MSI has just unveiled its latest Claw gaming handhelds, powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, boasting an impressive 32GB of RAM and storage options up to a whopping 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD. Perhaps the best part is that this storage is conveniently upgradeable. The two new models, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+, are nearly identical in terms of specs, with varying screen sizes and battery capacities being the most noticeable differences.
So, whether you’re someone who craves a bigger screen for maximum gaming immersion or favors a more compact device for portability, you won’t be compromising on performance.
Here’s a rundown of their specifications: both devices are armed with the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, 32GB of integrated LPDDR5x-8533 memory, up to 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD for storage, and an Intel Arc 140 GPU. The Claw 8 AI+ sports an 8-inch FHD+ touchscreen with a 16:10 aspect ratio, while the Claw 7 AI+ features a slightly smaller 7-inch FHD display. Both screens boast 120Hz refresh rates, 100% sRGB coverage, and are bright at 500 nits.
Sound-wise, they come with twin 2W speakers and support DTS and Hi-Res Audio, ensuring an immersive audio experience. On the connectivity front, the Claw 8 AI+ supports Wi-Fi 7, while the Claw 7 AI+ is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E. Both devices are compatible with Bluetooth 5.3.
Battery capacities vary, with the Claw 8 AI+ housing a hefty 80Whr battery and the Claw 7 AI+ containing a 54.5Whr unit. They are powered by a 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 adapter. In terms of size, the Claw 8 AI+ measures 299 x 126 x 24mm and weighs 795g, whereas the Claw 7 AI+ is slightly smaller and lighter at 290 x 117 x 21.2mm and 675g. Both devices run on Windows 11 Home.
Interestingly, MSI has not revealed the official prices for these devices just yet, and they aren’t listed on MSI’s US online store. However, you can find them up for preorder on Amazon. The Claw 8 AI+ is priced at $899 for the 1TB version, while the Claw 7 AI+ goes for $799 but with 512GB of storage, differing slightly from MSI’s advertised specs.
What makes these devices stand out in the handheld gaming space is their use of Intel processors, when most rivals like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go are equipped with AMD chips. In addition, the Claw handhelds boast redesigned joysticks and a better button layout, featuring hall-effect triggers, providing enhanced gaming precision and comfort. While Tencent is reportedly working on an 11-inch handheld with the same Intel processor, it’s still in the works and not expected to hit the U.S. market any time soon.
The latest Lunar Lake chips from Intel are designed for efficiency, operating on just 17W, which lets gamers enjoy extended gameplay on battery. MSI claims the Claw devices achieve “113% higher peak FPS and an average 20% higher FPS under the same power conditions” compared to previous iterations.
Packed with numerous ports, these handhelds could also serve as compact PCs. They come equipped with Copilot+ capabilities and an exclusive App Player that allows the installation and play of both Windows and Android games. This versatility makes them perfect for both work and recreation.
