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In the world of handheld gaming consoles, three big names are facing off. The Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw each have their own special features. This review will look closely at what makes each one stand out, for both gamers and tech lovers.
We’ll dive into their design, how well they perform, and what software they use. We aim to find out what’s good and what’s not in each device. This will help us understand which one offers the best gaming experience.
Key Takeaways
- Detailed comparison of leading handheld gaming consoles: Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw.
- Insight into design and build quality, focusing on price points.
- Examination of performance metrics, including CPU and GPU capabilities.
- Assessment of screen quality, resolution, and portability factors.
- Evaluation of gaming experience, including game compatibility and input methods.
- Analysis of operating systems and additional features to enhance user experience.
Introduction to Handheld Gaming Devices
The journey of handheld gaming has been incredible. It has moved from simple LED screens to today’s advanced consoles. This change has been driven by new tech and fast changes in the gaming world.
History of Handheld Gaming
The first handheld games came out in the late 1970s. Devices like the Mattel Auto Race and Milton Bradley’s Microvision started it all. Then, the Nintendo Game Boy in 1989 changed everything with its portability and battery life.
The Sony PSP and Nintendo DS later brought better graphics and online play. Each step forward shows how handheld gaming has grown.
Handheld gaming is big today. Devices like the Nintendo Switch and Valve’s Steam Deck are very popular. They offer the freedom to play anywhere, fitting well with today’s lifestyle.
These devices also bring top-notch gaming experiences, just like big consoles. They are key to the gaming world’s trends.
Design and Build Quality Comparison
Design and build quality are key in handheld consoles. They greatly affect how users enjoy their games. The Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw show different ways to make great gaming devices.
Legion Go
The Legion Go is known for its strong build and comfy design. Lenovo used top materials to make it last long.
Rob Ally
Asus went for a cool look with the ROG Ally, making it both good to look at and comfortable to hold.
MSI Claw
The MSI Claw mixes new ideas with solid build, offering both style and strength.
Price
For gamers, picking a handheld console often depends on price. Here’s a quick look at what each costs:
| Device | Price | Build Quality | Unique Features |
| Legion Go | £599.99 | Highly Durable | High-grade materials |
| ROG Ally | £599.99 to £799.99 | Futuristic | Comfortable for long sessions |
| MSI Claw | £529.99 | Innovative | Robust and stylish |
Each handheld console is top-notch but priced differently. The Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw cater to various gamers. They offer unique features and durability, ensuring great gaming experiences.
Performance and Specifications
Exploring the performance benchmarks of the Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw is key. We need to see how their CPU and GPU capabilities compare. Each device has its own strengths, meeting different gaming needs and tastes.
CPU and GPU Capabilities
The Legion Go boasts a top-notch CPU specifications with an AMD Z1 processor. This ensures fast and smooth gaming. The Asus ROG Ally X, on the other hand, has a custom AMD Ryzen processor and an RDNA 2 architecture GPU. It’s made for intense gaming.
The MSI Claw has seen big improvements. New graphic drivers and BIOS updates have boosted its performance benchmarks. Yet, it still trails behind in raw power compared to others.
Battery Life Comparison
Battery life is crucial for handheld gaming PCs. The Legion Go has an 80 watt-hour battery for long playtimes. The ROG Ally X also has an 80Wh battery but lasts about 3 hours in heavy gaming. This shows its strong processing power.
The MSI Claw’s battery life has been a concern. Early reviews were not good, but updates and optimised software might help. The MSI Claw 8 AI Plus is expected to have better battery life.
| Device | CPU | GPU | Memory | Battery Life |
| Legion Go | AMD Z1 Extreme | RDNA 3 | 16GB | 80Wh |
| ROG Ally X | AMD Z1 Extreme | RDNA 3 | 16GB | 80Wh (3 hours heavy gaming) |
| MSI Claw | Intel Ultra 7 155H | Updated with new drivers | 16Gb to 32GB | 53Wh |
Screen and Display Quality
The display technology is crucial for handheld gaming. Devices like Lenovo Legion Go, ASUS ROG Ally, and MSI Claw have unique features. We’ll look at their screen quality, size, and how portable they are.
