The MSI X-Slim X600 is a desktop replacement with a stunningly slim design and entry-level price point. Has MSI compromised performance and usability for style and price? Find out with our MSI X-Slim X600 review.

The MSI X-Slim X600 is a 15.6-inch laptop that makes full use of Intel’s entry-level CULV processor to deliver a design that is affordable but also comes in at just 25mm thick. With an overall weight of 2.1kg, this is lightweight laptop with a design that can easily be slipped into your backpack or brief case.

Measuring 392 x 255 x 25mm, the tapered edges of the machine add to its sleek design while the glossy black exterior and matte black finish on the inside project a sophisticated look. Perhaps more importantly, the build quality feels reassuringly tough to the touch.

Switch on the MSI X-Slim X600 and you’ll find the screen has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, so is more than adequate for watching HD Ready content. The use of LED technology helps add to the slimness of the design and also helps preserve battery power. The screen proved bright, but not excessively so, and web pages and documents look sharp.

Powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo SU9600 processor, which clocks in at 1.6GHz, you’ll be able to run most daily tasks with ease. With 4096MB of system memory, we found that having several windows open at once wasn’t too much of a chore. The main spec is rounded out with a 500GB hard drive, which is pretty impressive considering the price of the MSI X-Slim X600.

There is quite a wide bezel around the edges of the screen that adds to the overall width of the MSI X-Slim X600. This allows for the addition of a separate numeric keypad alongside the main keyboard. It’s a nice addition but it does make the right-hand side of the keyboard feel a little cramped.

The touchpad is made from the same material as the main body with only a slight dip in the casing to outline where it is. The touchpad is on the small side, as is the single strip, dual-action, mouse button but we found they worked remarkably well.

The wide design of the MSI X-Slim X600 proved less appealing when trying to use it out and about. For instance, when working on a train you need to find a table to rest it on and we found that most 15.6-inch carry case are a little on the small side.

Battery life was more than acceptable, however, as we managed to run the MSI X-Slim X600 for close to four hours before needing to re-charge. So, should you need to use it on the move, you won’t need to worry about taking a charger.

You won’t find an optical drive fitted on this machine, but when it comes to connectivity, it offers decent coverage, including two USB ports, eSATA amd HDMI connections, as well as a standard VGA-out. The only downside with our review unit was that it came with Windows Vista pre-installed but the latest versions on sale now all carry Windows 7 Home Premium.

Verdict
Overall, the MSI X-Slim X600 is a nicely sculpted and appealing laptop. The slim design is appealing and makes for an attractive look but the rather wide design detracts from the overall portability of the machine. We have the feeling that many users will buy this laptop to use on the move but end up leaving it on their desk.