The world of handheld and portable gaming is booming with innovation, thanks to ultra-portable PCs from various manufacturers making the market highly competitive. A standout in this field is the MSI Claw A1M, a collaboration between MSI and Intel. This portable PC is powered by an Intel Core Ultra processor, Intel Arc graphics, and runs on Windows 11 Home.
What sets the MSI Claw A1M apart are its premium features designed to enhance the gaming experience significantly. It boasts ergonomically tailored hand grips for comfort during long gaming sessions and a 53-watt-hour battery for extended playtime. The high-performance Hall Effect joysticks provide unmatched precision and control, complemented by MSI Mystic Light for customizable RGB lighting. Additionally, the Cooler Boost HyperFlow cooling system intelligently optimizes airflow, ensuring the device runs at full speed without compromising performance.
If that were everything, I’d be happy with it, but there’s so much more. The 7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology ensures smooth and responsive visuals. Two 2-watt high-resolution speakers deliver immersive, crystal-clear audio. It’s equipped with WiFi 7 capabilities and a Thunderbolt 4 port for high-speed charging. Additionally, it can be docked and used as a traditional desktop PC. MSI, Intel, and Microsoft are committed to providing best-in-class support through regular updates and end-user feedback, ensuring timely improvements. The Claw A1M is a labor of love, designed to work closely with the community to optimize the user experience.
As for the rest of the design, let’s take a look.
Designed with elements of Anthropometry: The science of comfort
Anthropometry is the scientific study of human body proportions, crucial for designing ergonomic systems that minimize occupational injuries. MSI Claw exemplifies this approach by leveraging extensive global data to tailor its design to the natural grip contours of the average user. This not only enhances comfort but also ensures intuitive, precise controls essential for optimal gaming performance, reducing reaction times effectively.
The design of this device is impressive, featuring offset joysticks on either side, a responsive directional pad with excellent feedback, and vibrant functional buttons throughout. The joysticks are surrounded by RGB halos, powered by MSI’s Mystic Light, allowing for full customization. This lighting extends to the ABXY buttons on the face, creating a captivating neon display that moves in sync with the on-screen action. Although primarily aesthetic, these upgrades add a visual marvel that enhances the overall experience. I firmly support such enhancements. Let’s dive in!
Software matters and MSI delivers
Software is crucial for optimizing performance and enhancing usability on PCs like the MSI Claw. Running Windows 11 Home, it delivers a comprehensive desktop experience complemented by MSI’s tailored software suite. For gamers and users alike, MSI App Player bridges Windows and Android gaming, providing seamless access to your entire game library. Meanwhile, MSI Center M offers an intuitive interface for quick adjustments like screen brightness and volume, alongside real-time hardware monitoring for optimal performance.
You can easily customize the quick menu and add new toggles using the built-in editor. Additionally, you have the flexibility to switch between a dedicated gaming mode, which optimizes the built-in gamepad for gaming, and a desktop mode tailored for desktop operations.
MSI truly has thought of everything here.
MSI Claw features and specifications
Hardware largely dictates the performance you experience, and MSI has prioritized top-tier internals. Here are some key highlights:
- Intel Core Ultra processor up to Intel Core Ultra 8 155H
- Intel XeSS XE Super Sampling
- Intel Arc Graphics with Intel optimizations
- Massive 53-watt-hour battery
- 7-inch FHD (1920 by 1080) touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate
- Up to 1TB solid-state drive with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM
- MSI Cooler Boost HyperFlow optimized performance cooling
- Two heat pipes to increase cooling with 50% larger air-vent sizes
- Windows 11 Home and MSI apps with quick settings
- Support for Xbox Game Pass
- MicroSD card reader for storage expansion
- Versatile IO ports with Thunderbolt 4 and fast-charging
- Ergonomic, thoughtful design optimized for comfort with improved grips
- Hall Effect joystick sensors with Mystic Light RGB for the sticks and ABXY buttons
- Best-in-class support from MSI, Intel, and Microsoft that factors in community feedback
MSI Claw A1M: Next-generation handheld gaming
Discover the power and innovation packed inside the MSI Claw A1M. Now, it’s your turn to experience it firsthand – you deserve it.
For more details about the MSI Claw A1M and its various models, visit MSI’s main product page. Currently, there are three models available, including an exclusive version at Best Buy Canada (A1M-047CA for $1,100). While all models offer the same core features, they differ in built-in storage options, available in either 512GB or 1TB. The base model, priced at $900, comes with an Intel Core Ultra 5-135H processor, while the high-end model boasts an Intel Core Ultra 7-155H processor. Regardless of the model you choose, the MSI Claw A1M promises an exceptional handheld gaming PC experience.