MSI Titan 18 HX (2024)
| Manufacturer | MSI |
|---|---|
| Release date | January 2024 |
| Introductory price | USD 5399 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Pro |
| CPU | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| Memory | 64 GB (2x32) or 128 GB (4x32) DDR5-3600/5600 MHz |
| Memory slots | 4 user accessible (each supports up to 48 GB) |
| Storage | 2 TB or 4 TB NVMe SSD Gen4x4 (RAID 0) |
| Storage slots | 3 user accessible (1x PCIe Gen5, 2x PCIe Gen4) |
| Removable storage | SD7.0 |
| Display | Screen size: 18 inch Panel type: Mini-LED or IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 3840 x 2400 or 2560 x 1600 PPI: 264 or 188 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: 120 or 240 Hz Brightness: 550 to 1100 Nits DCI-P3: 100 % VRR: No G-Sync Screen-to-body ratio: |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop 16 GB GDDR6 175 W w/ MUX switch |
| Sound | 4 x 2 W stereo w/ 2 x 2 W woofers, Sound by Dynaudio |
| Camera | Front: 1080p with IR and physical shutter |
| Touchpad | Seamless haptic touchpad with RGB lighting |
| Connectivity | Killer WiFi 7 BE1750 Bluetooth 5.4 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A) 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C, DP 1.4, 100W PD) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack 1 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Power | 400W AC Power Adaptor |
| Battery | 4 cell Li-Ion 99.9 Wh |
| Keyboard | Per-key RGB backlit, Cherry Mechanical KB SteelSeries |
| Chassis | Color: Core Black Materials: Magnesium aluminum alloy chassis Cooling: Vapor chamber cooler with two fans |
| Number pad | Full size |
| Fingerprint reader | No |
| Facial recognition | Yes (IR) |
| Website | MSI |
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The MSI Titan 18 HX (2024) is a high-end gaming laptop designed for extreme performance, featuring Intel's 14th generation Core i9-14900HX processor and Nvidia's GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU. It is built with a robust magnesium aluminum alloy chassis and offers a range of premium features, making it one of the most powerful and expensive gaming laptops on the market.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The MSI Titan 18 HX (2024) is equipped with the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, which is part of the 14th generation Raptor Lake-HX series. This processor features a hybrid design with 8 high-performance cores and 16 efficiency cores, allowing it to handle demanding tasks effectively. The CPU operates at a base frequency of 1.6 GHz and can boost up to 5.8 GHz.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the i9-14900HX performs exceptionally well, stabilizing at around 180W of sustained power on the Extreme setting with temperatures of around 93-95°C. However, the gains over previous generations are minimal, making it a slight refinement rather than a significant upgrade.[2] The CPU performs well in benchmarks, achieving scores of ~4900 points in Cinebench R15 and ~30,600 in Cinebench R23.[3]
Benchmarks:
Graphics
The Titan 18 HX is equipped with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU, which features 16 GB of GDDR6 memory and a total graphics power (TGP) of 175W. This GPU is designed for high-performance gaming and demanding graphical tasks.[1]
Reviewers have praised the GPU's performance, noting that it can handle 4K gaming effectively and maintain high frame rates even in demanding titles. However, the lack of G-Sync can lead to screen tearing in some scenarios.[4] The GPU performs excellently in benchmarks, achieving scores of 21280 in 3DMark Time Spy and 38959 in 3DMark Fire Strike.[5]
Benchmarks:
Memory
The Titan 18 HX can be configured with either 64 GB (2x32) or 128 GB (4x32) of DDR5 memory. The memory operates at 3600 MHz by default due to Intel’s memory controller limits, although the modules are rated for 5600 MHz.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the memory performance is slower in the 128 GB configuration by up to 30 to 40 percent compared to the 32 GB configuration of the previous GT77 model.[5]
Benchmarks:
Storage
The Titan 18 HX can be configured with either 2 TB or 4 TB of NVMe SSD storage, configured in RAID 0. The storage uses PCIe Gen4x4 for high transfer rates.[1]
Reviewers have praised the storage performance, noting that the drives exhibit no throttling issues when stressed under DiskSpd for several minutes. The RAID 0 configuration provides excellent read and write speeds, although it also means that if one drive fails, all data is lost.[4][5]
Benchmarks:
- CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 12915 MB/s[5]
- Write Seq Q32T1: 10338 MB/s[5]
- AS SSD Score Total: 5369 Points[5]
Co-processors
