MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ review – superlative playing power with familiar Windows handheld caveats
The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is a high-end handheld gaming PC whose Intel Arc G3 Extreme chip makes it a major step up in game performance. In some games it is more than twice as fast as the Steam Deck OLED, and it can run demanding titles at higher visual settings than competing handhelds.
It costs £1,399 and pairs the chip with 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD and a 120Hz, 1920×1200 screen. The 785g device is large, though its rounded grips improve comfort; its cooling is relatively quiet, and battery life varies by game, from 3 hours 37 minutes in Portal 2 to 2 hours 29 minutes in Elden Ring. The review says it retains familiar Windows handheld drawbacks, but the supplied article text ends before explaining them in detail.
- Strongest gaming performance in its class.
- Costs £1,399 and weighs 785g.
- Battery life depends heavily on the game.