MSI Modern 8 Pro

Basic Information

The MSI Modern 8 Pro refers to configurations within the MSI Modern series, encompassing both laptops (such as the Modern 14 and Modern 15) and All-in-One (AIO) PCs (like the Modern AM242 and AM272), typically equipped with professional-grade features or running Windows 11 Pro. This series targets professionals and everyday users seeking a blend of performance, style, and productivity. Specific model numbers vary widely across regions and generations.

• Model Variants: Modern 14, Modern 15 (laptops); Modern AM242, Modern AM272, PRO AP242P, PRO AP272P (All-in-One PCs).
• Version: Varies by specific model and generation. Recent models feature 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel processors.
• Release Date: The Modern series sees continuous updates, with new models released periodically. For example, some Modern AM series AIOs were announced in March 2024, and Modern 14/15 laptops have 2023/2024 revisions.
• Minimum Requirements: Typically requires Windows 11 compatible hardware, including a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0.
• Supported Operating Systems: Primarily Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. MSI generally recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the most current hardware configurations available, often featuring 13th or 14th Gen Intel Core processors.
• End of Support Date: Dependent on the specific model and its components. Software support aligns with Microsoft's Windows lifecycle. Hardware support varies by warranty and regional policies.
• End of Life Date: Not publicly disclosed for the entire series; individual models are phased out as newer generations are introduced.
• Auto-Update Expiration Date: Governed by the operating system (Windows 11) and its update policies.
• License Type: Typically includes a pre-installed Windows license (Home or Pro).
• Deployment Model: Direct purchase for individual users or bulk procurement for enterprise environments.

Technical Specifications

The MSI Modern series offers diverse configurations, balancing portability and performance for productivity tasks.

• Processor: Options include Intel Core i3, i5, i7, and i9 processors, ranging from 12th to 14th Generation. Specific models feature U-series (e.g., i7-1255U, i7-1355U) for efficiency in laptops, or H-series (e.g., i7-13700H, i9-13900H) for higher performance in some laptop variants, and desktop-grade processors (e.g., i7-14700) in AIOs.
• RAM: Configurable from 8GB up to 64GB DDR4 or DDR5 memory. Many models feature two SODIMM slots for user upgrades. Speeds typically range from 3200MHz (DDR4) to 5600MHz (DDR5).
• Storage: Primarily M.2 NVMe PCIe SSDs, with capacities from 128GB up to 1TB. Some AIO models also offer additional 2.5-inch HDD/SSD slots for expanded storage.
• Display:
  • Laptops: 14-inch or 15.6-inch IPS-level panels with Full HD (1920x1080) resolution, often with a 60Hz refresh rate and matte finish. Some 14-inch models feature a 16:10 aspect ratio (1920x1200).
  • AIO PCs: 23.8-inch or 27-inch IPS-grade panels with Full HD (1920x1080) resolution. Touchscreen options are available on some AIO models.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or Intel UHD Graphics, depending on the processor.
• Ports:
  • Laptops: Typically include USB Type-A (USB 3.2 Gen1/Gen2), USB Type-C (with DisplayPort, Power Delivery, and sometimes Thunderbolt 4 support), HDMI (up to 4K@30Hz or HDMI 2.1), a microSD card reader, and a combo audio jack.
  • AIO PCs: Multiple USB Type-A and Type-C ports, HDMI in/out, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio ports.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • Modern 14: Around 1.4 kg (3.09 lbs) and 19.35mm thick.
  • Modern 15: Around 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs) and 19.9mm thick.
  • AIO PCs: Dimensions vary significantly by screen size (23.8-inch or 27-inch).

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The MSI Modern series emphasizes a balance of modern components for everyday productivity and light professional tasks. The inclusion of 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors, coupled with DDR4 or DDR5 RAM and NVMe SSDs, ensures responsive performance. The integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics are suitable for general use, multimedia consumption, and light creative work, but not for demanding gaming or heavy graphical applications. Port selection is comprehensive, offering good connectivity for peripherals and external displays, with some laptop models featuring Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer and versatile docking. The design prioritizes portability for laptops and a clean, space-saving aesthetic for AIOs. Upgradeability, particularly for RAM and storage, is a notable strength in many models.

Support & Compatibility

The MSI Modern series offers robust support and compatibility, leveraging standard industry components and widespread operating systems.

