MSI Modern 1s

Basic Information

The MSI Modern 1s refers to the MSI Modern series of laptops, encompassing models such as the Modern 13, Modern 14, and Modern 15. This series targets productivity and general computing tasks. Initial models were released around March 2022, with newer configurations, including those featuring Intel Core Ultra processors, appearing as late as June 2024, and some 2025 models also exist.

Minimum requirements for the series align with hardware capable of running Windows 10 and Windows 11. Supported operating systems include Windows 10 Home/Pro and Windows 11 Home/Pro.

The latest stable versions of the models continually update with new processor generations, featuring 13th Gen Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen 5000/7000 series processors.

End of support and end of life dates are not universally defined for the entire series but are model-specific, with MSI providing ongoing driver and BIOS updates for current models.

Auto-update expiration dates are tied to the operating system's lifecycle. The license type typically includes a pre-installed Windows Home or Pro license. The deployment model is 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 the 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: Available in 13.3-inch, 14-inch, or 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-Level panels with a 60Hz refresh rate. Displays feature 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 or MX330.
• Ports: Multiple USB Type-A ports (USB 2.0, 3.2 Gen 1/2), 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 but is included in some new 2024 models.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro is standard on most recent models, with older models running Windows 10.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • Modern 15: Approximately 35.89 x 23.59 x 1.99 cm (14.13" x 9.29" x 0.78") and weighs from 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs) to 1.9 kg (4.18 lbs). Some models are as light as 1.6 kg (3.53 lbs) or 0.62 inches thick.
  • Modern 14: Approximately 16.9-18.6mm H x 313.7-319mm W x 220.2-236mm D and weighs 1.3-1.6 kg (2.8-3.53 lbs).
  • Modern 13: Approximately 30.84 x 21.05 x 1.99 cm (12.14" x 8.29" x 0.78") and weighs 1.19 kg.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The MSI Modern 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-date DDR4 or DDR5 memory and dual M.2 SSD slots. The display, while Full HD IPS-Level, often features a 60Hz refresh rate and modest brightness, which is adequate for everyday tasks but not ideal for color-critical work or bright environments. Integrated graphics are standard, suitable for daily computing but not for demanding gaming or professional content creation. The port selection is comprehensive, including USB-A, USB-C (with Thunderbolt 4 on some models), HDMI, and a microSD card reader, offering good connectivity. Dimensions and weight vary across the 13, 14, and 15-inch models, with the smaller variants being notably portable.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: 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 dedicated support pages for various Modern series models, offering essential drivers, BIOS updates, and utilities.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The MSI Modern series 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 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 an 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 hardware vulnerabilities are reported. 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 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. Firmware Trusted Platform Module (fTPM) 2.0 is included.
• 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 series provides a foundational level of security. Its MIL-STD 810G 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. Firmware TPM 2.0 provides hardware-based security. 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. Users rely heavily on operating system-level security features and best practices.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • PCMark 10: Scores around 4489 for models with Intel Core i7-10510U.
  • Geekbench 5: Single-core scores are solid, while multi-core performance may not be as powerful as hoped for older i5 models. For an i5-1335U, scores are around 1654 (single-core) and 6931 (multi-core).
  • Cinebench R23: An Intel Core i7-1255U model scored 558 in multi-core tests.
  • 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics): Integrated graphics (Intel Iris Xe G7) show scores between 1332 and 1836.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: Capable for general productivity, office tasks, web browsing, and light content creation. Multitasking works well with 16GB of RAM, but 8GB can be limiting. Not suitable for demanding gaming or professional video editing.
• Power Consumption: Not explicitly detailed in watts, but battery life is frequently cited as a weakness, with some models offering only a few hours of use on a full charge. Battery capacities range from 39Wh to 53.8Wh.
• Carbon Footprint: Specific models are ENERGY STAR certified and EPEAT registered. Newer models incorporate post-consumer recycled resin in their chassis, indicating efforts towards environmental sustainability.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Often packs better specifications than similarly priced options. Performance trails that of costlier Core i9 laptops or those with dedicated GPUs.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The MSI Modern series delivers solid performance for its intended use case: everyday productivity and light computing. Its diverse range of Intel and AMD processors provides sufficient power for tasks like word processing, web browsing, and basic photo editing. While integrated graphics handle casual use, they are not designed for intensive gaming or professional-grade content creation. Multitasking capabilities are adequate, especially with 16GB of RAM or more. A significant drawback is often the battery life, which can be short, necessitating frequent charging. The series offers a competitive performance-to-price ratio, making it a strong budget option, though it cannot match the raw power or specialized capabilities of higher-end or gaming laptops.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews highlight several strengths and weaknesses of the MSI Modern series.

