MSI Raider 18 HX vs MSI Titan 18 HX
MSI has unveiled two new heavyweight gaming laptops at CES 2024 – the MSI Titan 18 HX and Raider 18 HX. Both models pack the latest high-end hardware into an 18-inch form factor, but are optimized for slightly different uses. We’ll compare the specs and design of these portable powerhouses.
Both are powered by Intel
At the core of both laptops lies Intel’s 14th gen Core i9-14900HX CPU which enables blistering performance thanks to its 24 cores, 32 threads and 5.8GHz peak boost speeds. The enthusiast-grade HM770 chipset and up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM gives these laptops nearly desktop-level performance for gaming and creative work.
Difference in Graphics and Display performance
The key differences lie in the GPU and display department. The Titan 18 HX offers NVIDIA’s flagship RTX 4090 or RTX 4080 GPUs while the Raider 18 HX tops out with the RTX 4070. Both deliver cutting-edge ray tracing and AI-accelerated gaming, but the Titan provides about 15-25% higher frame rates.
The Titan 18 HX sports an 18-inch 4K mini-LED panel with 120Hz refresh rate, VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage. The Raider 18 HX offers the same resolution and refresh rate, but with a standard IPS-type panel.
Both are slim, powerful, and cool
When it comes to cooling, the Titan 18 HX takes the lead with MSI’s largest vapor chamber cooler and support for OverBoost Ultra technology that can sustain up to 270W of total graphics power. The Raider 18 HX isn’t far behind with a 250W power limit. Both models are surprisingly slim and portable given their performance.
Titan is for Luxury, Raider is for Value
The Titan 18 HX excels as an over-the-top luxury gaming flagship with its RGB light bar, Cherry MX ultra-low profile mechanical keyboard, and premium aesthetics. The Raider 18 HX focuses more on value, offering much of the same performance at a lower price by opting for a standard keyboard and slightly toned down design.
For gamers and creators seeking the absolute best performance without compromise, the MSI Titan 18 HX is the clear choice. But the Raider 18 HX still packs a punch for hundreds less. Let’s compare the specs:
Titan 18 HX vs Raider 18 HX
| Specs | Titan 18 HX | Raider 18 HX |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core i9-14900HX | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| GPU | Up to RTX 4090 | Up to RTX 4070 |
| Display | 18″ 4K 120Hz mini-LED | 18″ 4K 120Hz IPS |
| Memory | Up to 128GB DDR5 | Up to 128GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 3x M.2 SSD slots | 2x M.2 SSD slots |
| Keyboard | Ultra-low profile mechanical | Standard gaming keyboard |
| Cooling | Large vapor chamber, 270W power limit | Slightly smaller vapor chamber, 250W power limit |
| Ports | 3x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SD card reader | 3x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SD card reader |
| Weight | 3.6kg | 3.6kg |
| Dimensions | 404 x 307.5 x 24-32mm | 404 x 307.5 x 24-32mm |
Both the Titan 18 HX and Raider 18 HX represent new heights in mobile gaming performance. For those seeking the ultimate portable battlestation, the Titan 18 HX is worth its premium price. But the Raider 18 HX still packs a heck of a punch for a few pesos less. MSI leaves buyers spoiled for choice with these two gaming titans.
We are currently waiting for official announcements from MSI Philippines about the price and availability of the MSI Titan 18 HX and Raider 18 HX.
For more info, check this link.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
