The world of gaming has seen a meteoric rise in recent years, with an ever-growing community of enthusiasts seeking the ultimate gaming experience. Central to this quest for excellence is the gaming PC, and few brands command the respect and admiration that MSI does. Renowned for their commitment to innovation and performance, MSI’s range of gaming PCs has become synonymous with power, precision, and reliability. In this comprehensive review, we turn our attention to some of MSI’s standout models: the MAG META S 3rd, MAG META S 5th, MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version), MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version), and the MAG META 5.
MSI Gaming PCs: Meta Series
MAG META S 3rd
The MAG META S 3rd stands as a testament to MSI’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge gaming technology in a sleek, compact form factor. At its core, this gaming rig is powered by either the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X or the Ryzen 5 3600 processor, both of which are renowned for their exceptional multitasking capabilities and gaming prowess. These CPUs are designed to handle the most demanding gaming titles with ease, providing a smooth and responsive experience even in the heat of battle.
Storage options on the MAG META S 3rd are robust and versatile. Equipped with a 1x M.2 2280 SSD, gamers can enjoy lightning-fast boot times and rapid game load speeds. Additionally, the system includes 1x 2.5” drive bay and 2x 3.5” drive bays, offering ample space for further storage expansion. This setup ensures that gamers can store an extensive library of games, multimedia files, and essential applications without worrying about running out of space.
Memory performance is another highlight of the MAG META S 3rd. With support for 2x DDR4 U-DIMMs that can be expanded up to 64GB, this PC is built to handle heavy multitasking and memory-intensive applications. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or working with large datasets, the system’s memory configuration ensures lag-free performance and seamless switching between tasks.
Cooling is a critical aspect of any high-performance gaming PC, and the MAG META S 3rd does not disappoint. It features an efficient air cooling system that keeps the internal components cool under heavy load, ensuring stable performance during prolonged gaming sessions. This is particularly important for maintaining the longevity of the CPU and other sensitive components, preventing thermal throttling and performance drops.
When it comes to graphics, the MAG META S 3rd supports up to the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super (ITX). This graphics card is capable of delivering impressive visuals and smooth frame rates in most modern games, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a balance between performance and cost. The GTX 1660 Super offers advanced features like real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics, bringing a new level of realism to gaming experiences.
Connectivity options on the MAG META S 3rd are comprehensive, catering to a wide range of peripherals and external devices. The front I/O panel includes 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 1x Mic-in, and 1x Headphone-out, providing easy access for frequently used devices. The rear I/O panel expands the connectivity options with 2x USB 2.0, 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 1x HDMI™, 1x RJ45, 3x Audio jacks, 1x DVI-D out, and 2x PS/2 ports. This array of ports ensures that users can connect all their gaming accessories, monitors, and networking devices without hassle.
In terms of design, the MAG META S 3rd maintains a sleek and modern aesthetic, with a compact footprint that fits seamlessly into any gaming setup. Its dimensions of 185 x 480 x 422 mm make it a suitable choice for gamers who need a powerful system without sacrificing desk space.
MAG META S 5th
The MAG META S 5th represents a significant leap forward in MSI’s lineup of gaming PCs, boasting enhanced performance and sophisticated features designed to satisfy the most demanding gamers. At the heart of this powerful machine is the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor, a six-core, twelve-thread powerhouse that excels in both gaming and multitasking scenarios. Known for its stellar single-core performance and efficiency, the Ryzen 5 5600X ensures smooth gameplay and quick responsiveness, making it a top choice for gamers who demand excellence.
Storage solutions in the MAG META S 5th are designed with both speed and capacity in mind. The inclusion of a 1x M.2 2280 SSD provides rapid access to data, significantly reducing load times for games and applications. Complementing this, the system also offers 1x 2.5” drive bay and 2x 3.5” drive bays, allowing for extensive storage expansion. This versatile setup ensures that gamers have ample space to store a vast library of games, multimedia, and essential applications, all accessible at blazing speeds.
The MAG META S 5th is equipped with 2x DDR4 U-DIMMs, supporting up to 64GB of memory. This generous memory capacity enables the system to handle multiple applications simultaneously without compromising performance. Whether streaming, gaming, or running intensive software, users will experience fluid and uninterrupted operation, thanks to the robust memory configuration.
Effective cooling is paramount in maintaining the performance and longevity of high-end gaming PCs. The MAG META S 5th utilizes an air cooling system that efficiently dissipates heat, ensuring stable performance during extended gaming sessions. This cooling solution is crucial for preventing thermal throttling and protecting the CPU and other critical components from overheating, thereby extending the lifespan of the system.
