MSI Claw vs Asus ROG Ally: Choosing Your Gaming Handheld

In the emerging market of handheld gaming PCs, MSI Claw and Asus ROG Ally stand out as top contenders, offering gamers portable powerhouses with impressive specifications. Both devices aim to cater to the gaming community with their unique features, but choosing between them depends on what aspects you value the most in a gaming handheld.

Key Highlights:

• Processor and Graphics: MSI Claw is powered by Intel Core processors with Arc graphics, while ROG Ally features AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme SoCs with integrated RDNA 3 graphics, promising robust performance for 1080p gaming.
• Display and Build: Both have 7-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen displays, with the ROG Ally providing a slight edge in response time and additional features like Gorilla Glass Victus and Dolby Vision HDR support.
• Battery and Charging: The Claw boasts a larger 53Wh battery, promising longer gaming sessions compared to the Ally’s 40Wh battery. Both support fast charging.
• Unique Features: While both offer high connectivity and Windows 11, the ROG Ally includes a 3.5mm jack and a custom port for connecting external GPUs, expanding its gaming capabilities.
• Price and Availability: The ROG Ally starts at $599.99, presenting a competitive price point. MSI’s pricing for the Claw starts at $699, with details on availability yet to be fully disclosed.

Performance

Both the MSI Claw and Asus ROG Ally are engineered to handle demanding games, thanks to their high-end processors and graphics units. The Claw leverages Intel technology, aiming for high performance and graphical fidelity. Conversely, the ROG Ally’s AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme SoC with RDNA 3 graphics ensures smooth, immersive gaming experiences, particularly with the added benefit of AMD FreeSync Premium.

Display Quality

Gamers seeking crisp, responsive visuals will find both devices appealing, as they feature 7-inch, 120Hz Full HD displays. However, the ROG Ally’s slight edge in response time and its support for advanced display technologies might appeal to gamers who prioritize display performance.

Battery Life

For those planning long gaming sessions, the MSI Claw’s larger battery presents a significant advantage, offering extended playtime compared to the Asus ROG Ally.

Connectivity and Features

Both handhelds are well-equipped with modern connectivity options and support for gaming platforms. The ROG Ally, however, stands out with its unique external GPU connectivity, offering a potential boost in gaming performance for users with compatible hardware.

Pricing

With a starting price of $599.99 for the ROG Ally and $699 for the MSI Claw, budget considerations will play a crucial role. The ROG Ally offers an appealing value proposition, especially considering its performance and unique features.

MSI Claw and Asus ROG Ally, including their detailed specifications, performance comparisons, and user reviews, I recommend visiting technology and gaming news websites. These platforms often provide in-depth analyses, hands-on experiences, and community feedback which can help you make a well-informed decision tailored to your gaming preferences and needs.

The choice between MSI Claw and Asus ROG Ally boils down to individual preferences regarding performance, display quality, battery life, and price. Both devices push the boundaries of portable gaming, but the ROG Ally’s competitive pricing and unique expandability features might tip the scales for gamers looking for versatility and value​​.