MSI Claw 8 AI+ Review: Hybrid Gaming with 1440p Docked Power

Gaming has always been about choices—what to play, where to play, and how to play. But for those of us who crave both the freedom of handheld gaming and the power of a desktop setup, the options often feel limited. Enter the MSI Claw 8 AI+, a device that promises to bridge this gap effortlessly. Imagine playing your favorite AAA titles on the go, then docking the same device at home to unlock stunning 1440p performance with the help of an external GPU (eGPU).

ETA Prime shows how with Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and seamless integration with eGPUs, this handheld powerhouse redefines what hybrid gaming can look like. It is designed for gamers who demand both flexibility and power, offering a seamless transition between handheld and docked gaming modes. But does it truly deliver on its promise of desktop-level performance in a portable package?

Key Features of the MSI Claw 8 AI+

TL;DR Key Takeaways :

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ combines handheld portability with desktop-level performance, offering 1440p gaming through Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and eGPU support.
Key features include a powerful CPU/GPU combo, extended battery life, and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for seamless eGPU integration.
External GPU (eGPU) support, such as the Radeon RX 7800M, significantly enhances graphical performance, though some compatibility issues exist with Intel Arc GPUs.
Performance benchmarks and real-world gaming tests show smooth gameplay at 1440p with high to ultra settings in titles like *Cyberpunk 2077* and *Doom Eternal*.
The device offers hybrid versatility, functioning as both a handheld gaming system and a desktop-like setup when docked, though Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth limitations may impact performance in certain scenarios.

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is packed with features that cater to the needs of modern gamers, making sure a premium experience in both handheld and docked configurations:

Powerful Hardware: Equipped with a high-performance CPU and GPU combination, the device ensures smooth gameplay across a wide range of titles, from casual games to graphically demanding AAA releases.
Enhanced Portability: A larger, high-resolution display and extended battery life make it ideal for long gaming sessions on the go, providing a balance of convenience and performance.
Thunderbolt 4 Ports: Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports enable seamless integration with eGPUs, allowing users to unlock desktop-level performance when docked.

These features make the MSI Claw 8 AI+ a versatile gaming solution, capable of adapting to different environments without compromising on performance or usability.

External GPU (eGPU) Integration: Unlocking Desktop-Level Power

One of the standout features of the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is its ability to connect with external GPUs via Thunderbolt 4. This capability allows the device to achieve desktop-level performance, particularly when paired with powerful GPUs like the Radeon RX 7800M. With 12GB of VRAM and a power draw of up to 200W, the Radeon RX 7800M significantly enhances graphical performance, allowing higher frame rates and improved visual fidelity in demanding games.

The device also supports other Thunderbolt-compatible GPUs, offering flexibility for users who may prefer different hardware configurations. However, some compatibility issues have been observed, particularly with Intel Arc GPUs, which may not fully use the available Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth. Despite these challenges, the eGPU integration remains a key feature that improves the MSI Claw 8 AI+ above many of its competitors.

MSi Claw 8 Ai+ eGPU 1440P Desktop Mode

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Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on Thunderbolt 4.

Performance Benchmarks and Real-World Gaming

The performance of the MSI Claw 8 AI+ has been rigorously tested through synthetic benchmarks and real-world gaming scenarios, showcasing its capabilities in both handheld and docked modes.

Synthetic benchmarks such as 3DMark Night Raid, Fire Strike, and Time Spy highlight the significant performance gains achieved when using an eGPU. These tests demonstrate a marked improvement over the integrated Intel Arc 140V GPU, particularly in scenarios that demand high graphical output.

In real-world gaming tests, the device excelled across a variety of popular titles:

*Cyberpunk 2077*: Delivered stable frame rates at 1440p with ray tracing enabled, using FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) and eGPU support to maintain smooth gameplay.
*Doom Eternal*: Achieved ultra-smooth performance at high settings, showcasing the power of the Radeon RX 7800M in fast-paced, graphically intensive games.
*Forza Horizon 5*: Maintained high frame rates with detailed visuals, demonstrating its versatility in handling racing games with complex environments.

Technologies like FSR and frame generation played a crucial role in optimizing performance, particularly in bandwidth-constrained situations. While Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth limitations occasionally impacted performance, the overall gaming experience remained highly enjoyable, making the device suitable for both casual and competitive gamers.

Hybrid Gaming Versatility: Seamless Transition Between Modes

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is designed to offer a seamless hybrid gaming experience, transitioning effortlessly between handheld and docked modes. In handheld mode, the device provides a portable gaming solution with a high-resolution display and extended battery life, making it ideal for gaming on the go.

When docked and connected to an external monitor, the device transforms into a desktop gaming setup. By pairing it with an eGPU, users can enjoy enhanced performance and a desktop-like experience, complete with high-resolution visuals and smooth frame rates. This dual functionality makes the MSI Claw 8 AI+ an excellent choice for gamers who value both portability and performance, offering the best of both worlds in a single device.

Challenges and Considerations

While the MSI Claw 8 AI+ offers impressive capabilities, there are a few challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

eGPU Compatibility: Certain GPUs, such as Intel Arc models, may not fully use the Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth, leading to potential performance bottlenecks.
Bandwidth Limitations: The Thunderbolt 4 interface, while powerful, can occasionally restrict performance in graphically demanding scenarios, particularly when running games at ultra settings.
Reliance on Optimization Technologies: Features like FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) and frame generation are essential for maintaining smooth performance, especially in docked mode.

Understanding these limitations is crucial for users who want to optimize their gaming setup and maximize the potential of the MSI Claw 8 AI+.

A Flexible and High-Performance Gaming Solution

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ stands out as a versatile and high-performance hybrid gaming device, offering a unique combination of portability and power. With its robust hardware, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and eGPU support, it delivers an exceptional 1440p gaming experience in both handheld and docked modes.

While some limitations, such as eGPU compatibility and bandwidth constraints, may affect performance in certain scenarios, the device’s overall adaptability and capabilities make it a strong contender for gamers seeking a flexible solution. Whether you’re gaming on the go or setting up a desktop-like experience at home, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ ensures a premium gaming experience tailored to your needs.

Media Credit: ETA PRIME

Filed Under: Gaming News, Reviews

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