Upgrade Your MSI Claw’s SSD – DIY in 5 Ep 263

Опубликовано 30 ноября 2025, 14:00

PC gamers often find it hard to travel with their games, but PC gaming handhelds like the MSI Claw make it easier. Juicing up its storage potential by replacing the default SSD makes it even better, and that’s what this video will help you to do.

Before installation
This video upgrades the Claw 8 AI+ with an M.2 2230 form factor SSD. You’ll need a PCIe 4.0 NVMe drive or better to replace the default SSD. The Kingston NV3 kingston.com/en/ssd/nv3-nvme-p... is a solid option, used in our video. Different Claw models may vary in SSD size and process; older generation models require additional steps such as removing the fan assembly and reapplying thermal paste. Confirm your specific model before progressing.

This upgrade comes with a fresh install of Windows, so ensure game save data is stored to the cloud or an external drive before you begin. First, insert a flash drive and download the Windows 11 Disk Image from this site: microsoft.com/en-us/software-d... Then download the wireless LAN driver from this site: msi.com/Handheld/Claw-8-AI-Plu... Finally, download Rufus (rufus.ie/en/), which turns your flash drive into a bootable disk. You can either do this process on the Claw handheld or a separate Windows PC.

After that process is completed, remove your flash drive, and any other attachments or storage (e.g. SD cards) from your Claw. Before you turn it off, consider discharging the battery to under 25%. Whether you do or don’t, you’ll need a Phillips-head screwdriver for disassembly, and ideally some small, easily-labeled Ziploc bags or similar.

Use the screwdriver to open the rear panel. You’ll need to remove 6 screws, and depending on the model there may be one underneath the warranty sticker. Keep those screws together. One of those Ziplocs would be useful for this purpose.

To remove the back cover, begin on the Claw’s right side and use an opening tool to work your way around the case’s seam, downwards and around the entire perimeter until the cover detaches.
The next step is disconnecting and pulling out the battery. The cord is in the center on its top side. There are four screws holding the battery in place that you’ll need to unscrew. Keep them separate from the rear panel screws, since they’re different thread lengths.

The Claw 8 AI+ model has its SSD in the central area, secured by a screw. Remove the screw then gently lift and slide out the old SSD. If there is a thermal pad, transfer it to the new SSD. Insert your new SSD in the slot, push it flat, and secure it with the screw. Then you can reinsert the battery, reconnect the cable, and reattach the back panel.

kingston.com/en/blog/gaming/up...

Configuring the new SSD
We’ll need some extra USB ports for a keyboard and mouse in order to perform this process, so we’ll connect a hub. Next, we’ll insert the flash drive we made earlier and turn the device on. Your Claw may have trouble detecting the boot drive; if this is the case, hold the LB and RB buttons when powering on to manually select the drive for boot. The Windows installation is time-consuming, so consider plugging your charger in. The flash drive will boot the Windows 11 setup process but your system’s touchscreen functionality will be inactive, meaning the keyboard and mouse will be needed to operate the system. Simply follow the instructions on-screen.
During Windows setup, you’ll need to install the wireless LAN driver from the flash drive. After that, your internet-enabled Claw can finish the OS installation. It will prompt you about restoring from your previous drive, which is a decision for you to make yourself.

You will need to install some more essential drivers. The Intel Arc & Iris Xe Graphics for Windows drivers intel.com/content/www/us/en/do... will enable the Intel Driver & Support Assistant—necessary for downloading all updates from. Then, go to MSI to download the drivers supporting your Claw model, and the utilities too.

You’re almost done. Make sure everything is up to date in the Microsoft store, in particular the MSI center M app, the exclusive control center software for your MSI Claw. When installed and updated, the Claw should prompt you to restart, then sign its privacy agreement and MSI Center M as the default startup screen. Go to the MSI update screen and scan for any live updates needed to ensure your system is completely up to date.

Now all you need to do is install or reinstall your favorite games! Is the MSI Claw your favorite gaming handheld, or are there other PC gaming handhelds you’d like to see us make content about?

0:00 Intro
0:25 Before installation
1:55 Installation process
2:58 Configuring the new SSD