The landscape of portable gaming is continuously evolving, with the latest addition being the MSI Claw, unveiled at CES 2024. This handheld gaming device marks a significant step in the progression of PC gaming portables, particularly with its integration of Intel’s technology.
The MSI Claw enters a market that has seen considerable success with devices like Valve’s Steam Deck, and models from Asus and Lenovo. However, the Claw sets itself apart with its impressive specifications. It boasts an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor along with Intel Arc graphics, leveraging the latest in Meteor Lake chip technology. This combination is a first in the realm of gaming handhelds, which traditionally have relied on all-in-one AMD APUs for both central and graphics processing.
A standout feature of the Claw is its 7-inch, 1920×1080 IPS display, capable of a 120Hz refresh rate. This spec aligns it with competitors like the Asus ROG Ally, hinting at potentially comparable performance levels. However, the true impact of its new Intel chip remains to be seen until the device is tested in real-world scenarios.
In terms of design and user interface, the MSI Claw shares similarities with its contemporaries, yet it pushes the envelope in terms of power and versatility. Its 16GB of dual-channel LPDDR5 memory is impressive, as is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity. The device also features a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port, a Micro SD card slot, and a uniquely integrated power button with a fingerprint reader for enhanced security.
Running on Windows 11, the MSI Claw promises a familiar yet robust operating system experience, which might appeal to those accustomed to the Windows ecosystem. This aspect, coupled with the device’s 53Whr battery, estimated to provide around 2 hours of battery life at full performance, indicates that MSI is targeting a balance between power and portability.
Despite its hefty weight of 675 grams, the MSI Claw seems poised to offer a high-end gaming experience in a handheld format. Its potential is especially intriguing given Intel’s entry into the handheld-ready gaming chips market, signaling a broader shift towards more powerful and diverse offerings in this space.
As for the MSI Claw’s pricing and availability, details remain sparse. MSI has indicated an early release within the year, but specifics regarding the price and exact release date are still pending. This anticipation is part of a larger trend where manufacturers are gradually revealing more about their latest innovations, often leaving consumers eagerly waiting for full disclosures.
Specifications of the MSI Claw
| Model Name | Claw A1M |
| Processor | Up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 155H |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home (MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business.) Windows 11 Pro |
| Chipset | Integrated SoC |
| Memory | LPDDR5 onboard, 16GB, dual channel |
| Display | 7″ FHD (1920 x 1080), 120 Hz Refresh Rate, Touch Screen, 120 Hz Refresh Rate, 100% sRGB(Typical), 500nits(Typical), IPS-Level panel |
| Graphics | Intel® Arc Graphics |
| Storage Slot | 1 x NVMe M.2 2230 SSD by PCIe Gen 4 x4 |
| Sensor | 6-Axis IMU Vibration Motor |
| Communication | Intel® Killer™ Wi-Fi 7 BE1750, Bluetooth v5.4 |
| Audio | 2 × 2W Speakers / 1× Audio combo jack / Hi-Res Audio ready |
| I/O Port | 1 x Thunderbolt™ 4 / DP/ USB Type-C (w/ PD 3.0 Charging) 1 x microSD Card Reader 1 x Audio combo jack 1x Power button with Finger Print Sensor |
| Battery/Adapter | 6-Cell, Li-Polymer, 53Whr / 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 |
| Dimension | 294 (W) x 117(D) x 21.2(H) mm |
| Weight | 675 g |
| Color | Black |
