Entry № 041-3 / V-4132 · 0:00 synced

Two GTX 980s in a trashcan!? - MSI Vortex G65 Review

Linus Tech Tips@LinusTechTips2.1M viewsApr 6, 201610:33
Source
YT
Views
2.1M
Subscribers
16.8M
Critic
?
Audience
?

0 up · 0 down · 0 ratings

Channels and socials

MSI wouldn't let me take a very close look at the Vortex G65 at CES 2016, but I FINALLY got my hands on one! Let's see how it performs... Massdrop link: dro.ps Glasswire link: glasswire.com Pricing & discussion: linustechtips.com Support us: linustechtips.com Join our community forum: bit.ly twitter.com @LinusTech Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com Sound effects provided by freesfx.co.uk

Start
AI OverviewDefault language

The MSI Vortex G65 review presents a compact, trashcan-shaped gaming PC that MSI showcased at CES 2016. The host notes that the machine is small, fast, and notably quiet for a dual-GPU system, aiming to validate MSI’s claims about performance in a tiny form factor. The device measures roughly the size of a single GTX 980 card, yet packs two full desktop GTX 980 GPUs, making it a unique entry in the high-performance, small-form-factor PC category. The review also highlights the aesthetics including RGB lighting and a premium look that the creator argues justifies the premium price. Throughout the hands-on segment, the focus is on emphasizing how the system achieves strong gaming performance while maintaining relatively low acoustics and reasonable thermals, which counters fears that a compact chassis would force loud operation or thermal throttling. The host also compares the G65 to the 2013 Mac Pro in terms of form and cooling strategy, clarifying that despite some superficial similarities, the devices target very different users. The pricing discussion acknowledges a high-cost entry with top configurations reaching around four thousand dollars, but argues that the unique design and power delivery model offer a compelling value proposition for a niche audience. Finally, the review closes with a note on upgradeability concerns, TB3 potential, and an invitation to check out a related Massdrop deal, reinforcing the idea that this is a one-of-a-kind device that pushes the envelope of what a compact gaming PC can be.

Topics · technology · hardware · gaming · product-review · pc-uprising · small-form-factor

Questions answered

What GPU configuration does the MSI Vortex G65 feature in its top model?
The top model of the MSI Vortex G65 features two full desktop GTX 980 GPUs in SLI.
How are the acoustics and thermals described in the review?
The host describes the acoustics as unobtrusive and the thermals as quite good, with GPUs reaching around 75°C under load in testing.
What is a potential upgrade concern mentioned for the Vortex G65?
A concern mentioned is upgradeability and future CPU/GPU upgrade paths, since MSI’s upgrade options may be limited by the MXM form factor and the design of the system.