MSI Claw Starts From $699; Core Ultra 7 Model Costs $749

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Sajjad Hussain

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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MSI’s entry into the handheld market was revealed right before CES 2024. The event unveiled specifications for the handheld, confirming a starting price of $699. However, MSI has updated these prices.

According to its website, the handheld will now ship in three different models. However, a release date is yet to be revealed.

The base variant starts at $699.99. For this price, MSI offers an Intel Core Ultra 5 135H processor with 512GB of internal storage. A mid-tier model includes the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H for $749.99.

For those looking to equip the Claw with everything MSI offers, the most expensive model includes 1TB of storage for $799.99. With these prices, the device will compete against the Lenovo Legion GO and Asus ROG Ally.

Compared to the MSI Claw’s price,  the Asus ROG Ally and Legion GO are priced between $600 and $650. The Legion GO is available for $650 on Amazon, and the ROG Ally with Z1 Extreme is available at Best Buy for $599.

The recently released Steam Deck OLED is still much cheaper, starting at $549.99. However, compared to every other handheld, opting for Intel might give the Claw a distinct advantage over the others.

The Intel Core Ultra 5 135H features 14 cores and 18 threads, divided into 4 P-cores and 8 E-cores. This CPU packs 8-Xe Cores for its GPU, offering impressive performance for the price.

Elsewhere, the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H features 16 cores and 22 threads. This configuration consists of 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores. The GPU stays the same, though it receives a slight bump in frequency, running at 2.25GHz.

Still, the Ryzen Z1 and Z1 extreme are no slouch, so it will be interesting to see how these handhelds stack up come release.

Some leaks have indicated that MSI is manufacturing 32GB handhelds. Though these might show up eventually, MSI has only shown 16GB handhelds so far.

The MSI Claw also supports features like VRR and 120Hz refresh rates. All in all, it should be quite a compelling addition to the competitive market of handheld gaming.

Sajjad Hussain

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

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