MSI Claw Core Ultra 5
Behold, the MSI Claw Core Ultra 5: a beast in the burgeoning jungle of handheld PCs. It boasts Intel's 12th Gen Core Ultra 5 processor, a velvety 120Hz IPS display, and enough power to churn through AAA titles like butter. But can it dethrone the reigning Steam Deck champion? We strapped on our metaphorical brass knuckles and dug deep into the Claw's silicon soul to find out.
First Bite: A Familiar Grip with a Spicy Kick
Picking up the Claw feels like slipping into a well-worn gaming glove. Its ergonomic design echoes the Steam Deck, with curved grips and strategically placed buttons within easy reach. The matte black finish exudes a sleek, smudge-resistant charm, while the textured grips provide reassuringly firm purchase.
However, this isn't a mere Deck clone. The Claw has a slightly different weight distribution, packing heavier muscle due to its powerhouse components. It's also a tad thicker, but that translates to a sturdier build and improved cooling. Overall, the first impression is a delicious blend of familiarity and fresh bite.
Specs that Sizzle: Raw Power Under the Hood
The Claw Core Ultra 5 is no featherweight when it comes to hardware. Powered by the 12th Gen Core Ultra 5 processor, it packs a serious punch. We tested the mid-tier model with 512GB of PCIe M.2 SSD storage, and let me tell you, it flies. AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring sing on high settings, with minimal hiccups even during epic boss battles. 16GB of RAM ensures seamless multitasking, whether you're juggling open games, streaming, or crafting spreadsheets like a digital Da Vinci.
This raw power isn't just for bragging rights. It unlocks potential for next-gen features like Intel XeSS upscaling, which magically boosts frame rates in supported games without sacrificing visual fidelity. This is a game-changer for portable gaming, letting you enjoy cutting-edge titles without melting your device (or your fingers).
A Feast for the Eyes: Displaying its Dominance
The Claw's 7-inch IPS display deserves a Michelin star. Boasting a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits of brightness, it delivers vibrant visuals even in sunlight that could blind a lesser device. Colors are rich and accurate, and the 1080p resolution strikes a sweet spot between sharpness and performance. This is hands-down one of the best displays we've seen on a handheld PC, making every gaming session a visual feast.
Controls that Rock: A Symphony of Tactility
The Claw's controls are another high note. The buttons are large, responsive, and clicky, with a satisfying tactile feedback that makes every press feel intentional. The analog sticks are smooth and precise, with Hall effect sensors ensuring drift-free operation. Even the triggers are top-notch, offering progressive resistance and a comfortable grip. Overall, the Claw's controls are a joy to use, elevating the gameplay experience significantly.
Software Symphony: Windows with a Gaming Twist
The Claw runs Windows 11 Home, which offers unparalleled flexibility and game compatibility. You're not limited to Steam or any specific launcher - your entire PC gaming library is at your fingertips. Additionally, MSI pre-installs their Mystic Center software, which provides handy tweaks for performance, fan control, and even an Android app player for casual mobile gaming on the go.
However, the Windows experience on a handheld device comes with its own set of challenges. Menus can be a bit fiddly to navigate with a controller, and some games require additional tweaking to play comfortably. While Valve's Steam Deck OS feels more optimized for handheld gaming, the sheer power and versatility of Windows can't be ignored.
Battery Blues: A Trade-off for Power
The Claw Core Ultra 5's Achilles' heel is its battery life. With its powerful components, expect around 3-4 hours of heavy gaming on a single charge. This falls short of the Steam Deck's impressive 5-8 hours, making the Claw less ideal for long treks or commutes. However, MSI offers a range of power management options, including a low-power mode that can extend battery life significantly. Additionally, the Thunderbolt 4 port allows for fast charging, so you can quickly
juice up your Claw during breaks. Don't let the lower battery life be a deal-breaker, though. Think of it as a trade-off for the raw power that lets you crank up the graphics and enjoy silky-smooth gameplay. Just consider packing a portable charger if you plan on extended gaming sessions away from an outlet.
The Verdict: A Roaring Contender with Boundless Potential
The MSI Claw Core Ultra 5 is, without a doubt, a formidable challenger in the handheld PC arena. It boasts raw power, a stunning display, and a comfortable, familiar design. While its battery life and Windows-specific challenges hold it back from dethroning the Steam Deck outright, it offers a compelling alternative for PC gamers who demand maximum power and flexibility.
Beyond Specs: A Glimpse into the Future of Handheld PCs
What truly excites us about the Claw is its potential to redefine handheld PC gaming. The combination of Windows 11, Intel's next-gen hardware, and MSI's innovative software opens up a world of possibilities. Here are just a few:
- Cloud Streaming Unleashed: Imagine seamlessly streaming the latest AAA titles from your PC or cloud service without compromising performance. The Claw's powerful hardware and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity make this a dream within reach.
- VR on the Go: The Claw's potential for VR gaming is intriguing. While not designed as a dedicated VR headset, its processing power and display could potentially handle lightweight VR games and experiences, opening up a whole new dimension of portable gaming.
- The Power of Modding: Windows gives you ultimate control over your gaming experience. Modding communities will thrive on the Claw, allowing for endless customization and experimentation with your favorite games.
These are just a glimpse of what the future holds for the Claw and its ilk. As handheld PC technology advances, we can expect to see even more powerful, versatile devices that blur the lines between console and computer.
The Final Claw-se: Should You Buy It?
Whether the Claw Core Ultra 5 is right for you depends on your priorities. If you value raw power, flexibility, and Windows' vast game library, the Claw is a tempting proposition. Its stunning display, comfortable controls, and future-proof potential make it a compelling choice for serious PC gamers.
However, if you prioritize battery life and a more polished handheld experience, the Steam Deck remains the king of the hill. Additionally, the Claw's reliance on Windows can be a double-edged sword, introducing challenges like menu navigation and game compatibility.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. If you're a power user who values versatility and cutting-edge tech, the MSI Claw Core Ultra 5 is a worthy contender. Just be prepared to manage its power limitations and embrace the occasional Windows quirk. For everyone else, the Steam Deck might still be the safer bet.
One thing's for sure, the competition in the handheld PC space is heating up, and with the Claw's arrival, it's only going to get more exciting. So, get your thumbs ready, gamers, because the future of portable gaming is looking brighter than ever!
We hope this more comprehensive review of the MSI Claw Core Ultra 5 has given you a deeper understanding of this exciting new device. As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments below!