• Strengths:
  • Affordable Price: Often praised for offering good specifications at a budget-friendly price point.
  • Processor Performance: Capable Intel Core and AMD Ryzen CPUs handle everyday tasks and light content creation effectively.
  • Port Selection: A good array of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and a microSD card reader, is generally appreciated.
  • Keyboard: Comfortable, backlit keyboard with good key travel (1.5mm) is suitable for extensive typing.
  • Design & Portability: Relatively thin and light chassis, especially for the 13-inch and 14-inch models, making them easy to carry. The design is often described as sleek.
  • Upgradability: Many models offer two SODIMM slots for RAM and two M.2 SSD slots for storage, providing significant upgrade potential.
  • Build Quality: MIL-STD 810G certification indicates physical robustness.
• Weaknesses:
  • Battery Life: Consistently cited as a major drawback, often lasting only a few hours, which limits portability.
  • Display Quality: The 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-Level display is frequently criticized for low brightness (250-266 nits), poor color gamut (around 50% sRGB), and 60Hz refresh rate, making it less suitable for creative work or bright environments. Thick bezels are also noted.
  • Graphics Performance: Reliance on integrated graphics 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 basic or barely adequate.
  • Fan Noise: Some users report noticeable fan noise, especially under load or even at idle for older models.
• Recommended Use Cases:

  The MSI Modern series is recommended for students, home users, and professionals who require a budget-friendly laptop for general productivity tasks such as web browsing, word processing, spreadsheets, and light content creation. It is also suitable for coding on a budget. It is not recommended for users needing long battery life, high-quality displays for creative work, or powerful graphics for gaming or intensive video editing.

Summary

The MSI Modern series, represented by models like the Modern 13, 14, and 15, positions itself as a versatile and budget-conscious line of laptops primarily aimed at productivity and everyday computing. Its core strength lies in offering a wide array of processor options, from various generations of Intel Core and AMD Ryzen U-series CPUs, 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 series generally provides ample RAM and storage, with significant upgrade potential, which is a notable advantage for longevity and adaptability. Connectivity is robust, featuring a good selection of modern ports, and the keyboards are often praised for comfort. The design is typically sleek and, for the smaller models, quite portable.

However, the series presents notable weaknesses. The display is frequently cited as a major compromise, characterized by low brightness, limited color accuracy, and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, making it less ideal for visual professionals or use in bright environments. Battery life is another significant drawback, often falling short of a full workday, which impacts its utility for mobile users. While physical security features like MIL-STD 810G certification and Kensington lock slots are present, advanced biometric authentication methods are not universal, and the webcam quality is generally basic. Performance is adequate for daily tasks but insufficient for demanding applications such as high-end gaming or professional video editing.

In assessment, the MSI Modern series offers a compelling value proposition for users seeking an affordable and capable laptop for general use, academic work, or office productivity. Its upgradability and diverse configurations allow users to tailor the device to their specific needs within a budget. However, potential buyers must weigh the cost savings against the compromises in display quality and battery life. For users whose primary needs revolve around CPU-intensive productivity tasks and who can tolerate a less vibrant screen and shorter battery duration, the MSI Modern series is a viable option. Those requiring superior visual fidelity, extended unplugged use, or powerful graphics capabilities should consider higher-tier alternatives.

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.