MSI Raider 16 Max HX costs over $3000, doesn't even have Advanced Optimus or G-Sync

In MSI's expansive lineup of gaming laptops, the Raider and Titan series sit at the very top of the food chain to represent the best that the company has to offer. These models are typically filled to the brim with auxiliary features to accompany the top-end processors and equally top-end prices. The latest Raider 16 Max HX gets one aspect of this right but otherwise lacks some common display options for gamers.

In terms of performance, there's no question that the Raider 16 Max HX lives up to its name. Benchmarks show it outperforming almost every 16-inch gaming laptop in our database thanks to the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus CPU. You'll just need to remember to enable Apex mode or Cooler Boost mode to unlock the full 175 W performance ceiling available from the GPU as previously mentioned.

One of the more disappointing aspects of the new Raider is its lack of support for both Advanced Optimus and G-Sync in contrast to competing models like the Razer Blade 16. Instead, Raider 16 Max HX owners must rely on the standard MUX switch for changing between integrated and discrete graphics which requires rebooting each and every time. This is a trend we've been noticing on many newer MSI models including the Titan 18 HX and Raider 18 HX.

The lack of Advanced Optimus support may simply be due to panel and supply limitations. The Samsung panel on the Raider 16 Max HX is very similar to but not quite the same as the the Samsung panel on the aforementioned Razer (ATNA60HU01-0 vs. ATNA60HU06-0) and that small difference in model name may be part of the equation.

See our full review on the new Raider 16 Max HX to learn more about the flagship 16-inch gaming laptop.