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{{Infobox computing device
| name = Katana 15 (2023)
| title =
| aka =
| logo =
| image =
| image_size = 260px
| caption =
| developer =
| manufacturer = [[MSI]]
| family = [[Katana]]
| type =
| generation =
| release date = {{Start date and age|2023|02|df=yes|br=y}}
| lifespan =
| price =  [[United States dollar|USD]] 949 to 1287
| discontinued =
| units sold =
| units shipped =
| media =
| os = [[Windows 11 Home]]
| power =
| soc =
| cpu = Intel i5-12450H <br/>Intel i7-13620H
| memory = 16 GB
| memory slots = 2 user accessible
| storage = 1024 GB
| storage slots = 1 user accessible
| memory card =
| camera = '''Front:''' 720p <br/>
| display = '''[[Screen Size|Screen size]]''': 15.6 inch <br/>'''[[Panel Type|Panel type]]''': [[IPS]] <br/>'''[[Resolution]]''': 1920 x 1080 <br/>'''[[Pixel density|PPI]]''': 141.21 <br/>'''[[Aspect Ratio|Aspect ratio]]''': 16:9 <br/>'''[[Refresh Rate|Refresh rate]]''': 144 Hz <br/>'''[[Brightness|Brightness]]''': 258 Nits <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|sRGB]]''': 57 % <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|Adobe RGB]]''': 39 % <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|P3]]''': 38 %
| graphics = [[Nvidia RTX 4060]] 8 GB [[Video Memory|VRAM]] [[Total GPU Power|105 W]] <br/>[[Nvidia RTX 4070]] 8 GB [[Video Memory|VRAM]] [[Total GPU Power|105 W]]
| sound =
| input =
| controllers =
| touchpad =
| connectivity = '''[[WiFi|WiFi version]]''': 6 <br/>'''[[Bluetooth|Bluetooth version]]''': 5.1 or 5.2 <br/>'''[[USB Type-A|USB type-A]]''': 3 <br/>'''[[USB-C]]''': 1 <br/>'''[[Thunderbolt 3]]''': 0 <br/>'''[[Thunderbolt 4]]''': 0 <br/>'''[[HDMI]]''': 1 <br/>'''[[DisplayPort]]''': 0 <br/>'''[[USB4]]''': No <br/>'''[[Ethernet]]''': Yes <br/>'''[[USB-C|USB-C charging]]''': No
| currentfw =
| platform =
| service =
| dimensions = '''W''': {{convert|14.1|in|cm}} <br/>'''D''': {{convert|10.2|in|cm}} <br/>'''H''': {{convert|0.98|in|cm}}
| battery = 53.5 Wh
| weight = {{convert|4.96|lbs|g}}
| weight of power brick =
| number pad = Yes
| backlit keyboard = Yes
| keyboard lighting color = RGB
| fingerprint reader = No
| facial recognition = No
| special features =
| topgame =
| compatibility =
| predecessor =
| successor =
| related =
| website = [https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Katana-GF66-11UX/Specification,%20https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Katana-15-B13VX/Specification MSI]
}}The MSI Katana 15 (2023) is a laptop.


