MSI Claw 8 AI+

Matthew Buzzi from PCMag highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a notable improvement over its predecessor, with a larger, sharper 8-inch screen, longer battery life, and upgraded Intel Core Ultra 7 processor. The review conveys a measured but generally positive tone, appreciating the device’s solid build, responsive software improvements, and respectable battery endurance for everyday use. However, Buzzi points out significant drawbacks, including awkward ergonomics, limited gaming performance that struggles to hit smooth frame rates on demanding titles, and a price point that encroaches on budget gaming laptop territory. While the Claw 8 AI+ can handle many games at reduced settings and offers useful features like Thunderbolt 4 ports and easier SSD upgrades, it falls short compared to competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and Steam Deck, which deliver better value and comfort. Overall, the review suggests the Claw 8 AI+ is a capable but imperfect handheld for those prioritizing form factor over raw power or price.

Notebookcheck highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a significant upgrade over its predecessor, driven by the efficient Intel Lunar Lake processor, a larger 8-inch 120-Hz IPS display, and an impressive 80-Wh battery that delivers exceptional runtimes. The review praises the handheld’s solid build quality, comfortable ergonomics, and improved gaming performance, which outpaces competitors like the ROG Ally X in many benchmarks. Unique insights include detailed analysis of the device’s fluctuating fan speeds under load, nuanced display calibration challenges, and the somewhat awkward AI energy profile that limits performance unless manually adjusted. While the software is generally functional, it lags behind rivals in features and responsiveness. The review also notes minor drawbacks such as slightly slower screen response times and the absence of a webcam. Overall, Notebookcheck regards the Claw 8 AI+ as a premium, well-rounded gaming handheld that justifies its $899.99 price with strong performance and thoughtful design improvements, though it still leaves room for refinement in software and thermal management.

Rebecca Spear from Windows Central highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a standout Windows gaming handheld, delivering exceptional performance powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V and Intel Arc 140V graphics. She praises its smooth gameplay, high frame rates, and robust hardware specs, which outperform competitors like the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. The 8-inch IPS display with 120Hz VRR offers good color accuracy and motion clarity, though it’s not quite OLED-level bright. The device’s ergonomic design and responsive Hall Effect joysticks enhance the gaming experience, complemented by solid speakers and mic quality. However, Spear notes some drawbacks: the back casing’s uncomfortable texture, limited software customization (notably no VRAM adjustment), and frustratingly poor availability months after launch. Battery life is typical for the category, lasting about two hours under heavy use. Overall, while pricey and with some usability quirks, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is a powerful, well-rounded handheld for gamers prioritizing performance over customization or value.

Andy Edser from PC Gamer highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a substantial and powerful handheld gaming PC that significantly improves on its predecessor. Praising its robust build, vibrant 8-inch 1200p display, and impressive Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip with Arc 140V graphics, Edser emphasizes the device’s strong real-world gaming performance, often rivaling or surpassing pricier competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and OneXPlayer OneXFly F1 Pro. Battery life is another standout, matching the best in class despite the Claw’s larger chassis. However, Edser notes some quirks, including occasional driver-related performance oddities and a less refined control feel compared to rivals. The bulky size limits portability, and MSI’s M-Center software can be inconsistent. Ultimately, Edser views the Claw 8 AI+ as a heavyweight contender offering excellent value for $900, ideal for gamers prioritizing raw power and screen size over compactness and premium finish. It’s a compelling alternative but not quite the overall best handheld.

Sam Rutherford from Engadget highlights MSI’s Claw 8 AI+ as a strong redemption for the company’s earlier gaming handheld missteps. The review conveys a cautiously enthusiastic tone, praising the device’s significant improvements in performance, battery life, and design. Notably, the Claw 8 AI+ delivers impressive frame rates that often surpass competitors like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip and 32GB RAM. The 8-inch 120Hz IPS display, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, built-in fingerprint sensor, and above-average battery life further enhance its appeal. However, the review also points out some drawbacks, such as the lack of an onboard touchpad, a somewhat barebones MSI Center app, and a higher price compared to rivals. While the Claw 8 AI+ may not be the best value, it stands out as a premium, high-performance handheld for gamers seeking a powerful portable PC with thoughtful features and solid ergonomics.

Sean Hollister from The Verge highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus as a remarkable turnaround from its troubled predecessor, praising its significant performance improvements and excellent battery life. He enthusiastically notes that the handheld often outperforms competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and Steam Deck in both smooth gameplay and power efficiency, especially with its vibrant 8-inch 120Hz VRR screen. However, Hollister tempers his praise with candid critiques: the AI performance tuning is ineffective, Windows 11 remains a cumbersome OS for handheld gaming, and some hardware elements like rumble feedback and joystick tuning feel underwhelming. He also points out quirks such as sluggish system utilities and the need for manual driver updates. Despite these flaws and the steep $1,000 price, the Claw 8’s blend of power, battery endurance, and display quality make it a compelling choice—though its reign may be short-lived with the upcoming Xbox Ally’s release. This review offers a nuanced, detailed perspective grounded in real-world gaming tests and comparative benchmarks.