Resolution and Refresh Rates
The display’s quality affects how games look and feel. Lenovo Legion Go has a 2560×1600 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate. This means clear visuals and smooth gameplay.
ASUS ROG Ally has a 1920×1080 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It balances quality and performance well. MSI Claw has a 2560×1440 display and 165Hz refresh rate. It’s perfect for demanding games.
Size and Portability
Consoles must be easy to carry without sacrificing screen size. Lenovo Legion Go has an 8.8-inch screen, making it bigger but easier to see. ASUS ROG Ally has a 7-inch screen, making it more portable.
MSI Claw has an 8.4-inch screen. It’s a good middle ground, offering a big screen and being easy to carry.
A comparative table summarises these aspects:
| Device | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Display Size |
| Lenovo Legion Go | 2560×1600 | 144Hz | 8.8 inches |
| ASUS ROG Ally | 1920×1080 | 120Hz | 7 inches |
| MSI Claw | 2560×1440 | 165Hz | 8.4 inches |
Different resolutions and refresh rates suit different gamers. Screen sizes also affect portability. Display technology and resolution are key for a great gaming experience on these consoles.
Compare handhelds Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw in Gaming Experience
When comparing the Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw, we look at game compatibility, performance, and controller ergonomics. Each device excels in different areas, meeting the needs of various gamers.
Game Compatibility and Performance
Game compatibility is key when choosing handheld devices. The Legion Go supports many AAA titles, giving gamers access to their favourite games. The ROG Ally, on the other hand, works well with both new and classic games, appealing to gamers who enjoy different genres.
The MSI Claw excels in performance, especially with games like Vampire Survivors and Vampire Hunters. It can handle over 1.2K players, offering a smooth gaming experience with minimal issues.
Controller and Input Options
Each device has unique features for better gaming. The Legion Go has responsive analogue sticks and programmable buttons for detailed gameplay. The ROG Ally offers intuitive button placement and customisable settings for comfortable gaming.
The MSI Claw is known for its durable and precise controller design, perfect for competitive gamers. Its controllers are designed for fast and accurate input, essential for intense gaming.
In summary, the Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw each bring something special to the table. They cater to different gaming needs, whether it’s game compatibility, top-notch performance, or controller ergonomics.
Software and Features
The Legion Go, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw’s software is key to their performance. Each runs a different operating system and user interface. These choices greatly affect how users enjoy games and interact with the device.
Operating System and UI
The Legion Go uses Windows 11, offering a full desktop experience on the go. Its design is familiar yet versatile. On the other hand, the ROG Ally runs on Android, making it great for touchscreen use and easy navigation. The MSI Claw also uses Windows 11 but adds custom overlays for better gaming.
These operating systems offer unique benefits. Windows-based systems on the Legion Go and MSI Claw support more software and multitasking. The ROG Ally’s Android design focuses on ease of use and mobile app integration.
Additional Features
These handhelds come with many features to boost gaming. Cloud gaming support lets users stream games from services like Xbox Game Pass. They also have Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6, and USB-C for smooth gaming.
Custom software tools set each device apart. The Legion Go has Lenovo’s Vantage for customisation. The ROG Ally uses Armoury Crate for system monitoring. MSI’s software suite on the Claw lets gamers personalise their setup.
Interactive controllers and haptic feedback add to the immersive experience. Each handheld is designed to meet modern gaming needs.
- Advanced connectivity options
- Cloud gaming support
- Custom software tools for personalisation
It’s important that these features work well together. They make the gaming experience on these handhelds enjoyable and intuitive.
Conclusion
After comparing handheld gaming consoles, we see each has its own benefits. The Legion Go is known for its performance and storage, priced at £549.99. It’s a strong contender for the best handheld gaming console.
The MSI Claw is now £599.99 on Amazon, down from £749. It’s a compact, efficient option. The ASUS ROG Ally is priced at £389, offering a good balance of quality and price.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be a game-changer in 2025. It will have backward compatibility and a vast game library. This makes it important to consider both current and future options.
Choosing the right device depends on your gaming needs and budget. The Legion Go is great for those who want top performance and storage. The MSI Claw and ASUS ROG Ally are good alternatives, offering quality and value. No matter the choice, gamers can expect a great handheld gaming experience.