MSI Katana 15 HX Review
Our MSI Katana 15 HX review looks at gaming performance, display quality, thermals, and battery life. With Intel HX CPUs and RTX 50-series GPUs, can this be the best value gaming laptop of 2025?
- Display: 15.6″ FHD 144Hz or QHD 165Hz (IPS)
- CPU: Up to Intel Core i9-14900HX
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 5050–5070
- Memory: Up to 96GB DDR5
- Storage: NVMe SSD (up to 1TB, upgradeable)
- Weight: ~2.4 kg
- Best for: 1080p/QHD gaming on a budget
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Pros
- Strong 1080p gaming performance with RTX 50-series GPUs
- Good value for money compared to premium rivals
- Upgradeable RAM and SSD for future-proofing
- Decent keyboard with RGB backlighting
Cons
- Display brightness and color reproduction could be better
- Fan noise under heavy load is noticeable
- Short battery life compared to ultraportables
- Plastic build feels less premium
Key Takeaways
- One of the most affordable ways to get RTX 50-series performance.
- Best suited for plugged-in 1080p or QHD gaming.
- Good upgrade potential, but compromises on battery and build.
Performance & Gaming
The Katana 15 HX delivers smooth 1080p performance in modern titles, with RTX 5050 models hitting high frame rates and RTX 5070 variants capable of QHD. Paired with Intel HX CPUs, it’s a solid performer for both gaming and creative workloads.
Display & Visuals
MSI offers both 144Hz FHD and 165Hz QHD display options. While the higher resolution panel delivers sharper visuals, brightness and color depth are limited compared to premium laptops. It’s a trade-off between affordability and image quality.
Thermals & Build
Cooling is effective but noisy under load, with heat concentrated near the rear vents. The plastic chassis is sturdy enough but feels less premium than rivals like Razer or Lenovo Legion.
Battery Life & Portability
Battery life remains a weak point, lasting only a few hours on light use and much less when gaming. At ~2.4kg, it’s portable enough for occasional travel but not an ultrabook replacement.
FAQs
Is the MSI Katana 15 HX good for competitive gaming?
Yes. With up to RTX 5070, it can deliver high FPS at 1080p and competitive QHD performance.
Can you upgrade the RAM and SSD?
Yes, the Katana 15 HX supports up to 96GB DDR5 RAM and additional NVMe SSDs.
Does the Katana 15 HX have good battery life?
No. Like most gaming laptops, its battery life is limited, especially during gaming. It’s best used plugged in.
Final Verdict – MSI Katana 15 HX Review
The MSI Katana 15 HX is a solid entry-level gaming laptop with RTX 50-series GPUs, making it one of the best-value options in 2025. While it doesn’t match premium rivals in display quality or battery life, its strong performance and upgrade potential make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.
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