MSI has officially launched its next-generation gaming handhelds, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. These devices bring the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processors, enhanced battery life, and thoughtful design improvements to ensure a seamless gaming experience. Starting at $799, they cater to diverse gaming preferences with features that promise power and efficiency.
1. Specifications
The Claw 8 AI+ features an 8-inch Full HD+ touchscreen display with a resolution of 1920×1200 and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The display boasts 100% sRGB coverage, 500 nits brightness, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smooth gameplay. The smaller Claw 7 AI+ offers a 7-inch Full HD display with similar refresh rate and color accuracy but at a slightly lower resolution of 1920×1080.
Both models are powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 7-258V processor, featuring an 8-core/8-thread configuration. This includes 4 performance cores clocked at 4.8 GHz and 4 efficiency cores at 3.7 GHz.
Graphics are handled by the Intel Arc 140V GPU, ensuring support for AAA titles and optimized gaming performance. Both handhelds come equipped with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM clocked at 8533 MHz and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 SSD storage.
The Claw 8 AI+ houses an 80Whr battery, offering longer gaming sessions, while the Claw 7 AI+ is fitted with a 54.5Whr battery for a slightly shorter runtime. Connectivity options include dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 7 (Claw 8 AI+) or Wi-Fi 6E (Claw 7 AI+), and Bluetooth 5.4 or 5.3, respectively.
2. Special Features
The Claw series features several ergonomic and functional enhancements designed for precision and comfort. It comes with redesigned joysticks, bumpers, triggers, and a D-pad that enhances usability and control. The triggers equip Hall effect technology, ensuring durability and minimizing wear over time.
The devices sport MSI’s Cooler Boost HyperFlow system, which integrates dual fans and heat pipes to manage heat effectively, allowing for sustained performance during extended gaming sessions.
Both handhelds run Windows 11 Home, providing access to a vast library of PC and Android games through MSI’s exclusive App Player. They also feature dual 2W speakers with DTS sound effects, delivering an immersive audio experience.
Additionally, the Claw series equips Copilot+ PC capabilities and versatile connectivity options, making them excellent choices for users seeking a compact and efficient Mini-PC setup.
3. Pricing & Availability
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is priced at $899, while the Claw 7 AI+ starts at $799. Both handhelds will be available for purchase starting December 25, with pre-orders already listed on platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, and ExCaliberPC. The Claw 8 AI+ comes in a striking Sandstorm gold-grey color, while the Claw 7 AI+ sports a classic black finish.
If you’re a fan of retro gaming, don’t miss our recent coverage of the latest Anbernic handheld game consoles, perfect for reliving classic gaming experiences. Check out the article!
