Msi Cyborg 15 2023 Review

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The MSI Cyborg 15 for 2023 presents itself as an intriguing option for gamers on a budget, offering a solid blend of performance and a distinctive aesthetic without breaking the bank.

It aims to deliver a capable gaming experience for popular titles at 1080p, leveraging components that hit a sweet spot between affordability and graphical horsepower.

While it may not compete with high-end beasts in terms of raw power or premium features, its value proposition lies in providing accessible entry into PC gaming for those who prioritize a sleek, modern design and a respectable gaming punch for everyday use.

This review will delve into whether the Cyborg 15 truly lives up to its cyborg namesake, blending form and function effectively for the average gamer.

Feature/Product MSI Cyborg 15 2023 Acer Nitro 5 Lenovo Legion 5 ASUS ROG Strix G15 Dell G15 HP Victus 15 Razer Blade 15
Target User Budget-conscious gamer, stylish design Mainstream gamer, strong performance Performance-focused gamer, solid build Esports, high refresh rate gaming Value, robust build Casual gaming, everyday use Premium, thin & light gaming
Typical CPU Intel Core i5/i7 12th/13th Gen Intel Core i5/i7, AMD Ryzen 5/7 AMD Ryzen 7/9, Intel Core i7/i9 Intel Core i7/i9, AMD Ryzen 7/9 Intel Core i5/i7, AMD Ryzen 5/7 Intel Core i5/i7, AMD Ryzen 5/7 Intel Core i7/i9
Typical GPU NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050/4050 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050/3060 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060/3070/4060 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060/3070/3070 Ti NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050/3050 Ti NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050/3050 Ti NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti/3080 Ti/4070
Display 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 144Hz 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 144Hz/165Hz 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 165Hz 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 144Hz/300Hz 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 120Hz/165Hz 15.6″ FHD 1920×1080 144Hz 15.6″ QHD 2560×1440 165Hz/240Hz
RAM 8GB/16GB DDR5 8GB/16GB DDR4/DDR5 16GB/32GB DDR4/DDR5 16GB/32GB DDR4/DDR5 8GB/16GB DDR4/DDR5 8GB/16GB DDR4 16GB/32GB DDR4/DDR5
Storage 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD 256GB/512GB NVMe SSD 256GB/512GB NVMe SSD 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD
Unique Selling Point Transparent design elements, slim chassis Aggressive cooling, diverse configurations Excellent keyboard, strong thermal management High refresh rate screens, competitive pricing Durable build, good battery life Subtler gaming aesthetic, good value Premium build, compact design, high-end components

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Table of Contents

Design and Aesthetics: A Transparent Approach

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 immediately stands out with its unique design philosophy, particularly the semi-transparent chassis elements.

MSI has gone for a bold look that sets it apart from the often utilitarian designs of other budget gaming laptops.

The Transparent Panels: Style or Gimmick?

MSI has integrated transparent plastic into various parts of the laptop, most notably the bottom panel, revealing glimpses of the internal components like the cooling fan and parts of the motherboard.

This is a design choice that certainly sparks conversation.

  • Visual Appeal: For those who appreciate seeing the “guts” of their machine, it’s a refreshing change. It gives the laptop a distinctly futuristic, almost “cyberpunk” vibe, aligning with its “Cyborg” moniker.
  • Practicality: While visually interesting, these transparent sections don’t offer any functional benefits in terms of cooling or performance. They are purely cosmetic.
  • Durability Concerns: Transparent plastic, especially in areas prone to handling, could potentially show scratches or wear more prominently over time compared to opaque materials. However, initial impressions suggest it’s robust enough for typical use.

Chassis Build and Portability

Beyond the transparent elements, the Cyborg 15 features a relatively slim and lightweight profile for a 15-inch gaming laptop. Hp Laptop 15Z 2023 Review

  • Material: The laptop primarily uses plastic, which is typical for its price point. While not as premium as metal, it feels sturdy enough for daily transport.
  • Weight: Weighing in at around 1.98 kg 4.37 lbs, it’s on the lighter side for a gaming machine, making it more portable than many of its competitors. This is a significant plus for students or those who travel frequently.
  • Thickness: At just 21.95 mm 0.86 inches thick, it easily slips into most backpacks without adding excessive bulk.
  • Flex: There’s a noticeable degree of flex in the lid and keyboard deck, which is common with plastic builds in this price range. It’s not alarming but indicates a compromise on rigidity compared to more expensive models.

