Latest news with #handheldgaming
Geeky Gadgets
12 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Intel ARC GPU Update Boosts MSI Claw 8 AI to Desktop-Level Power
What if your handheld gaming PC could deliver the power of a desktop while fitting snugly in your hands? The MSI Claw 8 AI has just taken a bold step closer to making that dream a reality. With a major performance boost driven by Intel ARC GPU driver updates and MSI's innovative Center M software, this device is rewriting the rules of portable gaming. Whether you're racing through the vibrant landscapes of Forza Horizon 5 or navigating the neon-drenched chaos of Cyberpunk 2077, the Claw 8 AI promises smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and smarter energy management. It's not just an upgrade—it's a statement that handheld gaming can be both powerful and flexible. In the video below ETA Primes covers how the MSI Claw 8 AI's latest advancements and driver updates elevate its standing in the competitive handheld gaming market. From AI-powered upscaling technologies like XESS to customizable TDP settings that balance performance and battery life, the Claw 8 AI offers a tailored experience for gamers who demand versatility. But does it truly rival heavyweights like the Steam Deck or AMD-powered alternatives? By unpacking its strengths, limitations, and unique features, we'll uncover whether the Claw 8 AI is the portable powerhouse it claims to be—or if it's still a work in progress. MSI Claw 8 AI Updates Intel ARC GPU Driver Updates: Elevating Gaming Capabilities Intel's ARC GPU driver updates have played a pivotal role in enhancing the MSI Claw 8 AI's gaming performance. These updates bring smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and better optimization across a wide range of games. For example: Forza Horizon 5 now runs with reduced stuttering and improved frame stability, making sure a more fluid racing experience. now runs with reduced stuttering and improved frame stability, making sure a more fluid racing experience. Cyberpunk 2077 benefits from enhanced compatibility and performance, making its futuristic world more accessible on the device. Intel's ARC GPUs, while still relatively new, are steadily closing the gap with AMD and NVIDIA. These updates represent a significant step forward in addressing previous performance challenges. For gamers, this translates to a more reliable and enjoyable experience, particularly in graphically intensive titles that demand consistent performance. Center M Software: Smarter Power and Performance Management MSI's Center M software updates have introduced greater control and efficiency to the Claw 8 AI, allowing you to fine-tune the device's performance to suit your needs. With adjustable power limit settings, such as PL1 and PL2, you can balance energy consumption and gaming power effectively. This flexibility enables you to: Extend battery life for longer gaming sessions by optimizing power usage. for longer gaming sessions by optimizing power usage. Boost performance for demanding games when higher processing power is required. Additionally, the software optimizes fan usage and cooling, making sure the device remains efficient and comfortable even during extended play. This level of customization makes the Claw 8 AI a versatile option for gamers who want to adapt their device to different gaming scenarios. Intel ARC GPU Boosts MSI Claw 8 AI Watch this video on YouTube. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on MSI Claw 8. Advanced Gaming Features and Customization The MSI Claw 8 AI incorporates advanced technologies designed to enhance your gaming experience. Features like XESS (AI-based upscaling) and frame generation improve visual quality and deliver smoother gameplay. The device also offers adjustable TDP (Thermal Design Power) settings, ranging from 8W to 25W, allowing you to tailor performance based on your gaming needs: At 25W TDP , you can achieve high-performance gaming with improved FPS, ideal for graphically demanding titles. , you can achieve high-performance gaming with improved FPS, ideal for graphically demanding titles. Lower TDP settings, such as 8W, are perfect for less demanding games, significantly extending battery life. These features provide a balance between performance and efficiency, making the Claw 8 AI suitable for a variety of gaming preferences. Whether you prioritize visuals or battery longevity, the device offers the flexibility to meet your requirements. Battery Life: Strengths and Limitations The MSI Claw 8 AI is equipped with an 80Wh battery, which stands out in the handheld gaming market for its capacity. Battery life varies depending on TDP settings and usage patterns: Approximately 8 hours for low-power indie games