This review article will examine the i7 and i9 variants of the MSI Sword 16 HX Gaming Laptop. Since there are few dedicated and honest reviews online, many people hesitate to buy this laptop. This article will give you an unbiased review of this laptop and help you make the right decision.
In this article, I will clarify all the questions related to the MSI Sword 16 HX and give a full user review after carefully testing the laptop. You will learn about all the specifications, pros and cons, pricing options, offers, and features. Finally, I will tell you who this laptop is for and who should not buy it.
We will also compare this laptop with its competitors.
MSI Sword 16 HX Price(All Models)
There are different models of the MSI Sword 16 HX. Each model has its own specifications, configuration, and, of course, different pricing. Here is the list of all models available in India and their prices with the current discount.
| MSI Sword 16 HX Model Name | Price |
|---|---|
| Sword 16 HX B14VEKG-210IN(Core i7 14th Gen,RTX 4050) | ₹97,490 |
| Sword 16 HX B13VFKG-653IN(Core i7 13th Gen,RTX 4060) | ₹99,990 |
| Sword 16 HX B14VFKG-208IN(Core i7 14th Gen,RTX 4060) | ₹1,17,990 |
| Sword 16 HX B14VGKG-207IN(Core i7 14th Gen,RTX 4070) | ₹1,34,990 |
| Sword 16 HX B13VFKG-652IN(Core i9 13th Gen,RTX 4060) | ₹1,19,990 |
MSI Sword 16 HX Specifications
First, let us look at all the Key MSI Sword 16 HX specifications –
- CPU: Up to Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX (24 cores)
- GPU: Up to NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Laptop GPU
- Display: 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) with 144Hz refresh rate
- Memory: 16GB DDR5-5600 (8GB×2)
- Storage: 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD
- Weight: 2.3 kg
- Battery: 65 Whr (4-Cell)
The MSI Sword 16 HX Gaming laptop has three variants in India. Here is a table showing the full specification of each model –
| Specification | B14VFKG-287IN | B14VFKG-453IN | B14VEKG-210IN | B14VFKG-208IN | B14VGKG-207IN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX • 24 cores (8P + 16E) • Max Turbo: 5.8 GHz | Intel® Core™ i7-14650HX • 16 cores (8P + 8E) • Max Turbo: 5.2 GHz | Intel® Core™ i7-14700HX • 20 cores (8P + 12E) • Max Turbo: 5.5 GHz | Intel® Core™ i7-14700HX • 20 cores (8P + 12E) • Max Turbo: 5.5 GHz | Intel® Core™ i7-14700HX • 20 cores (8P + 12E) • Max Turbo: 5.5 GHz |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Display | 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) 144Hz Refresh Rate IPS-Level | 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) 144Hz Refresh Rate IPS-Level | 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) 144Hz Refresh Rate IPS-Level | 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) 144Hz Refresh Rate IPS-Level | 16″ FHD+ (1920×1200) 144Hz Refresh Rate IPS-Level |
| Chipset | Intel® HM770 | Intel® HM770 | Intel® HM770 | Intel® HM770 | Intel® HM770 |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060 • 8GB GDDR6 • 233 AI TOPS • 2340MHz Boost Clock • 115W Maximum Power | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060 • 8GB GDDR6 • 233 AI TOPS • 2340MHz Boost Clock • 115W Maximum Power | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4050 • 6GB GDDR6 • 194 AI TOPS • 2370MHz Boost Clock • 115W Maximum Power | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060 • 8GB GDDR6 • 233 AI TOPS • 2340MHz Boost Clock • 115W Maximum Power | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 • 8GB GDDR6 • 321 AI TOPS • 2115MHz Boost Clock • 115W Maximum Power |
| Memory | 16GB (8GB×2) DDR5-5600 | 16GB (8GB×2) DDR5-5600 | 16GB (8GB×2) DDR5-5600 | 16GB (8GB×2) DDR5-5600 | 16GB (8GB×2) DDR5-5600 |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD |
| Storage Expansion | • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen5 slot • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot | • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen5 slot • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot | • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen5 slot • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot | • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen5 slot • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot | • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen5 slot • 1× M.2 PCIe Gen4 slot |
| Keyboard | 24-Zone RGB Gaming with Copilot Key | 24-Zone RGB Gaming with Copilot Key | 24-Zone RGB Gaming with Copilot Key | 24-Zone RGB Gaming with Copilot Key | 24-Zone RGB Gaming with Copilot Key |
| Webcam | HD (720p@30fps) 3D Noise Reduction | HD (720p@30fps) 3D Noise Reduction | HD (720p@30fps) 3D Noise Reduction | HD (720p@30fps) 3D Noise Reduction | HD (720p@30fps) 3D Noise Reduction |
| Audio | • 2× 2W Speakers • Nahimic 3 • Hi-Res Audio Ready • Array Microphone | • 2× 2W Speakers • Nahimic 3 • Hi-Res Audio Ready • Array Microphone | • 2× 2W Speakers • Nahimic 3 • Hi-Res Audio Ready • Array Microphone | • 2× 2W Speakers • Nahimic 3 • Hi-Res Audio Ready • Array Microphone | • 2× 2W Speakers • Nahimic 3 • Hi-Res Audio Ready • Array Microphone |
| I/O Ports | • 3× USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A • 1× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C • 1× HDMI 2.1 • 1× RJ45 • 1× Audio Combo | • 3× USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A • 1× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C • 1× HDMI 2.1 • 1× RJ45 • 1× Audio Combo | • 3× USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A • 1× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C • 1× HDMI 2.1 • 1× RJ45 • 1× Audio Combo | • 3× USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A • 1× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C • 1× HDMI 2.1 • 1× RJ45 • 1× Audio Combo | • 3× USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A • 1× USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C • 1× HDMI 2.1 • 1× RJ45 • 1× Audio Combo |
| Networking | • Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 • Bluetooth v5.3 • Gigabit Ethernet | • Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 • Bluetooth v5.3 • Gigabit Ethernet | • Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 • Bluetooth v5.3 • Gigabit Ethernet | • Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 • Bluetooth v5.3 • Gigabit Ethernet | • Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 • Bluetooth v5.3 • Gigabit Ethernet |
| Security | • fTPM 2.0 • Webcam Shutter • Kensington Lock | • fTPM 2.0 • Webcam Shutter • Kensington Lock | • fTPM 2.0 • Webcam Shutter • Kensington Lock | • fTPM 2.0 • Webcam Shutter • Kensington Lock | • fTPM 2.0 • Webcam Shutter • Kensington Lock |
| Power | • 200W AC Adapter • 65 Whr Battery (4-Cell) | • 200W AC Adapter • 65 Whr Battery (4-Cell) | • 200W AC Adapter • 65 Whr Battery (4-Cell) | • 200W AC Adapter • 65 Whr Battery (4-Cell) | • 200W AC Adapter • 65 Whr Battery (4-Cell) |
| Dimensions | 359 × 266.4 × 21.8-27.7 mm | 359 × 266.4 × 21.8-27.7 mm | 359 × 266.4 × 21.8-27.7 mm | 359 × 266.4 × 21.8-27.7 mm | 359 × 266.4 × 21.8-27.7 mm |
| Weight | 2.3 kg | 2.3 kg | 2.3 kg | 2.3 kg | 2.3 kg |
| Color | Cosmos Gray | Cosmos Gray | Cosmos Gray | Cosmos Gray | Cosmos Gray |
| Warranty | 2 years limited | 2 years limited | 2 years limited | 2 years limited | 2 years limited |
Key Differences Between Models
Performance
- B14VFKG-287IN (i9-14900HX) – Highest Performance
- B14VFKG-453IN, B14VFKG-208IN, B14VGKG-207IN (i7-14700HX) – High Performance
- B14VEKG-210IN (i7-14650HX) – Performance
Gaming
- B14VGKG-207IN (RTX 4070) – Premium Gaming
- B14VFKG-287IN, B14VFKG-453IN, B14VFKG-208IN (RTX 4060) – High-End Gaming
- B14VEKG-210IN (RTX 4050) – Mid-Range Gaming
Overall Performance
- Best Overall Performance: B14VFKG-287IN (i9 + RTX 4060)
- Best Gaming Performance: B14VGKG-207IN (i7 + RTX 4070)
- Best Value: B14VFKG-208IN (i7 + RTX 4060)
- Entry Level: B14VEKG-210IN (i7 + RTX 4050)
Note: All models with compatible chargers support USB-C Power Delivery up to 100W (20V@5A).