Performance: Hitting the 1080p Sweet Spot

Under the hood, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is configured to deliver a solid 1080p gaming experience. It’s important to manage expectations.

This isn’t a 4K powerhouse, but it’s more than capable for the vast majority of modern titles at its native resolution.

CPU and GPU Configurations

The Cyborg 15 typically comes with Intel’s 12th or 13th generation Core processors and NVIDIA’s RTX 3050 or RTX 4050 graphics cards.

  • Intel Core Processors:
    • 12th Gen Alder Lake Options: Often found with an Intel Core i5-12450H or i7-12650H. These are highly capable chips for gaming and general productivity, offering a good balance of performance and efficiency.
    • 13th Gen Raptor Lake Options: Newer SKUs might feature the Intel Core i5-13420H or i7-13620H, providing incremental performance gains, particularly in multi-threaded workloads.
    • Real-world Impact: For gaming, the CPU is less of a bottleneck than the GPU in most scenarios, but a strong CPU ensures smooth frame rates in CPU-intensive games and handles background tasks efficiently.
  • NVIDIA GeForce GPUs:
    • RTX 3050: The entry-level dedicated gaming GPU. Capable of running most modern games at 1080p with medium to high settings, often hitting 60+ FPS. Supports DLSS, which can significantly boost performance in compatible titles.
    • RTX 4050: A more recent addition, offering better performance and efficiency thanks to NVIDIA’s Ada Lovelace architecture. It generally provides a 15-25% uplift over the RTX 3050, allowing for higher settings or frame rates, and benefits from DLSS 3 frame generation, which is a significant advantage.
    • TGP Total Graphics Power: This is crucial for gaming laptops. MSI often employs a lower TGP e.g., 45W for the RTX 4050 to manage thermals and cost. While this limits peak performance compared to higher TGP implementations in pricier laptops, it’s still sufficient for the target resolution.

Gaming Benchmarks and Experience

Here’s a look at expected performance in popular titles at 1080p with an RTX 4050 variant:

Game Title Settings Expected FPS
Cyberpunk 2077 Medium with DLSS Quality 45-55 FPS
Forza Horizon 5 High 70-85 FPS
Call of Duty: Warzone Medium/High 65-80 FPS
Elden Ring High 55-65 FPS
Valorant/CS: GO High 150+ FPS well above the display’s refresh rate
  • Competitive Gaming: For esports titles like Valorant, CS: GO, and League of Legends, the Cyborg 15 delivers exceptionally high frame rates, easily utilizing the 144Hz display for a smooth, responsive experience.
  • AAA Titles: For demanding AAA games, you’ll likely need to dial down settings to medium or high, and leverage DLSS for RTX cards to achieve playable frame rates above 45-50 FPS. The RTX 4050’s DLSS 3 with Frame Generation capability is a must for extending the playable life of the laptop in future titles.

Display: A Portal to the Game World

The display is a critical component for any gaming laptop, and the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 comes equipped with a panel that hits the common specifications for its price segment. Montech Air 903 Max Review

Panel Specifications

Most configurations of the Cyborg 15 feature a 15.6-inch Full HD 1920×1080 IPS-level panel with a 144Hz refresh rate.

  • Resolution 1080p: This is the ideal resolution for the RTX 3050/4050 GPUs, allowing them to push high frame rates without being overly taxed. While 1440p or 4K panels offer sharper images, they demand significantly more graphical power, which these GPUs simply don’t have for modern AAA gaming.
  • IPS-level: While not true IPS, “IPS-level” panels generally offer good viewing angles and decent color reproduction compared to older TN panels. This means colors won’t shift drastically when viewing the screen from different angles.

Color Accuracy and Brightness

For a budget gaming laptop, the display quality is generally acceptable but not exceptional.

  • sRGB Coverage: Expect around 60-70% sRGB coverage. This is sufficient for gaming and general web browsing, but it’s not ideal for professional creative work like photo or video editing where accurate colors are paramount. For dedicated creative tasks, you’d likely want to connect to an external monitor with higher color accuracy.
  • Brightness: Typical peak brightness hovers around 250-300 nits. This is adequate for indoor use, but in brightly lit rooms or direct sunlight, the screen might appear a bit dim.

Response Time

While MSI doesn’t always specify, the response time for these panels is typically around 9-12ms Grey-to-Grey.

