MSI has entered the handheld gaming scene with its latest offerings, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. These models, launching this December, are touted as significant improvements over their predecessor, promising enhanced gaming experiences powered by cutting-edge technology.
Initially debuting the Claw earlier this year, MSI faced mixed reviews. Its previous model was criticized for lackluster performance and battery life. The reaction prompted MSI to rethink its approach and deliver something more compelling with the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+.
The Claw 8 AI+ features an impressive 8-inch display, whereas the Claw 7 AI+ sports a 7-inch screen. Both boast 1080p resolutions and are equipped with Intel's next-generation Core Ultra 7 processors, which MSI claims will deliver significantly improved performance. At the heart of these handhelds is the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, which presents not only higher clock speeds but also improved graphics processing capabilities compared to earlier models. According to MSI's estimates, the new chips might yield up to 113% higher peak frame rates and 20% higher average FPS compared to the previous Claw.
A distinctive feature of these handhelds is their AI capabilities, enabled by the latest tech advancements. With ASUS and Valve dominating the market with their Steam Deck and ROG Ally series, the stakes are high for MSI to carve its niche and justify the substantial price tags attached to these new devices. The Claw 8 AI+ starts at $899, and the Claw 7 AI+ is priced at $799, positioning them firmly at the premium end of the spectrum.
Both devices showcase enhanced battery capacities, with the Claw 8 AI+ housing an 80Wh battery, allowing for extended gaming sessions. The Claw 7 AI+', on the other hand, has a slightly smaller, yet respectable, 54.5Wh battery. These increased battery capacities are complemented by power optimizations introduced with the new processors, aimed at reducing heat generation and improving overall efficiency during gaming sessions.
One of the most apparent upgrades is the thermal management system across both models, featuring MSI's Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology. This integrated cooling system includes dual fans and heat pipes, aimed at sustaining optimal performance during intense gaming marathons without users facing overheating issues.
Besides raw performance and battery life, user experience is significantly improved with the new ergonomic design of the handhelds. MSI has revamped the button layout to provide more tactile feedback, ensuring gamers have precise control during gameplay. Changes include upgraded joysticks, bumpers, triggers, and D-pads, all engineered for improved responsiveness.
Both devices support up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and offer considerable storage options—with the Claw 8 AI+ allowing up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 SSD storage, faced with competition from similarly priced models.
What truly sets these handhelds apart are their display features. The Claw 8 AI+ offers adjustable refresh rates of up to 120Hz with impressive color accuracy, bolstered by MSI's commitment to high-quality visuals. The Claw 7 AI+ targets 1050 nits peak brightness, appealing to mobile gamers who require clarity even under bright conditions. Both models will support Windows 11 Home, allowing access to extensive gaming libraries.
MSI's initiative to position these handhelds as compact desktop solutions is noteworthy; the processors packed within can also support PC-like functionalities, making them dual-purpose devices. The integration of high-speed ports, including dual USB-C Thunderbolt 4 connections and extensive wireless capabilities with Wi-Fi 7 (in the Claw 8 AI+), highlights MSI's ambition to create versatile gaming machines.
These devices can also resemble mini-PCs due to their extensive connectivity options. Gamers can connect various peripherals or even external displays to fully experience their favorite titles. The enhanced specs also come with Japanese-made Hall effect triggers, aimed to reduce wear and tear over time, contributing to the durability of the devices.
MSI anticipates high demand for both the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. Pre-orders are already live on the company's official site and additional major retailers, including Best Buy and Amazon, though stock availability may vary. They are set to officially launch on December 25, just in time for the holiday season, and offer consumers the hope of solid performance upgrades over their predecessors.
But can MSI successfully dethrone established competitors like Valve and ASUS? That’s the big question. Early reviews will surely follow closely after the launch, offering insights on whether these enhancements are enough to satisfy the handheld gaming community. With such high expectations, MSI is gearing up to prove it dictates the future of portable gaming.
Expectations are on the rise as enthusiasts eagerly anticipate features like the AI capabilities integrated within the gaming handhelds. Even as the pre-order frenzy begins, MSI needs to convince gamers they are more than just the sum of their specs, but rather, compelling options amid fiercely competitive landscapes.
After experiencing mixed reactions previously, MSI's bold claims of setting new standards with these gaming handhelds must prove sufficient to lure both old and new fans. With the gaming market's constant evolution and growing demand for versatile devices, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ will certainly be ones to watch as they hit the market.