== Reviews ==
      {{Infobox computing device
[https://www.notebookcheck.net/MSI-Katana-15-laptop-review-Budget-gamer-with-RTX-4050-and-Alder-Lake-CPU.704037.0.html NotebookCheck], [https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/msi-katana-15-2023 PCMag]
  | name = MSI Katana 15 (2023)
  | title =
  | aka =
  | logo =
  | image =
  | image_size =
  | caption =
  | developer =
  | manufacturer = [[MSI]]
  | family =  
  | type =  
  | generation =  
  | release date = {{Start date and age|2023|01|df=yes|br=y}}
  | lifespan =
  | price =  [[United States dollar|USD]] 1000 to 2000
  | discontinued = No
  | units sold =
  | units shipped =
  | media =
  | os = [[Windows 11 Home]]<br>
  (Can be configured with [[Windows 11 Pro]])
  | power =
  | soc =
  | cpu = [[Intel Core i5-12450H]] <br/>[[Intel Core i7-12650H]] <br/>[[Intel Core i7-13620H]] <br/>[[Intel Core i9-13900H]]
  | memory = 16 (2x8) or 32 (2x16) GB DDR5-5200 Mhz SODIMM
  | memory slots = 2 user accessible
  | storage = 512 GB or 1 TB M.2 2280 NVME
  | storage slots = 1 user accessible
  | memory card =
  | camera = '''Front:''' 720p HD Webcam
  | display = '''[[Screen Size|Screen size]]''': 15.6 inch <br/>'''[[Panel Type|Panel type]]''': [[IPS]]-Level <br/>'''[[Coating]]''': Matte (anti-glare)<br>'''[[Resolution]]''': 1920 x 1080 <br/>'''[[Pixel density|PPI]]''': 141 <br/>'''[[Aspect Ratio|Aspect ratio]]''': 16:9 <br/>'''[[Refresh Rate|Refresh rate]]''': 144 Hz <br/>'''[[Brightness|Brightness]]''': 235 to 258 Nits <br/>'''Color Gamut|sRGB]]''': 57 % <br/>'''Color Gamut|DCI-P3]]''': 46.1 %<br>'''Screen-to-body ratio''':
  | graphics = [[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop]] 6 GB [[Video Memory|GDDR6]] [[Total GPU Power|105 W]] <br/>[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop]] 8 GB [[Video Memory|GDDR6]] <br/>[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop]] 8 GB [[Video Memory|GDDR6]]
  | sound = 2 x 2 W stereo [[speakers]]
  | input =
  | controllers =
  | touchpad =
  | connectivity = Intel AX201 [[WiFi]] 6<br>[[Bluetooth]] 5.1 or 5.2<br>2 x [[USB]] 3.2 Gen 1 ([[Type-A]])<br>1 x [[USB]] 2.0 ([[Type-A]])<br>1 x [[USB]] 3.2 Gen 1 ([[Type-C]])<br>1 x [[HDMI]] 2.1<br>1 x [[3.5mm headphone/microphone jack]]<br> 
  | currentfw =
  | platform =
  | service =
  | dimensions = '''W''': {{convert|14.13|in|cm}} <br/>'''D''': {{convert|10.20|in|cm}} <br/>'''H''': {{convert|0.98|in|cm}}
  | battery = 3 cell Li-Polymer 53.5 Wh
  | weight = {{convert|4.96|lbs|kg}}
  | weight of power brick = 150W or 180W or 200W slim AC adapter
  | number pad = Full size
  | chassis = '''Color''': Black<br>'''Materials''': Plastic<br>'''Cooling''': Dual fan
  | keyboard lighting color = 4 zone RGB backlit, black (US)<br>Standard full size layout
  | fingerprint reader = No
  | facial recognition = No
  | special features =
  | topgame =
  | compatibility =
  | predecessor =
  | successor =
  | related =
  | website = [https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Katana-15-B13VX/Specification MSI]
  }}


== Purchase Links ==
{{ReviewNotice}}
[https://www.newegg.com/p/N82E16834156431 Newegg], [https://www.amazon.com/MSI-Katana-144Hz-Gaming-Laptop/dp/B0BT3FKZ3N Amazon]
    {{CheckAI}}
    The '''MSI Katana 15 (2023)''' is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers a range of configurations with Intel 12th and 13th generation processors and Nvidia RTX 4000 series GPUs. It is designed to provide a balance between gaming performance and affordability.<ref name="specs">{{cite web |url=https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Katana-15-B13VX/Specification |title=Katana 15 (2023) Specifications |publisher=MSI}}</ref>


