The MSI Claw: A Handheld Gaming PC That Falls Short

The MSI Claw, a handheld gaming PC, falls short of expectations with its low performance, iffy battery life, and subpar rumble. Find out why this device is a hard sell, even at its premium price point.
The MSI Claw: A Handheld Gaming PC That Falls Short

Embark on a Gaming Odyssey: The MSI Claw Review

The MSI Claw, touted as the first 7-inch Intel Core Ultra handheld gaming PC, has finally arrived. Unfortunately, it’s an embarrassment. Despite not being technically broken, the Claw falls short of the competition in almost every way. In this review, we’ll explore why the MSI Claw is a hard sell, even at its premium price point of $750.

A Lackluster Experience

The MSI Claw’s performance is inexcusably low, making it a poor choice for gamers. The battery life is iffy, and sleep and wake issues plague the device. To make matters worse, the rumble feature is subpar. It’s clear that the Claw is not a well-designed gaming PC.

The MSI Claw, a handheld gaming PC that falls short of expectations.

Comparison to the Competition

The Asus ROG Ally and Steam Deck OLED are far superior options, offering a better gaming experience at a lower price point. The Claw’s inferiority is evident in its lack of power and features. It’s hard to justify the extra cost when there are better alternatives available.

A Few Silver Linings

While the MSI Claw is a disappointment, it does have a few redeeming qualities. The virtual surround sound is a nice touch, and the grips are more comfortable than those on the ROG Ally or Legion Go. Additionally, the Claw is less buggy than its competitors at launch.

The MSI Claw’s comfortable grips are one of its few redeeming qualities.

Conclusion

The MSI Claw is a handheld gaming PC that fails to impress. With its low performance, iffy battery life, and subpar rumble, it’s hard to recommend. Even at its premium price point, there are better options available. Gamers would be better off choosing a Steam Deck OLED or Asus ROG Ally for a superior gaming experience.

The Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally are better alternatives to the MSI Claw.