at 8W TDP. for low-power indie games at 8W TDP. Roughly 3.5 hours for AAA games at 17W TDP. for AAA games at 17W TDP. About 2.3 hours for high-performance gaming at 25W TDP. While the larger battery is a notable advantage, factors such as fan usage and RGB lighting can impact overall efficiency. Despite these improvements, the Claw 8 AI's battery performance still lags behind AMD-powered devices, which are known for their superior energy optimization. This makes battery life a mixed aspect of the device, offering both strengths and areas for improvement. Competitive Positioning in the Handheld Gaming Market The MSI Claw 8 AI's updates make it a compelling choice in the handheld gaming PC market, but it faces stiff competition. Compared to the Steam Deck, the Claw 8 AI features a larger battery and more advanced customization options. However, its Intel ARC GPU drivers, while improving, remain less mature than AMD's well-established solutions. For gamers seeking innovative performance, alternatives like the Z2 Extreme may also be worth considering. The Claw 8 AI appeals to those who value flexibility and emerging technologies but may not fully satisfy users prioritizing efficiency and polished performance. Finding the Right Fit for Your Gaming Needs The MSI Claw 8 AI offers a unique blend of performance, customization, and portability, making it a versatile option for handheld gaming enthusiasts. If you appreciate the ability to fine-tune power settings and are intrigued by emerging technologies like XESS, this device provides a platform that adapts to your gaming style. However, if your priorities lean toward efficiency, mature GPU drivers, and longer battery life, exploring other options or waiting for future iterations may be a better choice. The Claw 8 AI represents a step forward in handheld gaming, offering a solid experience with room for growth in key areas. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Gizmodo
04-08-2025
- Gizmodo
Intel, Not AMD, Could Be the Secret to Kickass Next-Gen Handheld PCs
Intel is an empire past its prime and is beset on all sides. Just as Paul 'Muad'Dib' Atreides of Dune monologued on the many futures he perceived, there is 'a narrow way through' for the beleaguered chipmaker. The way forward could be with a newfound gaming focus on its next-gen chips. Its desktop CPUs may be getting a gamer-centric upgrade, but the real surprise may be how it could win out in a market it has yet to truly compete in: handheld gaming. Handheld gaming PCs need Intel to shake things up. It's a thought I couldn't shake loose as soon as I saw leaked benchmark figures for the upcoming MSI Claw A8. The handheld is a sequel to the less-than-stellar MSI Claw 7 and the chunky, though incredibly powerful, MSI Claw 8 AI+. Compared to the last two Intel-based handhelds, the A8 is running on the upcoming AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme. That chip is an APU, aka an accelerated processing unit, which is a CPU that contains graphics processing capabilities. AMD first announced its flagship chip for handhelds in January this year. We have yet to get our hands on any device showcasing the chip's capabilities in the many months since then. AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme@17W (MSI Claw A8)vsIntel Core Ultra 7 258V@17W (MSI Claw 8 AI+) — HXL (@9550pro) August 3, 2025 Leaked benchmarks stemming from Chinese-language social media may explain why we haven't seen too much about AMD's latest chip. The Claw 8 AI+ used an Intel Core Ultra 258V processor made for lightweight PCs, which meant it supported Intel's ARC 140V graphics capabilities. These benchmarks show the Intel and AMD chips are nearly on par with each other in games like Far Cry 6 and Hitman 3. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme gets around five more frames per second in titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows and Monster Hunter Wilds. Sure, AMD's chip seems better than Intel's at this wattage, but it's not that much better considering the 258V wasn't explicitly built with this form factor in mind. More leaked benchmarks from the MSI Claw A8 don't give AMD much more of a soapbox to tout its capabilities. YouTuber ETA Prime showcased how the Ryzen Z2 Extreme compares to the last-gen Z1 Extreme from close to two years ago. The Z2 is running on the chipmaker's latest Zen 5 chip microarchitecture and ostensibly has more cores on the updated RDNA 3.5 GPU cores to output better graphics capabilities. While it does much better in synthetic benchmarks than the previous gen, in games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the Z2 Extreme only showed an average of four or five frames per second higher than the Z1 Extreme. If you already have a handheld