Jess Bone from Trusted Reviews highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a significant improvement over its predecessor, showcasing strong performance powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU and Intel Arc 140V GPU. The handheld impresses with its bright 8-inch FHD+ 120Hz display, refined ergonomic design, and excellent battery life, making it one of the most powerful portable gaming devices tested. However, the review balances praise with notable criticisms: the device’s hefty weight and large size reduce portability, and the high price point of £899/$900 challenges its value proposition against competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X. Software glitches and occasional performance inconsistencies in demanding games also temper enthusiasm. Unique insights include thoughtful design touches such as tactile controls, improved ventilation, and raised port markers for ease of use in low light. Overall, the Claw 8 AI+ is a sleek, capable handheld that marks MSI’s serious entry into the market, though its premium cost and some software quirks may limit its appeal.

Isaiah Williams from TechRadar highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as the most powerful mainstream handheld gaming PC currently available, praising its immersive 1920x1200 display, Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, and efficient thermal design that balances performance with battery life. He notes significant improvements from software updates that enhance frame pacing and low frame rates, allowing high graphics settings without heavy upscaling compromises common in other devices. However, Williams tempers enthusiasm by comparing it to the Asus ROG Ally, which offers excellent performance at a lower price and benefits from superior SteamOS compatibility—something the Claw 8 AI+ lacks due to its Windows 11 environment and ongoing driver issues affecting some games. He also questions the Claw’s premium pricing, suggesting it’s only justified if prices drop or if better OS support arrives. Overall, while impressed by the Claw’s power and design, Williams remains cautious, favoring the ROG Ally for value and software experience.

Kyle Barr from Gizmodo highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a notable redemption for MSI’s handheld lineup, addressing many shortcomings of its predecessor. Praising its solid gaming performance powered by the new Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip, the Claw 8 delivers higher frame rates than many competitors, especially in demanding titles, while boasting an impressive 8-inch bright IPS LCD with 120 Hz VRR and surprisingly loud dual speakers. The 80 Whr battery offers respectable endurance for extended play sessions. However, Barr points out significant drawbacks: the device’s hefty weight and large size may challenge portability and comfort, especially for smaller hands, and the revamped Center M software remains glitchy, occasionally reverting controls and requiring restarts. While the Claw 8 AI+ justifies its $900 price with performance and features, Barr suggests it’s best suited for gamers prioritizing a large screen and power over ergonomics and portability. The review balances enthusiasm for the hardware’s potential with measured caution about its current software and design trade-offs.

Zak Killian from HotHardware highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a thoughtfully engineered second-generation gaming handheld that leverages Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V processors to deliver notably improved performance over its predecessor. He praises the device’s large, native landscape 120Hz IPS display with excellent motion clarity and VRR support, which stands out despite lacking OLED or HDR features. The review appreciates MSI’s inclusion of premium specs like dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, a large 1TB SSD, and a robust 80-Whr battery, contributing to strong connectivity and battery life. However, Killian also points out some design quirks, such as the unusual beige handgrips, the lack of a built-in kickstand, and the relatively heavy weight (around 790g), which may limit comfort during extended play sessions. The controls receive mixed feedback, with a solid D-pad that suits retro games but may require adjustment for rapid inputs. Overall, the review conveys a balanced, moderately positive tone, emphasizing the Claw 8 AI+ as a premium, capable handheld with thoughtful innovations but some ergonomic trade-offs.

Anthony Spadafora from Tom’s Guide highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a standout in the crowded handheld gaming PC market, particularly praising its unique two-tone design and larger 8-inch, 120 Hz display that enhances the gaming experience. He appreciates the upgraded specs, including the Lunar Lake chip and 32GB of RAM, which contribute to snappy performance. However, Spadafora candidly notes that the device’s size feels too large for smaller hands, making the slightly smaller Claw 7 AI+ more comfortable despite its fewer features. He also expresses a desire for greater customization options and more vibrant color choices across handheld PCs, suggesting that MSI’s bold design is a refreshing departure from the typical black or white consoles. While enthusiastic about the Claw 8 AI+’s aesthetics and power, he remains cautious about Windows-based handhelds overall, hoping future software improvements and alternative OS options like SteamOS might elevate the category further.

