ROG Xbox Ally X vs MSI Claw 8 AI+: Which is the better handheld console?

The new ROG Xbox Ally X has garnered quite a bit of attention thanks to its powerful hardware and performance-focused design. ASUS’s partnership with Xbox aimed to bring a high-end console gaming experience to a portable setting. A strong alternative for this would be the MSI Claw 8 AI+, which also carries a premium price tag but offers distinct differences in specifications and design.

Since both handhelds are priced similarly, choosing the right one can be challenging, especially if you’re not well-versed in technical details. This guide will help you make an informed decision by comparing factors like performance, display, battery life, and more.

Note: Some parts of the article are subjective and reflect the writer's views.

ROG Xbox Ally X vs MSI Claw 8 AI+: What are the differences?

Both the ROG Xbox Ally X and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ are excellent handheld gaming devices (Image via Asus, MSI)

The new ROG Xbox Ally X and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ are powerhouses when it comes to handheld gaming. Both devices feature high-end specs that could get you PC-like performance in a portable format.

The devices are also similar in terms of pricing. The new Xbox handheld is listed at $999, whereas the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is a little pricier at $1049.99.

Here are the detailed specs of the two handheld devices:

Features	ROG Xbox Ally X	MSI Claw 8 AI+
Display	7-inch, FHD, 120Hz	8-inch, FHD+, 120Hz
Processor	CPU: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (Zen 5) GPU: AMD RDNA 3.5	CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7-258V GPU: Intel Arc Graphics 140V
RAM	24 GB LPDDR5X	32 GB LPDDR5X
Storage	1 TB M.2 SSD	1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD
Battery	80 Whr	80 Whr
Weight	715 g (1.58 lbs)	795 g

Also read: Where to buy ROG Xbox Ally X? All available regions and retail at launch

Performance

Both devices are very different when it comes to the hardware used. The ROG Xbox Ally X features the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, which features the AMD RDNA 3.5 GPU. This configuration enables smooth 1080p gameplay in most modern titles.

The MSI Claw 8 AI+, on the other hand, has gaming PC-like specs, featuring the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor paired with an Intel Arc Graphics 140V GPU. This gives it Intel's efficiency with superb graphics power that enables it to perform quite well, and in some cases, better than the Xbox handheld at 1080p settings.

The Xbox handheld features 24 GB LPDDR5X RAM, whereas the Claw 8 AI+ comes with a whopping 32 GB LPDDR5X, which is quite high for a handheld. While both have high memory, the MSI handheld has the clear advantage when it comes to performance.

Here are some performance metrics sourced from the YouTube channel Hubwood, which has tested the games at 1080p resolution.

Games (1080p)	ROG Xbox Ally X (all games tested at 35W)	MSI Claw 8 AI+ (all games tested at 30W)
Cyberpunk 2077	53 FPS	53 FPS
Red Dead Redemption 2	45 FPS	54 FPS
Forza Horizon 5	73 FPS	80 FPS
Call of Duty Black Ops 6	74 FPS	68 FPS
Elden Ring	45 FPS	54 FPS

As you can see from the framerates mentioned above, both devices handle demanding titles quite well at the 1080p resolution. However, the Claw 8 AI+ outperforms the former in some titles, even at a comparatively lower TDP of 30W. Do note that at lower power levels of 17W, the Xbox is the better performer on most titles.

All in all, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ proves to be the better handheld in terms of performance. It outperforms the former by providing smoother performance. However, as mentioned, at lower power levels, the Xbox Ally X one-ups the Claw 8 AI+.

Display

The ROG Xbox Ally X comes with a 7-inch FHD display, whereas the MSI Claw 8 AI+ features a larger 8-inch FHD+ screen. Both handhelds feature refresh rates of up to 120 Hz and peak brightness of up to 500 nits, so you can experience fluid and bright visuals on either device.

One advantage that the Xbox handheld has over the MSI is that its display features support for AMD FreeSync Premium, which greatly helps reduce screen stuttering or tearing.

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ offers a slightly larger and sharper display, which some users may prefer.

Build and design

Despite having a larger display, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is only slightly larger than the ROG Xbox Ally X. The latter handheld’s grips resemble traditional controllers, providing better ergonomics for long sessions. The Claw 8 AI+ comes with ergonomic grips, but has a comparatively boxy design.

Both devices feature Hall Effect triggers, which provide longer life. However, MSI's handheld comes with Hall Effect sticks too, which add further value to it. Both handhelds also feature HD haptics, which is an advanced form of tactile feedback that provides realistic vibrations.

When it comes to the build, both handhelds sacrifice a bit on portability, as neither device is small, even though both have different display sizes. However, they are quite easy to carry around due to their lightweight builds.

Also read: Can Nintendo Switch 2 compete against ROG Xbox Ally X and other handheld consoles?

Battery

Both the ROG Xbox Ally X and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ feature an 80Wh battery unit. However, they feature different runtimes due to different processors and power outputs. The Ally X typically lasts around 2-3 hours of heavy use, while the Claw 8 AI+ can extend beyond three hours, depending on settings. Note that at lower power levels, both handhelds last slightly longer runtimes, depending on the game you're playing.

Final verdict

This brings us to the conclusion of our comparison between the Xbox Ally X and the Claw 8 AI+. Based on the factors we’ve compared, it’s clear that the MSI Claw 8 AI+ stands out as the stronger handheld console overall. It outperforms the former by providing stronger performance and better display quality.

However, this does not mean the Xbox Ally X is inferior. It remains an excellent option for gamers who prioritize comfort and extended play sessions. Its high performance and well-balanced design are still a great choice for those who want a slightly more affordable handheld.

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About the author

Adith Pramod is a Tech writer at Sportskeeda and a student pursuing his bachelor's degree.
He is a dedicated tech enthusiast, delving passionately into the world of technology—from mobiles to PCs. An avid gamer, he channels his fascination into exploring and sharing the intricacies of all things tech.

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Edited by Adarsh J Kumar