The Titan 18 HX does not feature any dedicated co-processors for AI or other specialized tasks.[1]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The Titan 18 HX features a mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX ultra-low profile switches for highlighted keys, while the rest of the keys use non-mechanical switches. The keyboard includes customizable per-key RGB backlighting with four levels of brightness.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the keyboard has a tactile feel but the positioning can be awkward, leading to frequent wrong key presses. The tactile feedback is good, but the loud sound of the mechanical keys may not be suitable for all users.[4][2]
Touchpad
The Titan 18 HX comes with a seamless haptic touchpad with RGB lighting. The touchpad lacks visible borders when the lighting is off, which can make it difficult to use.[1]
Reviewers have criticized the touchpad, noting issues with clicking and dragging. It randomly unclicks while dragging, making it frustrating to use, and the haptic feedback does not compare well to traditional touchpads.[4][2]
Webcam
The Titan 18 HX features a 1080p webcam with a physical privacy shutter and IR for Windows Hello face unlock.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the webcam quality is decent for video calls, and the IR feature works well for facial recognition.[4][2]
Microphone
The Titan 18 HX includes an integrated microphone.[1]
Reviewers have found the microphone quality to be mediocre, not particularly impressive for voice clarity.[3]
Output Devices
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Display
The Titan 18 HX is available with two display options:
- 18" UHD+ (3840x2400) 120Hz Mini LED HDR 1000 100% DCI-P3
- 18" 16:10 QHD+ (2560 x 1600) 240Hz 100% DCI-P3 IPS-Level Panel[1]
Reviewers have praised the display for its brightness and color accuracy, making it suitable for both gaming and content creation. However, the Mini LED display suffers from halo effects and slower response times in certain transitions, particularly from dark to light.[4][3][2]
Benchmarks:
Audio
The Titan 18 HX features a sound system by Dynaudio, with four 2W speakers and two 2W woofers.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the speakers get loud but lack clarity and bass, which is disappointing given the laptop's high price point. They do not perform well compared to competitors.[4][3]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The Titan 18 HX is equipped with a Killer WiFi 7 BE1750 WLAN module.[1]
Reviewers have found the WiFi performance to be reliable, ensuring stable connectivity for online gaming and streaming.[3][5]
Benchmarks:
Bluetooth
The Titan 18 HX comes with Bluetooth 5.4.[1]
SD Card Reader
The Titan 18 HX includes an SD card reader that supports various card types.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the SD card reader performs well, allowing for quick file transfers, although it does not secure the card properly and does not achieve the maximum speeds of high-end cards.[4][3]
USB
The Titan 18 HX is equipped with the following USB ports:
- 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A)
- 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C) with DisplayPort 1.4 and 100W Power Delivery[1]
Reviewers have praised the USB ports for their performance and convenience, although the lack of rear port icons can make it difficult to identify ports.[4][3]
Display Outputs
The Titan 18 HX includes the following display outputs:
- 1 x HDMI 2.1
- 2 x DisplayPort via Thunderbolt 4[1]
Reviewers have noted that the display outputs perform well, allowing for high refresh rates on external monitors.[4][3]
Case
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The Titan 18 HX features a magnesium aluminum alloy chassis with MSI’s core black finish. The build quality is robust, designed for durability, but the size and weight make it less portable.[1][4]
Reviewers have praised the build quality, noting that it feels like a tank. The design is aesthetically pleasing, but the size and weight make it less portable.[4][2]
Maintenance
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The bottom panel of the Titan 18 HX is secured by 12 Phillips screws, allowing for relatively easy access to the internals. The laptop supports up to four 48 GB sticks for 192 GB of total memory capacity and has three M.2 slots, allowing for significant upgrades.[4][2]
Cooling System
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The Titan 18 HX is equipped with a vapor chamber cooler with two fans and an improved air ventilation design compared to previous models.[1]
Heat
Reviewers have noted that the internal temperatures are cool compared to others under heavy workload, with effective cooling allowing for sustained performance without overheating. However, the CPU temperatures can reach 97°C under load, while the GPU stabilizes around 60°C.[4][5]