MSI Sword 16 HX Features
Let’s examine the overall features of the HX 16 models. This section provides answers about the HX 16’s design and build quality, performance, power, gaming capabilities, multi-tasking, and usability.
Design and Build Quality – Better than before
One of MSI’s most significant brand drawbacks is its design quality. Many people have complained about the build quality of the MSI laptops—especially the weak hinges that often break within a year.
Compared to previous models, MSI has shown a significant t improvement in the build quality of the HX 16 Laptop. The material is good, and the hinges are strong. The material is polycarbonate plastic.
The laptop’s dimensions are 359 x 266.4 x 21.8-27.7 mm and weighs 2.3kg. Compared to many others in the same price range, it is a strong and light laptop.
It has a 24-zone RGB Gaming Keyboard, which is suitable for the aesthetics of a gaming laptop. It also has a number pad, Translucent WASD keys, a Copilot key for Windows 11, and Customizable lighting zones.
However, I am certainly not impressed by the laptop’s appearance. The earlier models looked much better and uniform than the Sword HX 16. Although the RGB keyword is a good addition, it doesn’t look as good because of the low key height. I loved the earlier model’s keyword with a uniform dark orange light color.
Talking about the keyboard, MSI laptops are famous for their keyboards. The same goes for the Sword HX 16 as well. You will love this laptop if you do a lot of typing work. The buttons are big and make the typing work easy.
Performance – Good for Multitasking but Not Enough VRAM
Laptops and computers are all about the performance. It is the key factor to look for when choosing a machine.
It is important to note that some models of MSI also provide 32 GB RAM
The MSI Sword 16 HX is an excellent laptop with a processor and RAM. The 14th-generation i7 and 13th-generation i9 processors are famous for their performance.
MSI Sword 16 HX provides three processor options. The first one is the Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX. It has 24 cores, 8 of which are performance cores and 16 of which are efficiency cores. It can boost up to 5.8 GHz. This processor is ideal for content creators, multi-tasking, and streaming.
The second option is Intel® Core™ i7-14700HX, which has 20 cores. Eight of them are performance cores, while 12 are efficiency cores. This configuration is suitable for gaming and medium-level content creators.
If you want a laptop for regular gaming and day-to-day productivity tasks, the third option is good for you. It has Intel® Core™ i7-14650HX with 16 cores in total, 8 of which are assigned to performance and efficiency.
This hybrid approach balances productivity, performance, and efficiency well. You should choose the suitable configuration based on your daily requirements.
Graphic Performance – Could be Better
One thing I didn’t like about the MSI Sword 16 HX was the VRAM and graphic performance. The highest VRAM available for this laptop is 8GB, which is not enough for high-end games with more FPS. It is a deal breaker for passionate gamers who like to play the latest games in the highest graphic settings.
However, this laptop can run most modern games easily at 1080p and even 4K resolution.
Just like the processor, the MSI Sword 16 HX also provides different options for the GPU as well –
- RTX 4070 has 8GB GDDR6 Memory, 321 AI TOPS Processing Power, 2115MHz boost clock, 115W maximum graphics power, and a Memory Bandwidth of 288 GB/s. As per our test, this can run 140p Games at 100+ FPS in most modern titles while 4K Gaming at 60+ FPS in optimized titles. It is also good to use Ray Tracing without sacrificing performance. The B14VGKG-207IN Model comes with this GPU.
- RTX 4060 has 8GB GDDR6 memory, 233 AI TOPS processing power, a 2340MHz boost clock, 115W Maximum Graphics Power, and a memory bandwidth of 272 GB/s. This GPU can run 1080p Games at 144+ FPS in most titles and 1440p Games at 60-100 FPS in modern games. The B14VFKG Model of MSI Sword 16HX has this GPU. Although this GPU can use Ray Tracing, it has a moderate impact on performance.
