MSI Claw A8 (BZ2EMx) Model 1
$1,299
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MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review
Design and Build Quality
The MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM features a plastic construction with a design that includes sharp, angular lines, setting it apart from the more rounded Lenovo Legion Go 2. The device is available in white and lime green, and while it is not overly heavy, users transitioning from lighter devices like the Nintendo Switch may notice the heft. The button layout has been redesigned, and the Hall Effect sticks and triggers are a notable improvement over previous models, promising durability [1] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd
Display
Equipped with an 8-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS display, the Claw A8 offers a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing slightly more vertical space than typical 16:9 displays. It supports a high refresh rate of 120Hz and VRR, which enhances the gaming experience by reducing screen tearing and judder. The display brightness reaches around 500 nits, making it usable in various lighting conditions, although pixel response times lag behind top-tier monitors [2] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd
Performance
Powered by AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, the Claw A8 BZ2EM delivers average performance compared to its peers. Benchmark tests show it trailing behind the ROG Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go 2 in various gaming scenarios. For instance, it averaged 37fps in Black Ops 6, compared to 41fps on the Xbox Ally X. While it performs adequately for casual gaming, those seeking high-end performance may find it lacking [3] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd
Battery Life
The Claw A8 excels in battery life, achieving over 11 hours during light tasks and nearly 3 hours during intensive gaming sessions. This performance is better than both the ROG Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go 2, making it a strong contender for users who prioritize longevity [4] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd
Software Experience
The software experience is a mixed bag. While it supports the Xbox Full Screen Experience, the MSI Center M application can be intrusive, with pop-ups that disrupt gameplay. Users can disable these features, but the initial experience may be frustrating. Windows 11 is more suited for gaming handhelds now, but it still lacks the streamlined experience of alternatives like SteamOS [5] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd
Conclusion
The MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM is a solid gaming handheld that offers good battery life and a decent display. However, its performance lags behind competitors, and the software quirks may detract from the overall experience. At £850, it sits at a premium price point, making it essential for buyers to weigh their options against rivals like the ROG Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go 2 [6] IGN MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM Review – The Best Value Z2 Extreme PC Handheld? - IGN Will Judd