== Primary Hardware ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Central Processing Unit (CPU)|Processor]] ===
The MSI Katana 15 (2023) can be configured with the following processors<ref name="specs" />:
*[[Intel Core i5-12450H]] with 8 cores (4 [[Performance Cores|P-cores]] + 4 [[Efficiency cores|E-cores]]) and 12 threads, 12 [[Bytes|MB]] cache and a max frequency of 4.4 [[Clock Speed|Ghz]].
*[[Intel Core i7-12650H]] with 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) and 16 threads, 24 MB cache and max frequency of 4.7 Ghz.
*[[Intel Core i7-13620H]] with 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) and 16 threads, 24 MB cache and max frequency of 4.9 Ghz.
*[[Intel Core i9-13900H]] with 14 cores (6 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 20 threads, 24 MB cache and max frequency of 5.4 Ghz.
The Katana 15's processors are designed to handle both gaming and productivity tasks efficiently. The i7-13620H, for instance, has been noted for its solid balance of performance and efficiency cores, making it suitable for multitasking and demanding applications.<ref name="pcmag">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/msi-katana-15-2023 |title=MSI Katana 15 (2023) Review |publisher=PCMag}}</ref> In synthetic benchmarks, the i7-13620H scored significantly above 4,000 points in PCMark 10, indicating its capability to handle everyday office applications.<ref name="pcmag" /> The i7-12650H, while adequate, is outpaced by newer processors in multi-core tasks.<ref name="notebookcheck">{{cite web |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/MSI-Katana-15-laptop-review-Budget-gamer-with-RTX-4050-and-Alder-Lake-CPU.704037.0.html |title=MSI Katana 15 Laptop Review |publisher=NotebookCheck}}</ref>
'''Benchmarks''':
*Cinebench R23:
** i7-12650H: ~1722 pts (single-core), ~15537 pts (multi-core)<ref name="notebookcheck" />
** i7-13620H: ~1950 pts (single-core), ~24000 pts (multi-core)<ref name="pcmag" />
** i9-13900H: ~2100 pts (single-core), ~30000 pts (multi-core)<ref name="pcmag" />
=== [[Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)|Graphics]] ===
The Katana 15 (2023) offers the following discrete GPUs<ref name="specs" />:
*[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop]] GPU with 6 GB GDDR6 memory, 105 W [[Total Graphics Power|TGP]].
*[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop]] GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory.
*[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop]] GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory.
The RTX 4070 configuration has been praised for its strong gaming performance, clearing the 100fps threshold in every game tested and only falling behind higher-end configurations due to its superior CPU/GPU combination.<ref name="pcmag" /> The RTX 4050, while suitable for entry-level gaming, is slower than the RTX 3060 but can handle most modern games at medium to high settings.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks'''<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag">{{cite web |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/msi-katana-15 |title=MSI Katana 15 Review |publisher=LaptopMag}}</ref>:
*3DMark TimeSpy:
** RTX 4050: ~8500 pts
** RTX 4070: ~13500 pts
*Borderlands 3 (1920 x 1080): ~99 fps
*Assassin's Creed Valhalla (1920 x 1080): ~106 fps
*Dirt 5 (1920 x 1080): ~103 fps
*Far Cry 6 (1920 x 1080): ~94 fps
*Grand Theft Auto V (1920 x 1080): ~96 fps
*Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 High): ~91 fps
*Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 Ultra): ~74 fps
*Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 Extreme): ~48 fps
*Red Dead Redemption 2 (1920 x 1080): ~72 fps
*Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1920 x 1080): ~113 fps
=== [[Random Access Memory (RAM)|Memory]] ===
The Katana 15 supports up to 32 GB of DDR5-5200 MHz memory, with configurations available in 16 GB (2x8) or 32 GB (2x16) DDR5-5200 MHz.<ref name="specs" />
The RAM provides stable performance for multitasking and gaming, allowing for smooth operation even with multiple applications running simultaneously.<ref name="pcmag" /> In synthetic benchmarks, the memory demonstrated robust performance in office-centric tasks, contributing to overall system efficiency.<ref name="pcmag" />
'''Benchmarks'''<ref name="notebookcheck" />:
* AIDA64 Memory Copy: ~62599 MB/s
* AIDA64 Memory Read: ~66651 MB/s
* AIDA64 Memory Write: ~64764 MB/s
=== [[Storage]] ===
The Katana 15 can be configured with either a 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD.<ref name="specs" />
The storage performance is impressive, contributing to the overall speed of the system and quick load times for applications and games.<ref name="pcmag" /> However, in some tests, the SSD did not fully utilize its potential compared to higher-end models.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks'''<ref name="notebookcheck" />:
* CrystalDiskMark 8:
** Sequential Read: ~3792 MB/s
** Sequential Write: ~2772 MB/s
* AS SSD Score Total: ~9510 Points
* DiskSpd Sequential Read: ~5217 MB/s
* DiskSpd Sequential Write: ~4897 MB/s
=== Co-processors ===
The MSI Katana 15 does not include any dedicated co-processors.<ref name="specs" />
== Input Devices ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Keyboard]] ===
The Katana 15 features a 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard with anti-ghosting keys. The keyboard layout includes a full-size number pad.<ref name="specs" />
