MSI Modern 15

Basic Information

• Model Series: MSI Modern 15 (various sub-models such as A11M, B12M, B13M, A5M, F13Mx, H AI)
• Release Date: Initial models released around March 2022. Newer configurations, including 2023 models and those with Intel Core Ultra processors, have subsequent release dates, some as late as June 2024.
• Minimum Requirements: Compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11, implying hardware capable of running these operating systems.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Home/Pro, Windows 11 Home/Pro.
• Latest Stable Version (Model): The series continually updates with new processor generations. Recent models feature 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen 5000/7000 series processors.
• End of Support Date: Varies by specific model and manufacturer policy. MSI provides ongoing driver and BIOS updates for current models.
• End of Life Date: Varies by specific model and manufacturer policy.
• License Type: Typically comes with a pre-installed Windows Home or Pro license.
• Deployment Model: Not applicable; designed as a personal computing device.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Options include Intel Core processors (from 10th Gen i3/i5/i7 up to 13th Gen i5/i7/i9, Intel Core 7 150U, and Intel Core Ultra 9 185H) or AMD Ryzen U-series processors (such as Ryzen 5000 and 4000 series, including Ryzen 7 5730U).
• RAM: Configurable from 8GB to 32GB DDR4-3200. Some models support up to 64GB or even 96GB via two SODIMM slots, offering significant upgrade potential. Newer Intel Core Ultra models may feature DDR5 RAM.
• Storage: NVMe PCIe SSDs ranging from 256GB to 1TB. Most models feature two M.2 SSD slots for expansion.
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-Level panel with a 60Hz refresh rate. Features anti-glare coating and typical brightness levels of 250-266 nits. Some newer models may offer 1920x1200p resolution.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, Intel UHD Graphics, or AMD Radeon Graphics. Older configurations might include discrete NVIDIA MX250 graphics.
• Ports: Multiple USB Type-A ports (USB 3.2 Gen 1/2, some 2.0), at least one USB Type-C port (USB 3.2 Gen 1/2, some models with Thunderbolt 4, Power Delivery, and DisplayPort support), HDMI output (up to 2.1), a headphone/microphone combo jack, and a microSD card reader. An Ethernet port is not always present.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro is standard on most recent models, with older models running Windows 10.
• Dimensions (WxDxH): Approximately 358.9 x 235.9 x 19.9 mm (14.13" x 9.29" x 0.78").
• Weight: Ranges from approximately 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs) to 1.9 kg (4.18 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The MSI Modern 15 series offers a broad spectrum of configurations, primarily targeting productivity and general use. Processor options are diverse, spanning multiple generations of Intel Core and AMD Ryzen U-series CPUs, providing a balance between performance and power efficiency. Newer models, particularly those with Intel Core Ultra processors, indicate a move towards more advanced integrated AI capabilities. RAM and storage are generally generous and highly upgradable, with most models supporting up to 64GB or even 96GB of DDR4 memory and dual M.2 SSD slots, which is a significant advantage for longevity and user customization. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS-Level display is standard for this class, offering adequate visual real estate for daily tasks, though brightness and color accuracy are often noted as average. Integrated graphics solutions are suitable for everyday computing, multimedia consumption, and light creative work, but they are not designed for demanding gaming or professional-grade video editing. The port selection is comprehensive, catering to most peripheral needs, with some newer models incorporating Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer and expanded connectivity. Overall, the technical specifications position the MSI Modern 15 as a versatile and capable machine for business and academic environments, with a strong emphasis on user-upgradability.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The MSI Modern 15 series is continuously updated, with the latest configurations featuring 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen 5000/7000 series processors.
• OS Support: Full compatibility with Windows 10 and Windows 11, including Home and Pro editions.
• End of Support Date: Not universally defined for the entire series; support duration is model-specific. MSI provides drivers and BIOS updates on its official support pages.
• Localization: Available in various markets worldwide, with corresponding regional keyboard layouts and language support.
• Available Drivers: MSI offers dedicated support pages for each model, providing essential drivers, BIOS updates, and utility software to ensure optimal performance and address potential issues.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The MSI Modern 15 offers robust support and compatibility for its target audience. It runs on current Windows operating systems, ensuring broad software compatibility and access to the latest features and security updates. MSI provides dedicated support pages for various Modern 15 models, offering essential drivers, BIOS updates, and utilities to maintain optimal performance and address potential issues. The availability of multiple OS versions (Windows 10 and 11) ensures flexibility for users. While a universal end-of-support date is not specified, MSI's practice of providing model-specific resources indicates ongoing commitment to product maintenance. Localization support caters to a global user base.

