MSI Claw Gaming Handheld: A Deep Dive into Features, Performance, and Value for Gamers

The gaming handheld market in India is heating up, and the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld is one of the latest contenders vying for the attention of gamers. Powered by Intel’s Core Ultra processors, this Windows-based handheld promises a blend of portability, power, and premium build quality. But how does it stack up against competitors like the ASUS ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and Steam Deck? Is it worth your hard-earned money? In this detailed review, we’ll explore the MSI Claw’s features, performance, pricing in India, and how it compares to other gaming handhelds in 2025.

Introduction to the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld

The MSI Claw is a sleek, Windows 11-powered gaming handheld designed to deliver a console-like experience with the flexibility of a PC. Launched in March 2024, it initially faced criticism for performance issues compared to AMD-powered rivals like the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. However, recent software updates and price corrections have made it a more compelling option for Indian gamers. Available in three variants—Core Ultra 5 (16GB/512GB), Core Ultra 7 (16GB/512GB), and Core Ultra 7 (16GB/1TB)—the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld is now priced competitively, with the Core Ultra 7 16GB/512GB model at ₹61,990 offering the best value for money.

Unboxing the MSI Claw: What’s in the Box?

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld comes in a premium retail package that reflects its gaming pedigree. Inside the box, you’ll find:

The MSI Claw device
A 65W USB-C charger with a power cord
User manuals and documentation
Optional accessories like a high-quality cushioned carrying case (sold separately)

The case is particularly noteworthy, featuring full padding and an extra pocket to protect the device during travel. The retail unit feels solid, with no compromises in build quality compared to the testing units used in early reviews.

Design and Build Quality: A Gamer’s Dream

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld sports a polycarbonate body with a premium finish, complete with an MSI logo on the back and red accents in the cooling mesh for that classic gaming aesthetic. Weighing 670g, it’s slightly heavier than the ASUS ROG Ally (615g) but feels comfortable during extended gaming sessions thanks to its ergonomic grips. MSI’s “Claw” branding is fitting, as the device offers one of the best in-hand feels among handhelds, rivaling even the ROG Ally and Steam Deck.

Key design highlights include:

Hall Effect joysticks and triggers: These ensure no stick drift and provide precise control, a big plus for serious gamers.
RGB lighting: Customizable via MSI’s Dragon Center software, though some users have reported glitches in the Mystic Light settings.
Ports and buttons: A single USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port (supporting 4K 144Hz display output and 65W charging), a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm headphone jack, volume buttons, and a power button with a built-in fingerprint scanner for quick logins.
Speakers: Dual 2W top-firing speakers tuned by Nahimic deliver clear audio with decent bass, outperforming the Lenovo Legion Go but slightly trailing the ROG Ally.

One downside is the single USB-C port, which can be limiting for simultaneous charging and accessory use. A docking station (sold separately) adds ports like HDMI 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 1, and an RJ45 LAN, but it requires a 100W charger for optimal performance, which isn’t included in the box.

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Display: Good, but Not Perfect

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld features a 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate (VRR) support, making it ideal for smooth gaming. The 16:10 panel supports 10-point multi-touch, allowing you to use it as a tablet for casual tasks. With 97% sRGB coverage and 400 nits of brightness, the display delivers vibrant colors and is suitable for indoor use, though its glossy finish may cause reflections outdoors.

However, the thick bezels are a noticeable drawback, especially when compared to the sleeker Lenovo Legion Go. While the display is on par with the ROG Ally’s, it doesn’t match the OLED brilliance of the Steam Deck OLED. Still, for gaming and multimedia, the MSI Claw’s screen gets the job done without major complaints.

Performance: Intel Core Ultra 7 vs. AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme

The MSI Claw is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, a 16-core (6P, 8E, 2LPE) processor with 22 threads and Intel Arc graphics. It’s paired with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM (6400 MT/s) and up to 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD (though read/write speeds are closer to Gen 3). The inclusion of an NPU (11 TOPS) for AI tasks is a nice touch, but it’s not particularly useful for gaming.

