Grab the new Intel-powered PC gaming handheld.
By Brendan Hesse @Brendan_LH on March 8, 2024 at 4:33PM PST
As announced during CES earlier this year, a new competitor will soon enter the handheld Windows gaming PC ring, the MSI Claw . The MSI Claw runs on an Intel Arc graphics chip and Intel Core Ultra CPU, making it the first Windows gaming handheld from a major company with Intel-based hardware. Similar handhelds, like the Windows-based ROG Ally and Legion Go or the Linux-based Steam Deck , all run on AMD chips.
The MSI Claw starts at $700 and is available for preorder now at multiple online retailers, including Best Buy and Newegg .
The MSI Claw is available in three different models, each boasting an Intel Arc Graphics chip with 8 Xe-cores, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a seven-inch LED IPS touchscreen with 1080p resolution. The touchscreen also supports 48 to 120Hz variable refresh rates. The distinctions among the models hinge upon the CPU power and storage capacity.
The MSI Claw can be preordered at Best Buy and Newegg. The delivery for all orders is expected by April 4. All models are also available as part of a special preorder package on Newegg which includes a copy of Skull & Bones standard edition and seven days of Ubisoft+. Both retailers offer a complimentary one-month trial to Game Pass Ultimate with the handheld. However, the release date might be changed as it’s listed as March 15 on Newegg.
All models also incorporate Hall Effect joysticks and trigger buttons, a circular D-pad, and eight face buttons. MSI indicates that the 53Wh battery lasts roughly two hours during the play of most intense games. The battery life can vary greatly, depending on the game. The Claw has a Thunderbolt 4 USB charging port for quick charging and the battery life can be elongated using a powerful portable power bank. The storage on the device can be increased with the inbuilt microSD card slot.
We’re excited to compare the Intel-based hardware of the MSI Claw to its rivals. Even though the handheld gaming PC market is becoming crowded, these new devices are gaining popularity. The ability to play the latest PC games on the go is game-changing. In our experience, due to the portability of these devices, you are more likely to actually play through the games bought in the latest PC game sales.
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