The MSI Claw has recently hit the market, offering gamers a new and exciting option in the realm of handheld gaming PCs. Unveiled at CES 2024, this device promises to deliver a premium gaming experience in a compact and portable form factor. In this article, we’ll delve into the key features, specifications, and performance of the MSI Claw, and explore how it stacks up against its competitors.
1. MSI Claw Price and Availability
The MSI Claw is available in several variants to cater to different user preferences and budgets. The base model, A1M-052US, equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 5-135H processor and 512GB SSD storage, is priced competitively at $699 in the US. For those seeking higher performance, there are two premium variants featuring the Core Ultra 7 processor, with prices starting at $749 for the A1M-051US model with 512GB SSD storage, and $799 for the A1M-050US variant with 1TB SSD storage. Currently, the base model is available for purchase in a sleek Black colorway on the MSI store and select retailers.
2. Specifications of the MSI Claw Handheld
The MSI Claw boasts a 7-inch full-HD IPS touchscreen display with a high peak brightness of 500nits and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring stunning visuals and fluid gameplay. Under the hood, it is powered by the powerful Intel Core Ultra 7-155H processor, coupled with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD storage. Gamers can also expand storage further via a MicroSD card slot, providing ample space for their game libraries.
3. Display and Performance
The MSI Claw’s display offers crisp and vibrant visuals, making gaming immersive and enjoyable. With its high refresh rate, gamers can expect smooth and responsive gameplay, free from stuttering or lag. Whether playing fast-paced shooters or graphically demanding titles, the MSI Claw delivers exceptional performance, thanks to its powerful hardware configuration.
4. Connectivity and Expandability
In terms of connectivity, the MSI Claw offers Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 support, ensuring seamless online gaming and wireless peripherals connectivity. It also features a Thunderbolt 4 enabled USB Type-C port for fast data transfer and external display connectivity, along with a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack for audio accessories. With its expandable storage options and versatile connectivity features, the MSI Claw provides users with flexibility and convenience.
5. Unique Features of the MSI Claw
The MSI Claw comes loaded with several unique features that enhance the gaming experience. These include RGB ABXY buttons and thumbsticks, a responsive D-pad, triggers, and bumpers for precise control inputs. Additionally, it boasts HD haptics for immersive feedback during gameplay, along with a convenient fingerprint scanner for secure login.
6. Cooling System and Battery Life
To ensure optimal performance during extended gaming sessions, the MSI Claw is equipped with Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology, which effectively dissipates heat, keeping temperatures in check. This prevents thermal throttling and maintains consistent performance, even under heavy load. Moreover, the device houses a robust 6-cell, 53WHr battery with 65W USB PD 3.0 charging support, offering long-lasting battery life and quick charging capabilities.
7. Comparison with Competitors
In the competitive landscape of handheld gaming PCs, the MSI Claw stands out for its impressive performance, sleek design, and innovative features. While it faces stiff competition from devices like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go, the MSI Claw holds its own with its premium build quality, versatile connectivity options, and robust gaming performance.
8. User Experience and Reviews
Early reviews of the MSI Claw have been overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its compact form factor, responsive controls, and vibrant display. Gamers have also lauded its performance capabilities, noting smooth gameplay across a variety of titles. Overall, the MSI Claw offers a compelling gaming experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning gamers.
Pros and Cons of the MSI Claw
Pros:
- Powerful hardware for smooth gaming performance
- Compact and portable design
- Versatile connectivity options
- Innovative features like RGB lighting and HD haptics
- Long-lasting battery life with fast charging support
Cons:
- Limited availability in select markets
- Premium pricing compared to some competitors
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MSI Claw emerges as a formidable contender in the handheld gaming PC market, offering a winning combination of performance, portability, and premium features. With its sleek design, powerful hardware, and innovative touches, the MSI Claw is sure to appeal to gamers looking for a high-quality gaming experience on the go.
FAQs about the MSI Claw Handheld Gaming PC
- What operating system does the MSI Claw run on? The MSI Claw runs on Windows 11 Home out-of-the-box, providing users with access to a wide range of gaming and productivity software.
- Can the storage capacity of the MSI Claw be expanded? Yes, the MSI Claw features expandable storage options, allowing users to increase storage capacity via a MicroSD card slot.
- Does the MSI Claw support external displays? Yes, the MSI Claw features a Thunderbolt 4 enabled USB Type-C port, which supports external display connectivity for a larger viewing experience.
- How does the battery life of the MSI Claw compare to its competitors? The MSI Claw boasts a robust 6-cell, 53WHr battery with 65W USB PD 3.0 charging support, offering long-lasting battery life and quick charging capabilities comparable to its competitors.
- Is the MSI Claw compatible with wireless peripherals? Yes, the MSI Claw supports Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, allowing users to connect wireless peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and headphones for added convenience.