Security Status

• Security Features: MIL-STD 810G certification for physical robustness, Kensington lock slot for physical security, and a webcam privacy shutter on some models.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are reported for the hardware itself. As a Windows-based system, it is subject to general software vulnerabilities, requiring regular OS and application updates.
• Blacklist Status: No information indicates any blacklist status for the MSI Modern 15 series.
• Certifications: MIL-STD 810G for durability, ENERGY STAR certified for energy efficiency (specific models), and EPEAT registered (specific models) for environmental performance.
• Encryption Support: Supports standard operating system encryption features, such as BitLocker when running Windows 11 Pro.
• Authentication Methods: Primarily password and PIN. Some configurations include a fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. IR cameras for facial recognition are generally absent.
• General Recommendations: Users should maintain up-to-date operating system and driver software, utilize strong passwords, and enable any available biometric authentication features.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The MSI Modern 15 provides a foundational level of security. Its MIL-STD 810G certification indicates physical robustness, which contributes to asset protection in varied environments. The inclusion of a webcam privacy shutter in some models addresses a common privacy concern. However, a notable limitation is the frequent absence of integrated biometric authentication methods like IR cameras, and fingerprint readers are not universal across all models, which are increasingly standard in modern business laptops. While it supports OS-level encryption, dedicated hardware encryption features are not prominently highlighted. The overall security rating is adequate for general use, relying heavily on software-based security measures and physical durability rather than advanced integrated biometric solutions.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • PCMark 10: Scores typically exceed 4,000 points, indicating excellent productivity for everyday applications.
  • Cinebench R24 (Multicore): A model with Intel Core i9-13900H scored in the 6th percentile, while an i7-1355U model achieved 536 points.
  • Geekbench 5/6: Single-core performance is often impressive, sometimes on par with premium laptops like the Apple MacBook Pro 14 M2 Pro. Multicore scores range from approximately 6,931 to 7,431 for various 13th Gen Intel Core models.
  • 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics): Scores for integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (96EU) are around 1836, and G7 (80EU) around 1794.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Delivers solid performance for general productivity, office tasks, web browsing, and light content creation. It handles multitasking effectively. CPU performance can be strong for its segment, but integrated graphics limit demanding visual workloads like heavy gaming or professional video editing.
• Power Consumption: Approximately 10W at idle in balanced mode. Under full CPU load in high-performance mode, it can draw around 50W.
• Carbon Footprint: Estimated at 107 kgCO2e for specific models (e.g., Modern 15 B12MOG/B13MG) over a 4-year product lifetime.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Often compared to budget and mid-range laptops such as the Gigabyte Aorus 15 BMF, HP Envy x360 15.6, Lenovo Yoga Book 9i, Acer Aspire 3, Asus Zenbook A14, and Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3. The Modern 15 is noted for offering powerful CPUs at an affordable price but often makes compromises in display quality, the absence of a discrete GPU, or battery life.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The MSI Modern 15 is designed as a capable workhorse, delivering solid performance for general productivity and office tasks. Its various Intel Core and AMD Ryzen configurations provide sufficient power for everyday computing, web browsing, and even light content creation. Benchmark scores, particularly in PCMark 10, confirm its proficiency in handling common business applications. While CPU performance can be quite strong for its segment, especially in newer generations, the integrated graphics are a limiting factor for demanding visual workloads, such as heavy gaming or professional video editing. Power consumption is reasonable for its class, though battery life can be a weakness in some configurations. The carbon footprint is in line with similar devices. Overall, the Modern 15 offers good performance for its price point, particularly for CPU-intensive tasks, but users seeking high-end graphics or extended battery life may find it falls short compared to more premium alternatives.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the MSI Modern 15 highlight a balance of strengths and weaknesses, often reflecting its positioning as a budget-friendly or mid-range productivity laptop.