• Latest Version: Refers to the most recently released configurations within the Modern series, featuring up-to-date processors and Windows 11.
• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. Compatibility with future Windows versions is expected.
• End of Support Date: Software support is tied to Microsoft's lifecycle for Windows 11. Hardware support is covered by MSI's warranty policies, typically 1-3 years depending on region and model.
• Localization: Available globally with localized operating system versions, keyboards, and power adapters.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are provided by MSI through their official website and often managed via the MSI Center software, ensuring compatibility with the installed hardware and operating system.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The MSI Modern series maintains a strong support and compatibility status. Its reliance on Intel platforms and Windows 11 ensures broad software and peripheral compatibility. MSI provides dedicated support pages for drivers and utilities, including the MSI Center software, which centralizes system management, updates, and performance tuning. The ability to upgrade RAM and storage in many models further extends their lifespan and adaptability. Localization efforts make the series accessible to a global user base.

Security Status

The MSI Modern series integrates several hardware and software security features to protect user data and privacy.

• Security Features:
  • Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0): Discrete or hardware-based TPM 2.0 is standard, essential for Windows 11 security features like BitLocker and Secure Boot.
  • Windows Hello: Support for biometric authentication via integrated Full HD webcams (facial recognition) and/or fingerprint sensors (often integrated into the power button).
  • Webcam Shutter/Switch: Physical privacy shutters or switches for the webcam are included in many models.
  • Device Encryption: Windows 11's built-in device encryption (BitLocker) is supported, leveraging TPM 2.0.
  • Tobii Aware Software: Some AIO models integrate Tobii Aware for intelligent privacy features, such as automatically blurring or locking the display when the user moves away.
  • MSI Cloud Center: Enables private cloud creation and file backup, potentially enhancing data security through controlled storage.
• Known Vulnerabilities: MSI actively addresses security vulnerabilities through BIOS/firmware updates. Recent vulnerabilities affecting MSI products (e.g., CVE-2024-36877 related to SMM, and AMD Zenbleed CVE-2023-20593 for specific AMD platforms) are patched via manufacturer updates. General vulnerabilities related to MSI installer files (e.g., DLL hijacking, custom actions abuse) are also a concern across the industry, but MSI provides guidance for reporting and resolving product-specific issues.
• Blacklist Status: No general blacklist status is associated with the MSI Modern series.
• Certifications: Specific certifications are not broadly listed for the entire series, but individual components may carry industry-standard compliance.
• Encryption Support: Full support for Windows 11's BitLocker device encryption.
• Authentication Methods: Password, PIN, Windows Hello (facial recognition, fingerprint).
• General Recommendations: Users should regularly update BIOS/firmware and operating system, utilize strong authentication methods, enable device encryption, and exercise caution with software installations. MSI encourages reporting potential vulnerabilities to their Product Security Incident Response Team.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The MSI Modern series offers a solid foundation for security, particularly with the inclusion of TPM 2.0 and Windows Hello support, which are critical for modern operating system security. The integration of privacy features like webcam shutters and Tobii Aware in some models further enhances user control. While vulnerabilities are an ongoing concern for all hardware manufacturers, MSI demonstrates a commitment to addressing them through firmware updates and a clear reporting process. Users who keep their systems updated and follow general security best practices can maintain a high level of security.

Performance & Benchmarks

The performance of the MSI Modern series varies significantly depending on the specific model and its configuration, particularly the processor.

