MSI Claw Official Release Date Announced

Joining the ranks of companies entering the PC handheld gaming market, MSI has unveiled the MSI Claw with plenty of exciting information. The official release date for this handheld has finally been confirmed.

According to a pricing listing on Newegg, the Claw will make its debut on March 8, 2024 in the US. It will be available in three variants, with the $749 model launching on the initial release date and the $699 and $799 models following a week later on March 15. The devices will be equipped with either the Core Ultra 7 155H or the Core Ultra 5 135H processors, with some versions offering 512GB or 1TB storage options.

The MSI Claw stands out as the first portable PC handheld to utilize the Intel Core Ultra series. The Core Ultra 7 155H boasts 16 CPU cores and Intel Arc graphics featuring 8 Xe-Cores, while the Core Ultra 5 135H features 14 CPU cores and 7 Xe-Cores.

The MSI Claw Faces Challenges Ahead

Despite its impressive specs, the timing of the MSI Claw’s release date and preorders could pose challenges for its success. The pricing, starting at $699 for the cheapest model, may deter potential buyers as it is higher priced than its competitors.

Additionally, the similar design to the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go may make it difficult for the Claw to stand out in the market. The higher price point coupled with the lack of unique selling points could hinder its sales potential.

With concerns surrounding awareness, aesthetics, and cost, the Claw may struggle to make a lasting impact in the gaming handheld market. While it is undoubtedly ambitious, overcoming these obstacles will be crucial for its long-term success. Only time will tell if the MSI Claw can carve a niche for itself in the competitive market.