MSI Katana 17 review
The MSI MSI Katana 17 ranks as the #428 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 73. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #87-ranked performance among 713 laptops. Consider the MSI Delta 15 or MSI Katana 15 HX, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The MSI Katana 17 is a powerhouse gaming laptop that checks all the right boxes. Its 13th gen Intel Core i9 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU deliver exceptional performance, making it ideal for gamers who demand top-notch visuals. The 144Hz display and customizable RGB keyboard add to its appeal. However, some users may find the 1080p resolution limiting, and battery life is decent but not outstanding. Ultimately, the Katana 17 is worth considering if you're an avid gamer or a content creator in need of powerful hardware. Its performance, features, and value make it a great all-rounder. However, if portability or higher resolution are top priorities, you may want to explore other options.
Build
The MSI Katana 17's build is a highlight, weighing in at just 5.72 lbs and measuring 0.99 inches thick. Despite its large 17.3-inch display, it's impressively portable. The sleek black finish and sharp lines give it a modern and aggressive look that screams gaming. The laptop features excellent build quality with a durable chassis that feels premium to the touch. While not everyone may appreciate its bold design aesthetic, it's definitely a consideration for those seeking a statement piece. Overall, the Katana 17's build is solid, making it a great choice for gamers and content creators who value both performance and style. You might prefer MSI Stealth 17 Studio, designed with an upgraded build for a better experience.
Display
The display on the MSI Katana 17 is a highlight of the laptop. It features a 17.3-inch Full HD IPS panel with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate. This makes for smooth visuals and eliminates motion blur, ideal for fast-paced games like first-person shooters or racing titles. The thin bezels provide an immersive experience perfect for gaming, streaming, and productivity. The display's performance is complemented by its high refresh rate, making it a great choice for competitive gamers. Overall, the MSI Katana 17's display offers exceptional visuals and performance. For a superior display, MSI Vector GP77 could be the right choice.
Performance
The MSI Katana 17's performance is its crowning glory, powered by a 13th gen Intel Core i9 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU. The CPU boasts 14 cores, six performance cores, and eight efficiency cores, making it ideal for gaming and video editing. The GPU features 8GB of GDDR6 RAM, delivering stunning visuals and smooth gameplay even in demanding scenarios. With a 24MB cache and up to 5.4GHz clock speed, the processor ensures ultra-smooth performance, while the GPU handles graphically intense games with ease. Overall, the Katana 17's performance is exceptional, making it a top choice for gamers and content creators. A better alternative might be MSI Stealth 17 Studio, featuring a next-level performance.
Battery and Charging
The MSI Katana 17's battery life is decent but not impressive, typical for high-performance gaming laptops. You can expect to stay plugged in during extended gaming sessions. Charging time is not mentioned, but it's likely to be a significant duration given the laptop's power-hungry components. This might be a drawback for those who prioritize portability and need a laptop that can last throughout the day without needing a recharge. Overall, battery life is an area where this laptop falls short of expectations.
Connectivity
The MSI Katana 17 boasts impressive connectivity features, including Wi-Fi 6 for fast speeds and lower latency, Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless wireless device pairing, and HDMI 2.1 supporting 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz output. This ensures a strong connection for gaming, streaming, and productivity. If you’re after a better connectivity, MSI Stealth 17 Studio could be the ideal option.
Features
The MSI Katana 17 boasts a powerful Intel Core i9 processor, paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU for stunning visuals. It features a 17.3in full HD IPS panel with 144Hz refresh rate, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for seamless performance and multitasking. MSI Sword 17 might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded features.
Support and Maintenance
The MSI Katana 17 excels in support and maintenance with its efficient cooling system, long-lasting battery life (average 6-7 hours), and decent storage capacity. Its robust build quality ensures durability, while the Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4070 GPU provide reliable performance.
Pros
1. Exceptional performance thanks to the Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4070 GPU
2. High refresh rate display for smooth and responsive gameplay
3. Ample memory and storage for multitasking and large game libraries
4. Customizable RGB keyboard for a personalized gaming experience
Cons
1. The 1080p resolution may feel limiting for some users, especially considering the power of the RTX 4070
2. Battery life is decent but not groundbreaking, which is typical for high-performance gaming laptops
3. Build quality is solid, but design might not appeal to everyone who prefers a more understated aesthetic
4. Not ideal for those who prioritize ultra-portability or need a laptop with higher resolution
FAQ
Compare with other laptops
See how this item stacks up against any other model
Choose two different items to see a detailed comparison of their specifications, performance, and features