• Benchmark Scores:
  • CPU Performance (Geekbench 6 Multi-core): Laptops with 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U can score around 7,483. Higher-end H-series processors like the i7-13700H or i9-13900H show significantly better multi-core performance, with i7-13700H reaching around 793 in Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core.
  • PCMark 10: General performance scores for Modern 14 (12th Gen i7-1255U) are around 5,323, indicating reasonable performance for daily tasks.
  • 3DMark: Integrated Intel Xe Graphics provide basic 3D capabilities, scoring around 1,533 in 3DMark Time Spy for a Modern 14 (12th Gen i7-1255U). This is suitable for casual gaming but not demanding titles.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Productivity: Handles text processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and video calls with ease.
  • Multitasking: Capable with multiple applications open, especially with 16GB RAM or more.
  • Creative Tasks: Suitable for light photo editing and basic video editing, but not for frequent or heavy multimedia creation due to integrated graphics limitations.
  • Gaming: Limited to casual games or older titles at lower settings.
• Power Consumption:
  • Battery Life (Laptops): Varies by model and usage. Modern 14 (C12M) can achieve over 8 hours in PCMark 10 Modern Office test. Modern 14 H (i9-13900H) offers around 6 hours and 25 minutes for office tasks, and 6 hours 57 minutes for 1080p video playback. Some models have 39Wh to 53.8Wh batteries. USB-C PD charging is supported.
  • AIO PCs: Power consumption is typical for desktop-class components, designed for continuous operation.
• Carbon Footprint: Specific carbon footprint data is not readily available for individual models. MSI, as a manufacturer, likely adheres to environmental regulations in its production processes.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The Modern series competes with other budget to mid-range productivity laptops and AIOs from brands like HP Pavilion, Dell Inspiron, and Lenovo ThinkBook/IdeaCentre. It often offers competitive performance for its price point, with strengths in CPU performance and upgradeability, though sometimes with trade-offs in display quality or dedicated graphics.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The MSI Modern series delivers solid performance for its intended use case: general productivity, office work, and light creative tasks. Laptop models with U-series processors prioritize efficiency and battery life, while those with H-series processors offer a significant boost for more demanding workloads. AIO PCs provide desktop-grade performance in a compact form factor. The integrated graphics are a limiting factor for intensive graphical applications or modern gaming. Overall, the series provides a reliable and responsive user experience for everyday computing, often offering good value for its performance class.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the MSI Modern series generally highlight its value proposition, build quality, and performance for productivity, while noting some areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Performance for Price: Many users find the performance, especially from the CPU, to be excellent for the price, often outperforming more expensive alternatives in its class.
  • Build Quality & Design: Appreciated for its sleek, modern, and often lightweight design, with premium-feeling materials. AIOs are praised for their space-saving and elegant form factor.
  • Upgradeability: The presence of two SODIMM slots for RAM and accessible SSD slots is a significant advantage, allowing users to extend the device's lifespan and tailor it to their needs.
  • Port Selection: A wide array of ports, including USB-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort, and sometimes Thunderbolt 4, is frequently praised for connectivity.
  • Battery Life (select models): Some laptop models offer good battery life for a full day of office work.
  • Quiet Operation: Fans often remain quiet under typical loads.
• Weaknesses:
  • Display Quality: While sharp, some laptop displays are noted for dimness, making outdoor or brightly lit room usage challenging. Color accuracy can be a concern for professional creative work.
  • Integrated Graphics Limitations: Not suitable for demanding gaming or heavy graphics-intensive applications.
  • Webcam Quality: Often 720p, described as "serviceable" but not exceptional.
  • Hinge Durability (older models): Some older Modern 14 units received feedback about hinge issues, though this appears to have been addressed in later production runs.
  • Bloatware: Some users report pre-installed bloatware.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Business & Productivity: Ideal for office tasks, remote work, virtual meetings, and general business applications.
  • Education: Suitable for students due to portability, decent performance for academic tasks, and comfortable keyboards.
  • Everyday Computing: Excellent for web browsing, media consumption, and light personal use.
  • Light Content Creation: Capable for basic photo editing and non-intensive video work.

Summary

The MSI Modern 8 Pro, representing the professional-oriented configurations within the MSI Modern series, offers a compelling package for users seeking a balance of performance, portability (for laptops), and a clean aesthetic (for AIOs) at a competitive price point. The series benefits from recent Intel Core processors (12th, 13th, and 14th Gen), ample RAM (often upgradeable to 64GB DDR4/DDR5), and fast NVMe SSD storage, ensuring smooth operation for daily tasks and moderate workloads. Connectivity is a strong suit, with a generous selection of modern ports, including USB-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort, and sometimes Thunderbolt 4. Security features like TPM 2.0, Windows Hello, and webcam shutters provide a robust defense for user data and privacy.

Strengths include its strong CPU performance for productivity, attractive and often lightweight design, excellent upgradeability for RAM and storage, and comprehensive port selection. Many users appreciate the value it offers for its performance class.

Weaknesses typically revolve around the integrated graphics, which limit its suitability for demanding gaming or heavy creative applications. Display quality, while generally sharp, can sometimes be a drawback due to lower brightness or color accuracy in some models, and webcam quality is often standard.

Recommendations: The MSI Modern series is highly recommended for business professionals, students, and general users who prioritize productivity, a sleek design, and the flexibility of future upgrades. It excels as a daily driver for office work, web conferencing, and multimedia consumption. Users requiring powerful dedicated graphics for gaming, 3D rendering, or high-end video editing should consider MSI's gaming or creator-focused lines instead. For those seeking a reliable, secure, and efficient machine for everyday professional and personal use, the MSI Modern series with its Pro-oriented configurations presents a strong option.

Please note: The 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.