MSI GE62 and GE72 Apache Pro Review

Lisa Gade reviews both the 15.6 and 17.3” MSI Apache Pro gaming/desktop replacement laptops. The GE62 is the 5.3 lb., 15.6” model and the GE72 is the 6.5 lb., 17.3” model. Both are 6QD models- Intel 6th generation Skylake with NVIDA GTX 960M 2GB DDR5 VRAM. The laptops are fairly slim and light compared to MSI’s Dominator GT72 line, but heavier and thicker than the MSI Ghost and Stealth line. The Apache Pro models are also more affordable at around $1,100 for the GE72 and $1,300 for the GE72. They both run on the same Intel Core i7-6700HQ quad core, 45 watt CPUs with Intel HD 530 graphics switchable via NVIDIA Optimus with the GTX 960M. The Apache Pro is also available with GTX 970M graphics. Both models have the same DVD drive and selection of ports including USB 3.0, UB-C, HDMI, mini DisplayPort, headphone and mic (with ESS Sabre audio DAC). They have multi-zone backlit SteelSeries keyboards with number pad, stereo speakers with subwoofer, aluminum lids and keyboard decks, 2 DDR4 RAM slots, an M.2 SSD boot drive and a 1 TB HDD. Dual band Intel AC 3165 WiFi 802.11ac, Bluetooth and Killer gigabit Ethernet are standard. For the GE62, we look at a model supplied by XoticPC.com with upgraded IC Diamond thermal paste, a custom vinyl lid decal and upgrade to 32 gigs of RAM.