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New MSI Raider 16 Max HX OLED gaming laptop ups its power limit, boosting the Core Ultra 200HX

MSI Raider 16 Max HX front and back are shown at angles (Image source: MSI PR)
MSI Raider 16 Max HX front and back are shown at angles (Image source: MSI PR)
CES 2026 sees the debut of the more potent MSI Raider 16 Max HX gaming laptop. The 16-inch notebook downsizes its exterior while seeking to unlock the potential of a Core Ultra 200HX CPU. With visuals provided by an available RTX 5090, a QHD+ OLED screen arrives as another upgrade.

MSI’s latest Raider gaming laptop doesn’t introduce a radically different processor or GPU. Instead, it focuses on maximizing components like a Core Ultra 200HX CPU and an RTX 5090 graphics card. Along with a higher power limit, the 16-inch laptop trims its exterior and makes a 240Hz QHD+ OLED display available.

Unveiled at CES 2026, pricing and release date for the MSI Raider 16 Max HX B2W will come at a later time.

The Raider 16 Max is unapologetically a gaming laptop

The Raider Max is not subtle with its styling, now featuring a dragon logo on its outer lid. Buyers will also find a customizable light bar and a per-key RGB keyboard with distinct WASD keycaps. Addressing complaints about the 2025 Raider 16 HX AI, its back edge no longer protrudes as noticeably. The updated MSI laptop has a slightly more reasonable weight of 2.6kg/5.7 lbs listed on its spec sheet.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX specs are shown (Image source: MSI PR)
MSI Raider 16 Max HX specs are shown (Image source: MSI PR)

While an IPS display will still be an option, the latest MSI Raider now embraces OLED technology. The higher-end loadout will include a 16-inch 2560 x 1600 screen that supports DisplayHDR True Black 1000. The maximum refresh rate remains at 240Hz, but gamers should experience smoother visuals.

With more power comes more heat

Along with the enhanced AI capabilities of the new OLED gaming laptop, MSI is also touting a higher power output. Compared to the 240 watts of its predecessor, MSI Overboost can now deliver up to 300 watts to its CPU and GPU. When focused only on the Core Ultra 200HX, that mark can reach 200 watts. Noise is a concern, but a triple-fan cooling array with a 5-exhaust heatsink will tackle the heat buildup.

The Raider 16 Max HX B2W can accommodate as much as 128GB of DDR5-7200 RAM, likely at a steep cost. Stock storage capacities are unclear, but self-upgrades are encouraged through the gaming laptop’s bottom panel. Connectivity appears generous, headlined by a pair of Thunderbolt 5 ports.

Although supercharged, factors like battery drain will determine how the notebook compares to rivals like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16.

MSI Raider 16 Max HX front is shown (Image source: MSI PR)
MSI Raider 16 Max HX front is shown (Image source: MSI PR)
MSI Raider 16 Max HX back is shown at angle (Image source: MSI PR)
MSI Raider 16 Max HX back is shown at angle (Image source: MSI PR)

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2026 01 > New MSI Raider 16 Max HX OLED gaming laptop ups its power limit, boosting the Core Ultra 200HX
Adam Corsetti, 2026-01- 6 (Update: 2026-01- 2)