Valve launched the Steam Deck in early 2022, and since then, new handheld gaming PC designs have emerged, all relying on AMD’s Ryzen APU designs. At CES 2024, MSI has introduced the Claw A1M portable game machine, deviating from the norm by packing the latest Intel Core Ultra processor and its integrated Arc graphics system.
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The Claw utilizes a 7-inch HD panel, an IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, and an Xbox standard control layout. It features a pair of extra triggers mounted next to the grips on the rear, RGB lighting around the thumbsticks, and front-facing speakers. The device runs on Windows 11, powered by the first Intel-based gaming portable from a major vendor, boasting a Core Ultra 5 in the base model and Ultra 7 in the upgrade, with 16GB of DDR5 memory and “up to” 1TB of storage via PCIe Gen4 M.2 drive.
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The device also features a MicroSD card slot and Thunderbolt 4 in the USB-C port for impressive video output options, along with a 53 watt-hour battery, the largest in its class. MSI’s software includes a launcher system, custom controls, and lighting, and the device includes the BlueStacks Android emulator and built-in access to the Google Play Store. MSI highlights Intel XeSS as a major feature of the Claw, but it’s worth noting that its adoption is limited in comparison to its competitors.
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The MSI Claw A1M will be available in February, starting at $699.
