14 DAY TRIAL // After releasing the CX640 in the US, MSI is now preparing a tweaked version of the notebook dubbed the CX640MX that features faster Core i5 and Core i7 Sandy Bridge processors as well as an ambient light sensor, SRS PC Sound and a HiFre Antenna.
The whole notebook chassis was inspired by the automotive world and MSI is quick to point out that the power key was designed to look like an F1 ignition switch, while the AC-in power jack resembles a racecar fuel intake.
Otherwise, the CX640MX sports an attractive metallic brush finish and a crystal diamond touchpad, which surely add a bit of class to the notebook.
Moving past its looks, users have the option of configuring the laptop with a Core i3-2310M, Core i5-2410M or Core i7-2630QM processor that can be paired with as much as 8GB of system memory.
Graphics is handled by a Nvidia GeForce 410M graphics card, which is seconded by 512MB of dedicated DDR3 memory, and images are displayed on a 15.6-inch LED backlit screen that has a resolution of 1366x768 (much too low in my opinion for an LCD panel this size).
The rest of the notebook can be customized to feature a 640GB hard disk with a 5400RPM platter speed, a Super Multi DVD drive, 802.11 b/g/n WLAN with optional Bluetooth 3.0, a 1.3MP webcam and a 6 or 8-cell battery pack.
Around the sides of the laptop, users will find HDMI and VGA video outputs, a multi-format card reader, four USB 2.0 ports and the CX640MX can even be configured to feature two USB 3.0 ports.
As far as battery life is concerned, MSI states that its latest notebook can operate up to four hours without requiring a recharge and the company has introduced a quick recharge function to reach 80% of the battery's capacity in just 80 minutes.
The CX640MX is already available for pre-order in Europe and is priced as low as €514.