6 Best Alternatives to the Msi Claw A1M-052US Gaming Laptop (2026)
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If you are researching msi claw a1m 052us gaming laptop alternatives, comparing published hardware configurations helps you select the right device. The original MSI Claw A1M-052US performs well with its 7-inch 120Hz 1080p IPS touchscreen, Intel Ultra 5-135H processor, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity in a 1.44-pound chassis. It also delivers 16GB of onboard memory, a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD, and Windows 11 Home.
You might want a different device if your library demands higher specifications, such as 32GB of RAM, up to 2TB of internal storage, or AMD Ryzen processing. Choosing another brand like ASUS or LANRUO also allows you to explore alternate weights and dimensions. The 6 alternatives in this guide were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original, maintaining 7-inch 1080p touchscreen panels and 120Hz refresh rates on the Windows platform.
Our top pick: MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p Handheld.
How the Alternatives Compare
LANRUO GPD Win 5 7-inch Handheld
The LANRUO GPD Win 5 upgrades your hardware with an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, an AMD Radeon 8060S graphics chip, 32GB of RAM, and a 2TB solid-state drive. In contrast, the original MSI Claw uses an Intel Ultra 5-135H chip, 16GB of onboard RAM, and 512GB of storage. Both devices share a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen running at 120Hz. What you give up is compact portability. The GPD Win 5 weighs 4.96 pounds and measures 11.8 by 9.2 inches, making it substantially heavier than the 1.44-pound Claw. Pick this model if you need maximum memory and storage capacity.
WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro 7" 120Hz
The WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro equips an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor paired with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB solid-state drive. This configuration quadruples the storage and doubles the system memory found on the 512GB, 16GB MSI Claw A1M-052US. You retain a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen running at 120Hz and Windows 11. However, this unit trades away the Claw's slim 0.83-inch thickness for a thicker 2.88-inch body that measures 8.46 inches long and 6.65 inches wide. You should pick this alternative if you want higher processing specs, 32GB of RAM, and 2TB of built-in storage.
MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p 120Hz
This MSI Claw A1M variant shares the core physical blueprint of the original unit. You receive the same 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, 16GB of onboard RAM, and 512GB of internal storage. Its dimensions match at 11.6 by 4.6 by 0.83 inches, and the weight remains at 1.44 pounds in black. Because it mirrors the original hardware specifications closely, it does not add higher memory capacity or extra drive space. Pick this model if you want an identical 1.44-pound form factor and the standard 512GB configuration for straightforward 1080p Windows gaming without changing chassis ergonomics.
MSI Claw A1M 7" FHD Handheld
This configuration of the MSI Claw A1M doubles your internal storage capacity to a 1TB SSD while retaining the Intel Ultra 5-135H processor and 16GB of RAM. The original unit ships with a 512GB SSD. Outside of the increased solid-state drive size, the physical hardware is identical. You get the same 7-inch 120Hz 1080p touchscreen, black finish, and 1.44-pound chassis measuring 11.6 by 4.6 by 0.83 inches. You do not sacrifice weight or port connectivity like Thunderbolt 4. Pick this model if you need 1TB of built-in storage space without altering the original Claw design or display.
ASUS ROG Ally 7 120Hz Ryzen Z1
The ASUS ROG Ally switches processing architectures, running an AMD Ryzen Z1 processor instead of the Intel Ultra 5-135H found on the MSI Claw. It matches the original device with 16GB of RAM, a 512GB solid-state drive, and a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p touchscreen. However, this model weighs 2.89 pounds, making it noticeably heavier than the 1.44-pound Claw. Its dimensions measure 11 by 4.4 by 0.8 inches, and it comes in a white casing rather than black. Pick this alternative if you prefer an AMD Ryzen Z1 platform and a white chassis over the Intel-based MSI design.
ASUS ROG Ally 7-Inch Ryzen Z1 Extreme
The ASUS ROG Ally RC71L incorporates an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, departing from the Intel Ultra 5-135H chip in the MSI Claw. At 1.1 pounds, it is lighter than the 1.44-pound original. It maintains identical display specifications with a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p touchscreen, alongside matching capacity at 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. Its white body measures 11 by 4.4 by 0.8 inches. What you give up is the Intel architecture and black enclosure of the Claw. Pick this handheld if you want a lighter 1.1-pound device powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p Handheld
Best for: Users needing Thunderbolt 4 and 120Hz visuals
- Processor
- 14th Gen Ultra 5-135H
- RAM
- 16GB OnBoard
- Storage
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Display Type
- IPS
This handheld features a 7-inch 120Hz IPS touchscreen and a 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor. It pairs 16GB of onboard RAM with 512GB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage. The device includes Thunderbolt 4 support and Bluetooth 5.4. It runs Windows 11 Home. You should choose this if you want a compact PC with high refresh rate visuals and modern connectivity options for gaming on the go.
