MSI’s latest handheld gaming PC, the Claw A8, is generating notable buzz in the gaming community due to its eye-popping price tag, which could exceed that of household appliances like washing machines or refrigerators. Though officially unveiled at Computex in May, the Claw A8 is still lacking specific details regarding its price and release date in the United States. However, it has recently appeared on Newegg’s US site following earlier pre-orders at European retailers this past July.
A retail listing discovered by VideoCardz reveals a staggering price of $1,149 for the MSI Claw A8, which may serve as a placeholder but likely indicates the device’s true cost. This price point positions the A8 above its sibling, the MSI Claw 8 AI+, which currently retails for $1,099.99 at Best Buy and has seen price increases from its original MSRP of $899. These rises in pricing are not isolated incidents but reflect a broader trend within the industry, influenced by soaring RAM costs and supply chain challenges.
The MSI Claw A8 is powered by the new AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor and shares several features with the Claw 8 AI+. The latter utilizes an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor coupled with Arc 140V graphics. Despite the higher price, the Claw A8’s specifications also include 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD. Both models feature 8-inch displays, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1920 x 1200, ensuring a rich gaming experience.
In comparison, the Lenovo Legion Go 2 stands as a competitor priced at $1,099 and features an 8.8″ 144Hz OLED display along with removable controllers. As consumers navigate these options, the distinctive design of the Claw A8, available in a vibrant lime green alongside a more neutral white, may appeal to those looking for aesthetics alongside performance.
The ongoing surge in RAM prices is a critical factor influencing the pricing of gaming handhelds. Companies like Dell have already announced price hikes, with more expected in the near future. Such economic pressures are reshaping consumer choices in the gaming market, prompting potential buyers to weigh performance against cost.
While no official US release date for the MSI Claw A8 has been announced, the recent Newegg listing suggests it may be available soon. The gaming community remains eager to see how this new entry will stack up against existing handhelds, especially as it brings both powerful hardware and unique design elements to the table. As the landscape of portable gaming continues to evolve, the MSI Claw A8 could set a new benchmark for performance and pricing in the sector.