- RTX 4050 is the last GPU configuration of MSI Sword 16 HX. It has 6GB GDDR6 memory with 194 AI TOPS processing power, 2370MHz Boost Clock, 115W Maximum Graphics, and a power memory bandwidth of 168 GB/s. It has entry-level Ray Tracing with 1080p game support at 60-144 FPS depending on the title and 1440p Game support at 40-60 FPS in modern games. This is good for games of the previous generation. The B14VEKG-210IN Model has this GPU.
All the GPUs have 115W maximum graphics power, Dynamic Boost NVIDIA DLSS 3 support, Ray Tracing capabilities, and AI-powered features.
Display – Could Be Better
Another area where the MSI Sword 16 HX is lacking is the display technology. Unlike other laptops in the same price range that provide a 164Hz refresh rate, this laptop only has 144Hz.
All MSI Sword 16 HX models have a 16-inch Full HD+ (1920×1200) display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The display aspect ratio is 16:10, and the IPS level panel.
However, the good news is that an Optional QHD+ (2560×1600) 240Hz upgrade is available, but it won’t be enough for people who need a 4K display. Many other laptops in the same category provide 4K displays in the same price range. What Sword 16 HX has made up in the processing section, they have lost in the display category.
Memory and Storage
All MSI Sword 16 HX models have dual-channel RAM, each 8 GB, for 16 GB. The Sword 16 HX B13VFKG-652IN model also has an option of 32 GB RAM.
The RAM in MSI Sword 16 HX is expandable up to 96 GB, which is an excellent option for those who need more performance. RAM uses DDR5 technology, renowned for high bandwidth, power efficiency, and multi-tasking.
In terms of Storage, MSI Sword 16 HX is better than its competitors. It comes with 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD with Dual M.2 slots. The storage can be expanded up to 2 TB as well. Out of 2 slots 1 slot is also PCIe Gen5 compatible while other can run 1 PCIe Gen4 storage.
Cooling System: Cooler Boost 5
MSI has significantly improved the cooling system in the Sword 16 HX. Although the fan still makes noise, the laptop does not heat as much.
The MSI Sword 16 HX has two cooling fans, five heat pipes, and six exhaust vents. The heat pipe is shared between the CPU and GPU, optimizing the laptop’s performance and efficiency. During gaming, the CPU’s temperature does not go above 80 degrees C, which is a great improvement in the MSI laptop’s cooling system.
Furthermore, thanks to MSI’s exclusive thermal grease and shared cooling, it has become quieter than earlier models. I have also experienced less throttling of the Sword 16 HX.
If you use heavy programs that raise the laptop’s temperature, MSI has a dedicated cooler boost to handle such situations, and I can say it as a person who has used it: IT WORKS!
MSI Exclusive Features: MSI AI Engine and AI Artist
One thing I loved about the MSI Sword 16 HX is its future-proofing. MSI has loaded this laptop with many good features that will help users create content and creative workflows.
MSI Sword 16 HX users will enjoy the two exclusive features of the MSI AI engine and AI Artist.
The MSI AI engine is built to maximize the laptop’s performance, efficiency, and lifetime.
The AI engine automatically detects and sets the user scenario. It also optimizes performance dynamically based on running programs and other features. The MSI AI engine has four intelligence modes: Meeting, Gaming, Work, and Entertainment.
Another cool exclusive MSI feature is the AI Artist. This amazing feature will allow users to generate images using text. Furthermore, users will be able to use amazing AI tools such as AI image editing, visual content creation, on-device image generation, etc.
Ports and Connectivity
MSI Sword 16 HX has Intel® Wi-Fi 6E AX211 and Bluetooth v5.3. These wireless features have low latency, fast speed, stable connection, and a wide range.
If we talk about the ports, this laptop has the following selection –
- 3x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C with:
- DisplayPort
- Power Delivery 3.0
- HDMI 2.1 (8K@60Hz / 4K@120Hz)
- RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
- Audio combo jack
- Kensington Lock slot
Battery Life
Battery is another area where this laptop does not perform well. In fact, almost all MSI Laptops have this problem; they do not have a long battery life.
