MSI’s Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+: Bringing Intel Lunar Lake Power to Handheld Devices

Recently, MSI unveiled the latest generation of their Claw gaming handhelds, which come equipped with the new Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, paired with a hefty 32GB of RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, which MSI assures users can be easily upgraded. The fresh lineup includes two models: the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and the Claw 7 AI+. Apart from some differences in screen size and battery life, these devices are nearly identical in terms of specifications.

If you’re someone who values a larger display for a more immersive gaming experience, or if you lean towards portability, these handhelds ensure you don’t have to compromise on performance.

Technical Specifications:

Processor: Both devices sport the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V.
Memory: Integrated 32GB LPDDR5x-8533.
Storage: Both offer up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 SSD with easy access, but the Claw 7 AI+ provides an NVMe M.2 2230 SSD Gen4 x4.
Graphics: The Intel Arc 140 GPU is integrated into both models.
Display: The MSI Claw 8 AI+ features an 8-inch FHD+ touchscreen with a resolution of 1920×1200, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and a 120Hz refresh rate. In contrast, the Claw 7 AI+ has a slightly smaller 7-inch FHD screen, with a 1920×1080 resolution.

Audio & Connectivity:
Both models deliver sound through two 2W speakers with DTS support and Hi-Res Audio capabilities, enhanced by a 6-axis IMU and vibration motor for a more tactile gaming experience. Connectivity options include the latest Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 on the Claw 8 AI+, while the Claw 7 AI+ offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.34. Both handhelds house multiple ports, including dual Thunderbolt 4/DP/USB Type-C PD 3.0, a microSD slot, and a 3.5mm combo jack.

Battery and Dimensions:
The Claw 8 AI+ is powered by an 80Whr battery, weighing in at 795g and measuring 299 x 126 x 24mm. Meanwhile, the Claw 7 AI+ offers a 54.5Whr battery, a lighter weight of 675g, and smaller dimensions at 290 x 117 x 21.2mm.

MSI hasn’t disclosed official pricing on their site yet, but you can find preorder options on Amazon. The Claw 8 AI+ with 1TB storage is listed at $899, while the Claw 7 AI+ is available for $799 but with a reduced storage of 512GB.

These handhelds distinguish themselves by utilizing Intel processors, unlike most of their rivals like the ROG Ally X or Lenovo Legion Go, which typically use AMD chips. Not only do these processors enhance performance, but MSI’s new lineup also features redesigned controls for improved gaming precision and ergonomics. Although Tencent has announced plans for an 11-inch handheld with the same processor, it’s still in its development stage, so don’t expect to see it on U.S. shelves anytime soon.

Thanks to Intel’s Lunar Lake chips, these handhelds boast enhanced efficiency, allowing more playtime due to their 17W operation. MSI states that both the Claw 8 AI+ and 7 AI+ achieve up to 113% higher peak FPS and an average of 20% more FPS under equivalent power conditions.

The abundance of connectivity ports supports the possibility of using these devices as mini-PCs, complete with Copilot+ capabilities. An exclusive App Player even enables the running of both Windows and Android games, making these handhelds highly versatile tools for gaming and productivity alike.