MSI Launches New Line of Powerful and Portable Gaming Laptops at CES 2026

MSI has consistently been a top contender in the gaming laptop arena, and with the introduction of the Raider 16 Max HX, it aims to elevate that status even further.

Unveiled at CES 2026, this latest model in MSI’s extensive gaming lineup boasts a total power output of 300W within a 16-inch chassis, dedicating 175W to either the RTX 5080 or RTX 5090 graphics cards. Both configurations are powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 200HX processors, which receive 125W of power. This machine is designed for gamers who want to push the limits with the latest tech, while also ensuring longevity.

The Raider 16 Max HX features an easily accessible panel for memory upgrades (though finding reasonably priced DDR5 RAM might be a challenge) and supports PCIe Gen 5 SSD storage. It also sports a QHD+ 240Hz OLED display, a shift from last year’s larger MSI Raider A18 HX A9W, which had a Mini LED panel.

MSI has also introduced a more portable version of its Stealth series, which offers an additional 20W of power to its GPU compared to its predecessor.

The Crosshair series is getting the Max upgrade this year as well. The 16 Max HX model incorporates Intel Core Ultra 200HX processors into a more budget-friendly range, paired with RTX 50-Series GPUs. This rig is designed for value, yet it still delivers up to 200W of total power—30W more than last year’s models—and includes a 24-zone RGB keyboard.

These new machines are following the trends established in 2025, featuring thinner, more efficient designs and faster OLED displays. Intel’s latest processors are expected to enhance power management in these sleeker devices, addressing the struggles of many previous-generation models that had difficulty maintaining performance without being plugged in.

For the Raider series, this is the year to go all-in on the RTX 5090. While only the Max model offers full configurability up to the RTX 5090, it aims to continue the legacy of its larger predecessors with a straightforward focus on high framerates.

MSI has yet to reveal details about release dates and pricing, so more information is anticipated in the coming weeks.