Last year introduced MSI laptops powered by a 13th generation Intel processor and NVIDIA RTX 40 series graphics cards: Raider and Katana. This review focuses on a mid-range model, the MSI Vector GP77 13VG, which at first glance appears to strike a balanced balance between price and performance.
The Vector GP77 13VG is offered in three configurations on the manufacturer’s site. For this test, the unit examined was the GP77 13VG-065RU, equipped with an Intel Core i7-13700H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 for laptops with 8 GB GDDR6, 16 GB of DDR5 RAM, and Windows 11 preinstalled.
Characteristics
- Screen: 17.3″ QHD (2560×1440), IPS-level
- Processor: Intel Core i7-13700H
- Memory: 16 GB DDR5-5600, up to 64 GB
- Video card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 for laptops, 8 GB GDDR6
- Drive subsystem: 1 TB M.2 PCIe SSD
- Connectivity: Killer E3000 Gb LAN up to 2.5 Gb, Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211, Bluetooth v5.3
- Connectors: 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C/DP with PD charging; 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, 1x RJ45, 1x HDMI 2.1 (8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz), 1x Mini DisplayPort
- Battery: 4 cells, Li-polymer, 65 Wh
- Power: 240 W adapter
- Dimensions: 397 W × 284 D × 259 H mm
- Weight: 2.8 kg (without adapter)
Appearance
The design of this laptop will feel familiar to anyone who has read the review of the MSI Vector GP66 from last year. The GP77 carries forward most details from its predecessor, including the classic branding on the top cover and slightly chunky hinges at the bottom.
In this test configuration, the MSI Vector GP77 13VG-065RU sports a 17-inch display with QHD resolution. The IPS-level panel supports a 240 Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for fast-paced online gaming. The display is flicker-free, and brightness reaches around 300 cd/m², ensuring comfortable use even on sunny days.
The matte metal lid presents a slightly textured look. The device opens smoothly with one hand, though there is notable resistance. The opening angle is about 120 degrees.
The size of the screen contributes to a heavier body, totaling 2.8 kg without the 40 W Delta Electronics adapter. The claimed battery capacity remains 65 Wh.
In the frame around the screen, a 720p webcam sits above, suitable for video calls but not intended for high-quality imaging.
The laptop does not feature external RGB backlighting, but MSI Center allows per-key backlight customization.
The SteelSeries keyboard is a full-fledged membrane type. It offers limited key travel, giving a soft feel to keystrokes. The backlight has four brightness levels and can be completely turned off. The touchpad is standard-sized and shifted slightly toward the left of center.
On the left edge are a Kensington lock, a battery charging indicator, USB3.2 Gen2 Type A and USB3.2 Gen2 Type C ports with video output, and a 3.5 mm mini-jack. A cooling system grille is visible here as well.
On the right side, there are two USB3.2 Gen2 Type A ports and an exhaust grille for cooling.
The rear panel hosts a Mini-DisplayPort, RJ-45 Ethernet, HDMI, and power connectors, along with openings to expel warm air.
The air intakes above the dual coolers of the Cooler Boost 5 system with heat pipes sit on the bottom cover. The laptop rests on four rubber feet.
Performance. Synthetic testing
Testing for the MSI Vector GP77 13VG-065RU included synthetic benchmarks such as Cinebench R23, Geekbench 6, CPU-Z, and CrystalDiskMark. The results are shown in the accompanying screenshots.
In addition, the system was evaluated in 3DMark tests, including Fire Strike Ultra, Time Spy, and Time Spy Extreme, as well as CPU Profile and Storage Benchmark, to gauge game load speeds on the SSD.
Performance. Playtesting
All gaming tests were conducted in the extreme performance mode via MSI Center at a resolution of 2560 × 1440.
During long sessions, the Intel Core i7-13700H maintains temperatures around 80–85 degrees in standard mode, with a turbo up to 115 W. The RTX 4070 for laptops rarely exceeds 83 degrees at a maximum TDP of 140 W.
The cooling system handles extended loads well, keeping temperatures in check. In max performance mode, gaming sessions can become loud and less comfortable without headphones.
Starfield, at ultra settings with DLSS in Performance mode and no frame generation, clocks 80 FPS. With frame generation and DLSS quality mode, 90 FPS is achievable.
Cyberpunk 2077, at max graphics with ray tracing set to Overload and Path Tracing, plus DLSS in Performance mode and frame generation enabled, shows an average of around 40 FPS in built-in tests. In actual play within the city, 50–60 FPS is visible, but a slight sacrifice of image quality is needed for smoother motion.
With ray tracing set to Medium, DLSS in Performance mode, and frame generation on, the experience becomes notably more stable. Built-in benchmarks show around 80 FPS, with 85–90 FPS in city areas.
RoboCop: Rogue City, a shooter from Teyon, struggles with frame generation in any mode. The test relied on DLSS in Performance mode, delivering a stable 70 FPS overall.
Results and impressions
The MSI Vector GP77 13VG proves to be a strong choice for gamers who want high settings in 2K resolution. Online titles like World of Tanks or Counter-Strike 2 demonstrate the full benefits of the 240 Hz display, delivering exceptionally smooth frame rates.
The power on offer is impressive for a mid-range unit and can handle demanding games without issue.
Its design is striking, performance is reliable, and the full-size keyboard remains comfortable even after hours of gaming, without excessive flex or heat buildup.
Overall, the Vector GP77 13VG stands out as a well-rounded option for players seeking a strong blend of screen quality, processing power, and thermal stability in a portable form factor.