MSI GL65 9SD Gaming Notebook

The MSI GL65 9SD is an entry level gaming laptop designed to run the latest games with ease and at the highest graphics settings. Equipped with a desktop level graphics card and a 9th generation CPU, it will be able to run most AAA title games at high frame rates. A notable feature of this model is the SteelSeries RGB keyboard designed to give a great tactile feel.

However, due to the high thermal dissipation by the CPU, the laptop is prone to running hot under load. Users have reported temperatures of about 90 degrees Celsius. Consequently, the fans are enabled to run at high speeds, creating a significant amount of fan noise. In order to alleviate this issue, users have had to underclock their CPU and replace the thermal paste. Additionally, according to a review by AVForums, the laptop’s battery life underperforms when running high demand applications.

Some identifying marks on the GL65 9SD are the SteelSeries logo on the left-hand side of the interior chassis and the dragon badge located on the backside of the laptop. Additionally, a sticker, or markings, with model information should be on the underside of the laptop. Lastly, detailed information is located in the System Information page within the OS, outlining the make and model of the laptop.

• Up to Intel Core i7 9th Generation

• 15.6” FHD IPS 120Hz (1920 x 1080)
• 30fps 720p Built-in webcam

• DDR4-2666 Memory
• 2 Empty slots
• Maximum of 64GB supported

• NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti 6GB GDDR6

• 1 x M.2 SSD Combo (NVMe PCIe Gen3/SATA)
• 1 x 2.5” SATA HDD

• 51 WHr Lithium-Ion

• 802.11 ac Wi-Fi + Bluetooth 5.0

• Ethernet Port (RJ45)
• SD Card Reader
• HDMI Port (4K @ 30Hz)
• Mini-DisplayPort
• USB 3.2 Type-C
• 3 x USB 3.2 Type-A
• Audio In/Microphone Jack
• Audio Out/Headphone Jack

• 14.1” x 9.8” x 1.1” (L x W x H)
• 8.63 lbs.

MSI GL65 Specification Page

AVForums Review

PCGameBenchmark Specifications