The keys have little wiggle, provide decent travel, and are delightfully snappy, allowing for good typing speed. The layout, while not ideal, allows for typing speeds of 95 to 105 words per minute with high accuracy.<ref name="pcmag" /> The key travel is short but provides good feedback; however, the layout is unconventional with a squeezed numpad and a shifted fn key, which may require adjustment for users.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Touchpad]] ===
The touchpad is small and located under the space bar.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
The touchpad feels smooth and responsive, but the right click doesn’t function all that well. Half of the times, it doesn’t register the command. Besides that issue, it functions reliably with accurate tracking and responsive clicks.<ref name="laptopmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Webcam]] ===
The Katana 15 comes with a 720p HD webcam.<ref name="specs" />
The webcam presents a soft picture but is acceptable even in dim lighting, making it suitable for video calls and conferencing. However, it has below-average image quality with high color deviations and poor low-light performance.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Microphone]] ===
The Katana 15 includes an integrated microphone.<ref name="specs" />
The microphone quality is average, suitable for basic use such as video calls, but may not be ideal for professional audio recording.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Output Devices ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Display]] ===
The Katana 15 is available with the following display options<ref name="specs" />:
* 15.6" FHD, IPS-Level, 144Hz, 45% NTSC
* 15.6" QHD, Anti-Glare, Wide View Angle, 165Hz, 2.5ms, 100% DCI-P3
The display is sharp enough for everyday use but lacks brightness and color quality for outdoor use and creative work. It is useful for getting work done and occasional gaming sessions, but gamers who want the best experience should prioritize using an external monitor.<ref name="pcmag" /> The display performed abysmally in color tests, reproducing only 46.1% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and maxing out at only 235 to 258 nits in brightness.<ref name="laptopmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks'''<ref name="notebookcheck" />:
* Brightness: 235 to 258 cd/m²
* Contrast: 1374:1
* ColorChecker dE: 4.63
* Response Time Black to White: 26.8 ms
* Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey: 38.8 ms
=== [[Audio]] ===
The Katana 15 comes with two 2-watt stereo speakers.<ref name="specs" />
The speakers produce a modestly bassy sound that is loud and clear for most uses, providing a satisfactory audio experience for gaming and media consumption. However, they lack bass and are suitable for casual listening but not for immersive audio experiences.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Connectivity ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[WiFi]] ===
The Katana 15 is equipped with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 WLAN module.<ref name="specs" />
The Wi-Fi 6 connection provided fast download speeds for game files, ensuring a smooth online gaming experience. However, it lacks support for Wi-Fi 6E, which limits future-proofing.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks'''<ref name="notebookcheck" />:
* iperf3 transmit: ~1529 MBit/s
* iperf3 receive: ~1698 MBit/s
=== [[Bluetooth]] ===
The Katana 15 comes with a Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.2 module.<ref name="specs" />
=== [[SD Card Reader]] ===
The Katana 15 does not include an SD card reader.<ref name="specs" />
=== [[USB]] ===
The Katana 15 is equipped with the following USB ports<ref name="specs" />:
* 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
* 1 x USB 2.0 (Type-A)
* 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C)
The USB ports provided decent connectivity options, though the USB-C port was not Thunderbolt-capable, limiting its versatility for high-speed data transfer and external device connections.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag" />
=== Display Outputs ===
The Katana 15 comes with the following display outputs<ref name="specs" />:
* 1 x HDMI 2.1
The HDMI port is capable of 4K/120Hz or 8K/60Hz output, allowing for high-resolution external display connections.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag" />
== Case ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Katana 15 (2023) is available in black with a plastic chassis.<ref name="specs" /> The design is minimalistic with carbon-fiber stylings and a black engraved version of the iconic MSI shield logo on the lid.<ref name="laptopmag" /> The laptop measures 14.13 x 10.20 x 0.98 inches and weighs 4.96 lbs, making it portable yet robust.<ref name="specs" />
The design is primarily plastic, which is prone to fingerprints, and the overall build quality is average. The case is relatively sturdy but shows signs of wear easily.<ref name="notebookcheck" /> The laptop feels like a spaceship in your lap, and while it’s not as flashy as other gaming laptops, it does a good job presenting minimalistic design flairs to give it much-needed personality.<ref name="laptopmag" />
== Maintenance ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Katana 15 allows for some upgradeability options, though specifics are not detailed.<ref name="pcmag" /> The device can be opened for maintenance, but a seal sticker indicates warranty conditions, which may deter users from performing upgrades.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Upgradeable components:'''<ref name="notebookcheck" />
* 53.5 WHr battery.
* One M.2 2280 PCIe4 x4 SSD slot.
* Two DDR5-5200 SODIMMs.
