MSI has unveiled the latest models in its Claw gaming handheld lineup, equipped with the powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, 32GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 SSD storage. What’s more compelling is that MSI ensures that these storage options are straightforward to upgrade. The two new entrants, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+, boast strikingly similar specs. Their major differences lie in display size, battery life, and overall dimensions.
This means you can choose according to your preference—be it a larger display for a fully immersive gaming experience or a more compact device that’s easy to carry around—without compromising on performance.
Specifications Comparison
| 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), 16:10 Touchscreen, 120Hz, 100% sRGB, 500nits, VRR, IPS-level | 7-inch FHD (1920×1080), Touchscreen, 120Hz, 100% sRGB, 500nits, VRR, IPS-level |
| Audio | 2x 2W speakers, DTS, supports Hi-Res Audio | 2x 2W speakers, DTS, supports 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/DP/USB Type-C PD 3.0, 1x microSD slot, 1x 3.5mm combo jack, 1x power button with fingerprint sensor | 2x Thunderbolt 4/DP/USB Type-C PD 3.0, 1x microSD slot, 1x 3.5mm combo jack, 1x power button with fingerprint sensor |
| 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 (W x D x H) | 299 x 126 x 24mm | 290 x 117 x 21.2mm |
| Weight | 795g | 675g |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
Despite MSI’s initial announcement lacking pricing details, we’ve already seen listings for preorders on Amazon. The Claw 8 AI+ is tagged at $899 for the model with 1TB storage, while the Claw 7 AI+ is available for a slightly reduced price of $799 with 512GB of storage, which deviates from MSI’s own spec listings.
What sets these devices apart in the current market is their reliance on Intel processors. This is in contrast to many popular rivals such as the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, which typically use AMD chips. In addition to enhanced processing capabilities, MSI’s new generation of Claw handhelds includes revamped joysticks, bumpers, and D-pads, coupled with hall-effect triggers. These improvements significantly advance accuracy, consistency, and ergonomics, offering a superior gaming experience. Although Tencent has also showcased an 11-inch handheld with the same processor, its release seems less imminent, especially in the U.S. market.
Thanks to Intel’s Lunar Lake chips, which are designed for better efficiency, gamers can enjoy longer play sessions on a single charge. The devices operate at just 17W, yet MSI boasts that the Claw 8 AI+ and 7 AI+ provide "113% higher peak FPS and an average 20% higher FPS under the same power conditions.”
Finally, a wide array of ports makes the new Claw AI+ devices versatile—serving not just as gaming consoles but as mini-PCs as well. They also support Copilot+ and feature a unique App Player, allowing users to seamlessly install both Windows and Android games. These additions make the devices a functional powerhouse, whether you’re geared for work or play.