Although the official website claims the MSI Sword 16 HX’s battery life is about six hours, it only works for around three hours, less than that of other laptops in this segment. So, if you travel a lot, then this laptop might not work for you.
It has a 65 Whr 4-cell battery powered by a 200W AC adapter. One good point of the laptop is the availability of a USB-C charging slot with a minimum power of 65W (20V@3.25A) and up to 100W (20V@5A).
MSI Software Ecosystem
One of the best things about MSI laptops and products is their software ecosystems. They are well-optimized and integrated into the system. Furthermore, these software help monitor and optimize the laptop in multiple ways.
At the center of this ecosystem is the MSI Center. This free software is exclusively built for MSI laptops. It is a control center of MSI where you can monitor and control each setting of your laptop. You can monitor and optimize the performance, fan speed, user scenario, gaming modes, RGB light, etc.
Another utility app is the MSI APP Player, which allows users to play mobile games on a laptop with controller support and gives an excellent mobile-to-PC experience. This particular app was built by MSI in partnership with BlueStacks.
Apart from these, you will also get the following security features with the MSI Sword 16 HX laptop –
- Firmware TPM 2.0
- Webcam shutter
- Kensington Lock support
- Windows 11 security features
Audio – Dual Speakers with Nahimic 3
The MSI Sword 16 HX comes with 2W speakers on both sides of the laptop. The speakers are loud and can be easily heard across a medium-sized room.
Furthermore, the Nahimic 3 audio driver allows users to experience immersive sound while playing games or watching movies.
You can also connect multiple audio outputs like earbuds and Bluetooth speakers via the sound sharing feature of Nahimic 3. This laptop has a Hi-Res Audio certification and cones with a high-quality Array microphone.
MSI Sword 16 HX – Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the MSI Sword 16 HX Laptop –
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Good Storage and RAM Expandability | Fans can get very loud under load |
| Futureproof | GPU performance lower than laptops of the same segment |
| 16:10 aspect ratio | 144Hz refresh rate, lower than other laptops of the same segment |
| Good upgrade potential | Limited color accuracy; Not suitable for color-sensitive work |
| Good thermal management | Basic FHD+ panel quality |
| Improved hinges over previous models | Lower brightness levels |
| 24-Zone RGB keyboard | Basic webcam (720p) |
| USB-C charging support | Poor battery life (2-3 hours during extreme usage) |
| AI Ready | Requires constant plugged-in use for gaming |
| MUX switch for better battery life | 200W adapter limits full performance potential |
Who Should Buy the MSI Sword 16 HX Gaming Laptop
The MSI Sword 16 HX Gaming Laptop is ideal for gaming enthusiasts, streamers, and content creators. It is suitable for both casual and competitive gaming, and thanks to its powerful CPU and small latency, it is also suitable for streamers. Furthermore, if you are a 3D artist or video editor, the multi-core CPU and RTX acceleration will make this laptop a good budget choice.
Suppose you are a professional in Data analytics, software development, or AL/ML tasks. In that case, the Ample RAM and upgradability will make this laptop an excellent choice for your work.
However, this laptop is not for people who travel a lot as its battery life is concise, even less than the average. It depletes rather quickly when used at extreme performance. If you want to play games in 4K resolution or at a higher FPS than 160, this laptop won’t fit your needs either.
Conclusion
I hope you found this laptop review helpful. The MSI Sword 16 HX is an excellent laptop for people looking for a budget gaming laptop. It is equally ideal for working professionals and students. Its expandability, new Gen processors, and GPU make it an all-rounder laptop.
However, if you travel a lot or are looking for a dedicated high-spec gaming laptop, you might want to consider alternatives. But in the price range of 1 Lakh to 1.20 Lacks this is one of the best available options.
Before buying the MSI Sword 16 HX, check the configuration of your model. Consider your requirements and choose the right configuration based on them. If you have any questions or want to add anything to this review or your own experience with the MSI Sword HX 16 laptop, drop the comment below.
