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The impact of the Nintendo Switch on the gaming landscape
Since its launch in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the gaming industry, proving that AAA gaming could thrive on handheld devices. This innovation prompted other companies to venture into the realm of portable consoles, striving to replicate its success.
MSI is one such company that attempted to enter this competitive market. However, the initial reception of its Claw A1M model was lukewarm, with critics like Taylor Clemons from ZDNET highlighting its battery and graphics shortcomings.
Introducing the MSI Claw 8 AI+
In response to user feedback, MSI has revamped its approach with the new Claw 8 AI+. This handheld device aims to resolve the issues that hindered its predecessor, although it still has some room for improvement. Let’s explore what makes the Claw 8 AI+ a formidable choice for gamers.
Design and display features of the Claw 8 AI+
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is a strong contender in the handheld gaming market, offering a significant upgrade over previous models. It features a larger and higher-resolution touchscreen, equipped with the latest Intel hardware. Measuring 11.77 x 4.96 x 0.94 inches and weighing 1.75 pounds, it is comparable to the Steam Deck but slightly bulkier. While this extra weight may pose challenges for portability, many users may find it comfortable to hold during gaming sessions.
One of the standout aspects of the Claw 8 AI+ is its impressive display. The device boasts an eight-inch FHD+ touchscreen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz. This high-quality display ensures vibrant visuals and smooth animations, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Unique design elements and cooling system
Breaking away from the traditional all-black aesthetic common in gaming consoles, the Claw 8 AI+ features a striking two-tone design with a ‘Sandstone’ finish on the faceplate. While this design choice sets it apart from competitors, some users may find the ‘metallic beige’ color clashes with its RGB lighting.
MSI has also implemented an advanced ‘Cooler Boost HyperFlow’ cooling system to maintain optimal internal temperatures. This system directs cool air to critical components while expelling warm air through top vents, ensuring the device remains efficient during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the hall-effect analog sticks provide accurate control and minimize the risk of stick drift, enhancing user experience.
Performance analysis of the MSI Claw 8 AI+
Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258B processor, an integrated Intel Arc 140 V graphics card, and 32GB of RAM, the Claw 8 AI+ performs admirably across a spectrum of gaming titles. During testing, I played a variety of old and new games with minimal frame rate drops or stuttering. However, I did encounter some performance issues with ‘Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth,’ which is known for its current lack of optimization across various platforms.
Despite this isolated incident, the Claw 8 AI+ delivers reliable performance, making it a viable option for most gamers seeking a handheld experience.
Versatile connectivity options
Equipped with two USB-C ports, the Claw 8 AI+ allows users to connect the device to external monitors, transforming it into a more versatile gaming platform. This feature enables a laptop-like experience, where I successfully managed multiple applications and 40 browser tabs without significant slowdowns. However, it is essential to note that without a dedicated GPU, the Claw 8 AI+ may struggle to match the performance of a standard gaming PC.
Battery life and usability concerns
One of the standout features of the Claw 8 AI+ is its impressive battery life. MSI claims it can deliver four hours of gaming on a single charge, and I found that my test unit exceeded expectations by lasting 4.5 hours. In continuous video playback tests, it performed exceptionally well, running for nearly 13 hours before requiring a recharge—one of the best runtimes observed in handheld devices.
Nonetheless, users may encounter some usability challenges with Windows 11, as the operating system appears less suited for a handheld format. During testing, I experienced occasional bugs, including a disabling of in-game controls after a software update. Thankfully, a quick reboot resolved the issue, and I hope that future updates will further optimize the experience for handheld use.
Pricing and availability
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is currently available for preorder, having launched amid high demand that temporarily paused further sales. Priced at $999, it positions itself above the OLED Steam Deck but justifies its cost with impressive performance, long battery life, and a vibrant eight-inch display.