Introducing MSI's Upcoming Steam Deck Rival: Unveiling Powerful Hardware and a Controversial Name
Introducing the MSI Claw, a groundbreaking handheld PC gaming system featuring Intel's latest Core Ultra series processor Experience impressive hardware and unrivaled gaming performance in the palm of your hands Get ready to elevate your gaming experience with the MSI Claw
MSI has officially joined the handheld PC gaming competition with the introduction of the Claw at CES 2024. Featuring an Intel Core Ultra series processor and a 53Wh battery, it poses as a strong opponent to the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. The device is also equipped with a seven-inch 1920 x 1080 IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Intel Arc graphics, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and an NVMe M2 SSD.
MSI Claw specs
MSI ClawProcessor -- Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 155H
Operating System -- Windows 11
Chipset -- Integrated SoC
Memory -- LPDDR5 onboard, 16GB, dual channel
Display -- Seven-inch FHD (1920 x 1080), 120 Hz Refresh Rate, Touch Screen,
Refresh Rate -- 120Hz
Graphics -- Intel Arc Graphics
Storage Slot -- 1 x NVMe M.2 2230 SSD by PCIe Gen 4 x4
Sensor -- Six-Axis IMU Vibration Motor
Communication -- Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1750, Bluetooth v5.4
Audio -- Two × 2W Speakers / 1× Audio combo jack / Hi-Res Audio ready
I/O Ports -- Thunderbolt 4, MicroSD card reader, audio combo jack, and power button with fingerprint sensor
Battery -- Six-cell Li-Polymer, 53Whr / 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0
Dimensions -- 294 (W) x 117(D) x 21.2(H) mm
Weight -- 675 g
Color -- Black
MSI claims the device can handle a full workload for up to two hours on battery, delivering smooth gameplay at 1080p resolution and medium settings. Similar to the ROG Ally, the MSI Claw runs on Windows 11, enabling access to various game storefronts such as Steam, Xbox PC app, Epic Games Store, and more. Additionally, MSI's APP Player allows for the inclusion of Android games, broadening the device's gaming library.
In terms of design, the MSI Claw closely resembles the ROG Ally with its placement of analog sticks, face buttons, and overall shape. However, MSI emphasizes that it has engineered the device for greater ergonomic comfort during extended gaming sessions. With a starting price of $699, the MSI Claw is set to launch in the first half of 2024, positioning itself in the upper price range alongside its competitors.
On the more traditional PC gaming side, CES 2024 saw the reveal of Nvidia's new RTX 40-series GPUs and some powerful new Razer Blade gaming laptops for 2024.
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of handheld gaming, I am thrilled about the introduction of MSI's Claw, a formidable contender in the handheld PC gaming market. MSI's decision to equip the Claw with Intel's latest Core Ultra series processor and a 53Wh battery demonstrates their commitment to delivering exceptional performance and extended gaming sessions. The inclusion of a seven-inch 1920 x 1080 IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Intel Arc graphics, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and an NVMe M2 SSD further solidifies the Claw's position as a powerhouse in the handheld gaming arena.
The MSI Claw's impressive hardware specifications, coupled with its ergonomic design and competitive price point, make it a highly anticipated device among handheld gaming enthusiasts. The ability to access various game storefronts, including Steam, Xbox PC app, Epic Games Store, and more, combined with the inclusion of MSI's APP Player for Android games, significantly expands the Claw's gaming library. I am confident that the MSI Claw will be a game-changer in the handheld PC gaming market and will provide gamers with an unparalleled gaming experience.
