GoKawiilMSI adds DDR4 memory option to Katana 15 HX C14 gaming laptop to cut costs
MSI's new Katana 15 HX C14 gaming laptop offers a choice of DDR4-3200 or DDR5 memory across two regional variants, a move aimed at keeping prices down amid soaring DRAM costs. The laptop can be configured with up to a 24-core Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and an Nvidia RTX 5070 GPU, alongside dual PCIe Gen 4x4 M.2 slots and a cooling system rated for 170W combined power.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Memory and SSD prices have spiked so sharply that even budget gaming laptops are becoming harder to price affordably, squeezing the entry-level segment. By reviving DDR4 support, MSI is finding a workaround to keep a high-performance laptop within reach of cost-conscious buyers, a strategy other manufacturers may need to follow if the DRAM shortage persists.
- MSI's Katana 15 HX C14 supports both DDR4-3200 and DDR5 memory depending on region.
- DDR4 kits cost roughly half as much as comparable DDR5 kits, helping offset rising component prices.
- The laptop pairs up to an Intel Core i9-14900HX with an RTX 5070 GPU and dual M.2 SSD slots.
Crucial 32GB DDR4-3200 SODIMM Kit — With MSI reviving DDR4 in the Katana 15 HX C14 to dodge DRAM price spikes, a 2x16GB DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM kit is the cheapest way to max out a gaming laptop's dual slots. Crucial's kits are a staple for laptop upgrades and drop right into compatible machines for an easy capacity boost.
See Crucial 32GB DDR4-3200 SODIMM Kit on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Kunal Khullar, 2026-08-28
Published there as: “MSI brings DDR4 back to gaming laptops amidst DRAM crisis — Katana 15 HX C14 available with up to Core i9-14900HX and RTX 5070”
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