Pros
- 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor with up to 4.6 GHz boost
- 7-inch 120Hz IPS FHD touchscreen display
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD for fast storage
- Thunderbolt 4 port for high-speed data and video output
Cons
- 16GB of onboard RAM is not user-upgradeable
- Intel Arc integrated graphics may struggle with demanding titles
- 53 Whr battery capacity limits extended unplugged sessions
Good fit if
- You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for external monitors
- You prefer a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother gameplay
- You want a Windows 11 handheld with 512GB of storage
Skip if
- You require upgradeable RAM for heavy multitasking
- You prioritize long battery life over raw performance
- You want a device with dedicated graphics cards
Verdict: MSI Claw A1M-135H 7" 120Hz Handheld delivers strong portable performance through its 14th Gen Intel processor and 120Hz touchscreen. It fits users who value Thunderbolt 4 expansion and high refresh rate visuals in a compact form factor.
LANRUO GPD Win 5 7-inch Handheld
Best for: High-performance handheld gaming with large storage
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395
- RAM
- 32GB
- Storage
- 2TB
- Screen Size
- 7 inches
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Display Type
- H-IPS
The GPD Win 5 is a 7-inch Windows 11 handheld featuring an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and 32GB of RAM. It includes a 120Hz 1080p display and a 2TB SSD. The 80Wh removable battery allows for extended play or direct power use. This device suits users who need high-end PC gaming performance in a compact form factor with extensive storage and memory.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 16 cores
- 32GB RAM and 2TB storage capacity
- 7-inch 120Hz 1080p H-IPS display
- 80Wh detachable battery with 180W fast charging
Cons
- Heavy at 4.96 pounds
- Large physical dimensions for handheld use
- No mention of Bluetooth connectivity
Good fit if
- You want maximum RAM and storage in a handheld
- You prefer a detachable battery for flexible power options
- You need a 120Hz display for smooth gameplay
Skip if
- You prioritize a lightweight and compact device
- You need Bluetooth connectivity for wireless accessories
- You prefer a smaller screen size
Verdict: GPD Win 5 7-inch 120Hz Handheld PC delivers desktop-class specs for users who value raw power and storage over portability. It is ideal for those who want a high-performance Windows gaming device with a removable battery.
WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro 7" 120Hz
Best for: High-performance handheld gaming and productivity
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
- RAM
- 32GB LPDDR5X
- Storage
- 2TB m.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Display Type
- H-IPS
The WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro 2025 pairs a 7-inch 120Hz touchscreen with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor. You get 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage for extensive game libraries. This configuration delivers high performance for gaming and multitasking. It suits users who need a compact Windows handheld with robust internal components and fast connectivity options.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 12-core CPU
- 32GB LPDDR5X RAM for smooth multitasking
- 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD storage
- 7-inch 120Hz FHD touchscreen display
Cons
- 44.24Wh battery limits unplugged playtime
- Heavier build due to high-end internals
- No mention of a backlit keyboard
Good fit if
- You need maximum storage for large libraries
- You want top-tier handheld processing power
- You prefer a compact Windows device
Skip if
- You prioritize all-day battery life
- You need a lighter, smaller form factor
- You only play lightweight indie titles
Verdict: WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro 2025 offers desktop-class performance in a handheld shell. It fits power users who prioritize raw specs and storage over portability and battery endurance.
MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p 120Hz
Best for: Windows users wanting a compact 7-inch handheld
- Processor
- Intel Ultra 5-135H
- RAM
- 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage
- 512GB 2230 PCIe NVMe SSD
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Display Type
- IPS
The MSI Claw A1M-052US is a 7-inch handheld gaming PC with a 120Hz IPS touchscreen. It uses a 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor and Intel Arc integrated graphics. You get 16GB of onboard RAM and 512GB of storage. This Windows 11 Pro device weighs 1.44 pounds. It suits players who want a familiar interface and solid performance in a compact form factor.
