MSI Claw: The New Intel-Based Handheld Windows Gaming PC That’s Taking the Market by Storm
The handheld gaming PC market is about to witness the entry of a formidable competitor, the MSI Claw. Unveiled during CES earlier this year, the MSI Claw is set to revolutionize the industry with its Intel-based hardware. While other handhelds in the market, such as the ROG Ally and Legion Go, rely on AMD chips, the MSI Claw stands out as the first major company to offer a Windows gaming handheld with Intel Arc graphics chip and Intel Core Ultra CPU.
Priced at $700, the MSI Claw is now available for pre-order at various online retailers, including Best Buy and Newegg. With three models to choose from, all featuring an Intel Arc Graphics chip with 8 Xe-cores, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a seven-inch LED IPS touchscreen with 1080p resolution and support for 48-120Hz variable refresh rates, gamers are spoilt for choice. However, the CPU power and storage space differ between the models:
1. Base model ($700): Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU and 512GB SSD.
2. Mid-range model ($750): Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU and 512GB SSD.
3. High-end model ($800): Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU and 1TB SSD.
Excitingly, pre-orders for the MSI Claw are already underway at Best Buy and Newegg, with all orders set to ship by April 4. Additionally, both retailers are offering an exclusive preorder bundle that includes a copy of Skull & Bones standard edition and seven days of Ubisoft+. As an added bonus, customers will also receive a free one-month trial to Game Pass Ultimate with their handheld purchase.
While Newegg lists the release date as March 15, there is a possibility that it may change. So, if you’re eager to get your hands on the MSI Claw, keep an eye out for any updates.
The MSI Claw boasts an array of impressive features, including Hall Effect joysticks and trigger buttons, a circular D-pad, and eight face buttons. Moreover, the device is equipped with a 53Wh battery that offers approximately two hours of gameplay for the most demanding games. However, as any handheld PC user knows, battery life can vary significantly depending on the game being played. To combat this, the Claw features a Thunderbolt 4 USB charging port for fast charging, and users can extend battery life by connecting a powerful portable power bank. Additionally, the device’s storage space can be expanded using the included microSD card slot.
With the handheld gaming PC market becoming increasingly crowded, the MSI Claw’s Intel-based hardware is expected to make a significant impact. These devices have gained immense popularity for a reason – the ability to play the latest PC games on the go is a game-changer. Furthermore, the portable nature of these devices increases the likelihood of gamers actually working through their backlog of purchased games from the latest PC game sales.
In conclusion, the MSI Claw is set to make waves in the handheld gaming PC market. With its Intel-based hardware, impressive specifications, and attractive price point, it is poised to become a top choice for gamers seeking a portable gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, keep an eye out for the MSI Claw’s release and prepare to elevate your gaming experience to new heights.