== Cooling System ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Katana 15 is equipped with a standard cooling system with dual fans and adequate airflow.<ref name="specs" />
=== Heat ===
The laptop remains cool during normal use but can get warm under load, particularly around the WASD keys. The WASD keys and palm area remained cool to the touch, indicating effective thermal management.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks:'''
* i7-12650H + RTX 4050:<ref name="notebookcheck" />
** Maximum upper side: ~50 °C
** Maximum bottom: ~50 °C
** Idle upper side: ~30 °C
** Idle bottom: ~34 °C
* i7-13620H + RTX 4070:<ref name="pcmag" />
** Maximum upper side: ~44 °C
** Maximum bottom: ~55 °C
** Idle upper side: ~33 °C
** Idle bottom: ~36 °C
=== Noise ===
The fans are quiet during idle and moderate load, becoming louder under heavy stress, but overall noise levels are acceptable for a gaming laptop.<ref name="notebookcheck" /> The fan noise was not overly intrusive during operation, allowing for a comfortable user experience.<ref name="pcmag" />
'''Benchmarks:'''
* i7-12650H + RTX 4050:<ref name="notebookcheck" />
** Idle: ~24 dB(A)
** Load: ~37.71 dB(A)
* i7-13620H + RTX 4070:<ref name="pcmag" />
** Load: ~50 dB(A)
== Energy Management ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== Power Consumption ===
The Katana 15 ships with a 150W, 180W, or 200W slim AC adapter depending on the configuration.<ref name="specs" />
The laptop is efficient, consuming less power than competitors under load, making it a good choice for energy-conscious users.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks:'''
* i7-12650H + RTX 4050:<ref name="notebookcheck" />
** Load: ~84 W (average), ~189 W (maximum)
=== Battery Life ===
All Katana 15 SKUs come with a 53.5 WHr Li-Polymer battery.<ref name="specs" />
The battery life is considered brief for a gaming laptop, with the ability to disable the discrete GPU for extended use. On the Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web browsing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits, the Katana 15 only lasted 2 hours and 48 minutes.<ref name="laptopmag" /> Reviews verify that the battery life during light tasks is slightly below average for this class of laptop.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks:'''
* i7-12650H + RTX 4050:<ref name="notebookcheck" />
** WiFi Websurfing: 4h 20min
** WiFi Websurfing max. Brightness: 4h 12min
** Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: 4h 24min
** Load (maximum brightness): 1h 29min
* i7-13620H + RTX 4070:<ref name="laptopmag" />
** WiFi Browsing (150 nits): 2h 48min
== Biometrics ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Katana 15 does not support [[Windows Hello]] face recognition and does not have a fingerprint reader.<ref name="specs" />
== [[Software]] ==
{{CheckAI}}
All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from MSI.<ref name="specs" />
=== Preinstalled Software ===
==== MSI Center ====
The MSI Center program acts as the primary control center in the Katana 15. It allows for customization of system performance, including switching between discrete graphics and integrated graphics on a whim, alongside a combination of both. The software suite enhances the overall user experience.<ref name="laptopmag" />
==== Nahimic ====
The Nahimic app is used for managing audio features, including speaker customization.<ref name="laptopmag" />
==== Other Preinstalled Software ====
The Katana 15 also comes with other standard software packages with basic utilities and drivers.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Linux|Linux Support]] ===
Linux support is limited, with potential compatibility issues for certain distributions.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Accessories & Warranty ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Katana 15 comes with a 150W, 180W, or 200W slim AC adapter and paperwork.<ref name="specs" />
There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Reviews Summary ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== Overall Sentiment ===
The MSI Katana 15 (2023) is considered a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers strong performance for its price. It is suitable for gamers and productivity users who prioritize performance over display quality and battery longevity. The laptop is praised for its high CPU and GPU performance relative to competitors, but it has notable drawbacks such as poor battery life, a dim display, and a plastic chassis that is prone to fingerprints.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== Problems Summary<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" /> ===
* Dim display with poor color accuracy.
* Short battery life.
* Plastic chassis prone to fingerprints.
* Small touchpad with unreliable right-click functionality.
* No SD card reader.
* No Thunderbolt support.
* High surface temperatures under load.
* Limited upgradeability due to design.
=== Links ===
i7-13620H, RTX 4070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: [https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/msi-katana-15-2023 PCMag]
i7-13620H, RTX 4070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: [https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/msi-katana-15 LaptopMag]
i7-12650H, RTX 4050, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: [https://www.notebookcheck.net/MSI-Katana-15-laptop-review-Budget-gamer-with-RTX-4050-and-Alder-Lake-CPU.704037.0.html NotebookCheck]
== Community Reception ==
=== Overall Sentiment ===
=== Problems Summary ===
== References ==
[[Category:Laptops]]
[[Category:Laptops]]
[[Category:MSI Laptops]]
[[Category:MSI Laptops]]
 
