In a groundbreaking collaboration, MSI and Intel have officially introduced the gaming world to the MSI Claw, the industry’s inaugural PC gaming handheld driven by the cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra processor. This revelation, made at CES 2024, marks Intel’s foray into the gaming handheld arena, challenging the status quo set by AMD-powered devices like the Steam Deck competitors.
The Intel-powered Revolution
The MSI Claw emerges as a formidable contender in the gaming handheld market, featuring the prowess of up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor paired with integrated Intel Arc graphics. A departure from the AMD APU norm seen in competitors like the AMD Z1 and AMD Z1 Extreme, this Intel-powered handheld promises a new era of gaming performance and innovation.
Unveiling the MSI Claw’s Arsenal
The MSI Claw boasts an impressive set of specifications, including 16GB LPDDR5, NVMe SSD storage, Intel Killer WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and a 7-inch full HD touch display with a remarkable 120Hz refresh rate. The display further dazzles with 100% sRGB color coverage and up to 500 nits brightness, providing gamers with a visually immersive experience.
Intel XeSS Graphics Upscaling
Setting itself apart from the competition, the MSI Claw introduces Intel XeSS graphics upscaling, a feature that leverages dedicated AI hardware to enhance the quality of lower resolution frames. Unlike its counterparts that rely on software algorithms, the MSI Claw promises a higher quality result with fewer visual artifacts and maintains faster frame rates.
A Powerhouse in Mobility
Beyond internal specifications, the MSI Claw shines in the realm of mobility, equipped with a substantial 53WHr battery – the largest in any gaming handheld currently available. With a promise of 50% longer battery life than its peers, including two full hours of battery life under full-performance workloads, the MSI Claw becomes an enticing option for gamers on the move.
User-Friendly Interface and Personalization
The gaming handheld introduces full key recording functionality, allowing users to create personalized macros for specific games. The MSI Center M interface simplifies game access, addressing a common challenge faced by other handheld gaming systems.
Anticipated Release and Pricing
For gaming enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the MSI Claw, the device is expected to be available for pre-order between mid-February and the end of March. The pricing is estimated to range between $699 and $799, depending on the selected configuration.
The Intel Factor: Stakes and Possibilities
Intel’s entry into the gaming handheld market through the MSI Claw signals a significant shift in the industry. While AMD’s Z1 and Z1 Extreme chips have established themselves as capable gaming processors, the Intel Core Ultra with integrated Arc graphics introduces a new dimension of possibilities. With 8 Xe cores, the integrated GPU in the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H positions itself as a powerhouse for gaming, particularly with dedicated ray tracing cores and the revolutionary XeSS upscaling technology.
The Highwire Act
As the first gaming handheld featuring the Intel Core Ultra processor, the MSI Claw embarks on a highwire act. The success of this venture relies on how well Intel adapts its processor to the unique form factor of a gaming handheld. The fate of the MSI Claw is now intricately tied to the performance and adaptability of Intel’s latest architecture.
MSI Claw Redefines Gaming Mobility:
In the dynamic landscape of gaming hardware, the MSI Claw stands out as a symbol of innovation and adaptability. With Intel’s powerhouse processor and groundbreaking graphics technology, this gaming handheld introduces a thrilling chapter in portable gaming. As the MSI Claw gears up for release, the excitement among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike is palpable, marking a significant stride in the evolution of gaming handhelds.
