MSI Claw A8 vs. MSI Claw 8 AI+: Main Distinctions Between the Two Handheld Gaming Devices
At Computex 2025, MSI introduced its new handheld gaming device—the MSI Claw A8. This signifies a notable change for the company, as it is MSI’s inaugural handheld to incorporate an AMD processor. Previously, MSI had solely utilized Intel components in its handheld gaming devices, including the newly launched MSI Claw 8 AI+.
Although the Claw A8 and Claw 8 AI+ exhibit numerous similarities in design and features, several significant differences distinguish them. From processor configuration to memory size, here’s an in-depth examination of what sets the MSI Claw A8 apart from its Intel-based counterpart.
AMD vs. Intel: What Performance Can You Anticipate?
The most significant modification in the MSI Claw A8 is its processing unit. It boasts the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, a chipset that will also power future devices such as the Lenovo Legion Go. This processor is derived from AMD’s Strix Point architecture and comes with the Radeon 890M integrated GPU.
Conversely, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ operates on the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, a processor that has demonstrated impressive gaming performance in initial benchmarks. Chinese tech YouTuber Geekerwan reported that the Intel processor surpassed the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370 (a more robust option than the Z2 Extreme) at a 30W TDP during gaming tests. This indicates that the Claw 8 AI+ might still possess a performance advantage, at least in certain gaming contexts.
Nevertheless, the practical performance of the Ryzen Z2 Extreme is yet to be determined, and it could still provide competitive gaming capabilities, particularly given AMD’s emphasis on power efficiency and integrated graphics performance.
Memory: 32 GB vs. 24 GB RAM
Another crucial difference pertains to the RAM setup. The MSI Claw A8 is equipped with 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, whereas the Claw 8 AI+ features 32 GB. This reduction may be attributed to physical space limitations, as the AMD processor does not incorporate RAM on the die as Intel’s Meteor Lake architecture does.
In portable gaming devices, RAM also serves as video memory (VRAM), making it a vital element. While 24 GB should suffice for most applications, the Claw 8 AI+ retains a minor advantage in multitasking and memory-heavy gaming scenarios.
Design and Display: Mostly Unchanged
In terms of aesthetics, the MSI Claw A8 maintains much of the same design ethos as the Claw 8 AI+, with only slight modifications in shape and weight. The Claw A8 is marginally lighter at 765 grams compared to the AI+’s 795 grams, and both models exhibit nearly identical dimensions.
Both handheld devices feature the same 8-inch IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, a 16:10 aspect ratio, a 120 Hz refresh rate with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and a brightness of 500 nits. Unfortunately, neither variant includes an OLED display, which competitors like the Steam Deck OLED now provide.
Battery and Storage: No Changes Here
Battery capacity stays the same at 80 Wh, one of the largest in the handheld gaming landscape. This is expected to result in excellent battery life, as seen with the Claw 8 AI+. Charging is compatible with 65 watts.
Both devices also utilize a full-size M.2 2280 NVMe SSD for storage, enhancing upgradability and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, storage can be expanded via microSD card.
Controls and Connectivity
The Claw A8 continues to deliver high-quality controller features, such as:
– Hall effect analog sticks and triggers
– Two macro buttons
– 6-axis gyroscope
However, similar to the Claw 8 AI+, the A8 does not include a trackpad—a feature present on the Steam Deck and advantageous for navigating desktop environments. MSI has indicated that this omission was necessary to make room for the larger battery.
Regarding connectivity, both devices are compatible with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The Claw A8 also features two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, facilitating fast data transfer and external GPU usage.
Operating System
The MSI Claw A8 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, just like the Claw 8 AI+. Users seeking a Linux-based handheld experience will have to explore alternatives, such as Valve’s Steam Deck or forthcoming offerings from Zotac.
Color Variants and Aesthetic Tweaks
MSI aims to release the Claw A8 in various color options, providing users with more customization choices. The design is marginally more angular than that of the Claw 8 AI+, yet the overall aesthetics remain uniform.
Price and Availability
MSI has revealed that the Claw A8 is set to launch in summer 2025,