Does the MSI Claw have what it takes to be a worthy competitor to the ASUS ROG Ally?
This rig needs more fine-tuning before it can hit the big league.
An Uphill Battle
The short answer:it’s complicated.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
Both use the same 7-inch IPS display and their button layout is extremely similar.
While the Claw is slightly larger and heavier, in hand it’s hardly noticeable.
My first impressions were very positive.
Does the MSI Claw have what it takes to be a worthy competitor to the ASUS ROG Ally? Intel Arc graphics make their way to gaming handhelds for the first time, but early testing reveals that it isn’t all smooth sailing. This device needs more fine-tuning before it can hit the big league.
Adding to the uncertainty is the lack of support for Intel XESS in many games.
Considering Intel Arc Graphics is barely two years old now, this hardly comes as a surprise.
Fixes could come, but how soon and how significant will they be?
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
For $749, you jump up to the Intel Ultra 7 155h chip, promising enhanced performance.
For $799, storage increases to 1TB.
Given the MSI Claw’s newer hardware, its pricing is justified.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
However, given the frequent sales on these older models, the Claw finds itself in a tricky spot.
Currently, the maxed-out ROG Ally is available for just $599.
MSI will be releasing the Nest Docking Station for $79 sometime in the summer.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
Do You Want Windows 11?
Beyond hardware concerns, there’s another major hurdle to overcome: Windows 11.
Like other Windows handhelds, the MSI Claw is held back by the limitations of its operating system.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
Windows 11’s lack of touch optimization makes navigating menus and executing tasks a cumbersome experience.
The virtual keyboard often fails to appear when needed, and performing basic functions feels clunky and unintuitive.
The Claw’s joysticks feel like a harder plastic whereas the Ally uses a softer rubber which I prefer.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
The Claw uses a 7-inch 120Hz Full HD IPS display that looks decent indoors with very solid blacks.
Similarly, it’s here that I noticed another more significant issue.
While this may seem like a promising advantage, it’s essential to consider personal preferences in game selection.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
While theMSI Clawholds promise with its Intel Arc, it faces challenges in delivering a seamless gaming experience.
In general, MSI tends to be one of the best choices for performance per dollar.
Even with some promising results, overall, the Claw isn’t there yet.
Paul Antill / MakeUseOf
