MSI MSI - Modern AM273Q AI 27" All-In-One - Intel Core Ultra 7 - 32 GB Memory - 1 TB SSD - Black Review

The MSI Modern AM273Q AI all-in-one PC offers a clean design and lots of RAM, but its low-resolution 1600x900 screen and integrated graphics make it hard to recommend at its $1,690 price. It's best for users who prioritize a cable-free desk above screen quality and performance.

Looking for a clean, cable-free desktop setup? The MSI Modern AM273Q AI is a 27-inch all-in-one PC that packs the whole computer into the back of the monitor. It's built around Intel's new Core Ultra 7 155H processor, which includes a dedicated NPU for AI tasks, and it comes with a generous 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. At around $1,690, it's targeting home office users and developers who want a tidy, modern-looking machine. But that sleek, space-saving design comes with some big trade-offs, especially when you look at the screen and graphics.

The Core Ultra 7 155H is a capable 16-core CPU for general productivity. In our database, its performance lands in the 49th percentile for all-in-ones, which means it's solidly middle-of-the-pack for handling office apps, web browsing, and light development work. Where this machine really stumbles is graphics. With only integrated Intel Graphics, it scores in the 38th percentile. That's fine for displaying your code or a spreadsheet, but it's not meant for anything visual. The 27-inch screen only has a 1600x900 resolution, which is surprisingly low for a monitor this size and price. Text and images won't look as sharp as they would on a standard 1080p or 4K display.

At $1,690, the MSI Modern AM273Q AI is a tough sell. You're paying a premium for the all-in-one form factor and the 32GB of RAM, but you're getting a low-resolution screen and weak integrated graphics in return. For the same money, you could build or buy a much more powerful traditional desktop tower and pair it with a excellent 27-inch 1440p monitor, and you'd have a system that's better in every way except desk clutter.

This isn't really competing with the gaming desktops like the HP Omen 45L or Alienware Aurora R16 listed in our data—those are in a different performance league. A fairer comparison is against other all-in-ones or compact PCs. For example, a Mac Mini or an Intel NUC paired with a nice monitor would give you similar or better CPU performance, a much better screen, and often cost less. If you absolutely must have an all-in-one, some of Apple's iMacs offer far superior displays and performance per dollar, though you'd be switching to macOS. The main thing the MSI has going for it is its massive amount of RAM and ports, but that's a niche win.

Skip this if you care about screen quality, want to do any gaming or creative work, or are on a budget. The low-resolution display is a deal-breaker for most. Gamers should look at the HP Omen or Alienware desktops. Photo or video editors need a better screen and GPU. Budget-conscious buyers can get more power and a better monitor for less money with a mini PC or traditional tower setup.

Should you buy this? Probably not. The MSI Modern AM273Q AI feels like a product built around a compromise that most people shouldn't make. The all-in-one design is neat, but it's undermined by a low-resolution screen and a lack of graphical power for the price. It might make sense for a very specific user: someone who desperately needs a ton of RAM, values a completely clean desk above all else, and doesn't care at all about screen quality. For everyone else, a traditional desktop setup or a different all-in-one will offer a better experience.