On the graphics front, the MAG META S 5th supports up to the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super (ITX). This capable graphics card delivers impressive visuals and smooth frame rates in a wide array of modern games. The GTX 1660 Super is well-regarded for its balance of performance and affordability, offering gamers access to advanced features like real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics without breaking the bank.
Connectivity is a strong suit of the MAG META S 5th, with an array of ports that accommodate a wide range of peripherals and devices. The front I/O panel features 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 1x Mic-in, and 1x Headphone-out, ensuring easy access for frequently used devices. The rear I/O panel expands the connectivity options further with 2x USB 2.0, 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 1x HDMI™, 1x RJ45, 3x Audio jacks, 1x DVI-D out, and 2x PS/2 ports. This comprehensive suite of ports guarantees that users can connect all their essential gaming accessories, monitors, and networking devices effortlessly.
Design-wise, the MAG META S 5th maintains a sleek and modern aesthetic that fits seamlessly into any gaming setup. Its compact dimensions of 185 x 480 x 422 mm make it an ideal choice for gamers who need a high-performance system without occupying too much desk space.
MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ Version)
The MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version) stands as a formidable contender in the arena of gaming PCs, showcasing MSI’s commitment to superior gaming performance and cutting-edge technology. This machine is designed to cater to gamers who seek not just power, but also versatility and future-proofing in their gaming setup.
At its core, the MAG META 5 5E is driven by up to the AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800X Processor. This eight-core, sixteen-thread CPU is renowned for its exceptional performance, particularly in gaming and content creation scenarios. The Ryzen 7 5800X offers remarkable single-core and multi-core performance, making it ideal for both high-frame-rate gaming and demanding multitasking. Whether you’re delving into the latest AAA titles or engaging in intensive streaming and editing tasks, this processor ensures a smooth and responsive experience.
When it comes to storage, the MAG META 5 5E is both generous and flexible. It features a 1x M.2 SSD (SATA/PCIe Gen 3 x4 Combo), delivering ultra-fast data access speeds that significantly reduce game load times and system boot-up. Additionally, it includes 2x 2.5″ drive bays and 2x 3.5″ drive bays, providing ample space for expanding your storage needs. This combination of rapid access and expansive storage capacity allows gamers to maintain a vast library of games and media without compromising on performance.
The MAG META 5 5E boasts impressive memory capabilities with 2x DDR4 3200Mhz U-DIMMs and 2x DDR4 2933Mhz U-DIMMs, supporting up to 64GB of RAM. This robust memory setup ensures that the system can handle extensive multitasking and memory-intensive applications with ease, offering a seamless and lag-free gaming experience even when running multiple processes simultaneously.
A standout feature of the MAG META 5 5E is its advanced cooling system. For configurations with the Ryzen™ 7 5800X processor, MSI includes a liquid cooling solution. This high-efficiency cooling system keeps the CPU temperatures in check, ensuring sustained performance and preventing thermal throttling during intense gaming sessions. The inclusion of liquid cooling not only enhances performance but also extends the longevity of the critical components by maintaining optimal operating temperatures.
On the graphics front, the MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version) is equipped with up to the MSI GeForce® RTX 3070™ graphics card. The RTX 3070 is a powerhouse in the realm of gaming GPUs, offering exceptional performance and advanced features such as real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics. This graphics card ensures that gamers can enjoy stunning visuals and smooth frame rates even in the most demanding titles, providing a truly immersive gaming experience.
Connectivity options on the MAG META 5 5E are extensive, designed to accommodate a wide array of peripherals and devices. The front I/O panel includes 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 1x Mic-in, and 1x Headphone-out, offering easy access for frequently used devices. The rear I/O panel further enhances connectivity with 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 2x USB 2.0 Type A, 2x PS/2 ports, 1x DVI-D out, 1x HDMI™, 1x RJ45 (1GLAN), and 3x Audio jacks. This comprehensive suite of ports ensures that users can effortlessly connect all their gaming accessories, monitors, and networking devices.
Design-wise, the MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version) features a modern and stylish aesthetic with dimensions of 195 x 514.8 x 466 mm (7.68 x 20.27 x 18.35 in). Its sleek design and compact footprint make it an attractive addition to any gaming setup, providing powerful performance without occupying excessive space.
MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ Version)
The MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version) represents a pinnacle of gaming performance and versatility in MSI’s lineup of gaming PCs. With its powerful components and advanced features, this model is designed to cater to the demands of both hardcore gamers and creative professionals alike, ensuring an exceptional computing experience.
At the heart of the MAG META 5 5E is the formidable AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800X Processor. This eight-core, sixteen-thread powerhouse excels in both single-core and multi-core performance, making it ideal for gaming, streaming, and content creation. The Ryzen 7 5800X delivers smooth gameplay and rapid response times, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite titles at high frame rates while also handling multitasking with ease.
Storage options on the MAG META 5 5E are designed to offer both speed and capacity. The system features a 1x M.2 SSD (SATA/PCIe Gen 3 x4 Combo), which provides lightning-fast data access and significantly reduces load times for games and applications. Additionally, the PC includes 2x 2.5″ drive bays and 2x 3.5″ drive bays, offering ample space for expanding storage needs. This combination of high-speed SSD and additional drive bays ensures that users can store an extensive library of games, media, and essential applications without compromising performance.
Memory performance is another highlight of the MAG META 5 5E. With 2x DDR4 3200Mhz U-DIMMs and 2x DDR4 2933Mhz U-DIMMs, the system supports up to 64GB of RAM. This generous memory capacity ensures that the PC can handle heavy multitasking and memory-intensive applications effortlessly, providing a seamless and lag-free experience even when running multiple processes simultaneously.
Cooling is a critical aspect of maintaining optimal performance in high-end gaming PCs, and the MAG META 5 5E addresses this with its advanced cooling solutions. For configurations equipped with the Ryzen™ 7 5800X processor, MSI includes a liquid cooling system. This high-efficiency cooling solution ensures that the CPU remains cool under heavy loads, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining consistent performance during extended gaming sessions. Liquid cooling also contributes to the longevity of the system by keeping critical components within safe temperature ranges.
Graphics performance in the MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version) is powered by the MSI Radeon™ RX 6700 XT graphics card. This GPU is designed to deliver exceptional gaming performance, with support for real-time ray tracing and advanced graphics technologies that enhance visual fidelity. The Radeon RX 6700 XT offers smooth frame rates and stunning visuals in even the most demanding games, providing an immersive and engaging gaming experience.
Connectivity options on the MAG META 5 5E are extensive, and designed to accommodate a wide range of peripherals and external devices. The front I/O panel includes 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 1x Mic-in, and 1x Headphone-out, offering easy access for frequently used devices. The rear I/O panel further expands connectivity with 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 2x USB 2.0 Type A, 2x PS/2 ports, 1x DVI-D out, 1x HDMI™, 1x RJ45 (1GLAN), and 3x Audio jacks. This comprehensive suite of ports ensures that users can connect all their gaming accessories, monitors, and networking devices without hassle.
Design-wise, the MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version) boasts a modern and sleek aesthetic, with dimensions of 195 x 514.8 x 466 mm (7.68 x 20.27 x 18.35 in). Its compact and stylish design makes it a perfect fit for any gaming setup, providing powerful performance without taking up too much space.
MAG META 5
The MAG META 5 from MSI embodies the essence of high-performance gaming, seamlessly blending powerful hardware with innovative features to meet the needs of serious gamers. This model is designed to provide an exceptional gaming experience, with components that deliver both speed and reliability.
At its core, the MAG META 5 is equipped with up to the AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800X Processor. This eight-core, sixteen-thread CPU is known for its exceptional single-core and multi-core performance, making it perfect for gaming, streaming, and heavy multitasking. The Ryzen 7 5800X ensures smooth gameplay and quick responsiveness, enabling gamers to run the latest titles at high settings without any hiccups.
Storage in the MAG META 5 is both expansive and efficient. It features a 1x M.2 SSD (SATA/PCIe Gen 3 x4 Combo), which offers ultra-fast data access speeds, significantly reducing load times for games and applications. Additionally, the system includes 2x 2.5″ drive bays and 2x 3.5″ drive bays, providing ample space for additional storage. This combination of rapid access and large storage capacity ensures that gamers can keep a vast library of games and media at their fingertips without worrying about performance drops.
The MAG META 5 supports up to 64GB of memory, thanks to its 2x DDR4 3200Mhz U-DIMMs. This high memory capacity ensures that the system can handle extensive multitasking and memory-intensive applications smoothly. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or working with demanding software, the MAG META 5 delivers a seamless and lag-free experience.
