lake Refresh
Intel Core i9-9900K, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Mobile
61.7 fps -21%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
51.6 fps -34%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GM
Intel Core i7-8750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile
40 fps -49%
Lenovo Yoga C940-15IRH
Intel Core i7-9750H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q
36.5 fps -53%
051015202530354045505560657075Tooltip
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR: Ø69.3 (64-76)
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 325 309.3 292.5 170
The Witcher 3 (2015) 290.1 241.3 152.3 78.4
Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018) 143 107 101 95

Emissions

System Noise

The cooling solution is essentially identical to the cheaper GL65. The fans never idle even when on lower power settings meaning that fan noise is ever present no matter the onscreen load. We're able to measure a minimum of 33 dB(A) against a background of 28.8 dB(A) which will be audible when in quieter environments. Running the first benchmark scene of 3DMark 06 induces a fan noise of 38 dB(A) compared to just 33.5 dB(A) on the Razer Blade 15.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, fan noise and behavior are not unlike what we measured on the GE63. Running Witcher 3 induces a constant fan noise of 53 dB(A) or even 58 dB(A) if Turbo Fan mode is enabled. We recommend disabling Turbo Fan mode as it will not directly increase performance in any significant way. Fan noise when gaming is comparable to the Asus Strix III G531 with the same RTX 2070 GPU while being louder during very low loads.

We can notice no electronic noise or coil whine from our test unit.

Dual ~45 mm fans with seven heat pipes
Dual ~45 mm fans with seven heat pipes
Fan noise is always present even when on Power Saver mode
Fan noise is always present even when on Power Saver mode
SODIMM modules sit adjacent to the CPU
SODIMM modules sit adjacent to the CPU
Five heat pipes for the GPU and VRAM modules alone
Five heat pipes for the GPU and VRAM modules alone
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9880H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
Lenovo Legion Y740-15ICHg
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPMUW-128G
Asus Strix GL531GV-PB74
GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, i7-9750H, Intel SSD 660p SSDPEKNW512G8
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, i9-9980HK, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Noise
-3%
6%
2%
0%
13%
off / environment *
28.8
28.5
1%
30
-4%
28.2
2%
28.2
2%
28.3
2%
Idle Minimum *
33
33.9
-3%
31.3
5%
28.8
13%
28.2
15%
28.8
13%
Idle Average *
33
33.9
-3%
31.3
5%
31.4
5%
28.2
15%
28.8
13%
Idle Maximum *
33.1
34.3
-4%
31.3
5%
33.3
-1%
31.7
4%
29
12%
Load Average *
38
39.5
-4%
42
-11%
46.2
-22%
53.7
-41%
33.5
12%
Witcher 3 ultra *
52.9
56.2
-6%
42.1
20%
50.5
5%
53.7
-2%
45
15%
Load Maximum *
57.8
57.2
1%
46.5
20%
51.3
11%
53.7
7%
45.2
22%

* ... smaller is better

Noise Level

Idle
33 / 33 / 33.1 dB(A)
Load
38 / 57.8 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 28.8 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2038.945.345.440.843.42534.439.941.334.238.33134.736.537.13535.94035.237.733.634.336.15033.634.733.433.135.5633535.833.533.638.58034.834.534.635.436.110034.434.732.732.835.712533.631.632.631.434.716034.131.832.331.435.520033.231.230.930.736.325034.731.23030.636.631536.431.931.429.539.140037.934.529.629.641.250038.931.52928.642.763039.1312928.34380038.830.528.628.242.3100039.330.628.227.942.7125042.231.128.527.646.2160044.632.529.427.648.320004331.528.327.447250044.530.527.927.848.8315043.228.92827.446.9400043.829.427.927.249.1500042.629.227.627.347.363004228.527.527.346800036.927.627.727.142.41000033.127.427.527.238.2125003127.427.42736.11600029.627.527.827.133.4SPL54.142.540.539.858.3N9.54.53.93.712.4median 38.8median 31median 28.5median 27.8median 42.4Delta4.41.51.20.85.2hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseMSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US

Temperature

Surface temperatures are warmer than expected when idling. The very center of the keyboard can be 31 C while the palm rests can be just 23 C even when no demanding programs are running. If gaming, this center hot spot can be as warm as 45 C compared to 40 C on the Aorus 15 with the same GPU.

