MSI has just unveiled its latest line of Claw gaming handhelds, each packing a powerful punch with the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, complemented by 32GB of RAM and a storage capacity reaching up to 1TB via a PCIe Gen4 SSD. MSI assures that this storage is easily upgradable. These newcomers, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+, boast nearly identical specs, with variations only in their display size, battery life, and overall dimensions.
For those who crave a more engaging visual experience, the larger display might be the perfect pick. But if portability is your priority, the smaller option won’t leave you wanting for performance.
Here’s a quick rundown of their specifications:
- Processor: Both models are powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V.
- Memory: They each have 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 memory.
- Storage: Options up to a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, featuring convenient access for upgrades.
- Graphics: Equipped with the integrated Intel Arc 140 GPU.
- Display:
- Claw 8 AI+: 8-inch FHD+ (1920×1200) touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate.
- Claw 7 AI+: 7-inch FHD (1920×1080) touchscreen at 120Hz.
- Audio: Both include a pair of 2W speakers with DTS support and Hi-Res Audio compatibility.
- Sensors: 6-axis IMU, vibration motor.
- Connectivity: Claw 8 supports Wi-Fi 7, while the Claw 7 supports Wi-Fi 6E. Both models feature Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4.
- Ports: Each handheld provides 2x Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C, and a microSD slot, among others.
- Battery & Weight: The Claw 8 sports an 80Whr 6-cell battery and weighs 795g, while the Claw 7 carries a 54.5Whr battery at 675g.
- Operating System: Both run on Windows 11 Home.
Although MSI has kept silent about pricing in their announcement, preorders on Amazon reveal that the Claw 8 AI+ with 1TB storage is tagged at $899, whereas the Claw 7 AI+ goes for $799 with half the storage capacity, diverging from MSI’s listed specs.
What sets these devices apart is their use of Intel processors, diverging from competitors like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, which typically rely on AMD. MSI enhances this new line with revamped controls such as joysticks, bumpers, D-pads, and hall-effect triggers, aiming for superior playability and ergonomics. Notably, Tencent has also announced an 11-inch handheld with the same processor, but it’s still under development and might not hit the U.S. market soon.
Thanks to Intel’s Lunar Lake chips’ efficiency, these handhelds promise longer play sessions at just 17W. MSI even claims a performance leap, boasting a "113% higher peak FPS and an average 20% higher FPS under identical power scenarios."
With a robust array of ports, these handhelds double as capable mini-PCs and offer Copilot+ capabilities. An exclusive App Player allows you to enjoy both Windows and Android games, making them incredibly versatile for work or leisure.
In summary, MSI’s Claw series doesn’t just cater to gamers looking for power and flexibility—it also offers an engaging blend of cutting-edge technology designed to enhance both work and play.
