The MSI Modern 15 B13M gracefully upholds its purpose, embodying a slender and feathery laptop that dances within the realms of affordability, catering to professionals and the vibrant youth. It boasts configurations that quickly tackle everyday tasks while remaining gentle on the budget.
The Modern 15 B12M exudes a compact essence. Its slender frame encases a magnificent Full HD IPS display, and within its core lies the potential to be configured with the 13th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-1335U, accompanied by 8-GB RAM, a 512-GB SSD, and the prowess of Intel Iris Xe Graphics.
Specifications
- Weight – 1.7 kg
- CPU – 13th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-1335U Processor
- GPU – Intel Iris Xe graphics
- Storage – 512 GB (Our review model)
- Display – 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080), IPS-Level
- Ports – 1x Type-C USB3.2 Gen2 with PD charging, 1x Type-A USB3.2 Gen2, 2x Type-A USB2.0, 1x Micro SD Card Reader, 1x (4K @ 30Hz) HDMI, 1x Mic-in/Headphone-out Combo Jack
- Camera – HD type (30fps@720p)
- Battery – 39.3/53.8 Battery (Whr), 65W adapter
- Dimensions – 359 x 241 x 19.9 mm
- Available Colours – Classic Black and Star Blue
Design and Build
When it comes to design and build quality, the Modern 15 B13M, in its matte black elegance (named Classic Black), exudes simplicity and sophistication. It stands firm and unyielding, boasting a sturdy composition of plastic for both body and lid. Its metallic exterior, enveloped in a brushed texture, bestows a sleek and captivating allure, radiating a sense of solidity.
At a mere 1.7 kilograms, this featherlight wonder showcases the embodiment of minimalism. However, one must exercise caution, for the Modern 15 possesses an affinity for fingerprints, leaving delicate marks with the lightest touch. Remarkably, it features the ability to tilt up to 180 degrees, allowing for effortless flattening on any surface, making it an ideal companion for meetings.
The left side reveals a charging port, an HDMI port, 1x Type-A USB3.2 Gen2, 1x Type-C USB3.2 Gen2 with PD charging, a 3.5mm audio combo, and LED notifications. Meanwhile, the right side boasts 2x Type-A USB2.0 ports and a micro-SD Card Reader slot. The lower side of the laptop showcases ventilation grilles that facilitate heat dissipation, accompanied by two cutouts catering to the speakers.
Display
The MSI Modern 15 B13M boasts a 15.6” Full HD (1920×1080) IPS-level panel possessing wide viewing angles and a standard refresh rate of 60Hz. The HD Webcam of the laptop is encased on top and offers HD support with 30fps@720p. The brightness of the laptop is sufficient for indoor usage, but it pales in when challenged by the great outdoors and sunlit spaces.
Keyboard
As our fingers embark on the journey across the chiclet-type keyboard of the MSI Modern 15, they dance upon keys with a mere 1.5mm of travel. A single-colour LED backlight, radiating a gentle white glow with three levels of adjustable brightness, graces this remarkable keyboard. The generous spacing between keys transforms the typing experience into a symphony of elegance.
Performance
Harnessing the power within, the MSI Modern 15 B13M stands equipped with a 13th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-1335U Processor, accompanied by 8-GB RAM and the formidable Intel Xe Graphics. Embarking on a journey of storage, we discover the presence of a 512-GB SSD, poised to house our digital treasures.
The configuration sets the platform for the perfect union of productivity and elegance, transcending the limits of mere ultrabooks and serving users with a performance above the ordinary. Under the banner of graphics, the mighty Intel Xe graphics steps forth, commanding the stage with the might to conquer daily tasks and workloads.
Cinebench R23 beckons the i5-1335U, revealing an impressive single-core benchmark score of 1219, while the multi-core benchmark paints a glorious picture, boasting a resolute 7065. Now, the tale of temperature and noise unfolds. When idle, tranquillity reigns as cool temperatures embrace the laptop. However, when burdened by the weight of intensive apps, heat permeates certain areas. The regions beneath the screen, the sides of the keyboard, and the bottom vents bear the brunt of this fiery dance. Yet, the palm rests, and the keyboard remains untouched by the flames, providing an oasis of coolness amidst the chaos. Even under the most strenuous of tasks, the laptop never raises its voice to excessive volumes, whispering a promise of serenity.
Sound
The speakers, nestled within the depths of the laptop’s underbelly, emit a gentle symphony. Though their prowess fills small to medium-sized rooms with a resolute presence, they yearn for the depths of bass, leaving us desiring more, while media playback finds solace in the embrace of headphones.
Verdict
Thus, we reach the end of our journey through the MSI Modern 15 B13M, a laptop that aspires to conquer the realms of everyday tasks adorned in a cloak of elegance and affordability. It may not be a champion of gaming or a harbinger of extravagance, but it stands resolute in its purpose, beckoning the souls of professionals and the vibrance of the youth.