Note that the bottom of the laptop remains relatively cool due to the oversized ventilation grilles. Be sure to allow for optimal airflow and to game on a flat desk whenever possible.

Three sets of ventilation grilles
Three sets of ventilation grilles
AC adapter after running Witcher 3 for an hour
AC adapter after running Witcher 3 for an hour
Max. Load
 37.6 °C
100 F
35.4 °C
96 F
32.6 °C
91 F
 
 36 °C
97 F
45 °C
113 F
28.8 °C
84 F
 
 25.4 °C
78 F
23.6 °C
74 F
24.6 °C
76 F
 
Maximum: 45 °C = 113 F
Average: 32.1 °C = 90 F
49.6 °C
121 F
28.2 °C
83 F
53 °C
127 F
23.4 °C
74 F
36.8 °C
98 F
36.6 °C
98 F
22 °C
72 F
26.6 °C
80 F
24.8 °C
77 F
Maximum: 53 °C = 127 F
Average: 33.4 °C = 92 F
Power Supply (max.)  42 °C = 108 F | Room Temperature 20 °C = 68 F | Fluke 62 Mini IR Thermometer
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32.1 °C / 90 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F for the devices in the class Gaming.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 45 °C / 113 F, compared to the average of 40.4 °C / 105 F, ranging from 21.2 to 68.8 °C for the class Gaming.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 53 °C / 127 F, compared to the average of 43.2 °C / 110 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.8 °C / 78 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(±) Playing The Witcher 3, the average temperature for the upper side is 33.4 °C / 92 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29 °C / 84.2 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.9 °C / 84 F (-0.1 °C / -0.2 F).
System idle (top)
System idle (top)
System idle (bottom)
System idle (bottom)
Witcher 3 stress (top)
Witcher 3 stress (top)
Witcher 3 stress (bottom)
Witcher 3 stress (bottom)
Prime95+FurMark stress (top)
Prime95+FurMark stress (top)
Prime95+FurMark stress (bottom)
Prime95+FurMark stress (bottom)

Stress Test

We stress the laptop to identify for any potential throttling or stability issues. When running Prime95, the CPU can be observed boosting up to 4 GHz for the first few seconds before steadily dropping to 3.4 GHz over the next 30 seconds. Thereafter, clock rates and temperature stabilize at 3.2 to 3.3 GHz and 88 C, respectively. Running both Prime95 and FurMark simultaneously causes CPU and GPU temperature to plateau at about 86 C and 73 C.

Running Witcher 3 is more representative of real-world gaming loads. When under such conditions, the CPU and GPU will stabilize at 81 C and 73 C, respectively, compared to 81 C and 71 C on the thinner MSI GS65 with a Core i7 CPU and RTX 2080 Max-Q GPU. Temperatures are definitely warm, but they aren't bad considering the small footprint and the non Max-Q GPU. Enabling Turbo Fan mode will bump CPU and GPU temperature down to 77 C and 68 C, respectively. Keep in mind that Turbo Fan mode will not directly boost CPU or GPU clock rates.

Running on battery power will limit performance. A Fire Strike run on batteries returns Physics and Graphics scores of 11671 and 5827 points, respectively, compared to 19971 and 20997 points when on mains.

System idle
System idle
Witcher 3 stress
Witcher 3 stress
Prime95
Prime95
Prime95+FurMark stress
Prime95+FurMark stress
CPU Clock (GHz) GPU Clock (MHz) Average CPU Temperature (°C) Average GPU Temperature (°C)
System Idle -- -- 60 47
Prime95 Stress 3.2 - 3.3 -- 88 --
Prime95 + FurMark Stress 2.8 - 2.9 1350 86 73
Witcher 3 Stress 4.1 - 4.3 1695 81 73

Speakers

MSI gaming laptops have always had loud audio because of their large internal speakers and the GE65 is no different. The four speakers total 10 W compared to just 2 W or 4 W or most other gaming laptops. Our pink noise measurements show relatively balanced audio with roll-off occurring between 250 Hz and 500 Hz.