Pros
- 7-inch 120Hz IPS FHD touchscreen display
- 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor
- 16GB onboard RAM and 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Pro operating system
Cons
- Intel Arc integrated graphics are less powerful than discrete options
- Onboard RAM cannot be upgraded
- 90-day warranty is shorter than standard new products
Good fit if
- You prefer the Windows ecosystem over SteamOS
- You want a touchscreen for navigation
- You need a lightweight 7-inch form factor
Skip if
- You require high-end discrete graphics
- You need a longer warranty period
- You want to upgrade RAM later
Verdict: MSI Claw A1M 7-inch Handheld delivers reliable 1080p performance for casual gaming. It fits users who prioritize portability and Windows compatibility over raw graphical power.
MSI Claw A1M 7" FHD Handheld
Best for: Compact Windows gaming with Thunderbolt 4
- Processor
- 14th Gen Ultra 5-135H
- RAM
- 16GB OnBoard
- Storage
- 1TB 2230 PCIe NVMe SSD
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Display Type
- IPS
This 7-inch handheld features a 120Hz IPS touchscreen and a 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor. It includes 16GB of onboard RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD. The device runs Windows 11 Pro and supports Thunderbolt 4. It suits users who want a compact, powerful PC with high-speed storage and a responsive display for gaming or productivity on the go.
Pros
- 14th Gen Intel Ultra 5-135H processor with 14 cores
- 7-inch 120Hz IPS touchscreen with FHD resolution
- 1TB 2230 PCIe NVMe SSD for fast storage
- Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and Micro SD reader
Cons
- Onboard RAM cannot be upgraded
- Only a 53 Whr battery capacity
- Sold as a renewed product with limited warranty
Good fit if
- You need a compact 7-inch form factor
- You want Thunderbolt 4 for external docks
- You prefer Windows 11 Pro for work tasks
Skip if
- You require user-upgradable RAM
- You want a brand-new unit with full warranty
- You need a larger screen for detailed work
Verdict: MSI Claw A1M 7" Handheld delivers strong mobile performance with its Ultra 5-135H chip and ample 1TB storage. It is ideal for users who prioritize portability and Thunderbolt 4 expansion in a small 7-inch package.
ASUS ROG Ally 7 120Hz Ryzen Z1
Best for: Players needing 16GB RAM and touch controls
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen Z1
- RAM
- 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Resolution
- 1080p
The ASUS ROG Ally features a 7-inch FHD touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It uses an AMD Ryzen Z1 processor and RDNA 3 graphics for portable play. You get 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. The device runs Windows 11 for full PC game compatibility. It is a solid option for players who want high memory capacity in a compact form factor.
Pros
- 16GB LPDDR5 RAM for smooth multitasking
- 7-inch 120Hz FHD touchscreen display
- AMD Ryzen Z1 processor with RDNA 3 graphics
- 512GB PCIe SSD for fast loading times
Cons
- Heavier at 2.89 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- 512GB storage fills up quickly with large AAA titles
- Limited to 1080p resolution on a 7-inch screen
Good fit if
- You prioritize 16GB of RAM for better performance
- You want a Windows 11 handheld for PC gaming
- You prefer a touchscreen interface for navigation
Skip if
- You need more than 512GB of internal storage
- You prefer a lighter device under 2.5 pounds
- You want a 4K display resolution
Verdict: ASUS ROG Ally 7-inch 16GB RAM delivers strong memory capacity and a smooth 120Hz display for portable Windows gaming. It fits players who need ample RAM and touch controls without needing maximum internal storage.
ASUS ROG Ally 7-Inch Ryzen Z1 Extreme
Best for: 120Hz 1080p AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme gaming
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
- RAM
- 16GB RAM
- Storage
- 512GB
- Screen Size
- 7"
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Resolution
- 1080p
This handheld runs Windows 11 Home on an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Zen 4 processor. You get a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of internal storage. At 1.1 pounds, it suits you if you need a lightweight Windows gaming device with high-refresh display specs and USB-C charging.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Zen 4 processor
- 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate
- Lightweight 1.1-pound chassis
- USB-C charging support
Cons
- Storage capped at 512GB
- System memory limited to 16GB RAM
Good fit if
- You want an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip paired with a 120Hz 1080p screen.
- You prefer a 1.1-pound handheld running Windows 11 Home.
Skip if
- You need more than 512GB of built-in storage.