with the older flagship, it will be hard to justify dropping even more money on an updated device. Rumors suggest the high-end handhelds of today could be very costly. AMD's latest may be disappointing to some, but Intel may actually have a chance of beating its major competitor at its own game. For one, Intel's general manager of client AI and technical marketing—Robert Hallock—previously confirmed with Laptop Mag (RIP) that Intel plans to make handheld-centric chips. Those Intel chips mentioned before, which are part of the Lunar Lake family of CPUs, could become even more graphically capable with the next generation (codenamed Panther Lake). Leaks of a shipping manifest posted last week by leaker X86deadandback (via PCGamer) indicate the next generation of Intel's mobile chips will have 50% more of its graphics cores. The latest rumors suggest Intel will also upgrade its graphics cores from Xe2 to Xe3. We don't know what that means for practicality's sake. More cores with better rendering capabilities don't speak to the chip's architecture. If it can combine better graphics capabilities with better AI upscaling capabilities than the current XeSS 2, Intel's next mobile chips could be a far larger boon for handhelds than AMD. The only question remaining is whether we'll see a handheld with an 'Intel Inside' sticker beaming like a happy child on the side of the device. We know the Lenovo Legion Go 2, alongside the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, will house the Z2 Extreme. The other lingering issue is that Valve's SteamOS, which is—for the time being—a better option for handhelds than Windows, only supports AMD's Ryzen Z series of APUs, not Intel. There are many mountains to climb before 'Team Blue' can make a statement, and it better make one soon before AMD can catch up.
Geeky Gadgets
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
AYANEO's New Budget Handheld Consoles Unveiled
What if handheld gaming didn't have to break the bank? With the rise of premium portable consoles, many gamers feel priced out of the action. Enter AYANEO's latest lineup of budget-friendly handheld consoles, a bold move aimed at shaking up the industry. Known for its innovation in portable gaming, AYANEO is now turning its attention to accessibility, offering devices that promise performance without the premium price tag. Whether you're a casual gamer or a seasoned enthusiast, this new wave of consoles under the 'Conquer' subbrand could redefine what affordable handheld gaming looks like. In this overview, ETA Prime provides an overview of the standout features of AYANEO's latest releases, from the compact Pocket Fit to the versatile Conquer Fit and the innovative Pocket Flip. Each device brings something unique to the table, whether it's Android-based portability, Windows-powered flexibility, or dual-screen creativity. We'll also touch on AYANEO's broader vision, including retro-inspired designs and a growing ecosystem of gaming accessories. As we unpack these offerings, you'll discover how AYANEO is balancing affordability with innovative technology, creating a lineup that's as inclusive as it is exciting. Could this be the future of handheld gaming? Let's find out. AYANEO Conquer Series Overview Conquer Subbrand: Balancing Affordability and Performance The Conquer subbrand reflects AYANEO's response to the growing demand for budget-friendly handheld gaming devices. These products aim to strike a balance between cost and performance, offering gamers a high-quality experience without the premium price tag. The devices feature practical designs, such as durable plastic shells and efficient hardware configurations, making sure reliability and affordability. By focusing on these aspects, the Conquer lineup seeks to redefine entry-level gaming, making it more inclusive and accessible. Pocket Fit: Compact and Android-Based Gaming The Pocket Fit stands out as a compact, portable gaming device powered by Android. It is tailored for gamers seeking a lightweight and affordable solution without compromising on essential features. Key highlights include: A 6-inch 1080p LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, making sure smooth and sharp visuals for fast-paced games. with a 144Hz refresh rate, making sure smooth and sharp visuals for fast-paced games. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset , delivering reliable performance for modern mobile games. , delivering reliable performance for modern mobile games. An 8,000mAh battery , providing extended playtime for uninterrupted gaming sessions. , providing extended playtime for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Dual trigger locks, enhancing precision and control during gameplay. The device's plastic shell design helps keep production costs low while maintaining durability, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize portability and performance. AYANEO's New Budget Handheld Consoles Overview Watch this video on YouTube. Find more information on handheld gaming devices by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. Conquer Fit: Windows Gaming in Your Hands The Conquer Fit caters to gamers who prefer the versatility of a Windows-based handheld device, offering access to a broader library of PC games. While detailed specifications are still limited, the following features have been confirmed: A 7-inch display , providing an immersive gaming experience with a larger screen. , providing an immersive gaming experience with a larger screen. An 80Wh battery , likely offering extended playtime for demanding PC titles. , likely offering extended playtime for demanding PC titles. Windows OS, allowing compatibility with a wide range of PC games and applications. This device is expected to appeal to gamers who value performance and flexibility in a handheld format, making it a strong contender in the portable gaming market. Pocket Flip: Dual-Screen Innovation The Pocket Flip introduces a unique dual-screen design, setting it apart from other handheld gaming devices. This innovative approach enhances both functionality and user experience. Its standout features include: A 7-inch 165Hz OLED main display , offering vibrant and fluid visuals for an enhanced gaming experience. , offering vibrant and fluid visuals for an enhanced gaming experience. A 5-inch LCD secondary display , ideal for multitasking or supplementary controls. , ideal for multitasking or supplementary controls. The Snapdragon G3X Gen 2 chipset , delivering high performance for demanding games. , delivering high performance for demanding games. Front-firing stereo speakers , providing immersive audio quality. , providing immersive audio quality. An 8,000mAh battery , making sure extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging. , making sure extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging. Customizable performance software, allowing users to optimize gameplay settings for their preferences. This device highlights AYANEO's commitment to innovation and user-centric design, offering features that cater to both casual and advanced gamers. Additional Announcements: Expanding the Ecosystem AYANEO has also introduced several complementary products to expand its gaming ecosystem, showcasing its dedication to catering to diverse gaming preferences. These include: Pocket Vert: A Game Boy-style handheld console that combines nostalgic design with modern gaming capabilities. A Game Boy-style handheld console that combines nostalgic design with modern gaming capabilities. Mini PC: A retro-inspired mini PC designed for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics and compact computing power. A retro-inspired mini PC designed for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics and compact computing power. AYANEO Next 2: A high-performance device featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max Plus 395 processor , dual trackpads, and advanced cooling technology. A high-performance device featuring the , dual trackpads, and advanced cooling technology. Gaming Accessories: A range of add-ons, including a phone controller, to enhance the overall gaming experience. These announcements underline AYANEO's efforts to provide a comprehensive gaming ecosystem, blending retro-inspired designs with innovative technology to meet the needs of a diverse audience. Pricing and Availability Although specific pricing details have not yet been disclosed, AYANEO has emphasized affordability as a core focus for the Conquer subbrand. This approach aligns with the company's mission to make handheld gaming accessible to a broader audience. Availability timelines are expected to be announced soon, with the devices likely to appeal to both budget-conscious gamers and those seeking high-performance options. AYANEO's Vision for the Future of Handheld Gaming AYANEO's latest lineup demonstrates its commitment to addressing the needs of a diverse gaming audience. Whether you are a casual gamer looking for an affordable entry point or a power user seeking innovative features, the Conquer series and other new devices offer compelling options. By combining practicality, performance, and innovation, AYANEO is positioning itself as a significant player in the handheld gaming market, paving the way for a more inclusive and versatile gaming experience. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
31-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
MSI Claw A8 In-Depth Review : A Handheld Gaming Beast or Overhyped Upgrade?
