MSI has just unveiled its latest line-up of Claw gaming handhelds, showcasing both the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. At the heart of these devices lies the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, paired with a hefty 32GB of RAM and storage options that max out at 1TB via a PCIe Gen4 SSD. MSI proudly notes that upgrades are a breeze thanks to its accessible design. Essentially, the main distinctions between the two models are the screen size, battery capacity, and dimensions.
When deciding between these two, you’re purely choosing based on preference for display size or portability, as performance stays top-notch across both devices.
With their compact builds, both models pack identical power under the hood. The Claw 8 AI+ sports an 8-inch FHD+ display, while the Claw 7 AI+ features a slightly smaller 7-inch FHD panel. Both screens support 120Hz refresh rates and cover 100% of the sRGB color spectrum, promising vibrant visuals and fluid animations.
Audio is delivered through dual 2W speakers, with support for DTS and Hi-Res Audio for an immersive sound experience. From a connectivity standpoint, Wi-Fi 6E/Bluetooth 5.3 on the Claw 7 and Wi-Fi 7/Bluetooth 5.4 on the Claw 8 ensure you stay connected. Furthermore, the selection of ports is designed to maximize utility, featuring Thunderbolt, USB Type-C, and microSD slots.
Despite the recent announcement, pricing details were initially omitted. However, Amazon listings reveal the Claw 8 AI+ is set at $899 for the 1TB version, while the Claw 7 AI+ comes in at $799 with a 512GB option, which slightly diverges from the official specs.
What sets these MSI handhelds apart from the pack is their embrace of Intel processors—a departure from the AMD chips preferred by rivals such as the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go. Complimenting this change, MSI has revamped its control inputs, introducing enhanced joysticks and triggers for more precise control, promising improved gaming ergonomics and accuracy.
While Tencent reportedly has an 11-inch variant in the pipeline featuring the same processor, there’s no sign it will reach the U.S. market soon.
And like any serious gaming device, battery life is critical. Thanks to Intel’s Lunar Lake chips, these handhelds keep running efficiently, offering extended playtime on a single charge. MSI even boasts impressive performance gains, with reports of a 113% boost in peak FPS and a 20% uptick in average FPS when set under similar power conditions.
These devices aren’t just about gaming. With a plethora of ports, MSI suggests they could even serve as mini-PCs. A highlight is the exclusive App Player, which enables users to run both Windows and Android games. All in all, the MSI Claw series gadgets appear to be versatile powerhouses adept at balancing work and play in a compact format.
(Image credit: MSI)
In essence, with their cutting-edge tech and forward-thinking design, these handhelds are not just portable powerhouses but potential game-changers in how portable gaming is perceived. Whether for gaming or as a functional mini-PC, they seem a promising addition to the handheld gaming market.