While not as fast as dedicated esports monitors which might be 1ms, it’s generally fine for casual and even competitive gaming without noticeable ghosting for most users.

Keyboard and Touchpad: Input Matters

The input devices are crucial for both gaming and productivity. Sony Fe 70 200Mm F4 Macro G Oss Ii Review

The MSI Cyborg 15 offers a full-sized keyboard and a standard touchpad.

Keyboard Experience

The Cyborg 15 features a full-sized keyboard with a numpad, which is great for productivity users.

  • Key Travel: The keys offer a decent amount of travel, typically around 1.7mm. This provides a satisfying tactile feel for typing and gaming.
  • Actuation Force: The actuation force feels balanced – not too light to cause accidental presses, but not too heavy to cause fatigue.
  • Layout: The layout is standard, making it easy to adapt to. The inclusion of a numpad is a bonus for data entry or specific game controls.
  • Backlighting: It features a single-zone blue backlight. This is functional for low-light conditions but doesn’t offer the per-key or multi-zone RGB customization found on more expensive gaming laptops. The blue color aligns with the “Cyborg” aesthetic, but some users might prefer more customizable options.
  • Ghosting/N-key Rollover: For gaming, it’s important that the keyboard can register multiple simultaneous key presses correctly N-key rollover. While not specified to a full degree, it performs adequately for common gaming combos.

Touchpad Functionality

The touchpad is a standard plastic surface with integrated click buttons.

  • Size: It’s an average-sized touchpad, offering enough space for multi-finger gestures.
  • Tracking: Tracking is generally smooth and accurate, though it might not be as precise as glass touchpads found on premium laptops.
  • Click Mechanism: The integrated click mechanism works, but it can feel a bit stiff or hollow compared to discrete buttons. For serious gaming, an external mouse is always recommended.
  • Precision: For general Windows navigation and light tasks, it’s perfectly usable.

Connectivity and Ports: Getting Plugged In

A good selection of ports ensures versatility, allowing you to connect peripherals, external displays, and storage.

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 offers a respectable array of ports for its class. Guardio Review

Available Ports

The port selection covers most essential needs for a modern user.

  • USB-A: Typically includes two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports. These are essential for connecting external mice, keyboards, and other standard USB peripherals.
  • USB-C: One USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port. While it’s not Thunderbolt or a full-featured USB-C with display output and power delivery in all configurations, it’s useful for newer peripherals and potential future expansion. Always check the specific model’s specifications for full USB-C capabilities.
  • HDMI: One HDMI 2.1 port or 2.0 depending on the specific GPU and refresh rate supported. This is crucial for connecting to external monitors or TVs, allowing you to extend your desktop or play games on a larger screen.
  • Ethernet RJ45: A Gigabit Ethernet port is a must-have for stable, low-latency online gaming, especially in competitive scenarios where Wi-Fi can be unreliable.
  • Audio Jack: A 3.5mm combo audio jack for connecting headphones and microphones.
  • Power Jack: A dedicated barrel power jack for the AC adapter.

Wireless Connectivity

For wireless networking, the Cyborg 15 is equipped with modern standards.

  • Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax: This is the current standard for fast and efficient wireless communication. Wi-Fi 6 offers improved speeds, lower latency, and better performance in congested network environments compared to older Wi-Fi 5 802.11ac. This is important for cloud gaming, large game downloads, and overall internet responsiveness.
  • Bluetooth 5.2: For connecting wireless accessories like headsets, controllers, and external speakers. Bluetooth 5.2 offers improved stability, range, and efficiency over previous versions.

Missing Ports/Features Considerations

While the port selection is decent, there are some common omissions for its price point:

  • SD Card Reader: If you’re a photographer or videographer, the lack of an integrated SD card reader might be inconvenient, requiring an external dongle.
  • Thunderbolt: Thunderbolt 4 is usually reserved for higher-end laptops, offering extremely fast data transfer and support for multiple external displays via a single port. Its absence is expected at this price point.
  • DisplayPort via USB-C: Not all USB-C ports on budget laptops support DisplayPort Alternate Mode. If you plan to connect an external monitor via USB-C, verify this specification for the exact model.

Cooling and Thermals: Keeping it Chill

Effective thermal management is paramount for gaming laptops to ensure sustained performance and component longevity.