What if you could hold the power of a high-end gaming rig in the palm of your hand? The MSI Claw A8 dares to make that dream a reality, boasting the innovative AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU and a suite of features that promise to redefine portable gaming. But does it truly deliver the perfect balance of power and portability, or are its incremental upgrades over the Z1 Extreme too modest to justify the hype? In this insight, ETA Prime take a closer look at what makes the Claw A8 a standout contender in the handheld gaming market—and where it might fall short for seasoned users. From its 8-inch 120Hz IPS display to its 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, the Claw A8 is packed with hardware designed to impress. But this isn't just about specs; it's about the experience. How does the device handle AAA titles at full tilt? Can its 80Wh battery keep up with marathon gaming sessions? And what about its design—does the mecha-inspired aesthetic and customizable RGB lighting enhance its appeal, or does the weight and sharp-edged D-pad detract from comfort? Whether you're a first-time buyer or a Z1 Extreme owner debating an upgrade, this review will help you decide if the Claw A8 is the ultimate portable powerhouse—or just another step forward in a crowded market. MSI Claw A8 Overview Key Features: What Powers the Claw A8? At the heart of the MSI Claw A8 lies the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, built on the Zen 5 architecture. This processor features 8 cores and 16 threads, making sure seamless multitasking and gaming performance. The integrated RDNA 3.5 iGPU, equipped with 16 compute units, enhances graphical capabilities, making it suitable for both AAA titles and indie games. Complementing this powerhouse are several key hardware components: 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM clocked at 8000 MHz for faster data processing clocked at 8000 MHz for faster data processing 1TB M.2 SSD with upgrade options for additional storage with upgrade options for additional storage 8-inch 1200p IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync support for smoother visuals with a 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync support for smoother visuals Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for future-proof connectivity for future-proof connectivity 80Wh battery offering a balance between performance and longevity These specifications position the Claw A8 as a versatile device for gaming enthusiasts who demand both power and portability. Design and Comfort: Balancing Form and Function The MSI Claw A8 combines an ergonomic design with a sleek, mecha-inspired aesthetic that appeals to modern gamers. Its hall-based analog sticks and triggers provide precise input, while the front-facing stereo speakers with DTS audio and a force feedback sound system enhance immersion. Additional design highlights include: Customizable RGB lighting for a personalized touch for a personalized touch Programmable macro keys for tailored gaming experiences for tailored gaming experiences Color options in green and white for added variety However, the device's weight of 765 grams and the sharp-edged D-pad may detract from its overall comfort, particularly during extended gaming sessions. For users accustomed to lighter handhelds, the Claw A8 might feel less portable and slightly cumbersome. MSI Claw A8 AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Review Watch this video on YouTube. Dive deeper into handheld games consoles with other articles and guides we have written below. Performance: Smooth Gameplay Across the Board The MSI Claw A8 delivers consistent gaming performance across a wide range of titles, thanks to its ability to operate at various TDP levels. Whether you're engaging in casual gaming at 6W or pushing the device to 35W for demanding AAA games, the experience remains fluid and responsive. Features like FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) and frame generation further enhance visual fidelity, making sure sharper and smoother gameplay. Battery life is another area where the Claw A8 demonstrates versatility. It offers up to 9.5 hours of usage at lower TDP settings, while high-performance gaming at maximum TDP levels reduces battery life to approximately 2 hours. The thermal management system performs adequately under standard conditions, but prolonged high-wattage gaming sessions may lead to increased temperatures, potentially impacting performance over time. Software: Customization at Your Command The Claw A8's Center M software suite provides extensive customization options, allowing users to fine-tune performance and tailor the device to their preferences. Key features of the software include: Adjustable TDP settings for optimized power usage for optimized power usage Customizable controls , dead zones, and vibration settings , dead zones, and vibration settings Switchable game