Benchmarks:
Noise
The fan noise can reach up to 63 dB(A) when gaming, making it quite loud. However, it is quieter at around 55 dB in auto mode, which is more reasonable.[3][5]
Benchmarks:
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The Titan 18 HX ships with a 400W AC adapter, which is the highest wattage charger MSI has provided with a gaming laptop.[1]
Reviewers have noted that power consumption is high, especially under load, but the performance justifies it.[4][5]
Benchmarks:
Battery Life
The Titan 18 HX comes with a 99.9 Wh Li-Ion battery, the largest allowed in a laptop. MSI claims that the battery can charge from 0-100% in about 2 to 2.5 hours.[1]
Reviewers have noted that battery life is poor, lasting less than 4 hours during video playback, which is disappointing for a laptop of this caliber.[4][5]
Benchmarks:
Biometrics
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The Titan 18 HX does not support fingerprint recognition but includes IR for face recognition, providing aconvenient security feature for users.[1][4]
Software
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The Titan 18 HX ships with Windows 11 Pro and includes various preinstalled software applications for system control and customization.[1]
Preinstalled Software
MSI Center
The MSI Center acts as the primary control center for the Titan 18 HX, allowing users to monitor system performance, update drivers, and customize various settings. It also includes features for adjusting the cooling system and performance profiles.[5]
SteelSeries GG Engine
This software is used for customizing the RGB lighting on the keyboard, allowing users to create personalized lighting effects and macros.[5]
Nahimic
Nahimic software is included for audio customization, providing various sound profiles and enhancements for a better audio experience.[3]
Other Preinstalled Software
The Titan 18 HX also comes with other preinstalled applications, which may include trial versions of antivirus software and other utilities.[4]
Linux Support
Linux support is not explicitly mentioned, but compatibility may vary. Reviewers have noted that while some components like the keyboard, touchpad, camera, speakers, and ethernet worked, the Wi-Fi was not recognized, likely due to the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology.[4]
Accessories & Warranty
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The Titan 18 HX comes with a 400W AC adapter and standard paperwork. MSI offers a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[5]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The MSI Titan 18 HX is considered one of the most powerful gaming laptops available, offering top-end specifications and robust build quality. However, it is also one of the most expensive gaming laptops, and its size and weight make it less portable. Reviewers have praised its performance in gaming and demanding tasks, but have noted several drawbacks, including poor battery life, lack of G-Sync, and a subpar touchpad.[4][3][2][5]
Problems Summary
- Poor touchpad performance with issues in clicking and dragging.[4]
- Lack of G-Sync support, leading to potential screen tearing.[3]
- Disappointing battery life, lasting less than 4 hours during video playback.[4]
- High price point, making it less accessible to budget-conscious buyers.[3]
- Loud fan noise during intensive tasks.[5]
- High CPU temperatures under load.[5]
- Mediocre microphone quality.[3]
- SD card reader does not secure the card properly and has slower speeds.[4]
Links
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 128 GB RAM, 4 TB SSD: Jarrodstech
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 128 GB RAM, 4 TB SSD: Gizmosliptech
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 64 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: Ultrabookreview
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 128 GB RAM, 4 TB SSD: Notebookcheck
Community Reception
Overall Sentiment
Problems Summary
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 "Titan 18 HX (2024) Specifications". MSI. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 "MSI Titan 18 Review". Ultrabookreview. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 "MSI Titan 18hx Review". Gizmosliptech. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
- ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.15 4.16 4.17 4.18 4.19 4.20 4.21 4.22 4.23 "MSI Titan 18 HX Review". Jarrodstech. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
- ↑ 5.00 5.01 5.02 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13 5.14 5.15 5.16 5.17 5.18 5.19 5.20 5.21 5.22 5.23 5.24 5.25 5.26 5.27 5.28 "MSI Titan 18 HX Review". Notebookcheck. Retrieved 2024-07-19.