MSI Launches Enhanced Claw Gaming Handhelds with Intel's Latest Technology

This week, MSI has initiated preorders for its latest gaming handheld devices, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. This release follows the debut of the original MSI Claw earlier in the year. Both models are powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V system-on-a-chip (SoC), featuring the innovative Arc Xe2 graphics architecture that promises to enhance gaming performance and efficiency. The first iteration of the MSI Claw utilized an earlier generation SoC, which garnered mixed reactions regarding its performance. The upgraded Intel Core Ultra 7 chip is expected to address the shortcomings observed in the previous model.

However, definitive assessments will only be possible once users experience the devices firsthand. In terms of specifications, the Claw 8 AI+ boasts an 8-inch display with 1200p resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz, covering 100% of the sRGB color gamut and offering up to 500 nits of brightness. It is equipped with 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 RAM, a 1TB PCIe SSD, and an impressive 80 WHr battery supported by 65W USB 3.0 power delivery. The Claw 7 AI+ varies only in screen size, measuring 7 inches, and features a smaller 54.5 WHr battery. Currently, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is available for preorder at major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and the MSI Store, priced at $899.99 in the US. Meanwhile, the Claw 7 AI+ can be preordered for $799.99, with prices around £700 / £630 in the UK, and AU$1,400 / AU$1,245 in Australia, although exact UK and Australian pricing and availability remain unconfirmed. The anticipation surrounding the new MSI Claw devices is growing. When the first MSI Claw was introduced at CES 2024, it stirred excitement as it was one of the first handhelds to be powered by an Intel chip. The initial model, equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 100-series SoC, showcased innovations such as hardware-accelerated upscaling via XeSS. Despite these advancements, the performance of the Intel Core Ultra 100-series chips was seen as lacking compared to the AMD Z1 chips found in competitors like the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally.

The new iterations of the MSI Claw, however, appear to be well-positioned for success due to the enhancements in Intel’s Lunar Lake chips. Based on testing of laptops featuring the Intel Core Ultra 200-series chips, their performance has been impressive, especially in gaming contexts. With the improved energy efficiency from the revised Intel architecture, these handhelds may achieve remarkable performance alongside extended battery life, essential factors contributing to the overall attractiveness of gaming handhelds. At this stage, it's unclear if the latest Claw models can fulfill these expectations. Nevertheless, during a brief preview of the Claw 8 AI+ at IFA 2024, it appeared to be significantly different from its predecessor. Whether it justifies the $899.99 price tag remains to be determined.