modes to suit different gaming scenarios However, the device's limited Linux compatibility, due to GPU driver constraints, may disappoint users seeking an open source gaming experience. This limitation could restrict its appeal to a broader audience of tech-savvy gamers. Limitations: Where the Claw A8 Falls Short Despite its impressive features, the MSI Claw A8 has some notable drawbacks. The performance gains over its predecessor, the Z1 Extreme, are relatively modest, with improvements of only 15-20%. Additionally, the sharp-edged D-pad requires excessive pressure, which can be uncomfortable during intense gaming sessions. The device's heavier weight may also deter users who prioritize portability, especially when compared to lighter alternatives in the handheld gaming market. Final Verdict: Ideal for First-Time Buyers The MSI Claw A8 is a well-rounded handheld gaming PC that excels in delivering power, portability, and customization. Its advanced hardware, ergonomic design, and robust software make it an excellent choice for gamers entering the handheld market. However, for existing Z1 Extreme users, the limited performance improvements may not justify an upgrade. For newcomers to handheld gaming, the Claw A8 offers a compelling package that balances performance and versatility, making it a solid investment for on-the-go gaming. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
29-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
MSI Claw A8 Gaming Performance Review : RYZEN Z2 Extreme
What if the future of handheld gaming wasn't tied to Windows or consoles? Imagine a device that combines the raw power of AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme with the open source flexibility of Linux, delivering a portable gaming experience that challenges the status quo. Enter the MSI Claw A8, a bold contender in the handheld market that dares to redefine what's possible for Linux gaming. With its innovative hardware and promising benchmarks, it's easy to see why this device is making waves. But as with any innovation, the road to perfection is paved with challenges—software limitations and incomplete functionality hint at the hurdles still ahead. In this review, ETA Prime explore what makes the MSI Claw A8 a standout in the burgeoning world of Linux gaming. From its innovative APU to its surprising performance advantages over Windows, this device offers a glimpse into a future where open source gaming isn't just viable—it's competitive. But is the Claw A8 ready to meet the expectations of gamers seeking seamless performance and portability? By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of whether this ambitious handheld is a revolution in the making or a work in progress. Key Features of the MSI Claw A8 The MSI Claw A8 is the first handheld device to feature AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, a processor specifically designed for gaming. Its specifications highlight a balance of power and portability, making it a serious contender in the handheld gaming market. Powerful APU: The Ryzen Z2 Extreme features 8 cores and 16 threads, with clock speeds reaching up to 5 GHz, making sure smooth performance even in demanding games. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme features 8 cores and 16 threads, with clock speeds reaching up to 5 GHz, making sure smooth performance even in demanding games. Ample Memory: Equipped with 24 GB of RAM, the device allocates 8 GB to the Radeon 890M integrated GPU (iGPU), enhancing multitasking and graphical capabilities. Equipped with 24 GB of RAM, the device allocates 8 GB to the Radeon 890M integrated GPU (iGPU), enhancing multitasking and graphical capabilities. Impressive Graphics: The Radeon 890M, with 16 compute units, delivers robust graphical performance, allowing high-quality visuals on a portable platform. These features position the Claw A8 as a device capable of handling modern gaming demands while maintaining the portability expected of handheld systems. Linux Compatibility: Progress and Limitations While the hardware of the Claw A8 is undeniably impressive, its software compatibility presents a more nuanced picture. The device demonstrates the potential of Linux gaming but also highlights areas where further development is needed. Steam OS Challenges: The popular Linux-based gaming platform, Steam OS, does not currently boot on the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, limiting its out-of-the-box appeal for some users. The popular Linux-based gaming platform, Steam OS, does not currently boot on the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, limiting its out-of-the-box appeal for some users. Basite OS Success: Basite OS, another Linux-based operating system, has been successfully installed and runs smoothly, showcasing the device's adaptability. Basite OS, another Linux-based operating system, has been successfully installed and runs smoothly, showcasing the device's