Benchmark Performance

Here’s how the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld performs in key benchmarks:

Cinebench R23: Competitive multi-core scores, slightly trailing the ROG Ally X but comparable to the Lenovo Legion Go’s AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme.
Geekbench 6: Scores around 10,209 (multi-core) and 30000+ in OpenCL (GPU), indicating strong gaming potential.
3DMark Time Spy: Scores above 3000, suitable for casual VR gaming at low settings but not for intensive VR titles.
PCMark 10 and Crossmark: Solid scores for productivity tasks like browsing, coding, and light editing.

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld operates in multiple modes via the MSI Center M software: Extreme Performance, Balanced, AI Engine, and Super Battery. Extreme Performance delivers the best gaming results, drawing up to 38W (average 32-33W) with thermals reaching 89°C but staying manageable thanks to the CoolerBoost HyperFlow cooling system.

Gaming Performance

The MSI Claw’s gaming performance has improved significantly with driver updates, making it a viable competitor to the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme-powered ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. Here’s how it fares in popular titles at 1080p:

Valorant (CPU-intensive): ~200 FPS on high settings, ideal for esports but better with an external display and keyboard/mouse.
Counter-Strike 2: 50-60 FPS on high settings, playable with higher FPS on low settings.
GTA V: 50-60 FPS on normal settings, offering a smooth experience.
Elden Ring: 40-45 FPS on low settings, decent for a handheld.
Red Dead Redemption 2: 35-40 FPS with FSR quality, playable but not ideal on higher settings.
Hogwarts Legacy: 30-35 FPS on lowest settings with XeSS, slightly better than the ROG Ally in some scenarios.
Cyberpunk 2077: 25-30 FPS on low settings with XeSS, comparable to the ROG Ally but not ideal for high settings.
Ghost of Tsushima: 35-40 FPS on very low settings with XeSS, offering a playable experience.
Black Myth: Wukong: Playable FPS on lowest settings with XeSS, better than expected for a demanding title.
Alan Wake 2 and Horizon Forbidden West: Not playable at 1080p without significant compromises, though 720p yields better results.

The MSI Claw’s Intel Arc graphics with XeSS upscaling often outperforms AMD’s FSR in certain games, but performance varies. For AAA titles, sticking to 720p or low settings ensures playable frame rates, which is standard for handhelds.

MSI Claw vs. ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme)

In side-by-side tests, the Core Ultra 7 155H and Ryzen Z1 Extreme deliver similar performance, with the ROG Ally slightly ahead in GPU-intensive games like Ghost of Tsushima (5-10 FPS higher). However, the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld excels in titles like Hogwarts Legacy, where it experiences fewer frame drops. Both devices draw around 30-35W in performance modes, making them neck-and-neck in most scenarios.

Battery Life: Decent, but Not a Game-Changer

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld houses a 53Whr battery, larger than the ROG Ally’s 40Whr and slightly bigger than the Lenovo Legion Go’s 49Whr. However, battery life depends heavily on usage:

Gaming (Performance/Balanced Mode, 30W): ~1 hour 15 minutes for demanding titles like Black Myth: Wukong.
Gaming (Super Battery Mode, 20W): ~1 hour 43 minutes, suitable for lighter games or emulators.
Multimedia (Battery Saver, 100% brightness): Up to 6 hours for streaming or video playback, making it a solid travel companion.
Idle (Sleep Mode): ~2% battery drop over 18-19 hours, thanks to the power-efficient Core Ultra 7.

Charging takes 1 hour 45 minutes with the included 65W charger, which is slower than the 100W fast charging supported by the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go. For extended sessions, a 100W charger is recommended, especially when using the docking station.

Software: MSI Center M and Windows 11

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld runs Windows 11, offering the flexibility to run any PC application, from gaming platforms like Steam and Epic Games to productivity tools like Photoshop (5400 score in PugetBench). The MSI Center M software provides a customizable overlay for tweaking performance modes, resolution, refresh rate, and RGB lighting. However, it’s less polished than ASUS’s Armory Crate SE and occasionally lags. Windows 11’s touch interface can also be clunky on a 7-inch screen, unlike the Steam Deck’s optimized SteamOS.

Connectivity and Expandability

The MSI Claw supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast, reliable connections. The microSD card slot allows storage expansion (tested with a 1TB card), and unlike some ROG Ally units, there are no reported issues with SD card damage. The Thunderbolt 4 port enables high-speed data transfer and display output, but the lack of a second USB-C port is a minor inconvenience.

