This year introduced another strong MSI laptop from the Vector line, following a high-refresh Raider model with a 360 Hz display. In this new review, the team examined a Vector device that sits in a different price tier but still delivers impressive speed. Here is a closer look at the model.
The MSI Vector GP76 12U model comes in several configurations. Options include Intel Core i9-12900H paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, or Intel Core i7-12700H with RTX 3070 Ti. Other configurations offer RTX 3070 or 3060 graphics for laptops.
The review focused on the middle segment: the Vector GP76 12UGS featuring RTX 3070 Ti and a 12th Generation Core i7-12700H. The GPU can run at up to 150 watts. The notebook uses a DDR4 memory controller with two 8 GB modules at 3200 MHz. A 1 TB NVMe SSD from Micron handles storage. The 17.3-inch display runs at Full HD with a 360 Hz refresh rate.
More about the model
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Characteristics
- Display: 17.3 inches, 1920×1080, IPS, 360Hz
- Processor: Intel Core i7 12700H
- Memory: 16GB DDR4-3200
- Video Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti 8GB GDDR6 Notebook
- Disk Subsystem: 1 TB M.2 SSD
- Connectivity: Gb LAN up to 2.5G, Killer AX Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth v5.2
- Connections: 1x Type-C USB3.2 Gen2, 3x Type-A USB3.2 Gen1, 1x RJ45, 1x (8K @ 60Hz / 4K @ 120Hz) HDMI, 1x Mini-DisplayPort
- Battery: 4-cell, 65Wh
- Dimensions: 397 (W) x 284 (D) x 25.9 (H) mm
- Weight: 2.9kg
Appearance
The Vector GP76 12UGS sports a restrained black finish. It doesn’t glow with vivid colors or extra lighting, and the company logo on the lid is also black. In the gaming segment, the keyboard’s SteelSeries backlight is the signature feature, adjustable for all keys together or individually via the MSI Center software.
The screen can tilt back to about 140 degrees, supported by hinges behind slightly raised plastic overlays. Bezels are not especially thin. A 720p webcam sits in the top bezel, adequate for video calls.
On the left edge lie the Type-A USB3.2 Gen 1, Type-C USB3.2 Gen2 with DP 1.4, and a standard 3.5 mm audio jack. A barely noticeable charging indicator sits nearby.
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On the right edge are two Type-A USB3.2 Gen1 ports.
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The power supply connects to the rear. Additional ports include Mini-DisplayPort, HDMI (8K @ 60Hz / 4K @ 120Hz) and RJ45. Thunderbolt is not available on this model.
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The back panel features the familiar cooling vents plus MSI’s Cooler Boost 5 system with larger fans and wide heatpipes.
The 65 Wh battery allows roughly two hours of work away from a power outlet. The kit includes a sizable 280W power brick.
Performance. Synthetic Testing
Tests included Cinebench R23, CPU-Z and CrystalDiskMark. Screenshots were captured to illustrate results.
Power testing was extended to 3DMark, covering Time Spy, Fire Strike Extreme, Port Royal, CPU Profile and Storage Benchmark to gauge SSD loading speeds.
Performance. Game Tests
All gaming tests used the MSI Center game mode. The processor reached 95 to 100 degrees in a 25-degree room, while the GPU typically stayed under 80 degrees during sessions.
Graphics were set to high while ray tracing was enabled in some tests and DLSS was used where supported.
Cyberpunk 2077 remains among the most demanding titles; with ray tracing enabled, the GPU and CPU are stretched. The Vector GP76 often held around 60 fps in most scenes, whether in gunfights or heavy traffic.
Dying Light 2 with tracing on and high settings produced a steady 75–80 fps, with occasional dips to 60–65 in certain scenes.
Elden Ring runs at 60 fps capped in standard configurations. A tested mod unlocked higher frequencies for benchmarking. The game does not support DLSS or ray tracing.
Average frame rates hovered around 90 fps with occasional drops to the 70s during intense moments.
Results and Prices
The MSI Vector GP76 is a solid gaming machine with strong performance in current titles. It handles high settings and ray tracing without major dips. The laptop does have a power reserve, and in a few years it may struggle to maintain 60 fps in the most demanding titles. Still, it remains a capable partner for online sessions today. The 360 Hz display is a real advantage for fast-paced multiplayer titles.
It is worth noting that despite effective cooling and reasonable noise levels, summer tests showed notable heating at the processor under load. That is the trade-off for top-tier performance.
The audio, enhanced by SteelSeries Nahimic, sounds engaging from the first listen. It may not be studio-grade, but explosions, gunfire and metal clatter come through clearly.
The Vector GP76 demonstrates strong overall performance and a restrained, stealthy build that suits gamers who prefer a clean, non-flashy aesthetic.
Overall, the device performs admirably in top games and delivers a stable, high-quality visual experience.
Supportive of the build quality, the MSI Vector GP76 stands out for its mature design and reliable performance in a portable gaming setup.