Quad speakers consist of two 2 W speakers and two 3 W speakers
Quad speakers consist of two 2 W speakers and two 3 W speakers
Pink noise at maximum volume
Pink noise at maximum volume
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2039.745.439.72539.841.339.83140.537.140.54042.333.642.35042.333.442.36344.533.544.58044.334.644.310048.332.748.312554.132.654.116059.532.359.520059.830.959.825062.83062.831571.431.471.440074.729.674.750073.12973.163080.52980.580080.928.680.9100083.228.283.2125083.328.583.3160081.829.481.8200083.728.383.7250078.627.978.6315080.52880.5400080.827.980.850008127.681630077.327.577.380008127.7811000077.727.577.71250079.927.479.91600074.927.874.9SPL9340.593N103.63.9103.6median 79.9median 28.5median 79.9Delta51.2535.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseMSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049USApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (93 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 20.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (8.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.3% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 1.4% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (15.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 33% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 61% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 19% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 77% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Energy Management

Power Consumption

Idling on desktop demands between 15 W and 21 W depending on the brightness setting and power profile to indicate no abnormally high power consumption behavior. Running Witcher 3 consumes about 187 W to be nearly the same as the older GE63 with the last generation GTX 1070. Users are getting 20 to 40 percent faster graphics performance when jumping from the GTX 1070 to the RTX 2070 for essentially the same power consumption rate.

We're able to measure a maximum consumption of 260 W from the large (~18 x 8.5 x 3.5 cm) 280 W AC adapter. Consumption eventually falls to 208 W due to thermal reasons. The adapter is able to run games and recharge the system simultaneously. Note that the lesser RTX 2060 SKU ships with a smaller 180 W AC adapter instead.

Power consumption while running 3DMark 06
Power consumption while running 3DMark 06
Power consumption while running Witcher 3
Power consumption while running Witcher 3
Prime95 initiated at 10s mark. Consumption spikes to 179 W for a few seconds before falling and stabilizing at 145 W
Prime95 initiated at 10s mark. Consumption spikes to 179 W for a few seconds before falling and stabilizing at 145 W
Prime95+FurMark initiated at 10s mark. Consumption spikes to 260 W for a few seconds before falling and stabilizing at 208 W
Prime95+FurMark initiated at 10s mark. Consumption spikes to 260 W for a few seconds before falling and stabilizing at 208 W
Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.05 / 1.3 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 15 / 18.5 / 20.2 Watt
Load midlight 110.9 / 260 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
i9-9880H, GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB1T0HALR, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Eurocom Nightsky RX15
i9-9980HK, GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, Samsung SSD 970 Pro 512GB, OLED, 3840x2160, 15.60
Maingear Vector 15
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, , IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
MSI P65 Creator 9SF-657
i9-9880H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, 2x Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ (RAID 0), IPS, 3840x2160, 15.60
MSI GE63 Raider RGB 8RF-008
i7-8750H, GeForce GTX 1070 Mobile, Samsung SSD PM871a MZNLN256HMHQ, TN, 1920x1080, 15.60
Power Consumption
-13%
2%
14%
14%
17%
Idle Minimum *
15
12.6
16%
16.2
-8%
12.5
17%
9.4
37%
9
40%
Idle Average *
18.5
21.4
-16%
21.1
-14%
15.3
17%
17.4
6%
14
24%
Idle Maximum *
20.2
34.4
-70%
26.4
-31%
20.7
-2%
19.6
3%
19
6%
Load Average *
110.9
123.2
-11%
85.1
23%
90.2
19%
103
7%
91
18%
Witcher 3 ultra *
187.3
192.4
-3%
158.2
16%
162
14%
182
3%
Load Maximum *
260
246.6
5%
188
28%
209.3
19%
216
17%
238
8%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Identical AC adapter as on the GE63
Identical AC adapter as on the GE63