[[Category:Gaming Laptops]]
[[Category:Katana]]
 
[[Category:2023 Laptops]]
[[Category:2023 Laptops]]
 
<references />
           
     

Revision as of 09:10, 5 August 2024

MSI Katana 15 (2023)
ManufacturerMSI
Release dateJanuary 2023;
3 years ago (2023-01)
Introductory priceUSD 1000 to 2000
DiscontinuedNo
Operating systemWindows 11 Home
(Can be configured with Windows 11 Pro)
CPUIntel Core i5-12450H
Intel Core i7-12650H
Intel Core i7-13620H
Intel Core i9-13900H
Memory16 (2x8) or 32 (2x16) GB DDR5-5200 Mhz SODIMM
Memory slots2 user accessible
Storage512 GB or 1 TB M.2 2280 NVME
Storage slots1 user accessible
DisplayScreen size: 15.6 inch
Panel type: IPS-Level
Coating: Matte (anti-glare)
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
PPI: 141
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Refresh rate: 144 Hz
Brightness: 235 to 258 Nits
Color Gamut
GraphicsNvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop 6 GB GDDR6 105 W
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6
Sound2 x 2 W stereo speakers
CameraFront: 720p HD Webcam
ConnectivityIntel AX201 WiFi 6
Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.2
2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
1 x USB 2.0 (Type-A)
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C)
1 x HDMI 2.1
1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack
DimensionsW: 14.13 inches (35.9 cm)
D: 10.20 inches (25.9 cm)
H: 0.98 inches (2.5 cm)
Mass4.96 pounds (2.25 kg)
Power brick150W or 180W or 200W slim AC adapter
Battery3 cell Li-Polymer 53.5 Wh
Keyboard4 zone RGB backlit, black (US)
Standard full size layout
ChassisColor: Black
Materials: Plastic
Cooling: Dual fan
Number padFull size
Fingerprint readerNo
Facial recognitionNo
WebsiteMSI

All statements attributed to reviews are the reviewer's own opinion. Note that these claims were accurate at the time of publication and may be dated when you are reading this article. Read more. 

   This section was written by AI and requires review.  Remove this after review.

   The MSI Katana 15 (2023) is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers a range of configurations with Intel 12th and 13th generation processors and Nvidia RTX 4000 series GPUs. It is designed to provide a balance between gaming performance and affordability.[1]

Primary Hardware

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Processor

The MSI Katana 15 (2023) can be configured with the following processors[1]:

The Katana 15's processors are designed to handle both gaming and productivity tasks efficiently. The i7-13620H, for instance, has been noted for its solid balance of performance and efficiency cores, making it suitable for multitasking and demanding applications.[2] In synthetic benchmarks, the i7-13620H scored significantly above 4,000 points in PCMark 10, indicating its capability to handle everyday office applications.[2] The i7-12650H, while adequate, is outpaced by newer processors in multi-core tasks.[3]

Benchmarks:

  • Cinebench R23:
    • i7-12650H: ~1722 pts (single-core), ~15537 pts (multi-core)[3]
    • i7-13620H: ~1950 pts (single-core), ~24000 pts (multi-core)[2]
    • i9-13900H: ~2100 pts (single-core), ~30000 pts (multi-core)[2]

Graphics

The Katana 15 (2023) offers the following discrete GPUs[1]:

The RTX 4070 configuration has been praised for its strong gaming performance, clearing the 100fps threshold in every game tested and only falling behind higher-end configurations due to its superior CPU/GPU combination.[2] The RTX 4050, while suitable for entry-level gaming, is slower than the RTX 3060 but can handle most modern games at medium to high settings.[3]

Benchmarks[2][4]:

  • 3DMark TimeSpy:
    • RTX 4050: ~8500 pts
    • RTX 4070: ~13500 pts
  • Borderlands 3 (1920 x 1080): ~99 fps
  • Assassin's Creed Valhalla (1920 x 1080): ~106 fps
  • Dirt 5 (1920 x 1080): ~103 fps
  • Far Cry 6 (1920 x 1080): ~94 fps
  • Grand Theft Auto V (1920 x 1080): ~96 fps
  • Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 High): ~91 fps
  • Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 Ultra): ~74 fps
  • Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (1920 x 1080 Extreme): ~48 fps
  • Red Dead Redemption 2 (1920 x 1080): ~72 fps
  • Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1920 x 1080): ~113 fps

Memory

The Katana 15 supports up to 32 GB of DDR5-5200 MHz memory, with configurations available in 16 GB (2x8) or 32 GB (2x16) DDR5-5200 MHz.[1]

The RAM provides stable performance for multitasking and gaming, allowing for smooth operation even with multiple applications running simultaneously.[2] In synthetic benchmarks, the memory demonstrated robust performance in office-centric tasks, contributing to overall system efficiency.[2]

Benchmarks[3]:

  • AIDA64 Memory Copy: ~62599 MB/s
  • AIDA64 Memory Read: ~66651 MB/s
  • AIDA64 Memory Write: ~64764 MB/s

Storage

The Katana 15 can be configured with either a 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD.[1]

The storage performance is impressive, contributing to the overall speed of the system and quick load times for applications and games.[2] However, in some tests, the SSD did not fully utilize its potential compared to higher-end models.[3]

