MSI Thin 15 Review: Sleek Design, Solid Performance, and Great Value

The MSI Thin 15 is part of MSI’s lineup of thin and lightweight laptops, typically aimed at users seeking portable yet capable devices. Here’s an overview of what the MSI Thin 15 usually offers (specific configurations may vary).

Design and Display

The MSI Thin 15 stands out for its sleek and portable design, with a minimalist aesthetic that makes it suitable for both work and casual use. At just under 2 kg, it’s lightweight and easy to carry. The build quality is a mix of durable plastic and brushed metal accents, giving it a premium feel while keeping costs manageable.

The 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display is sharp and bright, with decent color reproduction for everyday use. However, it may fall short for professional photo or video editing due to a lack of top-tier color accuracy. Models with a 120Hz refresh rate add smoother visuals, making it a better choice for gamers and multitaskers.

Ports and Audio

The MSI Thin 15 offers a solid variety of ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. You get multiple USB Type-A ports, a USB Type-C port, an HDMI output for external monitors, and a headphone/microphone combo jack. Some configurations might even include an Ethernet port, catering to gamers who prefer wired internet connections.

Audio quality is average, with the downward-firing speakers providing clear but slightly hollow sound. For immersive experiences, headphones or external speakers are recommended.

Keyboard and Trackpad

MSI delivers an excellent typing experience with the Thin 15’s backlit keyboard. The keys have a comfortable travel distance and are well-spaced, making it suitable for long typing sessions. The white backlighting is subtle but functional, allowing for use in dimly lit environments.

Also Read: The Best Laptops for Programming in 2024

The trackpad is responsive and supports Windows Precision Drivers for smooth gesture control. While it’s sufficiently large, users accustomed to glass-coated trackpads might find it slightly less premium.

Performance

Equipped with an Intel Core i5/i7 processor and NVIDIA GTX/RTX graphics (depending on the configuration), the MSI Thin 15 handles a variety of tasks with ease. It’s perfect for light gaming, office work, and multimedia consumption. Popular games like Valorant or Fortnite run smoothly at medium to high settings while demanding AAA titles require some graphical compromises.

The laptop’s 8GB or 16GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while SSD storage offers fast boot times and snappy performance. MSI’s cooling system does an admirable job, though the fans can get a bit noisy under heavy loads.

Battery

The Thin 15’s battery life is average, offering around 5-6 hours of moderate usage, such as web browsing or video streaming. Gaming or intensive tasks significantly reduce this to about 2-3 hours. While it’s not the most battery-efficient device, it’s sufficient for a day of light use with occasional charging.

Verdict

The MSI Thin 15 strikes a fine balance between performance, portability, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for students, professionals, and casual gamers who need a reliable laptop without breaking the bank. While it may not satisfy hardcore gamers or professionals requiring high-end specs, it delivers solid value for those seeking a versatile and stylish device.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable design
• Strong performance for the price
• Decent keyboard and trackpad

Cons:

• Average battery life
• Limited colour accuracy for creatives
• Fan noise under load

If you’re looking for an affordable mid-range laptop that handles most tasks well, the MSI Thin 15 is worth considering.