June 4, 2024: MSI has officially unveiled its new version of the Claw gaming handheld, following leaks tied to a Fallout-themed version. We've updated the story below to include details from Computex unveiling.
A new MSI Claw handheld is already on the way, as the laptop maker just unveiled a new Lunar Lake model at Computex 2024. While leaks just yesterday somewhat spoiled the surprise, we now know that both the new variant with a slightly bigger screen and the version that looks like a Valtec Pip-Boy is real. Better still, improvement to the device's battery suggests it'll take on the revamped Asus ROG Ally X head-on.
The MSI Claw only just arrived on the best gaming handheld battlefield, but there’s cause to be one step ahead in terms of planning. After all, portable PC contenders are popping up all over the place, with Asus ROG Ally X preorders having just gone live. Even graphics card makers like Zotac are prepping to take on the Steam Deck OLED, and the Lenovo Legion GO is still targeting players who prefer a bigger screen.
Dubbed the MSI Claw 8 AI+, images of the yet-to-be-announced handheld initially made the rounds online. Leaked by the ever-reliable momomo_us on Twitter, the shiny new portable looks like the original at a glance, featuring the same layout first used by the OG Asus ROG Ally. Of course, the main difference this time around is that it’s cosplaying as a Fallout terminal, complete with a rust-effect shell and a Vault Boy logo around back. The face buttons also pay tribute to that phosphorus-style glow produced by the Pip-Boy in New Vegas – a nice touch for fans craving attention to detail.
MSI Claw 8 AI+Lunar Lake8inch Full HDThunderbolt 4 Type-CMSI Claw x Fallout pic.twitter.com/ztC4AtPG20June 2, 2024
Now that MSI has officially announced the Claw 8 AI+, we have more context surrounding those above specs. For starters, the company claims it boasts "the largest battery in the industry, but has since contradicted that by confirming to Digitaltrends that it's armed with an 80Wh capacity (the same as the ROG Ally X). Early glimpses also reveal that it'll use a full-size SSD 2280 SSD, feature two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and rock a new 8-inch 1080p 120Hz screen, and all the changes mean it's practically a complete redesign.
If you’re not into apocalyptic shooters, you might not want to write off the leaked Claw just yet. While initial pictures only show off the Fallout version, vanilla models are also on the way. The Claw x Fallout collab is described as a partnership between MSI and Bethesda and “limited edition,” so if you do want that model, you might have to move quick.
Should you wait for the MSI Claw 8 AI+?
MSI hasn't disclosed a Claw 8 AI+ release date as of yet, meaning you could be waiting for a while for the revamp to arrive. That said, it'd make sense to hold off for the next-gen version rather than splashing out on the AM1, as that Lunar Lake chip should make all the difference. Its Battlemage GPU tech should theoretically stand a chance against some of the best Ryzen APUs out there right now, as the original's Meteor Lake chip falls short in that department.
Choosing whether you should go for the MSI Claw over other handhelds partially comes down to your personal preferences. If you’d rather use a portable that’s tried and tested, you’d be better off sticking with something with an AMD chipset, as I can confirm that the ROG Ally and Legion GO will run the latest games at 1080p. Doing so does come at the cost of low battery life, but checking out the upgraded ROG Ally X is arguably a safer move over opting for something with new Intel innards.
Keep in mind we also have no idea how much the MSI Claw 8 AI+ will cost, and price can make or break a portable. If it ends up staying below the $800 premium bar established by Asus and Lenovo, the second Claw might be able to stand its ground. However, it’ll still need to provide performance that keeps up with its main competitors to avoid feeling redundant.
If you’re big into Fallout, you might be already sold on the idea of a Pip-Boy handheld. The limited edition design is reason enough to hold off, but you’ll want to scope out alternatives before holding off. Some of the top portables out there routinely drop in price, and you could end up with a brilliant mobile rig way before the MSI Claw 8 AI+ hits the market. Hopefully, the newcomer arrives with a nuclear bang rather than an underwhelming pop, as it could help make Intel handhelds a prominent force within the scene.
Already got Valve’s portable PC? Swing by the best Steam Deck accessories and best Steam Deck dock for great add-ons. Alternatively, take a peek at the best gaming laptop if it’s more performance you’re after.
