I’m not giving up my Steam Deck for MSI’s new Claw
MSI has launched the Claw 8 EX AI Plus, a new gaming handheld powered by Intel’s Arc G3 Extreme processor, priced at $1,799. The device positions itself as a potential upgrade for gamers primarily using the Steam Deck OLED.
In first impressions, the MSI Claw demonstrates superior in-game performance compared to Valve’s handheld. The Arc G3 Extreme chip delivers noticeably better frame rates and visual fidelity during gameplay. However, this hardware advantage comes with a significant caveat: the Windows operating system experience on a handheld device continues to present usability challenges that undermine the overall user experience.
The core tension for potential buyers is evident—while the Claw offers better gaming performance, Windows on a small screen introduces friction that makes the device less practical for casual handheld use compared to the Steam Deck’s streamlined SteamOS environment. At $1,799, buyers must weigh whether superior gaming performance justifies tolerating Windows-specific compromises.
The verdict from this initial assessment suggests the Claw appeals to performance-focused gamers willing to accept Windows-related trade-offs, but it does not represent a compelling across-the-board upgrade for existing Steam Deck owners seeking a familiar, optimized handheld experience.