14 DAY TRIAL // MSI has been releasing new Classic-Series laptop models one after another recently, with one of the more recent products being the CR720 17-inch notebook PC. Now, the company is again expanding the line by rolling out two 15.6-inch models known as the CX620 and CR620. These mobile computers promise to combine an excellent design with high video/audio performance and a high-quality power-saving technology.
The two notebooks are powered by the Arrandale CPU with integrated graphics from Intel, which is paired with the HM55 chipset. The HD graphics capabilities and Hyper-threading technology provide "outstanding video/audio and processing performance," even as the processor consumes less power than previous-generation ones, for a battery life up to 15% longer. In addition, the two laptops feature the cross-hatch color film print that covers laptops, including the palm-rest area, making it scratch-resistant, as well as pleasant to look upon. The notebooks also have 45-degree beveled edges and use classic, cross-hatch, seamless touch-pads.
There are two special features that these two newcomers possess, namely the MSI exclusive GPU Boost technology and the ECO Engine power-saving technology. The GPU Boost balances audio/video efficiency and battery life. A simple press of a button can enable the high-efficiency discrete mode, when in need of high audio/video performance. On the other hand, if long battery life is what is needed, the Battery icon key can switch the system to the integrated chip display mode. Power efficiency is further enhanced by the Video Game, Film, Presentation, Word Processing, and Turbo Battery display modes enabled by the MSI ECO Engine power-saving technology.
The CX620 laptop is built with a 15.6-inch screen that uses the 16:9 aspect ratio and has a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768. The product comes with up to 4GB of DDR3 at 1066/800 MHz and even an ATI Radeon HD5470 graphics solution with 1GB of VRAM. Connectivity and I/O options of the device include HDMI, D-sub, three USB 2.0 ports, Mic-in, Headphone out, RJ-45, a Kensington lock port, a 1.3-megapixel webcam, two speakers and a 4-in-1 card reader. The CX620 measures 247.5 x 374 x 35mm and weighs under 2.5 kg. Wireless connectivity is possible through 802.11 b/g/ draft N and Bluetooth V2.1 and the storage capacity is provided by an SATA hard drive with a capacity of either 250GB, 320GB or 500GB.
The CR620 comes without the Radeon, relying instead on the multimedia capabilities of the Intel GMA HD. Other than that, the specs are largely similar. Both laptops boast Windows 7 Home Premium, use chiclet keyboards, run on six-cell batteries and should be available in the next few weeks. Prices have not been mentioned as of yet.