MSI, a well-known gaming hardware maker, recently unveiled its latest creation, the Claw, at CES 2024. This handheld gaming device aims to revolutionize portable PC gaming and introduce a new era of gaming on the go.

Inspired by successful devices like Valve’s Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally, the Claw combines power and portability in an elegant and ergonomic design. Its 7-inch, 120Hz IPS display with a resolution of 1,920×1,080 pixels promises an immersive visual experience that transports gamers into their favorite virtual worlds.

Beneath its stylish exterior, the Claw features an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, utilizing Intel’s advanced Meteor Lake chip technology. With Intel Arc graphics and 16GB of RAM, this device delivers exceptional performance that rivals traditional gaming PCs. Gamers can expect smooth gameplay and stunning graphics, all in the palm of their hands.

Connectivity is a standout feature of the Claw. Equipped with a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port and a microSD card slot, users can easily expand their storage or connect to external devices. Supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, this device ensures seamless online gaming experiences and offers versatility in connectivity.

Weighing only 675 grams (approximately 1.5 pounds), the Claw is designed with comfort and portability in mind. Gamers can enjoy extended gaming sessions without sacrificing performance or convenience, making it the perfect companion for gaming enthusiasts on the move.

Powering the Claw is a 53-Wh onboard battery, providing ample playtime for gamers on the go. Combined with the device’s power-efficient components, players can enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions wherever they are.

While the Claw has generated significant buzz in the gaming community, it faces tough competition from other handheld gaming devices like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. As more hardware manufacturers recognize the potential of this niche market, we can expect to see a surge in Windows-running handhelds in the near future.

Intel’s entry into the handheld gaming chip market demonstrates the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of gaming technology and meeting the evolving needs of gamers worldwide. With Intel’s reputation for performance and innovation, the Claw is positioned to be a game-changer in the industry.

However, the success of the Claw ultimately relies on optimization by software developers. Collaboration between Microsoft and hardware manufacturers will be crucial to ensure that games are optimized to work seamlessly on handheld devices. This optimization is essential for delivering the best possible gaming experience for Claw users.

While the author has not personally tested the MSI Claw, the device’s specifications and the industry’s response paint a promising picture. The Claw is widely regarded as a significant step forward in the world of handheld PC gaming, bridging the gap between traditional gaming PCs and portable gaming consoles.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the MSI Claw stands at the forefront of innovation, promising gamers a unique and immersive gaming experience. With its powerful hardware, sleek design, and extensive connectivity options, this handheld gaming device is set to revolutionize the way we play on the go.

In conclusion, MSI’s Claw represents a significant advancement in the realm of handheld PC gaming. With its powerful components, sleek design, and extensive connectivity options, it has captured the attention of gamers worldwide. As the industry embraces this new form factor, we can expect more manufacturers to follow suit, ushering in a new era of portable gaming. The Claw is poised to take center stage, rewriting the rules of handheld gaming and setting a new standard for performance and portability. Get ready to experience gaming like never before with the MSI Claw.