MSI Modern 15 Gen 4

Basic Information

• Model: MSI Modern 15 series (includes sub-models such as B13M, B7M, F13M, H AI)
• Version: Continuously updated with the latest processor generations. Recent models feature 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen 5000/7000 series processors.
• 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.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Home/Pro, Windows 11 Home/Pro.
• Latest Stable Version (Model): Configurations featuring 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.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly defined; generally tied to the operating system and driver support lifecycle.
• License Type: Typically includes a pre-installed Windows Home or Pro license.
• Deployment Model: Not applicable; designed as a personal computing device.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Options include 12th Gen Intel Core (i3-1215U, i5-1235U, i7-1255U), 13th Gen Intel Core (i5-1334U, i5-1335U, i7-1355U, i9-13900H), and Intel Core Ultra (Ultra 7 155H, Ultra 9 185H). AMD options include Ryzen 5000 series (Ryzen 7 5700U) and Ryzen 7000 series (Ryzen 5 7530U, Ryzen 7 7730U).
• RAM: Configurable from 8GB to 32GB DDR4-3200, with some models supporting up to 64GB or 96GB via SODIMM slots. Newer Intel Core Ultra models may feature DDR5 RAM.
• Storage: NVMe PCIe SSDs ranging from 256GB to 1TB. Most models include one or two M.2 SSD slots for expansion, supporting PCIe Gen3 or Gen4.
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-Level panel with a 60Hz refresh rate. Features an anti-glare coating and typical brightness levels of 250-266 nits. Some newer models may offer 1920x1200p resolution.
• Ports:
  • USB: 1x Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen2, some with Power Delivery, DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt 4), 1x Type-A USB 3.2 Gen2, 2x Type-A USB 2.0. Some models feature 3x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A.
  • Video: 1x HDMI (supports up to 4K @ 30Hz).
  • Audio: 1x Mic-in/Headphone-out Combo Jack.
  • Card Reader: 1x Micro SD Card Reader.
  • Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or Wi-Fi 6E (AX211), Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro (pre-installed).
• Dimensions (WxDxH): Approximately 359 x 241 x 19.9 mm (14.13" x 9.49" x 0.78").
• Weight: Ranges from 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs) to 1.75 kg (3.9 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The MSI Modern 15 series offers a wide array 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. The display is a standard Full HD IPS-level panel, suitable for everyday tasks but not specialized for creative professionals due to its 60Hz refresh rate and typical brightness levels. The port selection is comprehensive, offering a mix of USB-A, USB-C (with varying capabilities including PD, DP, and Thunderbolt 4 on some models), HDMI, and a microSD card reader, ensuring broad connectivity. The laptop maintains a thin and light profile, enhancing its portability.

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 provides a comprehensive suite of drivers and BIOS updates via its official support website.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The MSI Modern 15 series demonstrates strong support and compatibility, particularly with current Windows operating systems. MSI actively provides driver and BIOS updates, ensuring ongoing functionality and security for its diverse range of models. The availability across various markets with localized options further enhances its user accessibility. Users should consult MSI's official support pages for model-specific end-of-support dates and the latest drivers.

Security Status

• Security Features: Includes Firmware Trusted Platform Module (fTPM) 2.0. Many models meet MIL-STD 810G/H military standards for durability. Features a 720p HD webcam. Some configurations may include a webcam privacy shutter.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread hardware vulnerabilities are reported for the asset 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/H for durability. Specific models may be ENERGY STAR certified for energy efficiency and EPEAT registered 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 offer 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, and utilize strong passwords.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The MSI Modern 15 provides a foundational level of security. Its MIL-STD 810G/H certification indicates physical robustness, contributing 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. Software-level security relies heavily on the operating system's capabilities and user adherence to best practices.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • PCMark 10: Typically exceeds 4,000 points, indicating excellent productivity for everyday applications.
  • Cinebench R24 (Multicore): An Intel Core i7-1355U model achieved 536 points, while an i9-13900H model scored in the 6th percentile.
  • Geekbench 5/6: Single-core performance is often impressive, with multicore scores ranging 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: Features 3-cell batteries with capacities ranging from 39Wh to 53.8Wh. Utilizes a 65W AC adapter and supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD) charging on many models.
• Carbon Footprint: Specific carbon footprint data is not readily available.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a versatile and budget-conscious laptop, offering competitive CPU performance for its price point, often compared favorably against other budget-friendly productivity laptops.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status

The MSI Modern 15 series offers strong CPU performance for its price segment, making it highly capable for everyday productivity, office applications, and light content creation. The inclusion of 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, and AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors ensures efficient multitasking and responsiveness. However, its reliance on integrated graphics means it is not designed for demanding graphical tasks such as intensive gaming or professional video editing. Battery life is adequate for mobile use, and USB-C PD charging adds convenience.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews highlight the MSI Modern 15's strengths in offering powerful CPU performance and ample RAM at a competitive price, making it a suitable choice for students, office users, and those needing a reliable machine for daily tasks and light content creation. Its thin and light design, combined with a good selection of ports and a backlit keyboard, are frequently praised for enhancing portability and usability. The 180° lay-flat hinge is noted for facilitating screen sharing.

Common weaknesses include the display, which is often described as generic, with a 16:9 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, and insufficient brightness for outdoor use, making it less ideal for creative professionals. The 720p webcam is considered a drawback compared to the 1080p standard in many modern laptops. Some models still use DDR4 RAM instead of the faster DDR5, and not all USB-C ports support Thunderbolt 4. The continued use of a traditional barrel charger, despite USB-C PD support, is also mentioned. The plastic construction, while contributing to its light weight, may lead to some flex.

Recommended use cases for the MSI Modern 15 include general productivity, academic work, web browsing, and business applications where raw CPU power is valued over high-end graphics or premium display features. It serves as a budget-friendly option for users seeking a capable daily driver.

Summary

The MSI Modern 15 series is a versatile and budget-conscious laptop designed primarily for productivity and general computing tasks. Its key strength lies in offering a broad range of powerful processors, including 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, and AMD Ryzen 7000 series options, often paired with generous DDR4 RAM and expandable NVMe PCIe SSD storage. This makes it a strong contender for users prioritizing raw CPU performance for tasks such as data processing, office applications, and light content creation. The laptop maintains a portable, thin, and light form factor, complemented by a comprehensive selection of I/O ports, including USB-C with Power Delivery and HDMI, enhancing its utility for various workflows. Physical durability is bolstered by MIL-STD 810G/H certifications on many models, and fTPM 2.0 provides a baseline for security.

However, the Modern 15 has notable weaknesses. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS-level display, while adequate for indoor use, is often criticized for its standard 60Hz refresh rate, 16:9 aspect ratio, and limited brightness, making it less suitable for outdoor environments or color-critical work. The 720p webcam is also a common point of critique. While some models offer a fingerprint reader, advanced biometric authentication like IR cameras is generally absent. The integrated graphics, while capable for daily tasks, are a limiting factor for demanding visual applications or gaming. Despite USB-C PD charging, some models still rely on a traditional barrel charger. The overall construction, often plastic, may exhibit some flex.

In conclusion, the MSI Modern 15 is an excellent value proposition for users seeking a powerful and portable laptop for everyday productivity, academic pursuits, and light business use. Its strengths in CPU performance, RAM, storage options, and connectivity outweigh its compromises in display quality and