MSI Claw vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?

MSI Claw vs. ASUS ROG Ally

Price: ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme, 16GB/512GB) is cheaper at ₹40,000 vs. MSI Claw’s ₹61,990 (Core Ultra 7, 16GB/512GB).
Performance: Near-identical in most games, with the ROG Ally slightly better in GPU-intensive titles and the MSI Claw excelling in stability for some games.
Build: MSI Claw feels more premium with better grips and Hall Effect joysticks, but the ROG Ally is lighter.
Battery: MSI Claw’s 53Whr battery lasts slightly longer than the ROG Ally’s 40Whr.
Value: The ROG Ally is more budget-friendly, especially with frequent discounts.

MSI Claw vs. Lenovo Legion Go

Price: Both are priced at ₹70,000 for top-tier models.
Display: Lenovo Legion Go’s 8.8-inch QHD+ 144Hz screen is superior to the MSI Claw’s 7-inch FHD.
Design: Legion Go’s detachable controllers and larger screen make it a multimedia powerhouse, but its ergonomics and speakers lag behind the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld.
Performance: Both use powerful processors (Z1 Extreme vs. Core Ultra 7), with similar gaming performance.
Battery: MSI Claw’s 53Whr battery slightly outperforms the Legion Go’s 49Whr.

MSI Claw vs. Steam Deck OLED

Price: Steam Deck OLED (1TB) is cheaper at ₹50,000.
OS: Steam Deck’s SteamOS is more user-friendly for gaming than Windows 11.
Performance: The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld and ROG Ally outperform the Steam Deck in modern AAA titles due to stronger processors.
Display: Steam Deck’s OLED panel is unmatched for color and contrast.

Pricing in India: Is It Worth It?

As of July 2025, the MSI Claw’s pricing in India is:

Core Ultra 5 (16GB/512GB): ~₹50,000–₹55,000
Core Ultra 7 (16GB/512GB): ₹61,990 (best value)
Core Ultra 7 (16GB/1TB): ₹70,000

While the Core Ultra 7 16GB/512GB model offers great value, the ROG Ally’s lower price and similar performance make it a strong alternative for budget-conscious buyers. The Lenovo Legion Go, at a similar price point, appeals to those prioritizing a larger screen and multimedia versatility.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Premium build quality with ergonomic grips
Hall Effect joysticks for precise, drift-free control
Decent gaming performance with Intel Arc graphics and XeSS
Larger 53Whr battery compared to ROG Ally
Thunderbolt 4 port for versatile connectivity
Good speakers tuned by Nahimic

Cons

Thick display bezels
Single USB-C port limits multitasking
Slower 65W charging
MSI Center M software needs refinement
Higher price than ROG Ally for similar performance

Should You Buy the MSI Claw in India?

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld is a solid gaming handheld for Indian gamers who want a premium build, reliable controls, and the flexibility of Windows 11. Its performance is now on par with the ASUS ROG Ally, thanks to driver updates, and its battery life is a slight improvement. However, the ROG Ally offers better value at a lower price, while the Lenovo Legion Go is ideal for multimedia enthusiasts. The Steam Deck OLED remains the best budget option for pure gaming.

If you value build quality, Hall Effect joysticks, and don’t mind spending extra for a slightly better battery, the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld (Core Ultra 7, 16GB/512GB) at ₹61,990 is a great choice. For casual gamers or those on a tighter budget, the ROG Ally or Steam Deck OLED might be more practical.

Conclusion

The MSI Claw has overcome its early hiccups to become a worthy contender in India’s gaming handheld market. While it doesn’t outshine the competition in every aspect, its ergonomic design, improved performance, and decent battery life make it a compelling option for 2025. Whether you’re diving into Valorant, exploring Elden Ring, or using it as a portable PC, the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld delivers a versatile gaming experience.

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MSI Claw Windows Gaming Handheld FAQ

What is the MSI Claw Windows Gaming Handheld?

The MSI Claw is a portable gaming device that runs on Windows. It lets you play PC games on the go, like a mini gaming laptop. It has a touchscreen, powerful processors (Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7), and a sleek design for gamers who want to play anywhere.