- You require more than 16GB of system memory.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Ally 7-Inch Z1 Extreme gives you a portable 1.1-pound build with a 120Hz 1080p display and Zen 4 processing. It fits players seeking high refresh rates who do not require large factory storage.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p Handheld | LANRUO GPD Win 5 7-inch Handheld | WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro 7" 120Hz | MSI Claw A1M 7" 1080p 120Hz | MSI Claw A1M 7" FHD Handheld | ASUS ROG Ally 7 120Hz Ryzen Z1 | ASUS ROG Ally 7-Inch Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | 14th Gen Ultra 5-135H | AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Intel Ultra 5-135H | 14th Gen Ultra 5-135H | AMD Ryzen Z1 | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
| RAM | 16GB OnBoard | 32GB | 32GB LPDDR5X | 16GB LPDDR5 | 16GB OnBoard | 16GB LPDDR5 | 16GB RAM |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | 2TB | 2TB m.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | 512GB 2230 PCIe NVMe SSD | 1TB 2230 PCIe NVMe SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB |
| Screen Size | 7" | 7 inches | 7" | 7" | 7" | 7" | 7" |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Display Type | IPS | H-IPS | H-IPS | IPS | IPS | not specified | not specified |
| Resolution | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 | 1920x1080 | 1080p | 1080p |
| Graphics | Intel Arc Integrated Graphics | Radeon 8060S | not specified | Intel Arc | Intel Arc Integrated Graphics | RDNA 3 graphics | not specified |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | Windows 11 Pro-64 | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 | Windows 11 Home |
| Storage Capacity | not specified | 2TB | 2TB | 512GB | not specified | 512GB | 512GB |
| Screen Resolution | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | White | White |
| Graphics Card | not specified | AMD Radeon 8060S | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Memory | not specified | 32GB | 32GB | 16GB | not specified | 16GB | 16GB |
| Platform | not specified | PC | PC | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 4.6 × 11.6 × 0.83 inches | 11.8 × 3.3 × 9.2 inches | 8.46 × 6.65 × 2.88 inches | 4.6 × 11.6 × 0.83 inches | 4.6 × 11.6 × 0.83 inches | 11 × 4.4 × 0.8 inches | 11 × 4.4 × 0.8 inches |
| Weight | 1.44 pounds | 4.96 pounds | not specified | 1.44 pounds | 1.44 pounds | 2.89 pounds | 1.1 pounds |
| Model | Claw A1M-052US | Al Max+ 395-32GB+2TB | 63f82893-d013-414a-ac19-e36e80621174 | Claw A1M-052US | not specified | ASUS ROG Ally 7 | RC71L-ALLY.Z1X_512 |
| Size | not specified | AI 395-32GB+2TB | HX 370-32GB RAM+2TB SSD | 16GB RAM|512GB SSD | 16GB RAM|1TB SSD | not specified | not specified |
If you prefer traditional clamshell designs, compare the best msi gaming laptops to evaluate alternative processor and display specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the lightest chassis?
The ASUS ROG Ally with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme is the lightest option at 1.1 pounds. This makes it noticeably lighter than the 1.44-pound MSI Claw and the 4.96-pound LANRUO GPD Win 5. You get a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p touchscreen inside this lightweight build.
Which handheld alternatives provide 32GB of RAM?
Both the LANRUO GPD Win 5 and the WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro come equipped with 32GB of RAM. Both models also feature 2TB of internal storage and run Windows 11. These specifications give you double the memory capacity found on standard 16GB MSI Claw configurations.
Do these alternatives share the same screen size and refresh rate?
Yes, all listed alternatives feature a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Whether you choose an ASUS ROG Ally, a GPD model, or an MSI Claw variant, you receive the exact same display dimensions and visual refresh capability across every device on this list.
What operating system do these handheld gaming devices run?
Handheld alternatives such as the LANRUO GPD Win 5 and WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro ship with Windows 11. This platform allows you to install standard PC games and desktop productivity applications directly onto the devices without needing secondary compatibility layers or operating system modifications.
Which processor powers the ASUS ROG Ally RC71L model?
The ASUS ROG Ally model RC71L-ALLY.Z1X_512 runs on an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. It pairs this Zen 4 chip with 16GB of system RAM and a 512GB internal solid-state drive, presenting an AMD-based processing structure compared to the Intel architecture of the MSI Claw.
Are white color options available among these handheld alternatives?
Yes, the ASUS ROG Ally models come with a white exterior finish. In contrast, the MSI Claw, LANRUO GPD Win 5, and WEELIAO GPD Win Mini Pro feature black shells. If you prefer a lighter look over traditional black hardware, the ROG Ally provides that design.