MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus: A Formidable but Pricey Challenger to Steam Deck

I'm not ready to trade in my Steam Deck for MSI's new Claw 8 EX AI Plus, the first gaming handheld featuring Intel's Arc G3 Extreme chip. My colleague Sean Hollister reviewed the device, dubbing it the 'next-gen handheld.' I'm intrigued: could it be a worthwhile upgrade for Steam Deck fans like myself, or is the $1,799 price tag too steep? The Claw has a high bar to clear, especially considering my $789 Steam Deck OLED.

I've grown accustomed to the Deck's performance, and any potential upgrade needs to offer significant improvements. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus is powered by Intel's new Arc G3 Extreme handheld gaming chip. This chip's capabilities and how it compares to existing solutions will be crucial in determining the device's viability.

As someone who primarily plays games on a Steam Deck OLED, I'm eager to explore the Claw's capabilities and see if it justifies its premium price. For now, I'm holding onto my Deck, but I'm interested in a deeper dive into the Claw's performance and features. Why this matters: The MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus represents a new option for gamers invested in handheld gaming.

Its price and performance will likely influence the market, particularly for those already loyal to platforms like Steam Deck. As the gaming handheld market continues to evolve, the Claw's reception will be an important indicator of what consumers are willing to pay for enhanced performance and features. Developers and businesses will be watching closely, as the demand for portable gaming solutions grows.

The key question is whether the Claw's premium features and Intel's new chip can justify its high price and attract a significant share of the gaming market.