The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Neither handheld is better for every game. In PC Gamer’s 2026 tests, the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM delivered higher average frame rates than the ROG Xbox Ally X in two 1080p medium benchmarks, but the Ally X had a slightly higher 1% low in Cyberpunk 2077. The right choice depends on the exact games you play, how smoothly they run on each device, and whether you plan to install PC games, stream from Xbox, or both.
These product names cover multiple generations. This comparison focuses on the MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM for advertised specifications, the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM for the cited benchmarks, and the 2025 ROG Xbox Ally X. Benchmark results from one Claw model should not be treated as results for another. The original ROG Ally is a different device, too.
Which models are being compared?
“MSI Claw” and “ROG Ally” are product families, not single devices. MSI’s specifications below are for the Claw 8 AI+ A2VM. The game tests are for the Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM. ASUS’s specifications and features are for the 2025 ROG Xbox Ally X. Keeping those model names attached to the claims matters: specifications and benchmark results from one generation do not establish how another performs.
How do the Claw 8 AI+ A2VM and ROG Xbox Ally X compare on paper?
| Feature | MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM | ROG Xbox Ally X (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home, according to MSI’s specifications | Windows 11, according to ASUS |
| Processor and graphics | Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 Series 2 and up to Intel Arc 140V graphics, according to MSI | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, according to ASUS |
| Display | 8-inch touchscreen; 1920 × 1200; 48–120Hz variable refresh rate, according to MSI | Full HD, 120Hz, with FreeSync Premium, according to ASUS |
| Memory | 32GB LPDDR5x-8533, according to MSI | Capacity not stated in the ASUS source passage cited for this comparison; check the exact regional SKU |
| Storage upgrade | M.2 2230 PCIe Gen4 slot, according to MSI | ASUS says storage is upgradeable with an off-the-shelf drive; the exact form factor and capacity should be checked against the specific SKU |
The Claw’s listed display has more vertical pixels than a Full HD screen, while both are advertised with a 120Hz maximum refresh rate. A sharper image can take more graphics work to render, so screen resolution alone does not predict game performance or battery life. The official specification pages describe features; they do not establish real-world frame rates, runtime, comfort, or compatibility.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11#1 Best Overall
- High-Performance Computing: Harness the power of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor to effortlessly handle demanding tasks. Enjoy reliable, high-performance computing wherever you go.
- Simplistic Design: Enjoy the latest generation of Windows 11 Home for your everyday needs. MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
- Perfection Through Anthropometry: As a handheld device, Claw has achieved the optimal balance between its grip and weight. We have meticulously polished various design details, from the curvature that fits the palm, to the finger grip positions and trigger force.
- Best-in-Class Battery Life: Unlock exceptional gaming endurance with our breakthrough battery capacity. It's where efficient power meets robust performance—more game, less charge.
- 8-inch Smoothness Ready: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience with our 8-inch premium 120Hz gaming display, with exceptional color reproduction and smooth action.
What do game benchmarks show?
PC Gamer’s 2026 review tested the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM alongside the ROG Xbox Ally X. In these two 1080p medium tests, the Claw had higher average FPS, but the Ally X matched or slightly exceeded it on the reported 1% lows in the games shown.
| Game and test settings | MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Black Myth: Wukong, 1080p medium | 33 average FPS; 16 FPS 1% low (PC Gamer, 2026) | 26 average FPS; 19 FPS 1% low (PC Gamer, 2026) |
| Cyberpunk 2077, 1080p medium | 51 average FPS; 33 FPS 1% low (PC Gamer, 2026) | 41 average FPS; 34 FPS 1% low (PC Gamer, 2026) |
Average FPS describes overall frame delivery; a 1% low helps show performance during the rougher moments. A higher average does not guarantee a steadier experience in every scene, as the Cyberpunk results illustrate. These figures apply to PC Gamer’s test configuration and the named games—not every title, graphics setting, power mode, or driver version. The review also reported differing results in a Horizon Zero Dawn upscaling test, so results should be compared only when the game, settings, and upscaling state match.
Rank #2
- AI-Powered Performance: Harness the capabilities of the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor to effortlessly manage demanding tasks. Extend your productivity with the most powerful and reliable performance on the go.
- Simplistic Design: Enjoy the latest generation of Windows 11 Home for your everyday needs. MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
- Perfection Through Anthropometry: As a handheld device, Claw has achieved the optimal balance between its grip and weight. We have meticulously polished various design details, from the curvature that fits the palm, to the finger grip positions and trigger force.
