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MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM Review: Is This the Handheld Gaming PC We've Been Waiting For?

2/15/2025

MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM Review: The Handheld That Dares to Dream Big

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You Know What? This Isn't Your Average Handheld

When you think about handheld gaming PCs, you might picture something sleek, compact, and maybe a bit cramped. But the MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM? It takes that idea and throws it out the window. This beast of a device, with its 8-inch screen, feels like MSI decided to say, "Hey, let's make a gaming handheld that feels like a real PC." And honestly, they might have just done that.

MSI Claw Sale on Amazon

First Impressions: It's Big, It's Bold

Right off the bat, the Claw 8 AI+ makes a statement with its size. It's not exactly pocket-friendly, but who's putting a gaming PC in their pocket anyway? The design screams premium with a two-tone finish that somehow makes black and silver look fresh. But here's the thing: this isn't just about looks. The ergonomics here are on point, making long gaming sessions feel less like a chore and more like lounging with a good book-or game.

  • Display: An 8-inch, 1920 x 1200 FHD+ touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It's like having a mini desktop screen in your hands.

  • Weight: At 1.75 pounds, it's heavier than your typical handheld, but that's what you get for packing in such power.

Performance That Packs a Punch

Under the Hood: Intel's Lunar Lake Chip

At the heart of the Claw 8 AI+ lies Intel's Core Ultra 7 258V from the Lunar Lake series. Now, Intel CPUs in handhelds have had a mixed bag of performance in the past, but this one seems different. It's not just about raw power; it's about efficiency. This chip manages to balance gaming performance with battery life in a way that's frankly surprising.

  • Gaming: Titles like "Horizon Zero Dawn" run surprisingly well, though with some quirks (I'll get into that).

  • Battery Life: MSI claims over 4 hours of gaming, which, let's be real, is optimistic but not entirely out of reach with some power-saving tweaks.

But Wait, There's More: The AI Touch

With the "AI+" in its name, you'd expect some AI magic, and MSI delivers. The Claw 8 uses Intel's XeSS (Xe Super Sampling) to upscale games, making them look sharper without a significant hit to performance. It's not perfect, but it's a step in the right direction for handheld gaming.

The Quirks and Perks

Here's where it gets interesting. While the Claw 8 can outperform some competitors in benchmarks, actual gameplay can be a bit of a rollercoaster. For instance, in "Horizon Zero Dawn," you'll see frame rates that are all over the place when you engage certain upscaling features. However, turn them off, and you're in for a smoother ride.

  • Cooling: MSI's HyperFlow tech does a decent job, but you'll feel the heat after an hour or two.

  • Controls: The Hall effect thumbsticks are a joy, although the buttons could feel a tad more premium.

A Gamer's Life with the Claw 8

Portable Powerhouse or Stationary Beast?

The Claw 8 is an odd duck. On one hand, it's designed for portability, but with its size and weight, you're not exactly going to slip this into your back pocket for a quick gaming session on the bus. Yet, for those who prefer gaming at home on the couch or at a desk, this device shines. It's like having a mini gaming rig that you can move around your house.

The Social Aspect: Or Lack Thereof?

I've caught myself becoming an "MMO hermit," as one humorous review on X put it. The Claw 8 is so engrossing that you might find yourself ignoring family gatherings or social outings. It's both a blessing and a curse. The screen is just so good, and the performance, for the most part, so compelling, that you might forget there's a world outside your game.

Should You Pull the Trigger?

The Price Tag: Is It Worth It?

Priced at $899, the Claw 8 AI+ isn't cheap. But here's the deal: if you're looking for a device that brings desktop-class gaming to your couch, and you're okay with a bit of heft, this might be your jam.

  • Pros: Stunning display, robust performance, and that AI upscaling.

  • Cons: Size might deter some, occasional performance hiccups, and it's not the epitome of portability.

Who's This For?

This isn't your entry-level gaming handheld. It's for the PC gamer who's tired of the usual suspects and wants something that feels like they've upgraded, not just shifted platforms. If you're into MMOs, strategy games, or anything where screen real estate matters, the Claw 8 could be your dream machine.

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Wrapping It Up: A New Kind of Beast

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM is a bold step forward, or sideways, depending on how you view its size. It's a device that asks you to reconsider what a handheld gaming PC should be. It's not perfect, but it's pushing boundaries in ways that are hard to ignore. If you're willing to embrace its quirks and handle its heft, you might just find yourself with one of the most unique gaming experiences out there.

So, are you ready to give your gaming life a new twist with the Claw 8? Or is this just too much of a claw to handle? Let me know what you think, or perhaps, what you're hoping to see in the next generation of gaming handhelds.