MSI Claw finally has a US release date, and it’s set to have its own Steam Deck dock

If you’ve been waiting to find out when the MSI Claw release date will be, you’re in luck, as Newegg’s pre-order page claims it’ll be available from March 8. Better still, the site also provides a glimpse at some planned accessories, including its very own Steam Deck dock and a carry case.

We’ve known for a while that the MSI Claw would enter the best gaming handheld race at some point in March, but thanks to Newegg, we now have a date to circle on our calendars. While not all versions of the portable PC will release on the same day, and UK pre-order pages suggest it’ll arrive a few weeks’ later, the retailer has listed March 8 as an ETA for the $749 512GB Intel Ultra 7 version. The $799 1TB model and lower spec $699 Ultra 5 edition are apparently due to arrive the following week on March 15, but are labelled instead as a ‘release date’. 

Slightly confusing, and I’m not entirely sure why there would be a delay with specific models. Nevertheless, MSI Claw handhelds should in theory start landing on players’ doorsteps after Friday, meaning it won’t be long till we know how it’ll fare against the mighty Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally. 

MSI Claw (512GB, Intel Ultra 7) | $749.99 at Newegg
This version of the Claw comes is armed with an Intel Ultra 7 processor, 16GB RAM, and an 120Hz screen, meaning it's got the best chip available in the line-up. That said, it features a smaller 512GB SSD than the most expensive model, so it might not suit those of you with bigger Steam backlogs.

Buy it if: 

✅ You want to balance price and specs
✅ You plan on using a microSD card
✅ You need best portable performance

Don't buy it if: 

❌ You've got a big Steam library
❌ You don't need highest spec processor

Other models:
Intel Ultra 7 1TB - $799
Intel Ultra 5 512GB - $699

As I already spoiled, the pre order page also reveals a few accessories, including a docking station. Yes, I know referring to it as if it’s one of the best Steam Deck docks is just like calling every vacuum a