MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+: Specs, Pricing, and Release Details
MSI is gearing up to launch two new handheld gaming devices, the Claw 8 AI+ and its smaller sibling, the Claw 7 AI+, offering robust hardware at competitive prices. Here's a detailed look at the upcoming gaming handhelds.
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Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, featuring 8 cores and 8 threads.
Graphics: Intel Arc 140V iGPU, leveraging the latest Xe2 architecture for improved gaming performance.
Memory: 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, making it one of the first gaming handhelds with this configuration, alongside the OneXFly F1 Pro.
Storage: 1 TB SSD.
Display: 8-inch screen, designed for immersive handheld gaming.
Battery: 80Wh, similar to competitors like the ROG Ally X.
Price: $899 (Amazon listing).
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Processor: Same Core Ultra 7 258V as the Claw 8 AI+.
Graphics: Intel Arc 140V iGPU.
Memory: 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
Storage: 512 GB SSD.
Display: Smaller 7-inch screen, making it more compact and portable.
Battery: Also equipped with an 80Wh battery.
Price: $799.
Release Date: Expected availability by the end of December, with an embargo lift on December 25.
Key Comparisons
Against the ROG Ally X:
The Claw 8 AI+ matches the ROG Ally X in battery life but offers higher RAM (32 GB vs. 16 GB) at a competitive price.Against the OneXFly F1 Pro:
Although the OneXFly F1 Pro features Ryzen AI chips with higher core/thread counts, the Claw AI+ series is more affordable and features Intel's latest GPU advancements.
Features
Both handhelds use Intel's Lunar Lake chips and the Arc 140V iGPU, promising strong gaming performance for the portable segment.
MSI appears to prioritize affordability and performance balance, with features like LPDDR5X RAM and next-gen connectivity.
The Claw AI+ series targets gamers seeking high-end handhelds without breaking the $1,000 mark, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the ROG Ally X and other premium handheld devices.
As the handheld gaming market continues to heat up, MSI’s entry with the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ adds a compelling option for enthusiasts. With pre-orders likely to begin soon and a launch expected by late December, these devices may redefine the sub-$1,000 gaming handheld category.
Are you planning to pick up the Claw 8 AI+ or Claw 7 AI+? How do you think they stack up against the competition?