There’s no denying that MSI’s initial attempt at handheld PC gaming with the MSI Claw, fell short of expectations, disappointing both the company and fans of handheld gaming. The device received poor reviews, and many who purchased it voiced their frustration, with a significant number opting to return it in favor of alternatives. However, months ago, MSI announced its comeback with the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ handheld devices. A recent browse through Best Buy’s website confirms that the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is now available for purchase.
So, what’s different this time around? Quite a bit. First off, MSI has upgraded to the Intel Core Ultra 7 series 2 processor, which boasts improvements over the original Intel Core Ultra 7. The Claw 8 AI+ features a larger screen option with a 1920×1080 resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, a touchscreen, and a 120Hz refresh rate. For those who prefer a smaller form factor, the 7-inch model is still available. MSI has also redesigned the controls, including updated sticks, bumpers, a new D-pad, hall-effect triggers, and an 80-watt battery, promising a better overall experience.
Perhaps the most notable upgrade is the inclusion of 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM—an impressive boost. This is similar to ASUS’s move with the ROG Ally X, which features 24GB of RAM but falls short of MSI’s offering in this regard.
Given the lackluster performance of the original MSI Claw, the big question is how this new device will fare. Early rumors suggest that its performance rivals the ROG Ally/Ally X’s AMD Z2 Extreme chip, which would be a significant step up. MSI appears to have taken the feedback from the original Claw seriously, going back to the drawing board to deliver a more refined product.
For now, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ seems to be a Best Buy exclusive (for the moment), and it’s already sold out, making it difficult to get hands-on impressions. However, popular handheld gaming YouTubers who have reviewed the device have been overwhelmingly positive, a stark contrast to the reception of the original MSI Claw. Time will tell if MSI has truly redeemed itself in the handheld gaming space.
Yes, it’s priced on the higher side at $899, compared to the ASUS ROG Ally X, which comes in at $799.99. This price difference will certainly play a role in how well the MSI Claw 8 AI+ performs in the market, but only time will tell how it fares.
If we manage to get our hands on it for testing, we’ll be sure to share our findings.
