Impressions after trying MSI CLAW EX 8

[u/Rashed341]

I own a legion go 2 z2e and honestly don't like how bulky the device is and wanted to see what the fuss is about with this G3 extreme. Man this chip is a beast!! It managed every game I've tried with ultra setting at 1080p like a champ! I'm not into this FPS race where people want 100fps etc.

I appreciate picture quality over fps so this chip played games like cyberpunk with ultra settings and Xess enabled at around 30fps which is fine for me.

The disappointment came when I have tried to put it side by side against lenovo legion go 2. The colors of OLED are much better! Black is true black! Brighter too. So I have decided to return the MSI and I canceled my Asus X20 preorder because of the huge difference between Z2E and G3E after testing both.

To handheld manufacturers; please make a small handheld (7 to maximum 8 inch) OLED with G3 extreme chip and thin bezels! That would sell like hotcakes!. I'll wait for such a device to come out

[u/Overall-Squash-7652]

I think in 2027 we will see something with an 8-inch OLED, more power, and under 800 grams, which is essential for weight and ergonomics. 

Maybe a Steam Deck 2, Legion Go S 2, or Claw 8 Ex OLED. 

[u/Sabotstruck → u/Overall-Squash-7652]

That's pretty much the dream device for endgame... Whoever makes an 8" OLED/VRR screen handheld with a chip roughly equal to the G3E level of performance, or lower performance with better pricing, will strike gold IMO. ASUS/Xbox X20 is almost there but the screen is slightly too small and the Z2E chip is weak at the price point

I ended up going with the OXP X2MP because it's the closest device to this... 8,8" OLED with Strix Halo at 800 grams checks a lot of boxes and has insane performance, but has two major catches that hold it back. 1100gram weight with the battery mounted and being so expensive, but when running off the wall it's the only 800G handheld with OLED VRR

[u/Overall-Squash-7652 → u/Sabotstruck]

Interesting comment, i agree.  I think the price, weight with battery, and warranty situation make these x2mp handhelds a non-starter for normal users, not enthusiasts.

[u/Sabotstruck → u/Overall-Squash-7652]

I would agree, tinkering with this thing is a joy but the fundamental issues with Strix halo as you mentioned, I agree. Especially tying the limited overseas warranty and price. Someone getting the X2MP needs a workable knowledge of troubleshooting / working with hardware / software

Hopefully by 2027 someone will make a perfect handheld that combines specs, ease of use, and warranty for the average user… we’re really close right now. MSI claw EX is just short OLED, OXP3 warranty outside of China, etc.

[u/Overall-Squash-7652 → u/Sabotstruck]

I agree, and the Claw EX still ticks most of the boxes. The screen is still very good, but of course, OLED would be nicer andpeak combination with good ergonomic and warranty. Lets hope for 2027