(CES 2025) MSI has made a significant impact at CES 2024 with the introduction of its latest gaming handhelds, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. These devices represent a substantial leap forward in portable gaming technology, powered by the next-generation Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 2).
The new lineup features two display options: a 7-inch model and a new 8-inch variant, both designed to deliver exceptional visual performance enhanced by AI-driven technology. The devices’ aesthetic design draws inspiration from wind-sculpted desert rocks, featuring a distinctive sandstorm finish that embodies MSI’s commitment to both form and function.
Technical Innovation and Performance
The MSI Claw 7 and 8 AI+ boasts cutting-edge features, including the Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology, which utilizes a dual-fan, dual-heat-pipe system for optimal thermal management. Operating at 17W, these devices achieve remarkable performance metrics, delivering 113% higher peak FPS and 20% higher average FPS compared to competitors under similar power conditions.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
MSI has also implemented significant improvements in the gaming interface, including redesigned sticks, bumpers, D-pad, and hall-effect triggers for precise control and comfortable gameplay. The ergonomic design accommodates various hand sizes, while the balanced weight distribution ensures comfortable extended gaming sessions.
Connectivity and Versatility
Both models also feature dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, positioning them as versatile mini PCs with Copilot+ capabilities. The devices support an extensive game library, compatible with both Windows and Android titles through the exclusive App Player, offering unprecedented gaming versatility.
Software and User Interface
The handhelds come equipped with the updated MSI Center M software that has a more intuitive interface for enhanced user navigation. This optimization on software side perfectly complements the hardware side improvements, creating a seamless gaming experience.
Specifications
| Model Name | MSI Claw 8 AI+ | MSI Claw 7 AI+ A2VM |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 258V | Intel® Core Ultra 7 processor 258VV |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Chipset | Integrated SoC | Integrated SoC |
| Memory | LPDDR5x-8533 Memory on Package, 32GB | LPDDR5x-8533 Memory on Package, 32GB |
| Display | 8″ FHD+ (1920 x 1200), 16:10, Touchscreen, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 100% sRGB(Typical), 500nits(Typical), VRR, IPS-Level panel | 7″ FHD (1920 x 1080), Touchscreen, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 100% sRGB(Typical), 500nits(Typical), VRR, IPS-Level panel |
| Graphics | Intel Arc 140V GPU | Intel Arc 140V GPU |
| Storage Slot | Up to 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD Easy Access | 1 x NVMe M.2 2230 SSD by PCIe Gen 4 x4 |
| Sensor | 6-axis IMU, vibration motor | 6-axis IMU, vibration motorr |
| Communication | Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth v5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth v5.34 |
| Audio | 2x 2W Speakers, DTS sound effect, support Hi-Res Audio | 2x 2W Speakers, DTS sound effect, support Hi-Res Audio |
| I/O Port | 2 x Thunderbolt 4 / DP/ USB Type-C (w/ PD 3.0 Charging) 1 x microSD Card Reader 1 x Audio combo jack 1 x Power button with Fingerprint Sensor | 2 x Thunderbolt 4 / DP/ USB Type-C (w/ PD 3.0 Charging) 1 x microSD Card Reader 1 x Audio combo jack 1 x Power button with Fingerprint Sensor |
| Battery/Adapter | 6-Cell, Li-Polymer, 80Whr / 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 | 6-Cell, Li-Polymer, 54.5Whr / 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 |
| Dimension | 299 (W) x 126 (D) x 24 (H) mm | 290 (W) x 117 (D) x 21.2 (H) mm |
| Weight | 795 g | 675 g |
| Color | Sandstorm | Black |
| OS | Windows 11 (support App Player to play Android Mobile Game) | Win11 (support App Player to play Android Mobile Game) |
For more details, you may visit MSI‘s official website, or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