adaptability. Core Functionality: Essential features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, and controller support work seamlessly on Basite OS, making sure a functional gaming experience. Essential features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, and controller support work seamlessly on Basite OS, making sure a functional gaming experience. Inactive Features: Certain elements, including the rear macro keys and additional front buttons, remain non-functional, highlighting areas for future software updates. These mixed results underline the evolving nature of Linux gaming on handheld devices. While some limitations may deter potential users, the Claw A8 demonstrates that Linux gaming is a viable and promising option. MSI Claw A8 RYZEN Z2 Extreme Gaming Watch this video on YouTube. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on handheld games consoles. Performance Benchmarks: Linux Outshines Windows The MSI Claw A8 delivers impressive gaming performance on Linux, often surpassing its Windows counterpart in key benchmarks. This performance highlights the potential of Linux as a gaming platform when paired with advanced hardware like the Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU. Cyberpunk 2077: Achieves 51 FPS on Basite OS compared to 46 FPS on Windows at a 25W TDP, showcasing better optimization on Linux. Achieves 51 FPS on Basite OS compared to 46 FPS on Windows at a 25W TDP, showcasing better optimization on Linux. Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Runs at 70 FPS on Basite OS versus 64 FPS on Windows at 1080p low settings, demonstrating Linux's capability to handle demanding titles. Runs at 70 FPS on Basite OS versus 64 FPS on Windows at 1080p low settings, demonstrating Linux's capability to handle demanding titles. Other Games: Titles such as Street Fighter 6 , Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart , Elden Ring , The Witcher 3 , and Spider-Man 2 also show promising results, further solidifying Linux's viability as a gaming platform. These benchmarks emphasize the Claw A8's ability to deliver a high-quality gaming experience, making it a strong contender in the handheld gaming market. Battery Efficiency: Optimizing Performance and Longevity Battery life is a critical consideration for handheld gaming devices, and the Claw A8 offers impressive flexibility in this area. By using third-party tools like Simple Decki TDP Control, users can adjust the device's TDP (Thermal Design Power) to balance performance and battery life effectively. Low-Power Gaming: At a 6W TDP, the device achieves over 9 hours of battery life during low-power indie gaming sessions, making it ideal for extended playtime. At a 6W TDP, the device achieves over 9 hours of battery life during low-power indie gaming sessions, making it ideal for extended playtime. Performance Scaling: With a TDP range of 4W to 40W, users can prioritize either maximum performance for demanding games or extended battery life for casual gaming. This adaptability ensures that the Claw A8 can cater to a variety of gaming needs, from casual sessions to more intensive gameplay, without compromising on usability. Challenges and Future Potential Despite its strengths, the MSI Claw A8 faces several challenges that could impact its adoption among Linux gaming enthusiasts. These hurdles, however, also highlight areas for potential growth and improvement. Software Limitations: The lack of official Steam OS support restricts its appeal to a broader audience, particularly those already invested in the Steam ecosystem. The lack of official Steam OS support restricts its appeal to a broader audience, particularly those already invested in the Steam ecosystem. Incomplete Features: Non-functional rear macro keys and additional buttons detract from the device's overall usability, underscoring the need for further software development. Nevertheless, the Claw A8's strong performance on Basite OS and its potential for future software optimizations suggest a promising trajectory. As Linux gaming continues to evolve, devices like the Claw A8 are likely to benefit from improved compatibility, enhanced functionality, and broader software support. A Milestone for Handheld Linux Gaming The MSI Claw A8 represents a significant step forward in the realm of handheld Linux gaming. Its powerful hardware, combined with the performance advantages of Basite OS, positions it as an intriguing option for gamers seeking an alternative to Windows-based devices. While challenges such as incomplete feature functionality and limited software support remain, the Claw A8's early results are encouraging. With further optimizations and broader Linux compatibility, this device has the potential to set a new standard for portable gaming, paving the way for a more diverse and accessible gaming landscape. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Reviews, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
