MSI reveals MSI Claw at CES to compete with Steam Deck and handheld PCs
The impact of the Nintendo Switch is no secret to anyone, and all it takes to recognise it is to look to the world of handheld PCs.
Since Nintendo launched what is practically its magnum opus, Steam stepped up to the plate to enter the handheld space with the Steam Deck, and just as Steam watched Nintendo, others are watching Steam, and hoping to take on what has been described as the best way to play any game on the go.
And now, MSI is shooting for the stars with its brand-new competitor.
MSI reveals MSI Claw
Click to enlargeAlong with a huge host of other gaming hardware, MSI has just announced at CES 2024 a brand-new competitor to the Steam Deck called The Claw. Toy Story connotations aside, that name is pretty badass.
The machine boasts a 53Whr battery capacity that claims to run for two hours “under full workload conditions,” so players aren’t going to have to worry about the machine failing to perform when playing Cyberpunk 2077 at full power. It’s also claimed to come with a brand new UI design that helps players to jump into games straight away, especially with its quick game launcher.
The Claw is powered by Intel Core Ultra processors to dramatically improve FPOS in gaming, and it also comes with MSI Cooler Boost Hyperflow thermal technology to make sure that all of its hard work doesn’t lead to overheating.
Interestingly, though, it’s not just PC games that The Claw claims to manage - it comes packaged with support for the MSI APP Player, meaning that players can also tackle Android mobile games as well as those supported by Windows.
A release date for the MSI Claw is yet to come
Click to enlargeAs of right now, we don’t know anything about The Claw’s release date, nor do we know how much the machine will cost - but if it’s trying to compete with Steam’s Steam Deck, then there’s every chance that it’ll be trying to match its cost.
There are still details to await about the handheld PC, but there’s no doubt that it’s incredibly exciting regardless. Handheld PCs are really kicking into gear right now, and with MSI fighting so hard to enter the race, it’s clear that it isn’t done with the gaming industry yet. We’ll allow it.
