MSI Ultra Thin 15 VR-Ready Gaming Laptop - Powerful 15.6in 144Hz

In this review of the MSI Ultra Thin 15 VR-Ready Gaming Laptop the bottom line is simple: this is a capable midweight gaming and content-creation machine for users who need strong graphics and large memory in a portable 15.6in package. The real reason to buy is the combination of an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU and a large 32GB RAM / 1TB NVMe SSD configuration, which keeps games and multitasking fluid while still fitting into a thin, 4.1 lb chassis. It runs Windows 11 and includes a folding PCO notebook cooler in the bundle, which helps sustained loads during long gaming or rendering sessions.

Key Features

• Processor: The Intel Core i5-13420H delivers solid multi-threaded performance for gaming and productivity with up to 4.6 GHz turbo.
• Graphics: The RTX 4060 Laptop GPU with 8GB GDDR6 enables high-frame-rate gaming at 1080p and hardware-accelerated creative workloads.
• Memory and Storage: 32GB DDR4 and a 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD offer smooth multitasking and fast boot and load times for large projects and libraries.
• Display: The 15.6in FHD IPS-level panel with 144Hz refresh rate and anti-glare coating balances responsiveness and everyday usability for gaming and media.
• Connectivity: A modern mix of ports including USB-C, three USB-A ports, HDMI, RJ45 LAN, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth covers gaming peripherals and network needs.
• Bundle: The included PCO notebook folding radiator cooler adds extra airflow during extended gaming or rendering sessions.

Who It's For

This laptop suits gamers who want a portable 15.6in system that can handle competitive and single-player titles at high frame rates on a 144Hz panel, and creators who need GPU acceleration plus plenty of RAM for editing and rendering. The large 32GB memory and 1TB SSD make it a sensible choice for power users who run multiple applications, virtual machines, or large browser sessions.

Users who need a brighter color-accurate display for color-critical design work, an ultraportable sub-3 lb device, or the absolute highest-end CPU and GPU available should look elsewhere; this model prioritizes a balanced combination of GPU power, memory, and a thin chassis rather than extreme battery life or a professional-grade color gamut.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong GPU and ample RAM provide very good gaming and multitasking performance.
• Fast 1TB PCIe NVMe storage reduces load and boot times for large applications and games.
• 144Hz anti-glare display and backlit keyboard improve gaming responsiveness and comfort.
• Bundle cooler helps maintain sustained performance under load.

Cons

• The display is modest at 250 nits and 45% NTSC, so it is not ideal for color-critical photo or video grading.
• At about 4.1 lbs, it is not the lightest option for frequent travelers seeking an ultra-thin carry laptop.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The MSI Ultra Thin 15 offers an effective balance of GPU performance, memory, and fast storage in a relatively portable chassis, making it a strong value for gamers and creators who want a 15.6in system without stepping up to larger, heavier desktops or 17in laptops. It is best for users who prioritize frame rates and multitasking ability over peak display brightness or the lightest travel weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it come with a cooling solution?
Yes, this listing bundles a PCO notebook folding radiator laptop cooler to help with sustained workloads.

Can the memory or storage be upgraded?
Yes, the system supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM and higher capacity PCIe M.2 SSDs up to the platform limits.

Is the display good for color-critical work?
The 144Hz FHD panel is responsive and anti-glare but limited to about 45% NTSC and 250 nits, so it is not ideal for professional color grading.