Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 16 (2024) vs MSI Thin GF63
The Verdict
Lenovo's IdeaPad Slim 5 16 targets productivity users with its larger 16-inch display, newer Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, and superior 16GB LPDDR5X RAM versus the MSI's 8GB DDR4. Its 11-hour battery life significantly outlasts the MSI's 7 hours, and the brighter 300-nit display enhances outdoor visibility. Conversely, MSI Thin GF63 appeals to gamers with its dedicated RTX 4050 GPU and 144Hz refresh rate, unavailable on the Lenovo. MSI also offers three USB-A ports and Ethernet connectivity, better for connectivity needs. However, the Lenovo's thinner 16.9mm profile, more modern processor generation, and substantially better battery life make it the superior overall machine for general users. For gaming-focused buyers with a tight budget, the MSI remains competitive despite its older hardware and inferior portability.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 16 (2024) if…
- →Large 16-inch screen great for productivity and multitasking
- →Strong port selection including HDMI and SD card
- →Excellent value for the spec sheet
Buy the MSI Thin GF63 if…
- →Affordable entry to RTX 40-series gaming at $699
- →144Hz display for smooth gameplay in esports titles
- →Lightweight at 1.86 kg for a 15.6-inch gaming laptop
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 16 (2024)
Pros
- Large 16-inch screen great for productivity and multitasking
- Strong port selection including HDMI and SD card
- Excellent value for the spec sheet
- Comfortable full-size keyboard with numpad
Cons
- 1920x1200 panel is low resolution for a 16-inch display
- Heavier and bulkier than 14-inch ultrabooks
- Display brightness only 300 nits, dim outdoors
- Plastic base feels less premium than competitors
MSI Thin GF63
Pros
- Affordable entry to RTX 40-series gaming at $699
- 144Hz display for smooth gameplay in esports titles
- Lightweight at 1.86 kg for a 15.6-inch gaming laptop
- Good port selection including Ethernet and three USB-A ports
- Expandable storage with an extra M.2 slot
Cons
- 250-nit display brightness is very dim — poor outdoor visibility
- Only 8 GB RAM — needs immediate upgrade for modern gaming
- Build quality is plastic-heavy and feels budget
- Fan noise is significant during gaming sessions
- Battery life is poor at around 4-5 hours real-world use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 16 (2024) | MSI Thin GF63 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 1.95 kg | 1.86 kg |
| Material | Aluminum top, plastic base | Aluminum lid, plastic body |
| Dimensions | 356.5 x 251.8 x 16.9 mm | 359 x 254 x 21.7 mm |
| Ports | ||
| HDMI | 1 | 1 |
| USB-A ports | 2 | 3 |
| USB-C ports | 2 | 1 |
| SD card | — | |
| Thunderbolt ports | 1 | — |
| Ethernet | — | |
| Headphone Jack | — | |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours | Up to 7 hours |
| Capacity | 65 Wh | 52.4 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 16 inches | 15.6 inches |
| Type | IPS, anti-glare | IPS LCD |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1200 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Brightness (nits) | 300 | 250 |
| Refresh rate | — | 144Hz |
| Storage | ||
| SSD | 512 GB | 512 GB PCIe Gen 3 NVMe |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Keyboard | ||
| Backlit | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5X | 8 GB DDR4 |
| Cores | 14 cores | 8-core (4P + 4E) |
| Chipset | Intel Core Ultra 5 125H | 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12450H |
| Gpu | — | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 (6 GB) |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in laptops, see all Lenovo products or all MSI products. View full details for the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 16 (2024) or the MSI Thin GF63.