Benchmarks[3]:

  • CrystalDiskMark 8:
    • Sequential Read: ~3792 MB/s
    • Sequential Write: ~2772 MB/s
  • AS SSD Score Total: ~9510 Points
  • DiskSpd Sequential Read: ~5217 MB/s
  • DiskSpd Sequential Write: ~4897 MB/s

Co-processors

The MSI Katana 15 does not include any dedicated co-processors.[1]

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The Katana 15 features a 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard with anti-ghosting keys. The keyboard layout includes a full-size number pad.[1]

The keys have little wiggle, provide decent travel, and are delightfully snappy, allowing for good typing speed. The layout, while not ideal, allows for typing speeds of 95 to 105 words per minute with high accuracy.[2] The key travel is short but provides good feedback; however, the layout is unconventional with a squeezed numpad and a shifted fn key, which may require adjustment for users.[3]

Touchpad

The touchpad is small and located under the space bar.[3]

The touchpad feels smooth and responsive, but the right click doesn’t function all that well. Half of the times, it doesn’t register the command. Besides that issue, it functions reliably with accurate tracking and responsive clicks.[4][3]

Webcam

The Katana 15 comes with a 720p HD webcam.[1]

The webcam presents a soft picture but is acceptable even in dim lighting, making it suitable for video calls and conferencing. However, it has below-average image quality with high color deviations and poor low-light performance.[2][3]

Microphone

The Katana 15 includes an integrated microphone.[1]

The microphone quality is average, suitable for basic use such as video calls, but may not be ideal for professional audio recording.[3]

Output Devices

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Display

The Katana 15 is available with the following display options[1]:

  • 15.6" FHD, IPS-Level, 144Hz, 45% NTSC
  • 15.6" QHD, Anti-Glare, Wide View Angle, 165Hz, 2.5ms, 100% DCI-P3

The display is sharp enough for everyday use but lacks brightness and color quality for outdoor use and creative work. It is useful for getting work done and occasional gaming sessions, but gamers who want the best experience should prioritize using an external monitor.[2] The display performed abysmally in color tests, reproducing only 46.1% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and maxing out at only 235 to 258 nits in brightness.[4][3]

Benchmarks[3]:

  • Brightness: 235 to 258 cd/m²
  • Contrast: 1374:1
  • ColorChecker dE: 4.63
  • Response Time Black to White: 26.8 ms
  • Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey: 38.8 ms

Audio

The Katana 15 comes with two 2-watt stereo speakers.[1]

The speakers produce a modestly bassy sound that is loud and clear for most uses, providing a satisfactory audio experience for gaming and media consumption. However, they lack bass and are suitable for casual listening but not for immersive audio experiences.[2][3]

Connectivity

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WiFi

The Katana 15 is equipped with an Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 WLAN module.[1]

The Wi-Fi 6 connection provided fast download speeds for game files, ensuring a smooth online gaming experience. However, it lacks support for Wi-Fi 6E, which limits future-proofing.[2][3]

Benchmarks[3]:

  • iperf3 transmit: ~1529 MBit/s
  • iperf3 receive: ~1698 MBit/s

Bluetooth

The Katana 15 comes with a Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.2 module.[1]

SD Card Reader

The Katana 15 does not include an SD card reader.[1]

USB

The Katana 15 is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:

  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
  • 1 x USB 2.0 (Type-A)
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C)

The USB ports provided decent connectivity options, though the USB-C port was not Thunderbolt-capable, limiting its versatility for high-speed data transfer and external device connections.[2][4]

Display Outputs

The Katana 15 comes with the following display outputs[1]:

  • 1 x HDMI 2.1

The HDMI port is capable of 4K/120Hz or 8K/60Hz output, allowing for high-resolution external display connections.[2][4]

Case

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The Katana 15 (2023) is available in black with a plastic chassis.[1] The design is minimalistic with carbon-fiber stylings and a black engraved version of the iconic MSI shield logo on the lid.[4] The laptop measures 14.13 x 10.20 x 0.98 inches and weighs 4.96 lbs, making it portable yet robust.[1]

The design is primarily plastic, which is prone to fingerprints, and the overall build quality is average. The case is relatively sturdy but shows signs of wear easily.[3] The laptop feels like a spaceship in your lap, and while it’s not as flashy as other gaming laptops, it does a good job presenting minimalistic design flairs to give it much-needed personality.[4]

Maintenance

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The Katana 15 allows for some upgradeability options, though specifics are not detailed.[2] The device can be opened for maintenance, but a seal sticker indicates warranty conditions, which may deter users from performing upgrades.[3]

Upgradeable components:[3]

  • 53.5 WHr battery.
  • One M.2 2280 PCIe4 x4 SSD slot.
  • Two DDR5-5200 SODIMMs.

