MSI is preparing a budget-friendly variant of its Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld, targeting buyers who want the same form factor at a lower price point. This new model, designated Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3M, swaps the flagship processor for a standard chip to cut costs without changing the chassis. This release offers a more affordable option for players interested in 8-inch handhelds powered by Intel Arc technology.
Budget handheld swaps flagship chip for standard Arc G3
The device integrates an Intel Arc G3 CPU with an Intel Arc B370 GPU. This configuration replaces the Arc G3 Extreme processor and the more powerful Arc B390 GPU found in the premium version. The standard Arc G3 chip features 14 cores and tops out at 4.6 GHz, while the integrated B370 GPU uses 10 Xe3 cores clocked at up to 2.2 GHz.
Specifications
- CPU: Intel Arc G3 (14-core: 2P+8E+4LP E-cores, up to 4.6 GHz)
- GPU: Intel Arc B370 (10 Xe3 cores, up to 2.2 GHz)
- Memory: 32 GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: 512 GB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- Display: 8-inch 1,920 x 1,200 IPS touchscreen, 120 Hz, VRR
MSI retains the core hardware experience of the original model in this new variant. The handheld includes 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 512 GB PCIe 4.0 SSD for storage. It also keeps the 8-inch 1,920 x 1,200 IPS touchscreen with 120 Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate support. Power comes from an 80 Wh battery, and Intel caps the standard chip's thermal design power at 30 W.
CompSource has listed the US-bound Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3M-072USY for $1,499. This price undercuts the flagship model, which retails for $1,799, by exactly $300. The listing currently shows the item as out of stock, and MSI has not yet announced a specific release date for the cheaper variant. We looked at MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Gets in our earlier Msi coverage.
The Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3M offers a complete set of specs for a lower price, though availability remains uncertain. Buyers can expect the same display and battery life as the premium model, with the primary difference being the reduced GPU power and storage capacity. The device represents a clear step down in price for those willing to accept the standard Arc G3 performance.
Source: NotebookCheck
