MSI prepares cheaper Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld with Intel Arc G3

MSI is preparing a more affordable version of its Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld gaming console, identified by the model number Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3M. This new configuration will utilize the standard Intel Arc G3 platform instead of the more powerful Arc G3 Extreme found in the current flagship model.

The CG3M version features an Intel Arc B370 GPU with 10 Xe3 cores and a maximum frequency of 2.2 GHz, providing up to 90 INT8 TOPS. While it shares the same 14-core CPU architecture as the Extreme version, it operates under a lower thermal power limit of 30W compared to the 35W limit of the higher-end model.

Other hardware specifications remain consistent with the premium version, including 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and an 8-inch 120Hz IPS touchscreen with VRR support. The device is expected to be priced significantly lower than the $1,799 Extreme model, with retail listings in the United States showing a price of $1,499.