How does the MSI Claw compare to the ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme?

The MSI Claw and ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are both great handheld gaming devices. The MSI Claw uses Intel Core Ultra processors, while the ROG Ally uses AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme. The Claw has a slightly better cooling system, but the ROG Ally often performs better in heavy AAA games due to its optimized GPU. For productivity tasks like video editing, the Claw’s Intel chip may have a slight edge. Both are priced similarly, around 40k-44k INR during sales, so your choice depends on whether you prioritize gaming (ROG Ally) or versatility (MSI Claw).

Is the MSI Claw good for gaming and streaming?

Yes, the MSI Claw can handle gaming and streaming with its 16GB RAM and Intel Core Ultra processors. However, for smooth streaming, you may need to lower game settings to balance performance. It’s not as powerful as a gaming laptop but works well for casual streaming and gaming on the go.

Can the MSI Claw run heavy AAA games?

The MSI Claw can run AAA games like Ghost of Tsushima or Cyberpunk 2077, but you may need to use medium or low settings for smooth gameplay. Some games may not support Intel’s XeSS technology yet, which can limit performance compared to devices like the ROG Ally. For best results, play at 720p or 800p resolution.

What is the battery life of the MSI Claw?

The MSI Claw’s battery lasts about 1-2 hours for heavy AAA games and up to 3-4 hours for lighter games or tasks. Playing while charging can improve performance but is safe as long as you use the provided charger and avoid overheating.

Is the MSI Claw worth buying at 40k-50k INR?

At 40k-50k INR, the MSI Claw offers good value, especially the Core Ultra 7 version with 1TB storage. It’s a solid choice for portable gaming, but the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme at a similar price might offer better gaming performance. If you want a device for both gaming and light productivity, the Claw is a great pick.

Can I use an external GPU with the MSI Claw?

The MSI Claw has a Thunderbolt 4 port, which supports external GPU enclosures. This can boost performance for demanding games or tasks like video editing when connected to a dock. However, setting up an eGPU can be expensive and less portable.

Does the MSI Claw support SD cards for extra storage?

The MSI Claw does not have an SD card slot. You can expand storage using an external SSD via the USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 port or upgrade the internal NVMe SSD (up to 1TB or higher, depending on the model).

Is the MSI Claw better than a gaming laptop or console?

The MSI Claw is great for portable gaming but not as powerful as a gaming laptop or a console like the PS5. Laptops offer better performance for heavy games and multitasking, while consoles provide exclusive games and ease of use. The Claw shines for gamers who want a compact device to play PC games anywhere.

What is the difference between MSI Claw and MSI Claw 8 AI+?

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is an upgraded model with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Series 2) processor and 32GB RAM as standard. It offers better performance and efficiency compared to the original Claw’s Ultra 5/7 processors and 16GB RAM. The AI+ model is ideal for gamers wanting future-proof hardware.

Can the MSI Claw handle productivity tasks like video editing?

Yes, the MSI Claw can handle light video editing and graphic design tasks, especially with the Core Ultra 7 model. However, for heavy editing, a laptop or desktop with more power would be better. The Claw is best for gaming and basic productivity.

Is the MSI Claw’s display good for gaming?

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld has a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is great for gaming. However, for sharper visuals on its small screen, 720p or 800p resolution is often enough, as the difference is hard to notice.

Should I wait for newer handheld models or buy the MSI Claw now?

If you need a handheld now, the MSI Claw at 40k-50k INR is a solid choice. Newer models like the MSI Claw 8 AI+ or upcoming devices with ARM-based CPUs may offer better battery life and performance, but they could be pricier. If you can wait 1-2 years, future handhelds may be more powerful and affordable.

Is the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld durable for long-term use?

The MSI Claw Gaming Handheld is well-built with a sturdy design, but like all handhelds, it’s sensitive to drops and overheating if used heavily. Avoid playing heavy games for long without breaks to prevent thermal issues. With proper care, it can last several years.

Does the MSI Claw come with games pre-installed?

No, the MSI Claw Gaming Handheld does not come with games pre-installed. You need to download games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games, or Xbox Game Pass. It runs Windows, so you have access to a wide game library.

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