Walmart's $200 Discount Makes MSI Katana 15 HX (2025) a Compelling Gaming Laptop Option

The current PC hardware market has been challenging for gamers, with desktop component prices reaching unprecedented levels due to AI-driven demand and supply constraints. This has pushed many consumers toward alternative solutions, with prebuilt systems and gaming laptops gaining traction as viable options.

Walmart has recently listed the MSI Katana 15 HX (2025) gaming laptop at a discounted price of $1,299, down from its original $1,499 price point. This $200 reduction makes the laptop an attractive option for gamers seeking performance without the premium price tag of higher-end models.

Hardware Specifications

The MSI Katana 15 HX (2025) packs substantial hardware under its hood:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-14650HX - a high-performance mobile CPU designed for gaming and content creation
• Graphics: Nvidia RTX 5070 with 8GB of GDDR7 VRAM - providing excellent 1080p and capable 1440p gaming performance
• Memory: 16GB DDR5 RAM - offering fast memory speeds for gaming and multitasking
• Storage: 1TB SSD - providing ample space for games and applications with fast load times
• Display: 15.6-inch IPS panel with QHD resolution and 165Hz refresh rate - delivering crisp visuals and smooth gameplay

The laptop weighs just 4.29 pounds, making it relatively portable for a gaming machine. The 4-zone RGB illuminated keyboard adds to the gaming aesthetic, while the sleek black finish gives it a professional appearance.

Performance Comparison

While Tom's Hardware has reviewed the MSI Katana 15 HX, the review model featured the RTX 5050 GPU rather than the RTX 5070 found in the current discounted model. The RTX 5070 represents a significant performance upgrade over the 5050, particularly in demanding games at higher resolutions.

The Intel Core i7-14650HX processor remains consistent across both versions, providing strong multi-threaded performance for gaming and productivity tasks. The chassis design, keyboard layout, and overall build quality are also identical between the two models.

Value Proposition

At $1,299, the MSI Katana 15 HX (2025) offers compelling value for several reasons:

1. GPU Performance: The RTX 5070 with GDDR7 memory provides excellent performance for 1080p gaming at high settings and can handle 1440p gaming at medium to high settings in most titles

2. Display Quality: The QHD resolution combined with a 165Hz refresh rate offers a sweet spot for gaming, providing sharp visuals without the excessive GPU demands of 4K

3. Upgrade Potential: The laptop features accessible upgrade options for RAM and storage, allowing users to expand capacity as needed

4. Portability: At under 4.3 pounds, it's manageable for a gaming laptop, making it suitable for both desktop replacement and mobile gaming scenarios

Considerations

Despite its strengths, the Katana 15 HX has some limitations worth noting:

• The 720p webcam may not meet the needs of content creators or streamers
• Keyboard heat during extended gaming sessions could be uncomfortable
• The display brightness may be insufficient for brightly lit environments

These factors are relatively minor compared to the overall package, but they're worth considering based on your specific use case.

Market Context

The timing of this discount is particularly relevant given the current PC hardware market conditions. With desktop GPU prices remaining elevated due to AI and data center demand, gaming laptops have become increasingly attractive alternatives. The ability to get a complete, warrantied system with modern components at a reasonable price point represents good value in the current market.

For gamers who don't require the absolute cutting edge or who value portability alongside performance, the discounted MSI Katana 15 HX (2025) presents a balanced option that delivers strong gaming performance without the premium pricing typically associated with high-end gaming laptops.

The combination of the RTX 5070 GPU, high-refresh QHD display, and Intel's latest mobile processor makes this configuration well-suited for current and near-future gaming titles, providing a solid foundation for gaming enjoyment for years to come.