Jacob Roach from Digital Trends highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a promising but cautious step forward for MSI’s handheld gaming PCs. While initially skeptical due to the original MSI Claw’s poor performance and value, Roach was impressed by the Claw 8 AI+’s ability to run demanding games like Black Myth: Wukong in a truly portable form factor, creating an immersive experience despite some graphical compromises and frame rate inconsistencies. He notes the device’s strong hardware specs, including Intel’s Lunar Lake chip, 32GB LPDDR5x memory, and advanced features like Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7, which on paper outclass competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X. However, Roach remains guarded, emphasizing MSI’s history of overpromising and the lack of early reviews at launch, urging potential buyers to wait for independent testing before committing. Overall, the review conveys cautious optimism tempered by realism and a call for patience.

Jon Fisher from Lifewire highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a powerful and premium-feeling handheld gaming PC that impressed him despite being a newcomer to dedicated gaming devices. He praises its large, bright 8-inch screen, comfortable grip, solid build, and surprisingly good audio, noting the smooth 120Hz touchscreen and effective cooling system. The MSI Center software and extensive customization options stand out as key strengths, enhancing usability and convenience. However, Fisher points out some drawbacks, including a lengthy initial setup, faster-than-expected battery drain, occasional button lag, and some game crashes. He also notes the device’s heft and complexity might overwhelm beginners. Priced around $1,000, the Claw 8 AI+ is positioned as a premium, versatile Windows 11 machine that blends gaming and PC functionality. Despite minor hiccups, Fisher’s overall tone is positive and measured, seeing it as a smart choice for serious mobile gamers seeking power and flexibility in a portable form.

Joe Rice-Jones from XDA Developers highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a standout in the growing PC gaming handheld market, praising its powerful Intel Lunar Lake processor that delivers exceptional gaming performance, often doubling frame rates compared to AMD-based competitors like the Steam Deck OLED. The review enthusiastically notes the large, bright 1200p screen, solid battery life, and responsive controls, emphasizing the device’s ability to handle demanding titles at native resolution without compromising settings. While the design and ergonomics receive mostly positive remarks, some minor criticisms include the device’s size being less suited for smaller hands, a glossy screen prone to reflections, and the MSI Center M software occasionally glitching. The reviewer acknowledges Windows 11’s inherent limitations on handhelds but considers the Claw 8 AI+ the best Windows-based gaming handheld tested so far. Despite its premium price and some rough edges, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is recommended for gamers seeking top-tier performance in a portable form factor.

James Archer from Rock Paper Shotgun highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a powerful and practical handheld PC that significantly improves on its short-lived predecessor. Praising its Intel-based CPU and Arc 140V GPU, Archer emphasizes the device’s strong gaming performance, often surpassing the Steam Deck and rival Windows handhelds, while maintaining impressive battery life. However, he tempers enthusiasm with critiques of its bulky size, high price, and a somewhat underwhelming IPS display that lacks OLED’s vibrancy and HDR support. The review also points out design shortcomings, such as cheap-feeling plastics, fiddly Windows 11 usability, and minor input bugs, which detract from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, Archer regards the Claw 8 AI+ as a solid, enthusiast-focused device that balances raw power and endurance, making it a noteworthy addition to the portable gaming market—though not without compromises in style and user-friendliness.

Phil Hayton from GamesRadar+ praises the MSI Claw 8 AI+ as a refined and powerful handheld gaming PC that marks a strong second effort from MSI. He highlights its impressive Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chipset paired with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and a vibrant 8-inch 1200p 120Hz display, delivering solid performance gains over Ryzen-based rivals like the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally. The review emphasizes the device’s thoughtful design, balancing a larger screen with ergonomic comfort, and notes premium features such as hall-effect joysticks and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. However, Hayton tempers enthusiasm with critiques of the pricey $900 tag and some control layout issues, particularly the awkward D-pad and button placement. He also points out Windows 11’s lack of handheld optimization as a persistent drawback. Overall, the Claw 8 AI+ is positioned as a compelling, high-spec option for gamers prioritizing native performance and visual fidelity, though it faces stiff competition and value challenges in a niche market.

Dayna Eileen from CGMagazine highlights the MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM as a striking and well-designed Windows handheld that excels with its large, vibrant 8-inch touchscreen and solid Intel-powered performance. Praising its premium build, excellent display quality, and comfortable ergonomics, she finds it particularly enjoyable for handheld use and appreciates its improved battery life and effective cooling system. However, she voices reservations about the device’s heavy marketing focus on “AI+” PC features, which feel unnecessary and contribute to a steep $899 price tag that rivals budget gaming laptops. Connectivity issues with peripherals and the lack of included accessories like a carrying case or screen protector also detract from the overall value. While the Claw 8 performs reliably both docked and handheld, Eileen suggests that its strengths lie in portability and design rather than the overhyped PC functionality. Overall, she regards it as a great handheld with some avoidable marketing fluff and a premium cost.