What To Know
- The Bravo 15 can be equipped with either an Intel Core i5-10300H or an i7-10750H processor, while the Alpha 15 offers an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H or a Ryzen 7 5800H.
- In terms of graphics, the Bravo 15 features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti or RTX 3050 Ti, while the Alpha 15 comes with an AMD Radeon RX 6600M or RX 6800M.
- The Ryzen 5000 series processors and the Radeon RX 6000 series GPUs provide a noticeable performance boost over their Intel and NVIDIA counterparts in the Bravo 15.
In the realm of budget-friendly gaming laptops, two heavyweights stand out: the MSI Bravo 15 and the Alpha 15. Both devices pack a punch in terms of performance, but they differ in key aspects that could influence your purchasing decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each laptop, helping you make an informed choice.
Design and Build Quality
The MSI Bravo 15 sports a sleek and understated design with a brushed aluminum finish. It’s relatively lightweight at 4.6 pounds and has a compact footprint. The Alpha 15, on the other hand, opts for a more aggressive aesthetic with angular lines and a prominent MSI logo. It’s slightly heavier at 5.1 pounds and has a larger chassis. In terms of durability, both laptops feel well-built, with sturdy hinges and a solid overall construction.
Display
The Bravo 15 comes with a 15.6-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a refresh rate of 144Hz. The display offers vibrant colors, sharp details, and good viewing angles. The Alpha 15 matches the Bravo 15’s resolution and refresh rate, but it uses a TN panel instead of an IPS panel. While TN panels generally have faster response times, they often exhibit inferior color accuracy and viewing angles.
Performance
Under the hood, the MSI Bravo 15 and Alpha 15 offer different hardware configurations to cater to various performance needs. The Bravo 15 can be equipped with either an Intel Core i5-10300H or an i7-10750H processor, while the Alpha 15 offers an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H or a Ryzen 7 5800H. In terms of graphics, the Bravo 15 features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti or RTX 3050 Ti, while the Alpha 15 comes with an AMD Radeon RX 6600M or RX 6800M.
In real-world performance, both laptops deliver solid gaming experiences. However, the Alpha 15 has a slight edge in terms of raw power, especially when it comes to demanding AAA titles. The Ryzen 5000 series processors and the Radeon RX 6000 series GPUs provide a noticeable performance boost over their Intel and NVIDIA counterparts in the Bravo 15.
Battery Life
Battery life is not a strong point for either laptop. The MSI Bravo 15 and Alpha 15 both average around 4-5 hours of usage on a single charge. However, the Bravo 15 has a slightly larger battery capacity, which gives it a marginal advantage in this area.
Connectivity and Ports
Both laptops offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connectivity, as well as Gigabit Ethernet for wired connections. The Bravo 15 has a slightly wider selection of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, one HDMI 2.0 port, and a mini DisplayPort. The Alpha 15 has one less USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port and lacks a mini DisplayPort.
Software and Features
The MSI Bravo 15 and Alpha 15 come pre-installed with Windows 10 Home. They also include MSI’s Dragon Center software, which provides access to various system settings, performance profiles, and overclocking options. The Alpha 15 additionally features the AMD Radeon Software, which offers similar functionality for AMD components.
Price and Value
The MSI Bravo 15 and Alpha 15 are priced competitively within the budget gaming laptop segment. The Bravo 15 starts at around $800 for the base model, while the Alpha 15 starts at around $900. The price varies depending on the specific hardware configuration and availability.
In terms of value, the Bravo 15 offers excellent performance for its price. It’s a well-rounded laptop that provides a solid gaming experience without breaking the bank. The Alpha 15, on the other hand, commands a slightly higher price but delivers superior performance, especially in demanding games.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Laptop for You
The choice between the MSI Bravo 15 and Alpha 15 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability and a compact design, the Bravo 15 is an excellent choice. It offers a solid gaming experience at a budget-friendly price.
However, if you demand the best possible performance and are willing to pay a bit more, the Alpha 15 is the clear winner. Its AMD Ryzen and Radeon components provide a noticeable performance boost over the Intel and NVIDIA counterparts in the Bravo 15.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which laptop has a better display?
The MSI Bravo 15 has a slightly better display due to its IPS panel, which offers wider viewing angles and more accurate colors.
2. Which laptop has longer battery life?
Both laptops have similar battery life, averaging around 4-5 hours on a single charge.
3. Which laptop is more portable?
The MSI Bravo 15 is more portable due to its lighter weight and smaller chassis.
4. Which laptop has better connectivity options?
The MSI Bravo 15 has a slightly wider selection of ports, including a mini DisplayPort.
5. Which laptop offers a better value for money?
The MSI Bravo 15 offers excellent value for money, while the Alpha 15 provides superior performance at a slightly higher price.
