MSI Crosshair 16 Max HX: Slimmer, More Powerful Gaming Laptop
▼ Summary
– MSI announced the Crosshair 16 Max HX gaming laptop at CES, which is thinner than its predecessor but does not feature major design changes.
– The laptop includes updated specs like a 2nd-gen Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, an Nvidia RTX 50-series GPU, and up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM.
– It features a 16-inch 240Hz OLED display and supports MSI OverBoost Ultra for significant GPU and CPU power boosts.
– The chassis maintains a low-key design with minimal RGB lighting and subtle mecha-style accents on the lid.
– The Crosshair 16 Max HX is expected to launch in April 2026 with a starting price of $1,649.
The new MSI Crosshair 16 Max HX gaming laptop, unveiled at CES, delivers a notable upgrade by packing more powerful hardware into a slimmer frame. While the overall design philosophy remains consistent, the machine achieves a 14.3 percent reduction in thickness compared to the previous model, shaving off a meaningful 2mm. This refinement allows for a more portable gaming rig without sacrificing the high-end performance that enthusiasts demand.
Inside the streamlined chassis, users will find a significant spec bump. The laptop is equipped with a second-generation Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and pairs it with a powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 50-series graphics card. For memory and storage, it supports up to a massive 128GB of DDR5 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and future-proofing for demanding applications. The visual experience is anchored by a stunning 16-inch OLED display with a 2560 x 1600 resolution and a buttery-smooth 240Hz refresh rate, perfect for fast-paced competitive gaming.
A key feature for maximizing performance is MSI OverBoost Ultra technology. This system intelligently allocates power, allowing users to push the GPU by an additional 115W. The CPU can also receive a boost of 85W, or a focused 140W when the system dedicates all resources to processor-intensive tasks. This level of control helps extract every bit of performance for the most demanding games and creative workloads.
Externally, the Crosshair 16 Max HX maintains the brand’s preference for a subdued aesthetic. The chassis is relatively inconspicuous for a gaming laptop, featuring a simple MSI logo and some subtle mecha-inspired detailing on the lid. The keyboard does include customizable RGB lighting for those who want a flash of color, but the overall look is designed to be professional and low-key.
MSI has announced that the Crosshair 16 Max HX is scheduled to begin shipping in April 2026. The starting price for this enhanced, thinner gaming laptop is set at $1,649, positioning it as a premium option in the high-performance portable market.
(Source: The Verge)