Cooling System

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The Katana 15 is equipped with a standard cooling system with dual fans and adequate airflow.[1]

Heat

The laptop remains cool during normal use but can get warm under load, particularly around the WASD keys. The WASD keys and palm area remained cool to the touch, indicating effective thermal management.[2][3]

Benchmarks:

  • i7-12650H + RTX 4050:[3]
    • Maximum upper side: ~50 °C
    • Maximum bottom: ~50 °C
    • Idle upper side: ~30 °C
    • Idle bottom: ~34 °C
  • i7-13620H + RTX 4070:[2]
    • Maximum upper side: ~44 °C
    • Maximum bottom: ~55 °C
    • Idle upper side: ~33 °C
    • Idle bottom: ~36 °C

Noise

The fans are quiet during idle and moderate load, becoming louder under heavy stress, but overall noise levels are acceptable for a gaming laptop.[3] The fan noise was not overly intrusive during operation, allowing for a comfortable user experience.[2]

Benchmarks:

  • i7-12650H + RTX 4050:[3]
    • Idle: ~24 dB(A)
    • Load: ~37.71 dB(A)
  • i7-13620H + RTX 4070:[2]
    • Load: ~50 dB(A)

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The Katana 15 ships with a 150W, 180W, or 200W slim AC adapter depending on the configuration.[1]

The laptop is efficient, consuming less power than competitors under load, making it a good choice for energy-conscious users.[3]

Benchmarks:

  • i7-12650H + RTX 4050:[3]
    • Load: ~84 W (average), ~189 W (maximum)

Battery Life

All Katana 15 SKUs come with a 53.5 WHr Li-Polymer battery.[1]

The battery life is considered brief for a gaming laptop, with the ability to disable the discrete GPU for extended use. On the Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web browsing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits, the Katana 15 only lasted 2 hours and 48 minutes.[4] Reviews verify that the battery life during light tasks is slightly below average for this class of laptop.[3]

Benchmarks:

  • i7-12650H + RTX 4050:[3]
    • WiFi Websurfing: 4h 20min
    • WiFi Websurfing max. Brightness: 4h 12min
    • Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: 4h 24min
    • Load (maximum brightness): 1h 29min
  • i7-13620H + RTX 4070:[4]
    • WiFi Browsing (150 nits): 2h 48min

Biometrics

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The Katana 15 does not support Windows Hello face recognition and does not have a fingerprint reader.[1]

Software

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All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from MSI.[1]

Preinstalled Software

MSI Center

The MSI Center program acts as the primary control center in the Katana 15. It allows for customization of system performance, including switching between discrete graphics and integrated graphics on a whim, alongside a combination of both. The software suite enhances the overall user experience.[4]

Nahimic

The Nahimic app is used for managing audio features, including speaker customization.[4]

Other Preinstalled Software

The Katana 15 also comes with other standard software packages with basic utilities and drivers.[3]

Linux Support

Linux support is limited, with potential compatibility issues for certain distributions.[3]

Accessories & Warranty

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The Katana 15 comes with a 150W, 180W, or 200W slim AC adapter and paperwork.[1]

There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[3]

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The MSI Katana 15 (2023) is considered a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers strong performance for its price. It is suitable for gamers and productivity users who prioritize performance over display quality and battery longevity. The laptop is praised for its high CPU and GPU performance relative to competitors, but it has notable drawbacks such as poor battery life, a dim display, and a plastic chassis that is prone to fingerprints.[2][4][3]

Problems Summary[2][4][3]

  • Dim display with poor color accuracy.
  • Short battery life.
  • Plastic chassis prone to fingerprints.
  • Small touchpad with unreliable right-click functionality.
  • No SD card reader.
  • No Thunderbolt support.
  • High surface temperatures under load.
  • Limited upgradeability due to design.

Links

i7-13620H, RTX 4070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: PCMag

i7-13620H, RTX 4070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: LaptopMag

i7-12650H, RTX 4050, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NotebookCheck

Community Reception

Overall Sentiment

Problems Summary

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 1.23 "Katana 15 (2023) Specifications". MSI.
  2. ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 "MSI Katana 15 (2023) Review". PCMag.
  3. ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 3.23 3.24 3.25 3.26 3.27 3.28 3.29 3.30 3.31 "MSI Katana 15 Laptop Review". NotebookCheck.
  4. ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 "MSI Katana 15 Review". LaptopMag.
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