- Best-in-Class Battery Life: Unlock exceptional gaming endurance with our breakthrough battery capacity. It's where efficient power meets robust performance—more game, less charge.
- 8-inch Smoothness Ready: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience with our 8-inch premium 120Hz gaming display, with exceptional color reproduction and smooth action.
Will your games work on either handheld?
Both devices run Windows, but access to a PC game store is not a guarantee that every game will launch, behave well with handheld controls, or run at a playable speed. ASUS says the ROG Xbox Ally X can install Windows games from stores including Steam, Epic Games, and Battle.net. Treat that as platform access, not a promise about every title.
Xbox’s Handheld Compatibility resource can help you check games for compatible handhelds and lists ROG Xbox Ally devices. It does not establish that every game works on every handheld, nor that its coverage applies to every MSI Claw model. Before choosing, check the current compatibility information and recent reports for your must-play games on the exact generation you intend to buy.
Rank #3
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258V – AI-Powered Efficiency: Next-gen Series 2 processor delivers 50% better GPU performance and 40% higher efficiency. 47 NPU TOPS accelerate local AI tasks – from Copilot+ to real-time game optimization.
- 8" 120Hz VRR Touch Display: FHD+ IPS screen with 500 nits sunlight readability. 16:10 golden ratio and VRR support eliminate tearing. Perfect for AAA gaming, streaming, or productivity on the go.
- 80Whr Battery + Fast Charge: Massive 80Whr capacity beats most handhelds. Fast charge gets you back in action quickly. Game longer, worry less – whether on a flight or a long commute.
- Revolutionary Intraflow Cooling: Redesigned airflow keeps internal components cool, preventing thermal throttling. Hall Effect analog sticks and triggers offer drift-free, microscopic precision – built to last.
- Unlimited Expansion: Connect external GPU for desktop-class graphics, dual 4K displays, or high-speed storage. Wi-Fi 7 delivers 5.8 Gbps and 2ms latency – lag-free cloud gaming and downloads.
A separate TechRadar review compared the MSI Claw 8 AI+ with the original ROG Ally—not the 2025 ROG Xbox Ally X. It reported problems with Devil May Cry 5 on the Claw and that Batman: Arkham Knight failed to run, with the reviewer speculating that Intel driver issues were involved. Those are observations about that review’s devices and software at the time, not proof that the games still fail today; driver updates can change compatibility.
How do Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play fit in?
Playing a PC game installed on the handheld is different from streaming. ASUS describes Xbox Cloud Gaming as requiring a Game Pass membership, while Xbox Remote Play streams games installed on the user’s Xbox console. Cloud Gaming streams from a service; Remote Play streams from a console you own; local play runs an installed PC copy on the handheld. Your network connection and the relevant account, membership, console, or game access determine which option applies.
Rank #4
- Exposure: 8" FHD (1920 x 1200), Touchscreen, 120Hz Refresh Rate, 100% sRGB (Typical), 500 Nits (Typical), VRR, IPS Level Panel
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme
- Hall effect analog activators and sticks built to last with microscopic precision
- RAM: 24GB (Onboard) LPDDR5x-8533MHz | Hard Drive: 1TB NVMe Gen4x4 2230 SSD
- Revolutionary Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology redirects airflow to internal cooling components.
How should you choose between them?
- Make a short list of the games you actually play. Check current compatibility information and recent reports for those games on the exact Claw and Ally generations under consideration.
- Compare like with like. Look for tests of the same game at the same resolution, graphics preset, power mode, and upscaling setting. Use 1% lows as well as average FPS when available.
- Decide what display trade-off suits you. Compare size, resolution, refresh range, and variable-refresh support. A higher resolution may look sharper, but can also affect performance and power use.
- Check the exact storage configuration before upgrading. MSI lists an M.2 2230 PCIe Gen4 slot for the Claw 8 AI+ A2VM. ASUS says the Ally X storage is upgradeable but the cited description does not specify the precise drive form factor; confirm it for your regional SKU and check warranty terms before opening either device.
- Choose the game-access method you’ll use. Decide whether you mainly install PC games, use Cloud Gaming, or stream from an Xbox console. Those options have different requirements and are not interchangeable.
- Check your local price and availability. They vary by region and date; the benchmark results do not establish which device is better value at the price available to you.
What if you mean the original ROG Ally?
The benchmark comparison above is with the 2025 ROG Xbox Ally X. TechRadar’s Claw-versus-Ally observations concern the original ROG Ally, and should not be used to infer how the newer Ally X compares. If you are shopping between the Claw and the original Ally, compare that exact Ally model and generation using game-specific tests rather than carrying over the Ally X figures.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
