If you’ve been waiting for a powerful handheld gaming console to rival the Steam Deck, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ might be the one. After disappearing shortly after its first launch, the device is now making a full comeback with a fresh look, more storage, and a worldwide release. The Polar Tempest Edition of the Claw 8 AI+ is set to release in the United States on July 15, and listings in Germany suggest a European launch around the same time.
This version features double the storage compared to the original model, with 2TB onboard. However, you’ll need to pay more for it — the new price is US$999, up from US$899 for the original 1TB Sandstorm model. The only design change is cosmetic: the new model has white front panels named Polar Tempest.
A closer look at the hardware
At first glance, the Claw 8 AI+ looks sleek and modern, but what’s inside really sets it apart. The handheld features an 8-inch IPS screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 500 nits of brightness, offering a sharp and vibrant display that’s great for gaming on the go.
Under the hood, it runs on an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with 32GB of RAM and an Intel Arc GPU, making it a strong competitor to other gaming handhelds that usually use AMD or Nvidia graphics. This setup allows you to run even demanding games smoothly, something the original MSI Claw struggled with.
One of the most notable features is its 80Wh battery, about twice the size of the Steam Deck’s. That means you can play for longer between charges — a big bonus for gamers on the move. However, the larger battery does add to the weight. The Claw 8 comes in at 795 grams, compared to the 669 grams of the Steam Deck. That’s around 1.75 pounds, so if you’re used to lighter devices, your wrists might need to adjust.
A second chance for MSI’s handheld
When the first MSI Claw launched, it didn’t make much of a splash. Performance issues and poor reviews kept it from gaining traction, and many gamers chose more reliable options. However, the Claw 8 AI+ has fixed many of the earlier problems. It now offers smoother performance, better graphics, and an improved experience.
This updated version also offers twice the storage and a cleaner, brighter look. The 2TB option would be a welcome addition if you want to download a wide variety of games simultaneously. With global availability rolling out, more players will finally have the chance to try it for themselves.
Whether you’re in the U.S. or waiting for its arrival in Europe, the Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest is shaping up to be one of the more impressive handhelds of the year, especially if you’re after something more powerful than the Steam Deck.
