Key Takeaways
1. The MSI Raider 16 HX Max features a new hatch for easier access to upgradeable components like RAM and SSDs.
2. This design change allows users to install up to two DDR5 SODIMM modules and two M.2 PCIe5 SSDs without removing the entire bottom panel.
3. The number of screws required for access has been reduced from over a dozen to just one or two, simplifying the upgrade process.
4. The new design avoids “warranty void” stickers, making upgrades more user-friendly and hassle-free.
5. MSI plans to incorporate similar upgrade-friendly features in other models based on user feedback.
Professional users who know about rugged laptops or tablets might be used to seeing small latches or covers on the bottom or back sides of their devices. These small doors allow users to quickly access serviceable parts like the RAM, SSD, or battery without having to remove the whole back panel. Interestingly, this feature has not been very common on consumer laptops. MSI aims to bring this idea back to more of its models, starting with the new Raider 16 HX Max.
Exciting Launch at CES 2026
Just a few weeks ago at CES 2026, the Raider 16 HX Max was revealed. It will be powered by the same Intel Arrow Lake-HX CPUs and Nvidia Blackwell hardware as the 2025 version. However, this year’s chassis has been redesigned and now includes a new hatch on the bottom panel for easier access to upgradeable components, as shown in the images below. Owners will be able to install up to two DDR5 SODIMM modules and two M.2 PCIe5 SSDs without needing to take off the entire bottom panel.
Making Upgrades Easier
While upgrading components wasn’t too hard on older MSI gaming laptops, the new design should make the whole process much quicker, appealing to both those who like to tinker and regular users. Cutting down the number of screws from over a dozen to just one or two is definitely a welcome change. This also avoids the “warranty void” stickers that many previous MSI models had, making upgrades more hassle-free.
Bear in mind that you will still have to remove the entire bottom panel for tasks like cleaning the fans or servicing the battery. Currently, this feature is exclusive to the Raider model, but MSI has shown interest in adding similar design features to other models based on user feedback for the Raider 16 HX Max. In our view, making upgrades easier and improving repairability should be priorities for all types of models. Anticipate the Raider 16 HX Max to be available by the next quarter of this year.
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