MSI Claw A8 portable console won't be cheap - the price of the device has been announced
It looks like the days of the $400 SteamDeck are over. MSI's new Claw 8 portable console is now available for pre-order from European retailers Alza and SmartSK, but at a higher price than expected. The white model was priced at €975.90 ($1141), and the green model at €978.90 ($1145).
It is worth mentioning that Nintendo has recently announced that Switch 2 will become more expensive in some markets. It remains to be seen at what price the new Asus ROG Ally will be available in stores.
Main characteristics of Claw A8
Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (unlike Intel in Claw 8 AI+)
RAM: 24 GB LPDDR5X-8000
Storage: 1 TB M.2 SSD
Display: 8", FHD+ (1920×1200), 120Hz, IPS, VRR
Battery: 80 Wh
Ports: USB-C Thunderbolt, Micro-SD
OS: Windows 11 Home
Why It Matters
The market of portable consoles, which has received a lot of fresh energy this year, can be severely affected by the rise in prices. If consoles don't become mass-produced because of the price, we may never see competition in this market.
Also, the pricing policy of portable consoles is an echo of the recession and the rise in prices caused by the political manoeuvres of the US and China.