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 features a cooling system designed to handle the heat generated by its CPU and GPU. Crime Boss Rockay City Review

Cooler Boost Technology

MSI typically employs its “Cooler Boost” technology in its gaming laptops, which in the Cyborg 15 usually consists of a dual-fan, multi-heat pipe design.

  • Heat Pipes: Multiple copper heat pipes are routed from the CPU and GPU to heat sinks, where the heat is dissipated by the fans. The number and thickness of heat pipes can vary by configuration, but for a mainstream gaming laptop, expect adequate coverage.
  • Fans: Two dedicated fans, one for the CPU and one for the GPU, pull air through the chassis and expel hot air through the rear and side vents.
  • Airflow: MSI generally optimizes airflow within its chassis designs. The transparent bottom panel, while primarily aesthetic, does feature vent cutouts for air intake.

Thermal Performance Under Load

During intense gaming sessions, it’s normal for gaming laptops to get warm.

The Cyborg 15 generally manages its temperatures well, especially considering its slim profile and budget-friendly price.

  • CPU Temperatures: Under heavy gaming loads, CPU temperatures can reach into the 80s Celsius e.g., 85-90°C. While this might seem high, it’s within the safe operating limits for modern Intel processors, which are designed to perform optimally at these temperatures. Thermal throttling, if present, is usually minor and only occurs in very demanding, sustained workloads.
  • GPU Temperatures: GPU temperatures tend to be slightly lower than the CPU, typically in the 70s Celsius e.g., 75-80°C during gaming. The RTX 3050/4050, being lower-power cards, are easier to cool than their higher-end counterparts.
  • Surface Temperatures: The keyboard deck, especially the area above the F-keys, can get warm during extended gaming. The WASD area, crucial for gaming, generally remains comfortable. The bottom panel will also get warm, so it’s best to game on a flat surface or a cooling pad.

Fan Noise

When the laptop is under load gaming, rendering, the fans will spool up and become audible.

  • Idle/Light Use: In quiet environments, the fans are usually silent or produce a barely perceptible hum.
  • Gaming: During gaming, expect a noticeable fan noise, similar to a steady whoosh. This is typical for gaming laptops in this segment. While not overly loud or whiny, it’s recommended to use headphones for an immersive experience and to mitigate the fan noise.
  • MSI Center Software: MSI provides its “MSI Center” software, which allows users to select different performance profiles e.g., Silent, Balanced, Extreme Performance and even manually adjust fan curves in some models. This can be useful for balancing performance with noise levels.

Upgradeability and Storage: Future-Proofing Your Rig

One of the long-term benefits of a laptop is the ability to upgrade certain components. Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Review

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 offers some common upgrade options, allowing users to extend its lifespan and boost performance.

RAM Memory

The Cyborg 15 usually comes with DDR5 RAM, which is the latest standard, offering faster speeds than DDR4.

  • Slots: It typically features two SODIMM slots, allowing for dual-channel memory configurations.
  • Default Configuration: Common configurations include 8GB single stick or 16GB two 8GB sticks.
  • Upgrade Potential:
    • If you have an 8GB single stick, adding another 8GB stick total 16GB in dual channel is the single most impactful upgrade for gaming performance. Running in dual channel significantly improves frame rates and reduces stuttering in many games.
    • You can usually upgrade to a maximum of 32GB two 16GB sticks, which is more than enough for gaming and even demanding productivity tasks.
  • DDR5 Considerations: DDR5 RAM is still relatively new and can be more expensive than DDR4. Ensure you purchase the correct generation and speed e.g., 4800MHz or 5200MHz to match your laptop’s capabilities.

Storage SSDs

The Cyborg 15 relies on NVMe PCIe SSDs for fast storage.

  • M.2 Slots: Most configurations come with at least one M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD slot. Some models might even have a second M.2 slot, allowing for additional storage expansion. It’s crucial to verify the number of M.2 slots for your specific model.
  • Default Configuration: Typically, it comes with a 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD.
    • Capacity Upgrade: If your initial drive is 512GB, upgrading to a 1TB or even 2TB NVMe SSD is a popular choice for gamers who install many large titles.
    • Adding a Second Drive: If there’s a second M.2 slot, you can easily add another NVMe SSD without replacing the primary one, providing ample space for your game library.
  • Benefits of NVMe SSDs: NVMe SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to older SATA SSDs or traditional HDDs. This translates to quicker boot times, faster game loading, and more responsive application performance.

