The MSI Trident 3 is designed for gamers who prioritize performance without sacrificing valuable desk space. Launched in recent years, it brings the power of a full-sized gaming desktop into a console-sized package. Ideal for gamers looking for a streamlined desktop that can handle modern games at high settings.
This review synthesizes insights from various tech reviews including TechRadar and Electronikz, focusing on performance, design, and real-world user feedback. The objective is to provide a balanced view on whether the MSI Trident 3 stands up to its promises in terms of power and efficiency.
Overall, the MSI Trident 3 impresses with its compact design and powerful components, offering solid 1080p gaming performance and impressive graphics. However, users should consider the trade-offs including its reliance on an external power supply and potential limitations in upgradeability.
How Does the Trident 3 Perform in Gaming?
Equipped with an Intel Core i7-7700 processor and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 graphics card, the MSI Trident 3 handles games at ultra settings with solid frame rates. The Nvidia graphics card boasts 8GB of GDDR5 memory, allowing for high-quality visuals and responsive gaming experiences.
Additionally, the Trident 3 features 16GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and reduced load times. For those who prioritize gaming at 1080p and occasional 1440p, this configuration delivers a well-rounded performance.
What Are the Aesthetic and Build Features?
The MSI Trident 3 stands out due to its compact design, comparable in size to the Xbox One S, making it easily integrable in different environments. The sleek aesthetics and customizable LED lighting contribute to its modern gaming look.
Despite its small footprint, the Trident 3 retains a sturdy build quality, but its reliance on an external 330W power brick may be inconvenient for some users.
How is the Connectivity and Expandability?
The device includes multiple ports, such as USB 3.1, HDMI, and Ethernet, catering to various connectivity needs. The inclusion of WiFi 6E further enhances online gaming experience with improved speed and reduced lag.
However, users might find limited internal expandability due to the compact design, making future upgrades somewhat challenging compared to larger desktop options.
Is the Trident 3 Worth the Investment?
The MSI Trident 3 presents an attractive option for gamers looking for a powerful yet compact system. Its competitive pricing relative to desktop performance places it favorably against traditional desktop solutions.
However, potential buyers should consider the absence of significant upgrade options and the external power supply, which might detract from the overall value.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Compact size comparable to a console, measuring around 4.5 liters in volume.
- ✅ Powerful performance with an Intel Core i7-7700 and Nvidia GTX 1070 capable of handling ultra settings.
- ✅ Silent operation and efficient cooling, ensuring a distraction-free gaming experience.
- ❌ Dependent on an external 330W power brick, which can add bulk and reduce portability.
- ❌ Limited internal expansion options due to compact design, potentially frustrating for upgrade enthusiasts.
- ❌ Not as powerful as larger gaming desktops, especially for users wanting high-end gaming performance.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Corsair One i160 — Offers similar compactness with even higher performance capabilities.
- Alienware Aurora R10 — Known for customizable gaming performance but larger in size and less portable.
- HP Omen 30L — Features a spacious design and greater upgrade potential but at the cost of portability.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: The MSI Trident 3 is ideal for gamers with limited desk space who still want excellent performance for modern games. It's also suitable for those preferring a console-like form factor with the capabilities of a gaming PC.
Skip it if: If you're looking for maximum upgradeability or the highest possible gaming performance for resource-intensive titles, you may want to consider larger gaming desktops. Gamers requiring extensive customizability might find the Trident 3 lacks flexibility.
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