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MSI Raider 16 Max HX: Two-minute review
MSI has something of a mixed history with gaming laptops. Having reviewed numerous products from this Taiwanese computer hardware brand, I have often praised MSI for delivering high-performance devices with competitive price tags.
However, the current RAM crisis impacts the latest high-end gaming laptop, the Raider 16 Max HX, negatively affecting its affordability. The review configuration I tested retails at a steep $4,299 / £3,999 (approximately AU$6,235), making it clear that the era of budget-friendly gaming laptops is coming to an end. While I previously found MSI’s offerings to often deliver comparable specs at reasonable prices, the latest models are significantly affected by market changes.
Despite the price, is the MSI Raider 16 Max HX a solid gaming laptop? For the most part, I would confidently answer yes. With strong performance across the board—featuring an Intel Core Ultra processor and Nvidia RTX 5000 GPU, paired with 32GB of RAM—the laptop delivers high framerates in gaming and effectively handles demanding creative workloads. It’s also suitable for AI-focused tasks, making it a versatile option for both work and play.
The VESA-validated QHD+ display is colorful and bright, with optional OLED variants available in some regions. However, the bulky chassis may deter those looking for portability. It accommodates a full-sized keyboard that feels comfortable and includes a great selection of connectivity options.
Nevertheless, my primary concern with the Raider 16 Max HX lies in its build quality. While the plastic casing and screen hinge offer some sturdiness, the keyboard has excessive flex during firm key presses, and the touchpad disappointingly feels subpar and fragile. Despite these shortcomings, I believe they aren’t dealbreakers—most gamers will typically rely on an external mouse for gameplay.
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Price & availability
The MSI Raider 16 Max HX starts at $2,999 / £2,249 (around AU$4,350) for a model equipped with the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a less powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU. My review unit featured a high-spec configuration with an RTX 5090 and Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor alongside 32GB of RAM, setting buyers back $4,299 / £3,999 (around AU$6,235).
There’s also a mid-range option featuring the RTX 5080 and several configurations that alter the CPU, RAM, or display. Although it isn’t the most expensive gaming laptop available, the price points of these configurations mean buyers need to consider the value they are getting for their money.
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Specs
| Base spec | Max spec (review config) | |
| Price | $2,999 / £2,249 (around AU$4,350) | $4,299 / £3,999 (around AU$6,235) |
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 7 251HX | Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU | Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 | 32GB DDR5 |
| Display | 16-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600p), 240Hz, IPS | 16-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600p), 240Hz, IPS (OLED optional) |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 | 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 |
| Ports and Connectivity | 3x USB-A (3.2 Gen2), 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x SD card reader, 1x RJ-45 Ethernet, 1x 3.5mm combo audio; Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | 3x USB-A (3.2 Gen2), 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x SD card reader, 1x RJ-45 Ethernet, 1x 3.5mm combo audio; Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Battery | 91.8Whr | 91.8Whr |
| Weight | 5.73lbs / 2.60kg | 5.73lbs / 2.60kg |
| Dimensions | 10.6 x 14.3 x 1.1 inches / 26.9 x 36.3 x 2.89 cm | 10.6 x 14.3 x 1.1 inches / 26.9 x 36.3 x 2.89 cm |
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Design
Designed with gamers in mind, the MSI Raider 16 Max HX features a bulkier form factor reflecting its robust construction. The RGB lightbar and translucent WASD keys offer a distinct ‘gamer look,’ but the overall aesthetic may not suit those wanting a subtle laptop for professional environments.
The considerable size allows for a spacious RGB-backlit keyboard with ample travel and spacing, but the keyboard flex may detract from the typing experience for some users. Additionally, the chassis provides useful ports including multiple USB-A and USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), HDMI, and an SD card reader, making it a practical choice for creatives needing to connect various devices.
This larger design contributes to improved cooling, featuring a triple-fan setup with extensive exhaust vents that efficiently manage heat. Such effective cooling can be crucial during intensive sessions, minimizing discomfort on long gaming or productivity stretches.
While the display is visually impressive—with bright colors and high refresh rates—the touchpad performance diminishes the overall experience. The touchpad feels unsatisfactory at best, with a flex that feels flimsy, particularly considering the investment in a high-end device. In use, this isn’t likely to be significant since most gamers opt for external mice.
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Performance
Boasting powerful AAA gaming performance, the Raider 16 Max HX is also adept at creative and AI workloads. Benchmarks indicate that the performance is stellar, even exceeding those of competitors like the Razer Blade 18 in certain scenarios.
- 3DMark Scores: Night Raid: 92,257; Fire Strike: 39,894
- Geekbench 6: Multicore: 20,638; Single-core: 3,114
- Cinebench R24: Multi Core: 2,229
- Game test results: Cyberpunk 2077 (60 fps at max resolution with balanced DLSS).
The Intel Core Ultra 290HX Plus enhances performance across both single- and multi-core tasks. Users can expect minimal CPU bottlenecking during gaming sessions with CPU-heavy titles.
While the performance metrics are commendable, it’s important to note that the fans do produce noise under load. Though not the loudest in the market, these sounds can be distracting in shared spaces.
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Battery life
Surprisingly, the Raider 16 Max HX excels in battery life. During video playback tests, it surpassed the eight-hour mark, a commendable achievement for a gaming laptop. This efficiency is largely due to the incorporation of the Intel Core Ultra chip, which efficiently manages power demands.
Despite the impressive figures during casual use, gaming remains taxing on battery life, as observed in tests playing demanding titles like Marathon, where the battery drained to 10% in just over two hours. Nonetheless, users can charge the laptop via USB-C for more flexibility if needed.
Should I buy the MSI Raider 16 Max HX?
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
| Value | Very expensive given some build quality issues, particularly in higher-spec versions. | 3.5 / 5 |
| Design | Durable with a good selection of ports, but the RGB-heavy design might alienate professional users. | 3.5 / 5 |
| Performance | Best-in-class performance for gaming and creative use, with effective cooling. | 5 / 5 |
| Battery Life | Impressive, with long durations in basic tasks and solid performance under load. | 4.5 / 5 |
| Total Score | A solid choice for a desktop replacement, but budget needs careful consideration. | 4.125 / 5 |
MSI Raider 16 Max HX review: Also consider
How I tested the MSI Raider 16 Max HX
Over the course of 10 days, I used the Raider 16 Max HX as my primary laptop, testing both its gaming capabilities and daily productivity tasks. Throughout this time, I experimented with numerous benchmark tests and real-world scenarios, gaining valuable insights into the laptop’s performance potential.
With more than eight years of experience reviewing laptops at leading tech sites, my expertise ensures the insights shared here provide reliable information about the MSI Raider 16 Max HX.
For further details, check out the comprehensive review Here.
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