User Accessibility

Accessing the RAM and SSD slots requires removing the laptop’s bottom panel.

  • Process: This usually involves unscrewing a number of Phillips head screws and then carefully prying open the panel.
  • Caution: Always ensure the laptop is powered off and unplugged before performing any internal upgrades. If you’re unsure, consult a professional or MSI’s service manual if available. The transparent design means any internal work will be visible, so neat cable management is a plus.

Battery Life and Charging: Power On the Go

Battery life is often a compromise with gaming laptops due to their powerful components. Nothing Phone 2 Review

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is no exception, designed primarily for plugged-in use.

Battery Capacity

The Cyborg 15 typically features a relatively modest battery capacity for a gaming laptop, often around 53.5 Whr.

  • Comparison: This is smaller than the 80-90 Whr batteries found in some higher-end or productivity-focused laptops, which allows for a lighter chassis but impacts unplugged runtime.

Real-World Battery Performance

Under different usage scenarios, you can expect the following battery life:

  • Light Use Web Browsing, Video Streaming, Productivity: With brightness set to around 50%, keyboard backlight off, and power-saving modes enabled, you might get 3 to 4 hours of battery life. This is sufficient for a few lectures or a movie on the go, but not for a full day of unplugged work.
  • Gaming: When gaming, the dedicated GPU and CPU draw significant power. Expect battery life to drop dramatically to around 1 hour or less. Gaming on battery is generally not recommended as it often leads to reduced performance to conserve power. For optimal gaming, always keep the laptop plugged in.

Charging and Power Adapter

The Cyborg 15 comes with an AC power adapter, typically ranging from 120W to 180W, depending on the GPU configuration.

  • Proprietary Charger: It uses a traditional barrel plug and a proprietary charger.
  • No USB-C Charging: Unlike some modern thin-and-light laptops, the Cyborg 15’s USB-C port does not typically support power delivery for charging the laptop itself. You’ll always need the dedicated power brick. This is common for gaming laptops due to their high power draw.
  • Charging Time: Charging from empty to full usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, which is standard.

Battery Life Considerations

  • Optimization: To maximize battery life when unplugged, ensure you are using MSI Center to select the “Super Battery” or “Balanced” profile, reduce screen brightness, disable keyboard backlighting, and close unnecessary background applications.
  • Intended Use: The Cyborg 15 is designed primarily as a desktop replacement that can be occasionally moved. Its portable design is more about ease of transport between power outlets than all-day unplugged usage. If long battery life is a top priority, you might need to consider more expensive, specialized laptops.

Software and Features: MSI’s Ecosystem

MSI bundles its gaming laptops with a suite of software designed to enhance the user experience, from performance management to system monitoring and customization. Kodak Flik Hd10 Review

MSI Center

MSI Center is the central hub for managing your Cyborg 15.

  • User Scenarios: This is arguably the most important feature. It allows you to quickly switch between different performance profiles:
    • Extreme Performance: Unlocks the full power of the CPU and GPU, usually with maximum fan speeds, for the best gaming experience.
    • Balanced: A good middle ground for everyday use, balancing performance and acoustics.
    • Silent: Prioritizes quiet operation, reducing fan speeds and performance. Ideal for light tasks or watching videos.
    • Super Battery: Aggressively conserves power for maximum unplugged runtime, significantly reducing performance.
  • Gaming Mode: Optimizes system settings and network prioritization for specific games.
  • Monitor: Provides real-time monitoring of CPU/GPU temperatures, clock speeds, fan speeds, and memory usage.
  • Features: Allows for control over various system settings like display color profiles, audio enhancements, and specific keyboard functions.
  • Fan Speed Control: In some versions, you can manually adjust fan curves for more granular control over noise and cooling.

Nahimic Audio

The Cyborg 15 incorporates Nahimic audio enhancements, often partnered with Realtek audio hardware.

  • Virtual Surround Sound: Nahimic aims to provide an immersive virtual surround sound experience, particularly beneficial for gaming with headphones.
  • Audio Customization: Offers various audio profiles gaming, movie, podcast and equalization settings to tailor the sound output to your preferences.
  • Microphone Enhancements: Features like noise reduction and voice stabilization can improve clarity during online calls or streaming.

Pre-installed Software Bloatware

Like many laptop manufacturers, MSI includes some pre-installed software, often referred to as “bloatware.”