• Strengths:
  • Value for Money: Frequently praised for offering powerful processors (like Core i9 in some configurations) at a competitive price point.
  • Portability & Design: Generally considered relatively thin and light for a 15.6-inch laptop, making it suitable for on-the-go use. The inclusion of a numeric keypad is also a positive for many users.
  • Durability: MIL-STD 810G certification is a reassuring factor, suggesting it can withstand daily wear and tear.
  • Upgradeability: The ability to upgrade RAM and storage (often with two SODIMM slots and dual M.2 SSD slots) is a significant advantage for longevity and customization.
  • Connectivity: Good selection of ports, with some newer models offering Thunderbolt 4, is appreciated.
  • Keyboard: The backlit keyboard is often well-regarded for its key travel, actuation force, and feedback.
• Weaknesses:
  • Display Quality: The 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-Level display is frequently cited as a major drawback. It often features a 60Hz refresh rate, low brightness (around 250-266 nits), and sometimes poor color gamut, making it less ideal for creative work or bright environments.
  • Graphics Performance: The reliance on integrated graphics (Intel Iris Xe, Intel UHD, or AMD Radeon) means it is not suitable for demanding gaming or professional video editing.
  • Biometrics & Webcam: Many models lack advanced biometric authentication (like IR cameras), and fingerprint readers are not universal. The 720p webcam is often described as barely adequate.
  • Build Quality (Perceived): While MIL-STD certified, the plastic construction in some models can lead to a feeling of flex in the chassis or screen.
  • Battery Life: Battery performance is often described as moderate, with some reviews indicating only a few hours of real-world use, necessitating frequent charging.
  • Other Issues: Some users report issues like a rattling trackpad or older USB 2.0 ports alongside newer ones. The use of DDR4 RAM instead of faster DDR5 in some newer CPU configurations is also noted as a limitation.
• Recommended Use Cases:

  The MSI Modern 15 is generally recommended for students, office workers, and users needing a capable laptop for everyday productivity, web browsing, document creation, and light multitasking on a budget. It serves well as a "poor man's mobile workstation" for number-crunching or demanding applications where a powerful CPU is prioritized over graphics or display quality.

Summary

The MSI Modern 15 series presents itself as a versatile and budget-conscious laptop solution, primarily targeting productivity and general computing tasks. Its core strength lies in offering a wide array of processor options, including powerful Intel 13th Gen Core i9 and newer Intel Core Ultra CPUs, or capable AMD Ryzen U-series processors, often at an attractive price point. This makes it a strong contender for users prioritizing raw CPU performance for tasks like data processing, office applications, and light content creation. The generous and often upgradable RAM (up to 32GB standard, with some models supporting up to 96GB) and dual M.2 SSD slots for storage expansion further enhance its appeal for long-term usability and customization. Physical durability, backed by MIL-STD 810G certification, adds a layer of reassurance for users on the go.

However, the Modern 15 makes notable compromises to achieve its price point. The display, typically a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS-Level panel, often features modest brightness and color accuracy, and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which can be a drawback for users accustomed to more vibrant or fluid screens, or those involved in color-sensitive work. The reliance on integrated graphics limits its utility for demanding gaming or professional-grade visual tasks. Battery life is often described as moderate, requiring users to keep a charger handy for extended use. While some models include a fingerprint reader and webcam privacy shutter, the absence of advanced biometrics like IR cameras is a common omission. The build, while durable, can feel less premium due to plastic construction in some variants.

Overall, the MSI Modern 15 is a solid choice for individuals and businesses seeking a cost-effective laptop that delivers strong CPU performance for everyday tasks, academic work, and general productivity. Its upgradeability is a significant advantage, allowing users to extend its lifespan and adapt it to evolving needs. However, those prioritizing a premium display, dedicated graphics performance, or exceptional battery life may find it necessary to consider higher-priced alternatives. The Modern 15 excels as a practical, no-frills workhorse that gets the job done efficiently within its intended scope.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.