MSI Claw 8 AI+ Review: Intel Lunar Lake Handheld Gaming PC
MSI · 2025-01-01
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is a powerful Windows handheld gaming device featuring an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, Intel Arc 140V graphics, 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, and an 8-inch 120Hz IPS display. With an 80Wh battery and dual-fan cooling, it targets high-end portable gaming.
Overview
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is a premium Windows-based handheld gaming console powered by Intel's latest Lunar Lake architecture. It features an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor (8 cores, 8 threads, up to 4.8 GHz) and Intel Arc 140V integrated graphics, offering solid performance for modern games and emulation. The device boasts 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1 TB M.2 NVMe SSD, with expandable storage via a TF card slot. Its 8-inch IPS touchscreen delivers a 1920x1200 resolution at 120Hz with 500 nits brightness and 100% sRGB coverage.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake, 8C/8T, 2.2-4.8 GHz)
- Graphics: Intel Arc 140V (1.95 GHz)
- Memory: 32 GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: 1 TB M.2 NVMe 4.0 SSD + TF card slot
- Display: 8.0" IPS touchscreen, 1920x1200, 120Hz, 500 nits, 100% sRGB
- Battery: 80 Wh
- Connectivity: WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2x Thunderbolt/USB4, USB-C video out, 3.5mm audio jack
- Cooling: Dual fans + dual heat pipes
- Weight: 795 grams
- Dimensions: 299 x 126 x 24 mm
Who It Is For
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is designed for enthusiasts and gamers who want a high-performance Windows handheld capable of running AAA titles, indie games, and a wide range of emulators (up to PS3/Xbox 360). It suits users who prioritize a large, high-refresh-rate screen, ample RAM, and fast storage. The 80Wh battery offers extended play sessions, while the dual-fan cooling system helps sustain performance. It is also ideal for those who need a portable PC for productivity tasks thanks to its Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and Windows OS.
Buying Notes
Priced at ¥7,999 (approximately $1,100 USD), the MSI Claw 8 AI+ competes with other high-end handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go. Its Intel Lunar Lake platform offers competitive CPU performance and efficient integrated graphics, though dedicated GPU handhelds may outperform in raw gaming power. The plastic build keeps weight down but may feel less premium. The 8-inch 120Hz screen is a standout feature, and the 80Wh battery is among the largest in its class. Consider your game library and whether Windows or a SteamOS-like experience suits you better. No official release date outside China has been announced as of early 2025.
| CPU | Intel Lunar Lake |
|---|---|
| GPU | Intel Arc 140V |
| Name | MSI Claw 8 AI+ |
| Alias | MSI Claw 8 AI+ |
| Brand | MSI |
| Memory | 32 GB LPDDR5X |
| Weight | 795 grams |
| Battery | 80 Wh |
| Cooling | Dual fans + dual heat pipes cooling system |
| Storage | Built-in 1 TB M.2 NVMe 4.0 SSD, external TF card slot |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Body Color | Gold |
| Dimensions | 299 mm x 126 mm x 24 mm |
| Screen PPI | 283.02 |
| Price Range | Above ¥7000 |
| Screen Size | 8.0 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, Thunderbolt/USB4 x 2 |
| Release Date | 2025 / 01 |
| Screen Ratio | 16:10 |
| Video Output | USB-C video output |
| CPU Frequency | 2.2 GHz - 4.8 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Fingerprint recognition, Hall effect joysticks + Hall effect triggers |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | ¥ 7999 |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Screen Resolution | 1920 x 1200 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 1.95 GHz |
| Screen Color Gamut | 100% sRGB |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Supports almost all platforms |
| Screen Max Brightness | 500 nits |