MSI has rolled out its latest Claw gaming handhelds, introducing the cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor paired with a hefty 32GB of RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD. MSI is boasting about how effortlessly these can be upgraded. The new models are the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+, sharing nearly identical specs, save for the size of their screens and battery capacities, which naturally affects their dimensions.
Both handhelds cater to different preferences—whether you’re into a larger screen for that immersive gaming experience or something more compact for easy portability, you won’t be losing out on performance.
Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what each brings to the table:
MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ Specs:
- Processor: Both use the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V.
- Memory: 32GB LPDDR5x-8533, integrated across both models.
- Storage: Tops out at 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD with easy access; includes 1x NVMe M.2 2230 SSD Gen4 x4.
- Graphics: Intel Arc 140 GPU.
- Display: The Claw 8 AI+ sports an 8-inch FHD+ screen, while the Claw 7 AI+ has a 7-inch FHD screen. Both deliver on 120Hz refresh rates and vibrant color accuracy.
- Audio: Equipped with 2x 2W speakers and support DTS and Hi-Res Audio.
- Sensors and Controls: Both feature a 6-axis IMU and vibration motor.
- Connectivity: Claw 8 AI+ offers Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, while the Claw 7 AI+ has Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
- Ports: Generous port offerings include Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C, a microSD slot, and more.
- Battery and Build: Claw 8 AI+ has a larger 80Whr battery, whereas the Claw 7 AI+ has a 54.5Whr battery.
- Operating System: Ships with Windows 11 Home.
While MSI hasn’t disclosed the official pricing on their US site, Amazon already has these up for pre-order. The Claw 8 AI+ is available for $899 with a full 1TB of storage, whereas the Claw 7 AI+ comes in at $799, offering a 512GB storage option.
What really sets these handhelds apart is their use of Intel processors, putting them in contrast with the mainstream alternatives that usually opt for AMD chips, like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go. This new generation from MSI isn’t just about raw power; they’ve redesigned joysticks, bumpers, and the D-pad for precision and comfort. Compared to Tencent’s upcoming 11-inch device using the same processor, MSI’s models are already creating a buzz, with the latter still pending a US release.
The Intel Lunar Lake chips utilized in these gadgets promise better efficiency, enabling gamers to indulge in longer gameplay while only drawing 17W. MSI boasts that the Claw 8 AI+ and 7 AI+ can deliver 113% higher peak FPS and roughly 20% better average FPS under similar power conditions.
With a wealth of ports, MSI envisions these handhelds doubling as mini-PCs, enhanced with Copilot+ capabilities. A standout feature is the exclusive App Player, allowing users to install both Windows and Android games, making these devices incredibly versatile for work and play.
