Unexpected Highlights: MSI's Ultra-slim Laptops at CES

MSI is shifting focus at CES this year with the introduction of slender laptops that break away from its traditional gaming-centric models.

Introducing the Prestige AI+ Series

The newly unveiled Prestige AI+ collection represents MSI's top-tier lightweight line, available in sizes ranging from 13-inch to 16-inch with options for both clamshell and convertible forms in the larger models. These laptops are equipped with the cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra Series 3 'Panther Lake' processors, standard OLED screens, and reflect MSI’s minimalist design approach while being highly portable.

Modern Series: Accessibility Meets Performance

The Modern series is designed with accessibility in mind, providing 14-inch and 16-inch clamshell options. Though slightly lower on the spec spectrum, featuring Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors with OLED or IPS displays, these models balance performance and usability, making them ideal for a broader audience.

In a first-hand experience with these laptops, they hold their own against other ultralight contenders on the market, featuring a sleek MacBook-like design with large touchpads and vibrant displays.

Sleek Design and Minimalistic Features

The Prestige AI+ stands out for its subtlety and elegance. The laptops boast an all-metal body with an understated sheen, ornamented only by a finely etched MSI logo on the lid.

Notably, the 13-inch Prestige is remarkably lightweight at just under 2 pounds, making it an attractive niche product, while also promising impressive battery longevity, with claims of up to 19 hours of video playback due to its 75Whr battery capacity.

Larger models, like the 14- and 16-inch versions, maintain similar portability. They feature options for Intel’s Core Ultra X9, 9, or 7 processors and all include standard OLED screens.

Flexibility with 2-in-1 Designs

The 2-in-1 'Flip' iterations not only include flexible design but also integrate superior display technology, particularly in the larger variants. Accompanied by MSI's Nano Pen, these devices are tailored for versatile professional use.

Prestige models are built with Intel's state-of-the-art Core Ultra Series 3 'Panther Lake' chips, offering up to 64GB of LPDDR5x RAM and an adaptive 120Hz 2.8K OLED display.

Targeting Affordability with the Modern Series

Aiming at wider consumer appeal, the Modern 14S and 16S AI+ offer Intel Core Ultra 7 Series processors within compact and ultra-thin builds. Starting memory is at 16GB, which can be expanded to 32GB. These laptops' design aesthetic may evoke comparisons to Apple’s MacBook, which often translates to broad market success.

Pricing specifics remain undisclosed, though initial figures suggest a starting price around $1,099, placing them in a competitive range with other budget-friendly business laptops.