MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Review: $1,800 Handheld Gaming PC
MSI's Claw 8 EX AI+ is a high-end gaming handheld priced at $1,800, making it the most expensive on the market. It features Intel's Arc G3 Extreme chip, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, an 8-inch 120Hz IPS touchscreen, and an 80Wh battery. Performance is strong, with Marvel's Spider-Man Remastered hitting 90-120fps at 1920x1200, but battery life under heavy gaming is only about 90 minutes. The device runs Windows 11 with Xbox Mode, but suffers from constant updates and buggy MSI Claw Center software. An MSI spokesperson cited component and production costs for the high price.
Key facts
- MSRP is $1,800, more expensive than ROG Xbox Ally X ($1,000) and Lenovo Legion Go 2 ($1,350 launch).
- Powered by Intel Arc G3 Extreme chip (Panther Lake architecture).
- 32GB LPDDR5x RAM, 1TB SSD, 8-inch 1920x1200 IPS 120Hz VRR touchscreen.
- 80Wh battery; heavy gaming drains in ~90 minutes, lighter games up to 8+ hours.
- Performance: 90-120fps in Spider-Man Remastered at High settings with XeSS.
- Runs Windows 11 with Xbox Mode; includes Claw Center M overlay (buggy).
- Ports: two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, microSD, 3.5mm audio jack.
- Weighs 785g; features Hall effect analog sticks and advanced haptics.
Entities
Institutions
- MSI
- Intel
- ROG Xbox
- Lenovo
- Microsoft
- Steam
- OWC