Tech review: Prestige PS63 Modern 8SC

Work? Play? Let MSi handle it all.

MSi is really pushing the envelope with new models, and this time, they would like you to learn about the Prestige PS63 Modern.

There are six versions of the PS63 Modern, and we're fortunate enough to have the highest-specced one, the 8SC. Well, actually, the only differences those have are in the processor, graphics and AC adapter variables. Other than those, all six are pretty much the same machine. The build on this one wins over the MSi Prestige PS42 8RB that we reviewed recently, thanks to the fade effects on its lid. Its blue linings on the corners and trackpad - whose glimmer depends on how much light is reflected on them - complement its metallic finish. The keys on the board are pretty much in line with my preferences on the touch, feel and press aspects - they feel so bouncy. They're also pretty quiet. The hinges, thankfully, are sturdier.

The 15.6-inch display, meanwhile, gives a lot of digital real estate on the go. I've been using a 13-inch book for a long time now, so anything above that size stands out to me. However, its maximum screen brightness seems to be, well, dim (at least glare headaches are out of the picture). The bezels are thin, though I would've appreciated it if MSi shaved off some more.

While it's relatively thin at 1.59cm, it isn't exactly among the lightest at 1.65kg. That thinness, however, makes it easy for you to slip it into your bag or backpack.

Performance-wise, it didn't disappoint. There were virtually no lags even if I multitasked and opened apps left, right and centre. The generous innards are a big reason for this. That said, running it through a heavy-duty game is required.

In our standard one-hour YouTube-at-full-brightness test, the laptop lost 10 per cent, which is a very decent figure. That run, however, was on the high-performance mode; slide that down to the standard battery settings and it does go down... by 1 per cent. Still, it's not bad. MSi pegs its full capabilities at up to 16 hours; during our test, it was enough to last from morning to late-afternoon.

It's also equipped with Qualcomm's QuickCharge 3.0, meaning you can quickly charge other devices such as smartphones with it. The advertised rate was 80 per cent in only 35 minutes; I got to about 75 per cent in 45 minutes, which is still pretty fast.
AND SO.
The MSi Prestige PS63 Modern 8SC is a good choice for those who want a sweet mix of productivity and gaming, plus design and performance. It is a bit heavy and its max brightness is a question mark. There are alternatives that have similar specs both above and below its price point, but a real plus point for it is its performance when it comes to gaming (it's MSi, remember?).
alvin@khaleejtimes.com

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