Key Takeaways
1. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is highly regarded as a leading PC handheld, outperforming the Claw A1M in many areas.
2. The Claw 7 AI+ and Claw 8 AI+ have ergonomic and display shortcomings compared to competitors like the Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED.
3. MSI is developing a new handheld featuring Intel’s Panther Lake architecture, designed specifically for handheld devices.
4. Future MSI handhelds may transition to OLED display technology, enhancing visual quality.
5. Built-in trackpads are unlikely to be included in upcoming models, and the release date for new handhelds is still to be announced.
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is still widely recognized as one of the top choices for PC handhelds, outshining the underwhelming Claw A1M in nearly every aspect. Although MSI has introduced the Claw 7 AI+ as a more affordable option, both it and its 8-inch counterpart have their own issues. Nevertheless, there are indications that MSI is working on addressing one of these problems with the upcoming release of another Claw handheld.
Ergonomics and Displays
At present, the Claw 7 AI+ and Claw 8 AI+ do not offer the same level of comfort as devices like the Legion Go S, nor do they have the user-friendly software seen in Asus’s line, including the ROG Xbox Ally (currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon). Furthermore, MSI’s existing handhelds lack the impressive displays found in the Steam Deck OLED and the Legion Go 2, as both the Claw 7 AI+ and Claw 8 AI+ utilize IPS panels.
Future Developments
Intel has indicated that MSI’s forthcoming PC handheld will incorporate its new Panther Lake architecture, featuring a dedicated processor designed for handhelds. Additionally, MSI’s management has suggested that a transition to OLED display technology is likely. However, it appears that MSI does not plan to include built-in trackpads like those from Valve or Lenovo, judging by the video provided below. The exact launch date for MSI’s next PC handhelds is still unknown, but they are expected to be released sometime later this year. Moreover, specific information regarding the handheld’s processor has yet to be confirmed.
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