MSI refreshes GX-series gaming notebooks with Intel's Core i5 processor

MSI has announced the upcoming introduction of two new GX-series gaming notebooks for European consumers.

The systems - the GX740 and GX640 - make use of a 2.26GHz Intel Core i5 430M processor, coupled with 4GB of DDR3 memory and DirectX 11-capable graphics in the form of a 1GB ATI Radeon HD 5870 for the 17in GX740 and a 1GB ATI Radeon HD 5850 for the smaller, 15in GX640.

MSI reckons the GX740 (pictured above) is one of the slimmest and lightest gaming notebooks on the market, measuring 33mm thick and weighing in at 3.2kg. Dell's Alienware M11x would beg to differ, but MSI's larger option does offer beefier internal hardware.

In addition to the potent mix of an Intel Core i5 CPU and an ATI Radeon HD 5800-series GPU, both notebooks pack a 640GB hard disk, a four-in-one card reader, a two megapixel webcam and ample connectivity options - including HDMI out, Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless N and optional Bluetooth 2.0. A DVD writer is included as standard - with the option for a Blu-ray upgrade - and the GX740 squeezes in a five-speaker SRS-certified Premium Sound system. There's no mention of screen resolution however, and if MSI's previous gaming notebooks are anything to go by, we could be looking at 1,680x1,050 as opposed to full-HD.

We're growing a little tired of the black-and-red trim, and we're not particularly fond of the touch-sensitive "sci-fi-ish luminescent shortcut strip" that still resides above the keyboard, but it's the price that will win over most buyers. MSI tells us to expect the GX740 and GX640 in stores next month, with prices starting at £999 - and that includes a bundled MSI gaming bag and mouse.

MSI lists the GX740 and GX640 specifications as follows: