ZDNET's key takeaways The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is available through the company's online store and Amazon for $999.
It stands tall as a high-performing gaming handheld with a vibrant touchscreen and unique design.
However, its large size won't be for everyone, and there are a few software bugs. View now at MSI View now at Best Buy View now at B&H Photo and Video more buying choices
When it launched in 2017, the Nintendo Switch had a massive impact on the gaming industry. It showed the world that it was possible to bring AAA gaming to handheld devices, and since then, we've seen other companies follow suit with their own portable consoles. MSI was one of them, but it had a rocky start. The Claw A1M saw mixed reviews upon its release, with ZDNET's Taylor Clemons criticizing its battery life and graphics capabilities.
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The good news is that it seems MSI took the feedback seriously when developing its new model, the Claw 8 AI+. This handheld addresses many of the issues that plagued the previous generation, but it's not quite perfect. Let's take a look.
An updated (and unique) design
MSI made several interesting decisions when upgrading the console's design. It's similar in size to the Steam Deck, measuring 11.77 x 4.96 x 0.94 inches, but it's also heavier at 1.75 pounds. Because of this bulk, traveling with the handheld can be tricky, and users with small hands might find it difficult to hold. I, however, found the Claw 8 to be quite comfortable.
There is one area where MSI's handheld beats the Steam Deck hands-down: the display. It houses an eight-inch FHD+ (1,920 x 1,200 pixels) touchscreen running at a 120Hz refresh rate. Everything on this display looks great, and I enjoyed the smooth on-screen animations.
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