The MSI GF62 is a 15.6″ midrange gaming laptop offering solid performance and good build quality at a reasonable price.
Designed for gamers who want capability without the premium price tag, it combines recent Intel Core i5/i7 processors with NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti or GTX 1060 graphics.
Popular configurations include the GF62 7RE (GTX 1050 Ti) and GF62 VR (GTX 1060), making it a compelling “bang for the buck” option (notebookcheck.net, notebookcheck.com).
Main Features & Specs
• CPU: Typically Intel Core i7‑7700HQ or i7‑8750H (6‑core) (laptopmedia.com)
• GPU Options: GTX 1050 Ti (4 GB) or GTX 1060 (6 GB)
• Memory: 16 GB DDR4, upgradable to 32 GB via dual slots (laptopmedia.com)
• Storage: Combos of SSD (128–512 GB) + HDD (1–2 TB) (laptopmedia.com)
• Display: 15.6″ FHD panels—IPS or TN (some 120 Hz variants available)
• Build & Ports: ~2.2 kg weight, ~29 mm thick; SteelSeries RGB keyboard, USB‑C, mini‑DP, HDMI, SD‑card slot, Wi‑Fi 5, Killer Ethernet/WLAN (notebookcheck.net)
• Audio & Cooling: Nahimic 2+ sound, Cooler Boost oven-style cooling system (notebookcheck.net)
Performance Snapshot
CPU Power
The Core i7‑7700HQ (quad-core) scores ≈1,772 in Cinebench R20, while the six-core 8750H scores ≈2,335—significant boost in multithreaded workloads (laptopmedia.com).
Gaming Performance
- GTX 1060 version: Smoothly handles AAA titles at FHD high settings
- GTX 1050 Ti version: Solid for moderate gaming, ~60 FPS on many titles (notebookcheck.net, notebookcheck.net)
LaptopMedia benchmarks show GTX 1050 Ti delivering ≈213 FPS in older titles, while 1060 achieves ≈3,790 in Time Spy (laptopmedia.com).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for performance (mobileadvance.com)
- Capable of playing recent games in FHD
- Upgradable RAM and storage
- Decent build quality and features like RGB keyboard
- Solid port selection and robust cooling system
Cons
- Heavier and thicker than premium thin-and-light gaming laptops
- Mid-range battery (41 Wh) limits unplugged gaming
- Display options may vary in quality; check for IPS models
- GTX 1060 version priced nearer high-end midrange alternatives
Detailed Review Insights
Design & Build
Notebookcheck called it “sleek… brushed metallic grey design” with “SteelSeries keyboard with RGB backlighting” (notebookcheck-tr.com, notebookcheck.net, notebookcheck.net). Its weight (~2.2 kg) is acceptable for its class.
Display & Keyboard
Offers wide-viewing FHD IPS on many models; some provide 120 Hz refresh via TN panel (laptopmedia.com, notebookcheck.net). Keyboard is praised for ergonomics and anti-ghosting.
Connectivity
USB‑C, USB‑A, mini‑DP, HDMI, SD card reader, Ethernet, and Killer WLAN afford good functionality (shi.com). HDMI supports 4K output @ 30 Hz.
Audio & Cooling
Nahimic 2+ audio and MSI’s Cooler Boost help with sound clarity and thermal management under load (notebookcheck.net).
Who Should Buy It?
- Casual/competitive gamers seeking strong FHD gameplay
- Students & creatives needing a capable machine for work and play
- Upgraders who want changeable RAM/SSD
- Budget-conscious buyers wanting near-premium performance without flagship cost
Alternatives to Consider
- MSI GE62/72: Similar but with optical drive and slightly higher price
- HP Omen 15, Asus ROG Strix GL502, Gigabyte Aero 15: More expensive, premium screens, thinner designs (notebookcheck.net, notebookcheck-tr.com, electronicexpress.com, notebookcheck.net)
FAQs
1. What GPU options are available?
GTX 1050 Ti (4 GB) is standard; higher-end configurations may include GTX 1060 (6 GB) (laptopmedia.com).
2. Is it upgradeable?
Yes—dual RAM slots (up to 32 GB), slots for SSD + HDD .
3. Which CPU is better: 7700HQ or 8750H?
8750H offers ~30% better multithreaded performance; 7700HQ is still strong but pricier (notebookcheck.net).
4. Is battery life good?
With a 41 Wh battery, expect average runtimes. It’s best used near power outlets.
5. How’s the display?
Most configurations offer FHD IPS with wide viewing angles. Some use TN panels with 120 Hz refresh .
6. How’s gaming performance?
GTX 1060 config handles modern games well in FHD. GTX 1050 Ti is better for esports and lighter titles .
7. Is it noisy under load?
Cooling handles high loads but can be audible; Cooler Boost helps maintain temps.
8. Does it have an optical drive?
No. Lacks DVD/Blu‑Ray—common for slim gaming laptops.
9. How is thermals and noise?
Generally acceptable; MSI’s cooling keeps heat manageable, though fans can be loud under stress.
10. Still worth buying?
Yes, if you find a GTX 1060 model at a good price—it remains a solid midrange performer.
Conclusion
The MSI GF62 stands out as an excellent midrange gaming laptop offering strong performance and upgrade flexibility at a value.
Its CPU/GPU combos (i7‑7700HQ/8750H + GTX 1050 Ti/1060) deliver reliable FHD gaming, supported by solid build quality, cooling, and upgrade potential.
While not as sleek or battery-efficient as premium models, it remains a top pick for gamers, students, and creatives on a budget—just double-check specs like display type before buying. Highly recommended for those seeking high gaming performance without flagship pricing.