🔍 Introduction: Two Models, One Line
The MSI Katana 15 HX line offers two popular configurations that share the same chassis, QHD+ 165Hz screen and Cooler Boost 5 cooling system, but differ significantly in performance and price.
📊 Complete Technical Specifications
| Specification | B14WGK-016US (RTX 5070) | B14WFK-810US (RTX 5060) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel i9-14900HX (24 cores, 5.8GHz) | Intel i7-14650HX (16 cores, 5.2GHz) |
| GPU | RTX 5070 8GB GDDR7 | RTX 5060 8GB GDDR7 |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5 5600MHz | 16GB DDR5 5600MHz |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe SSD | 1TB NVMe SSD |
| Screen | 15.6" QHD+ 165Hz | 15.6" QHD+ 165Hz |
| Weight | 4.96 lbs (2.25 kg) | 5.29 lbs (2.40 kg) |
| Price | $1,670.75 | $1,523.77 |
⚡ CPU Performance Differences
B14WGK: Intel i9-14900HX
- 24 cores (8P + 16E)
- 32 threads total
- 5.8GHz maximum boost
- 36MB Intel Smart Cache
- ~30% faster multitasking
- Cinebench R23: ~28,500 pts
B14WFK: Intel i7-14650HX
- 16 cores (6P + 8E)
- 24 threads total
- 5.2GHz maximum boost
- 24MB Intel Smart Cache
- Enough for gaming
- Cinebench R23: ~20,000 pts
The i9-14900HX is ~30% more powerful in multithreaded tasks (video editing, streaming, renders). For pure gaming, the i7-14650HX is sufficient since games prioritize the GPU.
🎮 FPS Benchmarks: RTX 5070 vs RTX 5060 (1440p)
The most significant difference between both models is in the GPU. These are the results in demanding games with Ultra + Ray Tracing configuration:
| Game | RTX 5070 (B14WGK) | RTX 5060 (B14WFK) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 (Ultra+RT) | 95 FPS | 65 FPS | +46% |
| Hogwarts Legacy (Ultra+RT) | 72 FPS | 50 FPS | +44% |
| Path of Exile 2 (Ultra) | 145 FPS | 105 FPS | +38% |
| Call of Duty MW3 (Ultra) | 120 FPS | 85 FPS | +41% |
| Valorant (Competitive) | 400+ FPS | 350+ FPS | +14% |
| Fortnite (Competitive) | 320 FPS | 240 FPS | +33% |
GPU Verdict: The RTX 5070 offers ~40% more FPS in demanding games with Ray Tracing. It's the most significant difference between both models.
💾 RAM: 32GB vs 16GB - Does It Matter?
32GB DDR5 (B14WGK)
- Gaming + Chrome + Discord: No problems
- Streaming 1080p/60fps while gaming
- 1440p/4K video editing流畅
- Extreme multitasking without lag
- Future secured (2026+ games)
16GB DDR5 (B14WFK)
- Gaming: Sufficient for most
- Streaming: Limited (720p/30fps)
- Video editing: Only basic 1080p
- Multitasking: Close background apps
- Upgradeable: Can expand later
Both models have 2 SO-DIMM DDR5 slots and support up to 64GB maximum. If you choose the B14WFK with 16GB, you can expand later by adding another 16GB module (~$50-70 USD).
💰 Price/Performance Analysis
B14WGK-016US: $1,670.75
For $147 extra you get:
- i9 vs i7: +30% CPU performance
- RTX 5070 vs 5060: +40% FPS
- 32GB vs 16GB: Double RAM
- Better future resale value
B14WFK-810US: $1,523.77
You save $147, but sacrifice:
- 30% less CPU performance
- 40% less FPS in games
- Half RAM (16GB)
- Lower resale value
The $147 USD (~9% more) difference gives you 30-40% more performance. It's an excellent investment if your budget allows it.
In our Omar YT Play analysis: Complete AISURIX RX 580 Drivers Guide.
⚖️ Which Model Should You Choose?
Choose B14WGK-016US If:
- You play demanding AAA titles (Cyberpunk, Hogwarts Legacy)
- You want gaming 1440p @ 60-100+ FPS Ultra
- You frequently use Ray Tracing
- You do simultaneous streaming + gaming
- You edit 1440p/4K video
- Your budget allows $1,650-1,700
- You want a future-proof laptop for 3-4 years
Choose B14WFK-810US If:
- Your maximum budget is $1,500-1,550
- You mainly play in 1080p
- You don't use intensive Ray Tracing
- Casual gaming or less demanding titles
- You don't do professional video editing
- 16GB RAM is sufficient (expand later)
- You prioritize savings vs maximum performance
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better battery?
Both have 75Wh Lithium Polymer with ~2 hours gaming. The B14WFK lasts ~15-20 minutes longer in light use because it has less powerful components, but the difference is minimal.
Can I expand the RAM of the B14WFK?
Yes, it has 2 SO-DIMM DDR5 slots and supports up to 64GB. It comes with 1x16GB, so you can add another 16GB module to reach 32GB (cost ~$50-70 USD).
Which weighs less?
B14WGK weighs 4.96 lbs (2.25kg) vs B14WFK 5.29 lbs (2.40kg). ~150g difference in favor of the more powerful model.
Is the screen identical?
Yes, 100% identical: 15.6" QHD+ (2560x1440) 165Hz LCD matte. Both have the same high-quality panel.
MSI Katana B14WGK-016US
For most gamers, the B14WGK-016US offers the best value. For only $147 additional (~9% more), you get 30% more CPU performance, 40% more FPS in games, double RAM and better future secured for 3-4 years.
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* Updated prices as of 19/11/2025. As Amazon associates, we earn commissions from qualified purchases.