  • Utility vs. Bloat: While MSI Center and Nahimic are genuinely useful, other bundled programs might be trialware or promotional software.
  • Recommendation: It’s always a good practice to review pre-installed applications and uninstall any you don’t intend to use to free up storage space and system resources.

Windows 11 Home

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically ships with Windows 11 Home.

  • Gaming Optimizations: Windows 11 includes features like DirectStorage and Auto HDR, which can potentially enhance gaming performance and visual quality on compatible titles.
  • User Interface: The updated user interface with a centered Start menu and redesigned taskbar offers a modern aesthetic.
  • Security: Comes with built-in security features like Windows Defender.

Conclusion: Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 Right for You?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 positions itself as a compelling option in the budget gaming laptop segment. Cleanmymac Review

It’s not about raw, uncompromised power, but rather a balance of performance, portability, and a distinct aesthetic.

Who is it for?

  • The Budget-Conscious Gamer: If you’re looking to get into PC gaming or upgrade from an older system without spending a fortune, the Cyborg 15 offers excellent value. It can comfortably play most modern games at 1080p.
  • The Casual Gamer: For those who play popular titles like Call of Duty, Fortnite, Valorant, or League of Legends, this laptop provides a smooth and responsive experience, especially with its 144Hz display.
  • The Student/Portable Gamer: Its relatively lightweight and slim design makes it more practical for carrying between classes or moving around the house compared to bulkier gaming rigs.
  • Those Who Appreciate Unique Aesthetics: The transparent design elements are a definite standout. If you like a laptop that looks a bit different and futuristic, the Cyborg 15 will appeal to you.

Who might need to look elsewhere?

  • Competitive Esports Professionals: While capable, serious esports players might prefer higher refresh rate displays 240Hz+, lower response times, and more robust cooling systems found in higher-tier laptops.
  • Content Creators/Professionals: For demanding tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, or heavy graphic design, you’ll benefit significantly from laptops with more powerful CPUs, higher VRAM GPUs, and better color-accurate displays.
  • Users Demanding Premium Build Quality: If a full metal chassis, minimal flex, and a super-premium feel are non-negotiable, you’ll need to expand your budget significantly.
  • Users Needing Long Battery Life: This is not a laptop designed for all-day unplugged use.

Final Verdict

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is a solid contender in its niche.

It successfully delivers on its promise of an accessible 1080p gaming experience with a unique visual flair.

The inclusion of an RTX 4050 in some configurations with DLSS 3 is a strong point for future-proofing.

While compromises are made in areas like build materials and battery life, these are typical for its price segment. Sk Hynix Beetle X31 Review

If you’re seeking a stylish, capable, and relatively portable gaming laptop that won’t empty your wallet, the Cyborg 15 is definitely worth considering.

It’s a smart choice for getting into modern gaming without overspending, providing a good foundation that can even be improved upon with a simple RAM upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main specifications of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically features Intel 12th or 13th generation Core i5/i7 processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 or RTX 4050 graphics cards, 8GB/16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB/1TB NVMe SSD.

It usually sports a 15.6-inch Full HD 1920×1080 144Hz IPS-level display.

Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 good for gaming?

Yes, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is good for gaming, especially at 1080p resolution. Gigabyte Aorus 15 Bmf Review

It can run most modern AAA games at medium to high settings with playable frame rates 45-60+ FPS, and esports titles at much higher frame rates, taking full advantage of the 144Hz display.

What is the battery life of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The battery life of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is typically around 3-4 hours for light use web browsing, video streaming and less than 1 hour for intensive gaming. It is primarily designed for plugged-in use.

Does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 have good cooling?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 utilizes MSI’s Cooler Boost technology with a dual-fan and multi-heat pipe design.

It generally manages thermals effectively under load, keeping CPU temperatures within safe limits often 85-90°C and GPU temperatures in the 70s Celsius, though fans can be audible during gaming.

Can I upgrade the RAM on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

Yes, you can upgrade the RAM on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023. It typically has two SODIMM slots, allowing for up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM. Qihoo 360 Total Security 86 Review

Upgrading from 8GB single channel to 16GB dual channel is highly recommended for a significant performance boost.

Can I upgrade the storage on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

Yes, you can upgrade the storage on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023. It usually comes with at least one M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD slot, and some configurations might have a second M.2 slot for additional storage expansion.

What kind of display does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 have?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically features a 15.6-inch Full HD 1920×1080 IPS-level display with a 144Hz refresh rate.

