The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is the first gaming handheld based on Intel Lunar Lake, which is set to benefit from Intel’s most efficient processor and most powerful iGPU to date. The device has a larger display and two Thunderbolt 4 ports but is launching much later than expected.
Following its announcement at Computex in June, MSI unveiled the first image of the Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld at IFA. They also confirmed the device’s launch details. According to this, the successor to the MSI Claw A1M (approx. $654 / £949 on Amazon) will not be on the market until early 2025, and MSI did not want to comment on the price yet.
MSI Claw 8 AI+ Design and Specifications
The design changes only slightly, and MSI mainly adjusts the color scheme. The screen bezels are much narrower, which makes sense given the increase in screen size from 7 to 8 inches. The most significant upgrade of the new model is the built-in processor, because MSI switches from the Core Ultra 5 135H to a brand new Intel Lunar Lake processor.
The gaming handheld will feature four performance cores, four efficiency cores, and a modern Intel Arc iGPU with seven or eight Xe2 cores. The specific chip to be used is still unknown. It should largely compensate for the performance deficit compared to competitors based on AMD Ryzen. MSI is also improving in other areas.
The battery has been upgraded to 80 Wh. We have also improved the shoulder buttons. Additionally, MSI has added a second USB-C port that supports Thunderbolt 4. MSI is addressing user and trade press feedback by making changes to the Claw A1M. The original model received mixed reviews.
Check out our MSI Claw review article for more details. The MSI Claw features a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, a 7-inch screen, and a 120Hz refresh rate. This gaming handheld is exceptionally impressive. Its design and features stood out from the start. With its robust configuration, the device easily handles today’s popular AAA games.
