The original MSI Claw A1M was announced in January 2024 with Intel Core Ultra Series 1 processors based on Meteor Lake. MSI listed configurations up to the Core Ultra 7 155H. Those details apply to the A1M—not every later device carrying the Claw name.
What CPU does the original MSI Claw use?
MSI introduced the Claw at CES 2024 as its first handheld powered by Intel Core Ultra. The more specific model name is Claw A1M: MSI’s launch specifications list up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, a Meteor Lake processor in Intel’s Core Ultra Series 1 generation. Intel’s explanation of the product generations also identifies the earlier MSI handheld as Meteor Lake-based (Intel Newsroom).
MSI’s January 9, 2024 announcement described the device as a portable gaming handheld and highlighted a 7-inch 120Hz display, Intel XeSS support and Cooler Boost HyperFlow cooling (MSI USA announcement). The CPU and feature descriptions are launch information from MSI, not independent performance findings.
Claw A1M launch specifications
MSI’s Taiwan announcement names the model Claw A1M and gives the following specifications. It lists maximum processor options where indicated; configurations may differ by market and SKU (MSI announcement and specifications).
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#1 Best Overall
- High-Performance Computing: Harness the power of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor to effortlessly handle demanding tasks. Enjoy reliable, high-performance computing wherever you go.
- Simplistic Design: Enjoy the latest generation of Windows 11 Home for your everyday needs. MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
- Perfection Through Anthropometry: As a handheld device, Claw has achieved the optimal balance between its grip and weight. We have meticulously polished various design details, from the curvature that fits the palm, to the finger grip positions and trigger force.
- Best-in-Class Battery Life: Unlock exceptional gaming endurance with our breakthrough battery capacity. It's where efficient power meets robust performance—more game, less charge.
- 8-inch Smoothness Ready: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience with our 8-inch premium 120Hz gaming display, with exceptional color reproduction and smooth action.
| Component | MSI-listed Claw A1M specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 155H (Meteor Lake / Core Ultra Series 1) |
| Operating system | Windows 11 |
| Graphics | Intel Arc graphics; MSI says the configuration has up to eight Xe cores |
| Memory | 16GB dual-channel onboard LPDDR5 |
| Display | 7-inch Full HD (1920 × 1080) 120Hz touchscreen |
| Storage slot | One NVMe M.2 2230 PCIe Gen 4 ×4 slot |
| Battery | 53Wh |
| Connectivity | Thunderbolt 4 |
MSI’s launch claims and their limits
MSI said XeSS upscaling could improve frame rates, and described the 53Wh Claw as offering “2-hour battery life under full workload.” These are the manufacturer’s claims, not independently verified results; the battery statement is specifically tied to MSI’s stated full-workload condition (MSI announcement). The cited launch material does not establish a neutral benchmark comparison against other handhelds.
How the A1M differs from later MSI Claw models
“MSI Claw” is now a product family name, so the generation matters. MSI’s December 2024 announcement identifies the Claw 8 AI+ A2VM as a later model with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor (Series 2), 32GB LPDDR5x memory, an 8-inch 1920 × 1200 120Hz display and an 80Wh battery (MSI announcement). Intel describes the 258V generation as Lunar Lake, distinct from the original A1M’s Meteor Lake / Series 1 processor (Intel Newsroom).
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- AI-Powered Performance: Harness the capabilities of the latest Intel Core Ultra 5 processor to effortlessly manage demanding tasks. Extend your productivity with the most powerful and reliable performance on the go.
- 7-inch Smoothness Ready: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience with our 7-inch premium 120Hz gaming display, with exceptional color reproduction and smooth action.
- Perfection Through Anthropometry: As a handheld device, Claw has achieved the optimal balance between its grip and weight. We have meticulously polished various design details, from the curvature that fits the palm, to the finger grip positions and trigger force.
- Best-in-Class Battery Life: Unlock exceptional gaming endurance with our breakthrough battery capacity. It's where efficient power meets robust performance—more game, less charge.
- MSI Center M provides dedicated interface designed for handheld devices with easy-to-use settings.
MSI’s current Claw 8 AI+ product page likewise specifies the 258V Series 2 processor, an 8-inch display, an 80Wh battery and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports (MSI Claw 8 AI+ product page). Those specifications belong to the Claw 8 AI+, not the A1M. MSI’s product-page battery and audio figures are presented under particular test conditions and should not be treated as directly comparable to A1M launch claims.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258V – AI-Powered Efficiency: Next-gen Series 2 processor delivers 50% better GPU performance and 40% higher efficiency. 47 NPU TOPS accelerate local AI tasks – from Copilot+ to real-time game optimization.
- 8" 120Hz VRR Touch Display: FHD+ IPS screen with 500 nits sunlight readability. 16:10 golden ratio and VRR support eliminate tearing. Perfect for AAA gaming, streaming, or productivity on the go.
- 80Whr Battery + Fast Charge: Massive 80Whr capacity beats most handhelds. Fast charge gets you back in action quickly. Game longer, worry less – whether on a flight or a long commute.
- Revolutionary Intraflow Cooling: Redesigned airflow keeps internal components cool, preventing thermal throttling. Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers offer drift-free, microscopic precision – built to last.
- Unlimited Expansion: Connect external GPU for desktop-class graphics, dual 4K displays, or high-speed storage. Wi-Fi 7 delivers 5.8 Gbps and 2ms latency – lag-free cloud gaming and downloads.
Rank #4
- PROCESSOR: Powered by Intel Core Ultra processor for exceptional gaming performance and efficient power management
- GAMING TECHNOLOGY: Features Intel XeSS technology for enhanced graphics and smoother frame rates in demanding games
- PORTABILITY: Handheld design optimised for on-the-go gaming, bringing console-quality gaming experiences anywhere
- COMPATIBILITY: Capable of running AAA gaming titles with impressive visual quality and responsive gameplay
- GAMING EXPERIENCE: Advanced thermal design and optimised controls ensure comfortable, extended gaming sessions
Rank #3
- AI-Powered Performance: Harness the capabilities of the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor to effortlessly manage demanding tasks. Extend your productivity with the most powerful and reliable performance on the go.
- Simplistic Design: Enjoy the latest generation of Windows 11 Home for your everyday needs. MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
- Perfection Through Anthropometry: As a handheld device, Claw has achieved the optimal balance between its grip and weight. We have meticulously polished various design details, from the curvature that fits the palm, to the finger grip positions and trigger force.
- Best-in-Class Battery Life: Unlock exceptional gaming endurance with our breakthrough battery capacity. It's where efficient power meets robust performance—more game, less charge.
- 8-inch Smoothness Ready: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience with our 8-inch premium 120Hz gaming display, with exceptional color reproduction and smooth action.
What “MSI Claw with Meteor Lake” means
- Model: the January 2024 announcement refers to the original Claw A1M.
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra Series 1, based on Meteor Lake, with up to Core Ultra 7 155H in MSI’s listed specifications.
- Not a family-wide specification: later Claw models use different processors and have different hardware configurations.
- Performance context: MSI’s launch-era battery and XeSS descriptions are company claims rather than independent test results.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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