Battery capacity has not changed from the GE63 which is a shame since most other 15.6-inch gaming laptops have larger capacity batteries. Runtimes have not improved as a result to be just around 3.5 hours of real-world WLAN use compared to almost twice that on the Razer Blade 15. Idling on desktop at the lowest possible settings and brightness level lasts about 6 hours only. It's interesting to note that MSI continues to be one of the few OEMs to use to Li-Ion instead of Li-Ion polymer.

Recharging from empty to full capacity takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Recharging the system via USB Type-C will not work.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
6h 11min
WiFi Websurfing
3h 36min
Load (maximum brightness)
0h 35min
MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US
i9-9880H, GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile, 51 Wh
MSI GE63 Raider 8SG
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile, 51 Wh
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, 80 Wh
Walmart EVOO Gaming 17
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile, 46 Wh
Maingear Vector 15
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 62 Wh
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, 70 Wh
Battery Runtime
14%
143%
15%
68%
23%
Reader / Idle
371
373
1%
953
157%
301
-19%
WiFi v1.3
216
237
10%
393
82%
249
15%
362
68%
197
-9%
Load
35
46
31%
102
191%
69
97%

Pros

+ small footprint for a 15.6-inch gaming laptop
+ easy serviceability; 3x storage, 2x SODIMM
+ well-calibrated 240 Hz IPS display
+ high CPU and GPU performance
+ standard webcam placement
+ powerful quad speakers
+ gold-plated audio jacks
+ dedicated mouse keys
+ full-size Arrow keys

Cons

- no 4K UHD or OLED options
- very slow SD card reader
- loud fans when gaming
- ever-present fan noise
- cramped NumPad keys
- tightly packed ports
- lid could be stiffer
- no Thunderbolt 3
- short battery life
- relatively thick

Verdict

In review: MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US. Test unit provided by MSI
In review: MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US. Test unit provided by MSI

Take the GE63, cut off a bit from the sides, and you end up with the GE65. MSI's latest mid-range machine keeps everything we liked about the GE63 while updating some of the aspects that we didn't like in the process. Namely, the series is now noticeably more compact and travel-friendly than before without running any louder or warmer.

On the other hand, some less desirable features have not improved at all gen-to-gen. Screen brightness, ports, battery life, chassis rigidity, and noise are all pretty much the same as on the GE63. As a result, choosing the GE65 over the GE63 will be largely superficial.

Potential buyers will likely compare the MSI GE65 with the Asus ROG Strix Scar III G531GW since both laptops carry the same Core i9 CPU and RTX 2070 GPU. After having tested both systems, the MSI solution has the edge as it's easier to service with more storage options, more ports, a better keyboard, an actual webcam, and generally quieter fans during low loads while the Asus system has a stronger chassis design with a brighter screen.

At $2600 USD, our Core i9 configuration can be a big pill to swallow for a mid-range gaming laptop. We recommend going for the Core i7 configuration and then upgrading the storage yourself to save on costs since servicing is so much easier than on the GS65. It's tough to go back to 60 Hz displays after becoming accustomed to 144 Hz or 240 Hz options.

MSI GE65 Raider 9SF-049US - 12/23/2019 v7
Allen Ngo

Chassis
78 / 98 → 80%
Keyboard
83%
Pointing Device
88%
Connectivity
60 / 80 → 75%
Weight
61 / 10-66 → 91%
Battery
55 / 95 → 58%
Display
86%
Games Performance
95%
Application Performance
93%
Temperature
86 / 95 → 91%
Noise
70 / 90 → 78%
Audio
83%
Camera
35 / 85 → 41%
Average
75%
85%
Gaming - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > MSI GE65 Raider 9SF Laptop Review: Huge Improvements Over the GE63
Allen Ngo, 2019-12-23 (Update: 2019-12-23)