It offers good viewing angles and smooth visuals for gaming.

Is the keyboard on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 comfortable for typing and gaming?

The keyboard on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is generally comfortable, offering decent key travel and a full-sized layout with a numpad. It features a single-zone blue backlight. Kitsune Tails Review

What ports does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 have?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically includes USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, an HDMI port likely 2.1 or 2.0, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack.

Does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 support Wi-Fi 6?

Yes, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 supports Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax for fast and stable wireless connectivity.

What is the TGP of the GPU in the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The TGP Total Graphics Power of the GPU in the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is often on the lower side for power management and cost, such as 45W for the RTX 4050. This affects peak performance compared to higher TGP implementations.

Is the transparent design of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 purely aesthetic?

Yes, the transparent design elements on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 are primarily for aesthetic appeal, revealing internal components.

They do not offer functional benefits in terms of cooling or performance. Wallethub Review

How much does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 weigh?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 weighs approximately 1.98 kg 4.37 lbs, making it relatively lightweight for a 15-inch gaming laptop.

What operating system does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 come with?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home.

Does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 have RGB lighting?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically features a single-zone blue backlight for its keyboard, not multi-zone or per-key RGB lighting.

Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 good for video editing?

While the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 can handle basic video editing, its GPU RTX 3050/4050 and typical RAM configurations are not optimized for heavy 4K video editing or professional-grade creative tasks.

For such tasks, laptops with more powerful GPUs higher VRAM and more RAM are recommended. Honkai Star Rail Review

How does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 compare to the Acer Nitro 5?

Both the MSI Cyborg 15 and Acer Nitro 5 are budget-friendly gaming laptops.

The Cyborg 15 often prioritizes a slimmer, more unique design, while the Nitro 5 typically focuses on aggressive cooling and diverse performance configurations, often offering slightly higher TGP options for its GPUs.

Can the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 run VR games?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023, particularly with an RTX 4050, can run some less demanding VR titles. However, for a smooth and comfortable VR experience with modern, graphically intensive VR games, a more powerful GPU RTX 3060 or higher is generally recommended.

What software does MSI include with the Cyborg 15 2023?

MSI includes its MSI Center software for performance management, system monitoring, and customization like fan profiles and user scenarios. It also often comes with Nahimic Audio for sound enhancements.

What is the refresh rate of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 screen?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 screen has a refresh rate of 144Hz, which provides a smooth visual experience for gaming compared to standard 60Hz displays.

Does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 support G-Sync?

No, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically does not support NVIDIA G-Sync directly on its internal display.

G-Sync is usually a feature found on higher-end gaming laptops or external monitors.

Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 loud during gaming?

Yes, like most gaming laptops, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 can become audibly loud during gaming as its fans spin up to dissipate heat.

Using headphones is recommended for an optimal experience.

What are the main downsides of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The main downsides of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 include its modest battery life, primarily plastic build with some flex, and the GPU’s potentially lower TGP compared to more expensive alternatives, which limits peak performance.

Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 good for students?

Yes, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 can be a good option for students who also want to game.

Its relatively lightweight design aids portability, and it offers sufficient performance for both academic tasks and gaming during leisure time.

How does the transparent design affect maintenance?

The transparent design on the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 doesn’t significantly impact maintenance beyond making any dust accumulation or internal component changes visible.

It means you might want to keep the internals cleaner.

Can I connect an external monitor to the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

Yes, you can connect an external monitor to the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 using its HDMI port.

Does the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 have a webcam?

Yes, the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 typically includes a built-in webcam, usually a 720p HD camera, suitable for video calls.

What is the typical screen brightness of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The typical screen brightness of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 is around 250-300 nits, which is adequate for indoor use but might appear dim in bright environments.

Is the MSI Cyborg 15 2023 future-proof?

No laptop is truly “future-proof,” but the MSI Cyborg 15 2023, especially with an RTX 4050 and its DLSS 3 capabilities, offers a reasonable level of future-proofing for 1080p gaming for the next few years.

The ability to upgrade RAM and storage also helps extend its usable life.

What is the price range of the MSI Cyborg 15 2023?

The MSI Cyborg 15 2023 falls into the budget to mid-range gaming laptop category, with prices typically ranging from $800 to $1200 depending on the specific configuration CPU, GPU, RAM, storage and retail promotions.

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