In a recent review, the MSI Claw, a consumer handheld gaming PC, has come under intense scrutiny for its unstable performance and lack of transparency regarding updates and improvements. The reviewer, after retesting the device following new graphics drivers and BIOS updates released by MSI, concluded that the Claw remains the worst choice among the current lineup of handheld gaming PCs.

The benchmark results showed that the Claw consistently fell behind its competitors in terms of speed and power efficiency. Despite the updates, some tests even indicated a decline in performance. This raises concerns about the overall reliability and quality of the device.

One of the major issues highlighted by the reviewer was the inconsistency in gameplay experience. The MSI Claw exhibited wild fluctuations between playable and unplayable performance in demanding games. Surprisingly, the less expensive Steam Deck showcased no such issues. For instance, in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the game experienced frequent and inexplicable frame rate drops to just 20fps, which significantly affected the overall gaming experience.

Furthermore, the Claw's power modes were found to be inconsistent. The Performance mode, expected to provide a speedier experience, actually exhibited unexpected power dips that coincided with frame rate drops during gameplay. The device struggled to maintain a stable power consumption, frequently dipping down from its intended wattage.

While the introduction of new updates did improve the performance of challenging games like Cyberpunk 2077, there were still anomalies observed even with the increased frame rates. In terms of power consumption, the Claw demonstrated relatively better results when plugged into USB-C power, consistently pulling higher wattage.

The reviewer also noted an unusual pattern where the device appeared to run unsustainably faster for a short period after switching power modes, before throttling back down. This highlights an inconsistency that could skew benchmark results, making it necessary for users to run the tests multiple times to get an accurate assessment.

The dissatisfaction with the MSI Claw's performance is further compounded by the fact that the device was released without proper warning or transparency from the company. Users in MSI's own forums have expressed feeling cheated, especially now that MSI has announced two improved versions of the Claw within just three months of the initial release. Critics argue that the device should have never been put on sale without thorough evaluation and user feedback.

Moving forward, suggestions have been made for MSI to implement a trade-in program for buyers of the original Claw. This would allow purchasers to upgrade to one of the upcoming revised versions at a significant discount. This proposal aims to address the frustrations of early adopters and aligns with MSI's apparent commitment to the handheld gaming market.

Overall, the MSI Claw's instability and lack of transparency have raised serious concerns within the gaming community. As the company expresses its commitment to excel in the handheld space, consumers are eagerly waiting to see how MSI will rectify the issues surrounding the Claw and regain the trust of its user base.