MSI has just rolled out its next lineup of Claw gaming handhelds, and they’re packing some impressive specs. Both the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ boast a powerhouse Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, coupled with a hefty 32GB of RAM. You can also upgrade to a spacious 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, which MSI makes easily accessible for those inclined to DIY upgrades. While their specs are nearly identical, the main differences lie in their screen size and battery life, leading to slight variations in overall dimensions. So, packed with power, you can opt for a bigger screen for that extra immersive gaming or go for a more compact design, all without compromising on performance.
Here’s a quick comparison between the two.
| Specifications | MSI Claw 8 AI+ | MSI Claw 7 AI+ |
|———————-|————————————————-|————————————————-|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V |
| Memory | 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 (integrated) | 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 (integrated) |
| Storage | Up to 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD Easy Access | 1x NVMe M.2 2230 SSD Gen4 x4 |
| Graphics | Intel Arc 140 GPU (integrated) | Intel Arc 140 GPU (integrated) |
| Display | 8-inch FHD+ (1920×1200), 120Hz, 100% sRGB | 7-inch FHD (1920×1080), 120Hz, 100% sRGB |
| Audio | 2x 2W speakers, DTS, Hi-Res Audio | 2x 2W speakers, DTS, Hi-Res Audio |
| Sensors | 6-axis IMU, vibration motor | 6-axis IMU, vibration motor |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7 / Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 5.34 |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4/USB Type-C, microSD slot | 2x Thunderbolt 4/USB Type-C, microSD slot |
| Battery | 80Whr 6-cell Li-Po | 54.5Whr 6-cell Li-Po |
| Adapter | 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 | 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 |
| Dimensions | 299 x 126 x 24mm | 290 x 117 x 21.2mm |
| Weight | 795g | 675g |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
MSI has been tight-lipped about the official pricing on its site, and they’re yet to appear on their US e-shop. However, Amazon has them up for pre-order. The Claw 8 AI+ with 1TB storage is tagged at $899, while the Claw 7 AI+ retails for $799, but do note, it’s offering 512GB of storage. This is a bit different from the specs MSI originally announced.
What sets these devices apart from the pack is their reliance on Intel processors. Most competitors, like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, opt for AMD chips. Plus, MSI has given the Claw handhelds a makeover with redesigned joysticks, bumpers, D-pads, and hall-effect triggers, boosting their accuracy, consistency, and ergonomics. There’s also a buzz about an 11-inch handheld running the same Intel chip from Tencent, but that device is still in the works and isn’t likely to hit the U.S. market anytime soon.
Intel’s Lunar Lake chips have managed to impress, offering better efficiency that results in longer gaming sessions on battery life. Operating at a mere 17W in these handhelds, MSI claims the Claw 8 AI+ and 7 AI+ deliver “113% higher peak FPS and an average 20% more FPS under the same power conditions.”
These Claw AI+ devices are not just about gaming. Laden with a plethora of ports, they can double as mini-PCs, complete with Copilot+ capabilities. They’re also getting an exclusive App Player, allowing the installation of both Windows and Android games on the devices, making them truly versatile for work and play.
