MSI has officially announced the release of its latest handheld gaming devices, the Lunar Lake-powered MSI Claw 7 AI Plus and MSI Claw 8 AI Plus. These Windows-based handhelds aim to improve upon the shortcomings of their predecessor, which faced criticism regarding battery life and performance in Sean Hollister’s review for The Verge. Set to launch on December 25th, preorders are currently available, with prices starting at $799 for the Claw 7 AI Plus and $899 for the Claw 8 AI Plus. The enhancements in these new models are primarily focused on upgrading performance and addressing the battery life constraints highlighted in earlier iterations.
One of the most notable changes in the Claw series is the improvement in battery technology. The Claw 8 AI Plus boasts an impressive 80-watt-hour battery, a considerable increase from the 53 watt-hours of the original Claw model. In comparison, the Claw 7’s battery has been slightly upgraded to 54.5 watt-hours. This improvement promises longer gaming sessions and less frequent recharging. Alongside the battery upgrade, the Claw 8 features an “easy access” SSD storage slot that is absent in the Claw 7, allowing users to expand storage more conveniently.
Both the Claw 7 AI Plus and Claw 8 AI Plus come equipped with a 120Hz variable refresh rate LCD display, enhancing visual fluidity during gameplay. However, there is a difference in resolution; the Claw 8 features an 8-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, while the Claw 7 has a smaller 7-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. This means that while both devices deliver high-quality visuals, the Claw 8 is better suited for gamers who prioritize screen size and resolution for immersive gameplay.
In terms of performance, MSI claims that both handhelds will provide a 113 percent higher peak frames per second (FPS) and a 20 percent higher average FPS compared to their competitors under similar power conditions. While MSI has not specified which devices they compare against, it is worth noting that previous reviews showed the original Claw struggling against competition from devices like the Steam Deck OLED, Asus ROG Ally Z1E, and Lenovo Legion Go. The significant performance enhancements suggested in the new models position them favorably against competitors.
Additionally, the Claw series features redesigned Hall effect sticks and triggers, which typically offer improved precision and durability over traditional designs. Other notable changes include updated bumpers and D-pads, designed to enhance user experience during gameplay. Each device also comes with an expanded set of I/O ports, including an added second Thunderbolt 4 port, an audio jack, and a microSD card reader, catering to users who value connectivity and versatility in their handheld gaming experience.
In conclusion, the MSI Claw 7 AI Plus and MSI Claw 8 AI Plus promise to address key pain points experienced in previous models with substantial upgrades in battery capacity, performance metrics, and overall design. The anticipated enhancements, particularly in performance and usability, may attract attention from both casual and competitive gamers. With the preorders now open and a launch date set for Christmas, both enthusiasts and newcomers to handheld gaming will have the opportunity to experience these new devices shortly.
