If you wanted a gaming handheld, the MSI Claw A1M was one of the few you could get in Malaysia. Unfortunately, it didn't do as well as many hoped, possibly because gamers were sceptical of its Intel processor. However, MSI's latest gaming handheld PCs promise superior performance.
Yesterday, MSI unveiled two new models to its Claw series gaming handhelds - the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. As the name suffix suggests, both models feature Microsoft Copilot+ generative AI features. They also have an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM (8533MHz), and an integrated Intel Arc 140V GPU.
Of course, there are also differences between the two models. The Claw 8 AI+ has an 8-inch screen with a 1920x1200 resolution, while the Claw 7 AI+ has a smaller 7-inch 1920x1080 resolution display. Additionally, the Claw 8 AI+ has 1TB of SSD storage, which is double that of the Claw 7 AI+'s 512GB SSD. And lastly, the Claw 8 AI+ has a significantly larger 80Whr battery compared to the 54.5Whr battery on the Claw 7 AI+.
The newer models also feature redesigned thumbsticks, bumpers, and D-pad. Also, the triggers now use hall-effect triggers for a smoother experience and more accurate button presses. According to MSI, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ support over 150 AAA titles. Of course, how well the two consoles perform will depend on the game and the graphical settings. However, MSI claimed its new handhelds deliver 113% higher peak FPS and an average 20% higher FPS against competing models under identical power conditions.
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ will retail for USD 899 (~RM3996), while the MSI Claw 7 AI+ is priced at USD 799 (~RM3551). MSI has yet to announce the new models for Malaysia, but expect local prices to be slightly higher (because of taxes and whatnot).
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