The MSI Claw 8 AI: A Handheld With Potential, But Still Lots of Unknowns
MSI’s Claw 8 AI handheld has been shrouded in secrecy for months, with the company citing Intel’s Lunar Lake chip reveal as the reason for its delayed unveiling. Finally, at IFA 2024, we got a glimpse of what the revamped Claw 8 AI has to offer, showcasing a more ergonomic design and a brighter, larger display. However, important information about its performance and battery life remains under wraps, leaving us with more questions than answers.
A New Look, a Familiar Feel
The Claw 8 AI boasts a fresh, PlayStation 5 DualSense controller-inspired design with sleek white accents. The handheld feels much more comfortable than its predecessor, the Claw 7, thanks to smooth, contoured sides and deeper grooves for a more secure grip. The hall effect triggers and joysticks offer a smoother experience compared to the previous generation, though the joysticks might feel a bit too thin for some. MSI has retained the signature RGB lighting, adding a touch of flair to the face buttons and joysticks.
The Screen Steps Up, But Specs Stay Under Wraps
The Claw 8 AI features an 8-inch display with up to 500 nits of peak brightness, a significant upgrade from the Claw 7. The screen’s color fidelity and visual quality seem impressive, making a good first impression. However, the lack of concrete information on the handheld’s specifications raises concerns. We haven’t been provided with details about the TDP (thermal design power) or the exact Intel Core Ultra 7 variant that will power the device.
Power Promises and Performance Uncertainties
Intel’s Core Ultra series 2 promises significant efficiency gains over AMD and Qualcomm’s mobile CPUs. Laptops featuring these chips claim 20-30 hours of battery life, making them highly appealing for extended usage. MSI has stated that the Claw 8 AI will leverage this improved efficiency to deliver solid gameplay at lower wattage. While this sounds promising, we need more detailed information about the battery life and overall performance to gauge its true potential.
A UI With Potential, But Still Needs Work
MSI’s first attempt at a handheld UI, Center M, was met with criticism for its lackluster performance and user-unfriendliness. The Claw 8 AI is said to feature a revised version of Center M that offers an improved aesthetic, with game-specific posters and integrated widgets for FPS tracking and game capture. However, it remains to be seen how effective the new UI will be in overcoming the inherent challenges of running Windows 11 on a handheld, especially when compared to the smooth, Linux-based experience offered by the Steam Deck.
Delayed Release Raises Concerns
The Claw 8 AI is scheduled to hit store shelves in January 2025, which unfortunately puts it in direct competition with the anticipated release of the next generation of handheld gaming devices. AMD has already confirmed a new Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip is in development, intended to power future handhelds like the ROG Ally, the Lenovo Legion Go, and the Acer Nitro Blaze 7. AMD has hinted at substantial battery life improvements with this new chip, raising the stakes for MSI’s upcoming handheld.
A Chance for Redemption, But Questions Remain
The Claw 8 AI has the potential to be a strong contender in the handheld gaming market, especially if it can deliver on the promises of its efficient processor and improved UI. However, with the release date set for early next year, MSI needs to provide a clearer roadmap for its specs and performance capabilities. The company faces a tough challenge competing against AMD’s upcoming Z2 Extreme chip and the well-established offerings of the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally X.
Ultimately, the success of the Claw 8 AI hinges on its ability to deliver a competitive performance and battery life at a price point that appeals to gamers. If MSI can address these concerns with a transparent and detailed spec breakdown, the Claw 8 AI might finally live up to its potential and offer a compelling alternative for handheld gaming enthusiasts.
