Consumer Electronics

MSI Claw EX Review: Important Handheld, But Should You Buy?

Updated: 8/14/2026

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Last updated: 8/14/2026

Our top picks

Editorially reviewed recommendations.

1Best pick

MSI Handheld Claw A8 Polar Tempest Edition, 8" FHD+ 120Hz, AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, 24GB LPDDR5x, 1TB NVMe SSD, WiFi7, Windows 11

Top-rated option for The MSI Claw EX is the most important handheld since Steam Deck — I still wouldn’t buy one. Verified live on Amazon.com.

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Valve Steam Deck 512GB Handheld Console LCD

Top-rated option for The MSI Claw EX is the most important handheld since Steam Deck — I still wouldn’t buy one. Verified live on Amazon.com.

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KontrolFreek Handheld Portable Gaming Console Thumb Grips | Universal Edition | for Steam Deck, Switch 2, ROG Ally and Logitech G-Cloud | 8-Pack

Top-rated option for The MSI Claw EX is the most important handheld since Steam Deck — I still wouldn’t buy one. Verified live on Amazon.com.

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Frequently asked questions

In raw performance, yes, the Claw EX is more powerful. However, it has significantly shorter battery life, is heavier, and costs more. For most users, the Steam Deck's balance of performance, battery, and price makes it the better choice.

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