MSI has released two updated versions of the MSI Claw following the original’s lackluster debut earlier this year. The company’s $900 MSI Claw 8 AI+ and the $800 Claw 7 AI+ now boast Lunar Lake Intel processing, enhanced battery life, and refined features such as reengineered sticks, bumpers, and triggers.
The previous model was considered “a touch late and a bit too pricey,” according to Engadget’s Sam Rutherford in his review. It was outperformed by more affordable competitors, its software was cumbersome, and it required frequent optimization updates due to numerous issues. While we haven’t tried the new models, the move to Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 processor should bring improvements in performance and power efficiency, addressing two major shortcomings of the A1M.
The Claw 8 AI+ features an 8-inch (1,920 x 1,200) display, while the Claw 7 AI+ has a 7-inch (1,920 x 1,080) screen. Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, though they utilize LCD panels, lacking an OLED option as seen in alternatives from Valve and Lenovo.
The Claw 8 boasts an 80Wh battery, whereas the 7-inch version contains a 54.5Wh battery. Both employ MSI’s Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology, featuring dual fans and heat pipes. MSI claims superiority over “competitors” (unspecified) when operating at an efficient 17W.
Each handheld includes a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports, effectively enabling the handheld to function as a makeshift Windows PC when connected to a monitor. CoPilot+ support is also integrated.
In this generation, MSI has redesigned the joysticks, bumpers, D-pad, and triggers. The previous version had Hall effect sticks, and the new iteration extends this feature to its triggers. Ergonomics, which were a rare positive in the last version, are emphasized as the new handhelds are described as “tailored to fit the natural contours of the hand.”
Regarding the device’s AI-centric branding, MSI likely refers to the XeSS upscaling technology embedded in the Intel chip. However, since the prior model also used XeSS, the AI branding may be intended to highlight MSI’s utilization of AI technology.
The new handhelds will be released on December 25. GameRant reports that their pre-order listings are present but currently lack available stock. Once purchasable, the Claw 7 AI+ is priced at $800, while the Claw 8 AI+ will cost $900.