Cooling is a critical aspect of any high-performance gaming PC, and the MAG META 5 excels in this regard. It features an advanced air cooling system that efficiently manages heat dissipation, ensuring stable performance during extended gaming sessions. Effective cooling prevents thermal throttling, allowing the CPU and other components to maintain optimal performance, even under heavy loads.
On the graphics front, the MAG META 5 supports up to the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super (ITX). This capable graphics card delivers impressive visuals and smooth frame rates in a wide array of modern games. The GTX 1660 Super is well-regarded for its balance of performance and affordability, offering gamers access to advanced features like real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics without breaking the bank.
The connectivity options on the MAG META 5 are designed to accommodate a wide range of peripherals and devices. The front I/O panel includes 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 1x Mic-in, and 1x Headphone-out, providing easy access for frequently used devices. The rear I/O panel expands connectivity further with 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A, 2x USB 2.0 Type A, 2x PS/2 ports, 1x DVI-D out, 1x HDMI™, 1x RJ45 (1GLAN), and 3x Audio jacks. This comprehensive suite of ports ensures that users can connect all their essential gaming accessories, monitors, and networking devices effortlessly.
Design-wise, the MAG META 5 maintains a sleek and modern aesthetic with dimensions of 195 x 514.8 x 466 mm (7.68 x 20.27 x 18.35 in). Its compact and stylish design makes it an attractive addition to any gaming setup, providing powerful performance without occupying too much space.
Operating Systems
MSI’s gaming PCs frequently come pre-installed with Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro, two versions of Microsoft’s highly popular OS known for their robust performance and user-friendly interface.
Windows 10 Home is often the go-to choice for casual gamers and everyday users. It offers a straightforward, familiar interface with features like the Microsoft Store, Cortana voice assistant, and built-in gaming features such as Xbox integration and Game Mode. Game Mode is particularly beneficial as it optimizes the system’s resources, prioritizing gaming applications and enhancing performance.
Windows 10 Pro, on the other hand, is targeted at more advanced users and professionals who require additional features such as BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, and Group Policy management. For gamers who also use their PC for work or more complex tasks, Windows 10 Pro offers a greater degree of control and security.
One of the notable perks of purchasing an MSI gaming PC is the free upgrade to Windows 11. Windows 11 builds upon the solid foundation of Windows 10, introducing a fresh, streamlined design and several new features aimed at enhancing both gaming and productivity.
Windows 11’s new interface offers a clean, modern look with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, which some users find more intuitive and aesthetically pleasing. However, the real benefits for gamers lie in the new gaming technologies and improvements.
DirectStorage is a significant feature in Windows 11, designed to reduce game load times by allowing the GPU to directly access game data on the SSD, bypassing the CPU and significantly speeding up the data transfer process. This results in faster load times and smoother gameplay, particularly in open-world games where data streaming is constant.
Auto HDR is another exciting feature for gamers, automatically enhancing the color and brightness range of older games that were originally built for SDR displays. This feature brings new life to classic titles, making them more visually stunning on modern displays.
Virtual Desktops and improved Snap Layouts are productivity-focused features in Windows 11 that benefit multitaskers and those who use their gaming PCs for work. Virtual Desktops allow users to create separate desktop environments for different tasks, while Snap Layouts offer advanced window management options, making it easier to organize open applications and boost efficiency.
Software Optimization and MSI’s Contributions
MSI Dragon Center is a comprehensive suite that allows users to monitor and tweak system performance, customize RGB lighting, and optimize settings for different gaming scenarios. This utility provides gamers with granular control over their system, enabling them to fine-tune performance and aesthetics to their liking.
MSI Afterburner is another valuable tool included with MSI gaming PCs, providing advanced graphics card overclocking capabilities. This software allows users to push their GPU to its limits, extracting maximum performance for demanding games and applications.
Additionally, MSI often includes Nahimic 3 Audio Enhancer, which enhances the gaming experience with 3D sound, voice optimization, and advanced audio controls. This software ensures that gamers get immersive audio experiences, crucial for games where sound plays a significant role in gameplay.
Gaming Performance
Frames per second (FPS) is a crucial metric for evaluating gaming performance. Higher FPS means smoother gameplay and a more responsive gaming experience. MSI’s MAG META PCs, equipped with powerful processors and high-end graphics cards, are designed to deliver impressive FPS across various games.
