MSI started off in 1986 with a keen focus on motherboards. In these last three decades, the Taiwanese company has grown exponentially, evolving into a brand to reckon with in the gaming world.
MSI, short for Micro-Star International, is committed to a reliable build and power-packed performance. It ensures these values of sustainability and trust transfer to all its product lines, including premium (and expensive) gaming desktops.
When Intel announced its latest generation of processors in 2023, many computer manufacturers jumped on board.
MSI has also embraced these mighty CPUs built on an optimized hybrid architecture comprising P and E cores (performance and efficiency).
The latest lineup offers brilliant frequencies up to 6 GHz, a considerable boost to artificial intelligence, and a thread director for more nuanced task scheduling.
It also benefits from smooth compatibility with various platforms and configurations, like DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
Buying an MSI gaming PC with one of these processors can bring you a worthwhile performance boost in gameplay, audio-visual projects, and even everyday business.
MSI gaming PCs are divided into various categories based on their configuration and pricing.
For example, the Vision Elite is at the high end of the ladder at over $4,000, but Codex desktops are much more affordable.
Top 6 Best MSI Gaming PC 2024 (14th Gen. Intel)
Here are some of the finest prebuilt gaming PCs money can buy, delivering fabulous performance and buttery smooth graphics.
Call it the perfect union: an optimized Gen. 14 Intel CPU meets persevering discrete graphics. The NVIDIA RTX 40 range has the best promise, covering trailblazing tech like ray tracing.
MSI gaming desktops are cut out for devoted gamers; no half-hearted souls allowed!
1. MSI Vision Elite RS with RTX 4090
Price Tag: $4,299.99
Pros
- Excellent, high-speed gameplay
- Efficient cooling with low noise generation
- A favorite with DIY-loving gamers and performance seekers
Cons
- Very expensive
- Demands proprietary components, which can be pricey
The MSI Vision Elite RS is a vision to behold: imposing and brilliant at gaming. It houses an Intel Core i9-14900KF CPU to let you enjoy higher performance and efficiency, thanks to the additional cores (24) and overclocking potential.
The processor can go up to 6.0 GHz, a significant uptick over the previous generation.
This PC uses NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4090 graphics, 64GB RAM, and 2TB of SSD storage.
Of course, it is also intimidatingly priced at $4,299. But this desktop will be up to the task of whichever title catches your fancy, from Ark: Survival Ascended to Resident Evil.
Keeping things cool is classic liquid cooling. A 360mm liquid cooler dissipates heat and prevents performance from getting affected when you are in the thick of things.
This DIY-friendly PC lets you upgrade and finetune to your liking, giving the prebuilt PC the charm of a custom-built one. You also get several USB 3.0 ports (eight) and 802.11 AC Wi-Fi for engrossing online games.
2. MPG Velox by MSI Gaming Desktop
Price Tag: $3,999.99
Pros
- Brilliant gaming performance
- Sustainable heat management
- Easy to customize and upgrade
Cons
- Expensive purchase at over $3,000
- Large and bulky design
- Relies on proprietary components
Leverage infinite potential with the spectacular MPG Velox by MSI Gaming Desktop, designed for professional players who wish to stop at nothing.
It runs on a Gen. 14 Intel Core i9-14900KF processor and pairs it with a Geforce RTX 4090 graphics card.
This configuration grants you immense power to speed through demanding titles like Metro Exodus without batting an eyelid.
The desktop also has abundant memory and storage: 64GB and 2TB (SSD). The operating system, Windows 11 Home, benefits gameplay and multimedia operations through a user-friendly, productive interface.
MSI relies on liquid cooling to keep the system components at an optimal temperature during peak performance periods.
This machine has a 360mm cooler for sustainable performance that never disappoints. Liquid coolers are usually more powerful but quieter than air coolers.
It is a upgredeable machine, working out well for gamers needing to upgrade or customize. MSI uses premium, long-lasting components, so adapting your PC to your needs is easy and safe. You also get eight USB 3.0 ports and 802.11 AC Wi-Fi.
3. MSI Aegis R with Gen. 14 Intel Core i9
Price Tag: $2,899.00
Pros
- Excellent performance with the Gen. 14 Intel Core i9 processor
- Reasonably budget-friendly
- Smooth upgradability and customization
- Silent and effective cooling
Cons
- The included SSD size could be better
- Cable management can be a little tricky
Here is a good choice for gamers looking to purchase a mighty machine at a (relatively) cheaper price.
The MSI Aegis R will cost you around $2,800. At this price, you get the strength of an Intel Core i9-14900F processor, Geforce RTX 4080 Super graphics, and as much as 64GB RAM.
The NVIDIA Series 40 GPU uses the DLSS 3.5 technology to improve the frame rate with artificial intelligence. It makes graphics-intensive titles more immersive and realistic, resulting in a competitive edge during tournaments.
The machine uses liquid cooling, the manufacturer’s standard go-to for heat dissipation in premium machines. A 240mm CPU cooler wards heat away from your precious processors.
True to its heritage, the Aegis R is also DIY-friendly, permitting much more tinkering than expected in a standard prebuilt PC.
Multiple USB ports bring in a well-connected experience for peripheral support. The PC has six USB 3.0 ports and 802.11 AC Wi-Fi as available connections.
