The MSI Claw has officially made its debut, bringing a new and exciting option to the handheld gaming market. Priced at $699, the base model of MSI’s Core Ultra-powered gaming handheld is now available for purchase through MSI’s website. The device promises to be a strong competitor in the growing landscape of portable gaming, joining the likes of the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go.
MSI, known for its high-performance gaming hardware, unveiled the Claw during CES 2024. With its powerful Core Ultra processors and sleek design, the Claw aims to provide gamers with a high-quality, on-the-go gaming experience that rivals full-sized gaming PCs.
Pricing and Available Models
The MSI Claw is available in three different models, catering to a range of performance needs and budgets:
- $699: Core Ultra 5 with 512GB SSD
- $749: Core Ultra 7 with 512GB SSD
- $799: Core Ultra 7 with 1TB SSD
For those eager to get their hands on the device, all three models can be preordered on MSI’s website, with shipping already available for the base model. Additionally, preorders for all three models are open on Newegg, with availability starting from March 15th. Customers who preorder through Newegg also receive bonus offers, including a free copy of the standard edition of Skull and Bones and one month of Xbox Game Pass.
For gamers looking to buy the MSI Claw at brick-and-mortar locations, the device is also available at Best Buy, with shipping expected to begin by April 4th. These various purchasing options make it easy for gaming enthusiasts to secure their preferred model before wider availability.
MSI Claw’s Specs and Performance
The standout feature of the MSI Claw is its use of Intel’s Core Ultra processors, which power all three models. The device runs on Windows, providing users with the familiar PC gaming experience, but in a more compact, portable format. Its seven-inch 1080p LCD display supports a variable refresh rate (VRR) of 48–120Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay whether you’re playing graphically intensive games or older titles.
The Claw’s graphics performance is bolstered by an Intel Arc graphics chip equipped with eight Xe-cores, which provides impressive visuals for a handheld device. This hardware allows the Claw to stand toe-to-toe with other popular portable gaming systems, offering a seamless blend of power and portability.
Battery life is another critical factor for gamers on the go, and the MSI Claw delivers with its 53Wh battery. The device is designed to offer approximately two hours of gaming per charge, which, while not extensive, is in line with other powerful handheld gaming systems. Users can extend this battery life by adjusting settings like brightness and refresh rate, ensuring that they can game for longer periods when needed.
Design and Key Features
MSI has packed a variety of innovative features into the Claw to make it a versatile and comfortable gaming device. One notable addition is the Hall effect triggers and joysticks, which prevent stick drift—a common issue with other handheld gaming systems. These components are built to provide precise control without the wear-and-tear that typically causes joysticks to become unresponsive over time.
Another key feature is the inclusion of a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. This allows for secure and easy access to the device, adding an extra layer of protection for gamers who want to keep their systems secure.
The MSI Claw also includes a microSD slot, allowing users to expand the system’s storage capacity beyond its internal SSD. Additionally, the Thunderbolt 4 port offers a wide range of connectivity options, enabling users to hook the device up to external displays or use it with other peripherals like gaming controllers or keyboards.
Competing in the Handheld Market
The handheld gaming market has seen significant growth in recent years, with devices like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally paving the way for more portable gaming experiences. MSI’s decision to launch the Claw shows that the company is eager to tap into this expanding market, offering its own high-performance alternative to the competition.
Where the MSI Claw stands out is in its use of next-gen processors and its emphasis on providing a premium gaming experience. The Core Ultra processors, combined with Intel Arc graphics, allow the Claw to handle modern AAA games with ease, while its compact size and design make it perfect for gamers who want to take their games on the go. While the Steam Deck has become a household name for PC gamers, the MSI Claw offers a viable alternative, especially for those who prioritize hardware performance and build quality.
The introduction of Thunderbolt 4 connectivity also gives the Claw an edge over some of its competitors. This port offers faster data transfer speeds and more versatile connectivity options, allowing users to expand the device’s capabilities by connecting it to external GPUs or other high-performance peripherals.
MSI Claw: Is It Worth the Price?
With a starting price of $699, the MSI Claw sits comfortably in the same price range as its competitors, such as the Asus ROG Ally and Steam Deck. However, for gamers who are looking for more storage or additional power, the higher-tier models with the Core Ultra 7 processor and 1TB of storage may be the better option. The pricing structure provides flexibility, allowing gamers to choose a model that fits their needs and budget.
The bonus offers available through Newegg also sweeten the deal, particularly for gamers interested in getting early access to upcoming titles like Skull and Bones. Additionally, one month of Xbox Game Pass provides new owners with immediate access to a wide library of games, making the Claw a great choice for gamers looking to maximize their experience right out of the box.
Conclusion: MSI Claw’s Entry into Portable Gaming
The MSI Claw’s debut marks an exciting new chapter in the handheld gaming market. With powerful specs, high-end features, and a competitive price point, the Claw is poised to compete directly with other top-tier portable gaming systems. Its combination of Intel Core Ultra processors, a 1080p 120Hz display, and advanced features like Hall effect triggers make it a compelling choice for gamers looking for a premium handheld experience.
As more details about the Claw’s long-term performance and user experience emerge, it will be interesting to see how it holds up against competitors like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. For now, it offers a promising new option for gaming enthusiasts who demand both power and portability.
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