The Verge published on Friday (14) a review of the MSI Claw EX, MSI's handheld console with Intel's new-generation chip, and classified the device as the most important in the category since the Steam Deck. Sean Hollister's assessment, however, concludes that the US$ 1,800 price and software problems still make it a questionable purchase.
Performance and battery life
The Claw EX is cited as the first Windows handheld to reliably resume games after suspension. In tests, the device performed about 40% better than the Xbox Ally X at 1080p resolution, with significant gains in titles like Forza Horizon 6 and Cyberpunk 2077.
The battery also stood out. In Cyberpunk 2077 at 720p, the Claw EX maintained an average 70 fps while consuming 21 watts, while rivals needed about 30 watts for the same result, which provided an extra hour of use. In Balatro, with 6.5 watts consumption, battery life reached 12 hours.
Problems and price
The review pointed out graphical flaws and performance drops in some games, attributed to Intel drivers. In Returnal, effects such as volumetric fog and rock explosions are not displayed. There were also occasional freezes and the need to restart the system to regain functionality.
The price is US$ 1,800, with limited stock expected in the US this month, according to MSI. The 8-inch screen is sharp, but very reflective; the controls were considered mediocre, the fan is noisy, and the sound of the speakers can vibrate in your hands.
Sean Hollister stated that the Claw EX is a milestone for handhelds, but that he would not buy the device at the current price.