4. MSI Aegis RS with Gen. 14 Intel Core i7
Price Tag: $2,199.00
Pros
- Good gameplay at budget-friendly price
- Effective liquid cooling
- Easy customization to match user needs
Cons
- A Thunderbolt 4 port could be a welcome addition
- The cable management involves a learning curve
The Aegis lineup has multiple offerings for gamers with different budgets. The MSI Aegis RS with an Intel Core i7-14700KF is reasonable at around $2,199.
This Gen. 14 processor improves upon its 13th Gen. predecessor with 20 cores and a maximum frequency of 5.6 GHz. This PC uses NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4070 Ti Super graphics to deliver ray tracing and vivid special effects. You get 32GB RAM and 2TB of storage space, so the load times are pretty good.
Most premium gaming machines in the MSI family use liquid cooling. It helps this desktop improve the airflow and avoid excessive heat generation from hampering your gaming experience.
Another feather in the cap is the DIY ease of this PC, letting you adjust, upgrade, and upscale following your requirements.
MSI has designed the machine to support customization without compromising durability.
It makes the system useful for multimedia pursuits like video editing and content generation. Eight USB 3.0 ports and 802.11 AC Wi-Fi are available for connectivity needs.
5. MSI Codex R3 with Gen. 14 Intel Core i7
Price Tag: $1,471.00
Pros
- Affordable but powerful gaming and multimedia performance
- Direct upgradability
- Offers RGB lighting and customization options
Cons
- Lacks liquid cooling
- It could do with more SSD storage
Check out the MSI Codex R3 gaming PC for an excellent but affordable laptop under this prestigious umbrella.
It will cost you less than $1,500 but deliver a power-packed gameplay experience thanks to a superb Gen. 14 Intel Core i7-14700F processor.
It also boasts Geforce RTX 4060 Ti graphics, so the glories of ray tracing and AI-enhanced images are yours to absorb.
Granted that the RAM and storage are average at 32GB RAM and 2TB (SSD). But it is still a competent configuration for adrenaline-pumping multimedia sessions.
One advantage of MSI gaming PCs is their operating system – Windows 11 Home. It incorporates gaming-friendly provisions, like Auto HDR, Direct Storage, and an inbuilt Xbox app.
Further, although it is a budget-friendly PC, you get bonuses like RGB lighting and MSI Center Software.
This DIY-friendly machine can adapt to your conditions, allowing straightforward customization.
It uses a capable air cooler with four fans to keep the innards comfortable. It is a drop from liquid cooling but still a bargain for the price.
6. MSI Codex R3 with Gen. 14 Intel Core i5
Price Tag: $1,079.00
Pros
- Gen. 14 Intel Core experience on a budget
- Several connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7
Cons
- Gaming performance lower than other featured PCs
- Limited storage and memory
- It does not offer liquid cooling
Finally, here’s an MSI gaming PC costing just over $1,000. This MSI Codex R3 uses an Intel Core i5-14400F processor and NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4060 graphics.
This 14th-generation processor has 10 cores, divided into Performance and Efficiency sections. The maximum frequency goes up to 4.7 GHz. Suffice it to say you can play most modern, resource-hungry games in satisfying settings.
The memory and storage are lower (16GB and a 2TB SSD), so some compromises are natural. But hey, this little powerhouse is cheaper than others on this list, leaving you cash for peripherals like a spectacular display.
Other features are similar, for MSI does not believe in cutting too many corners. You get a simplistic design that leaves space for upgrading.
Multiple USB ports (five USB 3.0) are inbuilt, and Wi-Fi 7 provides consistent, high-speed connectivity. This latest Wi-Fi standard is much faster than Wi-Fi 6.
The heat management front is decent: an air cooler and four RGB fans strive to keep your PC cool and fresh during demanding times.
MSI Gaming PC for Gaming Maestros
MSI has developed a reputation for producing high-quality gaming desktops that stand out for their build standards and sheer potential.
Usually, these computers have top-notch components, from processors and graphics to memory and heat management systems.
Hence, they are in high demand by professional gamers, eSports players, and multimedia artists or content creators.
The ability to tinker with the machine and upgrade the components as desired is a huge bonus.
It helps make MSI prebuilt PCs feel as personal and tailored as custom-built desktops or close enough.
Besides their impressive build, MSI also pushes the envelope on innovation. You will find many stellar features like customizable RGB lighting, liquid cooling, and several ports.
At the CES 2024, MSI won six CES 2024 Innovation Honoree Awards. The company has also sponsored over 20 eSports teams globally, cementing its deep connection and love for the virtual arena.
Before proceeding with an MSI machine, it is best to consider your specific requirements.
For example, lovers of multiplayer shooter games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare typically demand better performance ammunition than those who prefer strategy titles like Knights of the Old Republic.
Your expectations for future gaming sessions will also play a part here.
Conclusion
Buying a gaming desktop is a crucial decision for ardent gamers, especially when you decide to splurge on something as glamorous as MSI.
The company has some cheap offerings in the $1,000 to $1,500 range, like the MSI Codex R3. The Aegis line also has a few excellent PCs with quintessential MSI features like effective cooling and DIY-friendliness.
However, if you can opt for the Vision Elite RS or the Infinite RS, be prepared for engagement that hooks you, fish, line, and sinker.
Ultimately, your choice should consider your budget, unique gameplay needs, and future preparedness.