- MAG META S 3rd: With its AMD Ryzen 7 3700X and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super, this model provides solid performance for 1080p gaming. Gamers can expect FPS ranging from 60 to 120 in titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Overwatch, delivering smooth and responsive gameplay.
- MAG META S 5th: Upgraded to an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X and the same GeForce GTX 1660 Super, this PC handles games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla at medium to high settings, achieving FPS in the 50-80 range. This ensures a visually pleasing and stutter-free experience, even in demanding open-world environments.
- MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version): Featuring the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X and MSI GeForce RTX 3070, this powerhouse excels in 1440p and even 4K gaming. Titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Doom Eternal, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider run at 100+ FPS on high settings at 1440p, providing ultra-smooth visuals and rapid responsiveness crucial for competitive gaming.
- MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version): Similar in specs to the Ryzen 7 5800X but sporting the MSI Radeon RX 6700 XT, this version offers excellent performance in both 1080p and 1440p. Games such as Resident Evil Village, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Battlefield V achieve FPS between 90-130 on high to ultra settings, ensuring immersive and lifelike gaming experiences.
Beyond FPS, the overall gaming experience is shaped by several factors including graphics quality, loading times, and system stability. MSI’s gaming PCs shine in these areas, providing a well-rounded and immersive gaming environment.
- Graphics Quality: The combination of powerful GPUs and advanced features like ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) in the NVIDIA RTX series or AMD’s FidelityFX technology significantly enhances visual fidelity. Gamers can enjoy lifelike lighting, shadows, and reflections in games like Control, Minecraft RTX, and Metro Exodus, making each gaming session visually stunning.
- Loading Times: With fast storage solutions such as M.2 SSDs and PCIe Gen 3 x4 Combo drives, loading times are drastically reduced. Games load swiftly, and in-game transitions are seamless, enhancing the overall gaming experience. In games like The Witcher 3 or Final Fantasy XV, which have large open worlds and frequent scene changes, this translates to minimal wait times and more continuous gameplay.
- System Stability and Cooling: Efficient cooling solutions, including liquid cooling for high-end processors like the Ryzen 7 5800X, ensure that the system remains stable and performs optimally during extended gaming sessions. Overheating and thermal throttling are kept at bay, maintaining consistent performance even in the heat of battle. This is particularly crucial for esports titles such as League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, where any lag or performance dip can impact the outcome of a match.
- Connectivity and Input Lag: With comprehensive I/O options including USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C, HDMI, and RJ45 (1GLAN), gamers can connect their peripherals, monitors, and internet with ease, ensuring low input lag and high responsiveness. This is vital for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.
Final Thoughts on Who Would Benefit Most
MSI’s MAG META series of gaming PCs offers a versatile range of options that cater to different types of gamers and their unique needs. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a competitive esports player, or a content creator, there’s a MAG META model tailored for you.
- Casual Gamers: For those who enjoy gaming as a hobby and prefer playing at 1080p resolution, the MAG META S 3rd and MAG META S 5th provide excellent performance at an affordable price. These models are perfect for gamers who want to dive into their favorite titles without worrying about performance drops or long load times.
- Enthusiasts and Hardcore Gamers: Gamers who demand top-tier performance and want to experience games at high settings in 1440p or 4K will find the MAG META 5 5E (GeForce™ version) and MAG META 5 5E (Radeon™ version) ideal. With powerful GPUs like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 and AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT, these PCs deliver stunning visuals and high FPS in the latest AAA games.
- Content Creators and Streamers: Those who create content or stream their gameplay need a system that can handle multitasking and heavy workloads. The MAG META 5 with its AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800X processor and advanced cooling solutions is perfect for running demanding applications while maintaining smooth gaming performance. The ample storage and memory options also support extensive media libraries and seamless video editing.
- Professional and Competitive Players: Competitive gamers who need every possible edge in performance will benefit from the high FPS and low latency provided by the top-tier MAG META models. The combination of fast SSDs, robust processors, and cutting-edge graphics ensures a competitive advantage in fast-paced games like Valorant, Fortnite, and Apex Legends.
Call to Action: Ready to elevate your gaming experience to the next level? Explore MSI’s MAG META series and find the perfect gaming PC tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking high FPS for competitive play, stunning graphics for immersive worlds, or robust performance for content creation, MSI has you covered.
Don’t settle for less – visit the MSI website or your local retailer today and discover the gaming powerhouse that fits your lifestyle. Upgrade to a MAG META gaming PC and unleash the full potential of your gaming and creative endeavors. Your ultimate gaming journey starts here!
