The MSI Crosshair 16 HX AI (D2XW) is characterized as a capable mid-ranger, presenting current hardware despite being a model from last year. The device can be configured up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX. The review unit featured the Ultra 7 255HX, which maintains the P-core count and L3 cache size of a potentially higher-spec unit, providing considerable horsepower.
Graphically, the options are more modest, offering a GeForce RTX 5060 or RTX 5070 paired with an 115 W TGP. The review suggests that given the CPU’s power, a GPU bottleneck should be absent. The machine features good upgradeability, including two SODIMM slots and two M.2 slots for storage expansion. Furthermore, components are not soldered down, allowing for easy swapping of the battery, cooling system, or Wi-Fi card. Connectivity is solid, offering four USB ports, a LAN port, and an HDMI output.
The display is a notable feature: a vivid 2560×1600 panel. This screen almost fully covers both the sRGB and DCI-P3 gamuts and includes a 240 Hz refresh rate, making it suitable for both pro color grading and gaming. While the display panel is noted as optional, the device can default to a base 1200p screen.
In terms of features, the laptop includes a MUX switch supporting dedicated (dGPU) and iGPU-only modes. A physical privacy shutter is included, and the system is equipped with the Cooler Boost 5 cooling system. However, Advanced Optimus has been omitted, meaning graphics modes cannot be cycled on the fly without a reboot. The build quality is rated as solid; the metal lid feels sturdy, and the machine opens to 180 degrees. Although the base is plastic and attracts fingerprints, the overall weight of 2.5 kg is considered reasonable for its cooling system.
Usability features include a SteelSeries RGB keyboard, which offers anti-ghosting, a dedicated NumPad, and large arrow keys. The trackpad is reported as accurate enough for office use, though not spectacular. For audio, the dual speakers deliver respectable sound quality, providing plenty of volume for media consumption. The fan noise level is manageable, especially in Balanced mode for non-intensive workloads. Regarding heat, the vital zones remain cool, and the upper-middle keyboard section is the only area noted to get slightly hot.
Performance metrics show the 255HX processor performing as expected, operating at a 95°C chip temperature under long sustained loads. The RTX 5070 performs as anticipated. While the reviewer notes that an RTX 5070 Ti would be better for the 1600p screen, the Ti model is not available for this MSI series. For graphics-intensive titles, using DLSS is recommended to achieve a good frame rate at native resolution.
Power and connectivity options are broad. The two memory slots support SODIMM and CSODIMM modules up to 6400 MT/s, allowing for high levels of RAM capacity. Storage flexibility is provided by supporting both Gen 5 and Gen 4 drives in a RAID configuration. The I/O panel includes one Thunderbolt 4 port, which supports 40 Gbps, DP, and 100 W USB PD 3.0. Three of the Type-A USB ports are rated at a lower 5 Gbps.
In terms of longevity, the 90 Wh battery provided 6 hours and 15 minutes of 4K YouTube video playback when utilizing iGPU mode and ECO-Silent mode. The overall impression is that the MSI Crosshair 16 HX AI D2XW is a strong choice, particularly if found on sale, offering a great combination of an accurate 1600p IPS display and substantial computing power.
Source: TechPowerUp