MSI Claw 8 AI+: A Triumph of Performance and Design in the Handheld Gaming Scene

When creating something for the first time, it’s unlikely to turn out perfect, so it wasn’t particularly shocking that MSI’s first gaming device faced challenges early on. This was even before considering the unconventional decision to opt for an Intel chip rather than an AMD processor like most competitors. Nevertheless, MSI persevered and has returned with not merely one but two models of its latest handheld, led by the Claw 8 AI+. This version not only boasts a larger size but also features double the number of Thunderbolt 4 ports, a significantly bigger battery, and among the top performances observed in this category of devices. More significantly, as a successor to a device with subpar software and incomplete drivers, it feels like the Claw has regained its effectiveness.

Build and display: The desert cat

Featuring an 8-inch screen, the Claw 8 AI+ surpasses its predecessor and several competitors such as the ROG Ally X, though it remains smaller than Lenovo’s robust 8.8-inch Legion Go. MSI has also taken a distinctive approach with a dual-tone black and sandstone chassis. Overall ergonomics are reasonable, yet if I were to critique, slightly larger grips would enhance comfort. Otherwise, the handheld showcases a straightforward blend of high-quality components arranged within a familiar framework.

Engadget

84100Expert Score

The newest powerhouse in gaming handhelds

MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM

With its new Intel processor and a sizable battery, MSI’s Claw 8 AI+ promises impressive performance and endurance. However, with a starting rate of $900, it also comes at a higher price than almost all of its competitors.

Pros

• Hall Effect joysticks and triggers
• Exceptional performance
• Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports
• Greater than average battery life
• Integrated fingerprint sensor
• Bright 8-inch 120Hz VRR display

Cons

• Absence of a built-in touchpad
• MSI Center app feels somewhat minimal
• A tad expensive

$900 at Best Buy

Explore Alternative Purchase Options

$899 at Newegg

Equipped with Hall Effect sensors for its joysticks and triggers, and featuring RGB lighting that has become a sort of unspoken standard among portable gaming PCs, the Claw also offers dual Thunderbolt 4 ports that facilitate both data transfer and charging—particularly useful if you intend to utilize it for productivity tasks. Additionally, it includes a microSD card slot for expanded storage. Unlike Lenovo’s offerings, I appreciate that MSI has integrated a built-in fingerprint reader, which significantly simplifies the process of accessing Windows-based devices like the Claw. While a touchpad is absent, MSI’s software allows for cursor control via the joysticks, making transitions between gaming and applications less cumbersome. Moreover, there are a pair of paddles located on the back.

Regarding the display, although it employs an IPS panel rather than the rich OLED screens found in some handhelds, the Claw’s display exhibits superior brightness (up to 500 nits), a solid 120Hz refresh rate (with VRR), and an ideal resolution for a device of this size (1,920 x 1,200). Thus, there is very little to criticize concerning its visuals, and coupled with fairly powerful front-facing speakers, the audio performance is commendable as well.

Performance and software: An unassuming powerhouse

Perhaps the most significant revelation is that after a disappointing first attempt, the Claw 8 AI+ delivered strong performance that matched or even exceeded that of its rivals. Some of this can be attributed to improved software and updated drivers from Intel, but still, with its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage, the Claw often achieved framerates that were 10 to 15 percent higher than those recorded on the Ally X.

For instance, when utilizing its 30-watt preset, in Cyberpunk 2077 at 800p with medium settings, the Claw reached 75 fps while the ROG Ally X registered 65 fps under the same thermal design power. Additionally, in Returnal at 800p on medium, the Claw also outperformed the Legion Go, boasting 56 fps in comparison to Lenovo’s 46 fps. It’s noteworthy that MSI’s midrange power setting on the Claw (which I used to obtain those results in Returnal) is 17 watts, compared to the 15 watts common in most competitors, which may be an attempt by MSI to skew benchmarks favorably. However, even after considering this factor, the Claw still comes out ahead.

1 / 5

MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM review photo

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM lasted just over three hours on a charge while playing Elden Ring in our testing.

Another advantageous feature of the Claw is that for those who prefer not to constantly adjust settings, MSI provides an AI Engine mode that automatically modifies settings to enhance performance or battery longevity based on your requirements. This is a useful option for quickly tweaking power levels, although for optimal results, manual adjustments are recommended.

The MSI Center application, however, appears somewhat basic. It includes sections for launching games, conducting software updates, modifying RGB lighting, and more. You can even install game distribution platforms like Steam within the app. Nonetheless, it lacks aesthetic appeal and complexity. Yet, it encompasses all necessary functionalities, which is crucial since Windows 11 itself can often seem clumsy compared to more streamlined systems like Valve’s SteamOS.

Battery performance: Pleasantly impressive

The Claw 8 AI+ is equipped with an 80Whr battery, which is among the largest in this segment, allowing for prolonged use. During our testing, it lasted just over three hours on a single charge while playing Elden Ring at medium settings. This is commendable, especially compared to my recent experiences with the Lenovo Legion Go, which only managed two and a half hours at best during gameplay of a significantly less demanding title, Metal Slug Tactics.

Conclusion

Despite the initial failure, many companies might have chosen to walk away. While some problems with the original model were likely due to issues with Intel’s chipset and immature drivers rather than any failure on MSI’s part, with the Claw 8 AI+, MSI has returned to thoroughly redeem itself. It emerges not only as a capable gaming handheld but also boasts a solid design, impressive performance, and commendable battery life.

However, even though it delivers slightly lower framerates, the $800 ROG Ally X remains a better value overall (especially if you can catch it on sale), and its smaller display makes it a more convenient option for gamers on the move. Compared to larger alternatives, Lenovo’s Legion Go provides similar performance at an even more attractive price, starting at $700 (or less, especially with frequent discounts). Still, for those seeking exceptional performance in a handheld PC with a variety of high-end components, the Claw 8 AI+ presents a compelling case for being a premium choice amidst gaming handhelds.