MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Review: Hardware vs Windows
KitGuru published a review of the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, a Windows-based gaming handheld priced at £1,400. The device features the new Intel Arc G3 Extreme APU and an 80Wh battery, delivering strong performance in titles like Cyberpunk 2077, but the review highlights significant software issues with Windows 11 that hinder the overall user experience.
The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is built around the Intel Arc G3 Extreme APU, which combines 14 CPU cores (2 Performance, 8 Efficient, and 4 Low Power Efficient) with the Intel B390 GPU. The system includes 32 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, a 1 TB NVMe SSD, and an 8-inch IPS display with a 1920×1200 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. Connectivity is handled by Intel Wi-Fi 7 (BE213) and Bluetooth v6, while the 80Wh battery supports 65W USB-C charging via dual Type-C ports. The controls feature Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers, a design choice intended to prevent stick drift.
Performance and Battery Life
In testing, the hardware demonstrated capable gaming performance. The reviewer noted that the APU intelligently balances power between the CPU and GPU, allowing Cyberpunk 2077 to run at 80fps on the High preset using Performance XeSS upscaling. The 80Wh battery provided over two hours of heavy AAA gaming at maximum TDP or more than six hours on lighter titles. Notably, the device maintained full gaming performance even when the battery charge dropped to 10%.
Software and Usability Challenges
Despite the strong hardware, the review identifies Windows 11 as a major drawback. The device reportedly woke from sleep randomly, including while in a backpack, and reboots were often delayed by aggressive background updates. The combination of Xbox, MSI Command Center, and standard Windows overlays created a convoluted user interface. The reviewer also noted that the 1920×1200 IPS screen lacks sufficient brightness for outdoor use and that the bulky design with protruding analog sticks makes it difficult to pack. Additionally, the handles became noticeably warm during long sessions.
Linux Alternative and Verdict
To address the software issues, the reviewer tested CachyOS Handheld Edition. While this Linux distribution resolved the sleep and standby battery drain problems, the drivers for the Intel Arc G3 Extreme platform are currently too immature to match the gaming performance of Windows 11. Consequently, users remain dependent on the problematic Windows environment. The review concludes with a rating of 7.5/10, acknowledging the top-tier handheld performance and features like crisp speakers and reliable controls, but criticizing the poor software experience and the high £1,400 price tag.
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