MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus Brings Intel Arc G3 Extreme and Better Cooling

Companies are working to make portable game systems more comfortable, more powerful, and more efficient at using battery power so they last longer. At Computex 2026, MSI showed off the new Claw 8 EX AI Plus CG3EM. It has better cooling, efficiency, and storage options while keeping the same design features. The tablet comes with a number of updates for laptops and limited-edition models that show MSI's overall hardware direction.

This is Computex 2026, and we are here with the new MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus CG3EM, which is an upgrade across many parts. The first area of concern was the chin at the bottom of the design, which appeared unusual in the product photos. But in person, it's another look and another feel, and more practical. MSI has debuted a purple color option and added a chin to make the handheld easier to hold.

MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus CG3EM Design and Comfort

However, we realized that it's not easy to make a comfortable controller. Several designs weren't particularly comfortable in the hands, but MSI's design was similar to an Xbox controller. The pattern of laser-etched dots, grip angle, size, and shape is as usual, and it's effective. We were pleased with the ease of holding and use for longer periods.

The handheld also features Hall-effect joysticks and triggers. MSI upgraded the D-pad with metal domes under it, so that it's still clicky but not too clicky. The experience is complemented by 6 degrees-of-freedom linear actuators for haptic feedback. These, MSI claims, are more efficient and can simulate textures more effectively, but feedback is still similar to rumble.

It's not enough for a controller design to be there if it cannot be implemented in hardware, and MSI has bundled the handheld with Intel's Panther Lake processor and Intel Arc graphics. Intel Arc G3 Extreme is the chipset we'll find inside.

Intel Arc G3 Extreme Hardware & Performance

Most of the processors are believed to be X9S that were binned after the removal of the two cores, although some were clearly supposed to be G3S. There were reports that Intel isn't able to produce enough defective X9 models to meet anticipated production levels.

The GPU configuration does not change. The laptop version of the 12XE is 300 MHz faster, with the full 12XE cores running at 2200 MHz. But in reality, laptops don't run at their maximum speeds all of the time, making that difference in GPU power seem small. Memory speeds are set to 8533 MT/s to sustain the bandwidth required by games.

Efficiency was also a key focus for MSI to minimize battery drain. Most games are played on efficiency cores, consuming approximately 8W while playing. This was helpful because pursuing higher performance through performance cores could waste battery life. MSI also provides power-saving features that reduce processor I/O, so you still have two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a microSD slot, and a headphone-microphone combo jack. The connectivity options for a handheld system seem adequate.

Components that Include Cooling, Upgradeability, and Internal Hardware

For optimal gaming performance, MSI has implemented a new cooling system called Hyperflow Cooler Boost. The six Phillips-head screws allow the device to be opened, though some internal access is required. There were two heat pipes and two fans in there. MSI made the fans 0.5mm thicker and increased the blade count from 46 to 66. Static pressure reportedly has increased by 25%, adding another 5W of TDP-handling capacity.

MSI also said that it didn't affect Cinebench R23 performance during repeated runs after 100 test cycles. This generation also introduces changes to the storage flexibility. MSI also made the 2280 standard compatible with SSD, allowing for easier upgrades if the included 1TB drive is too small. Double-sided SSDs do not fit in the chassis.

The battery is a large 80Wh battery, but MSI has not announced battery life specifications. There's an Intel Wi-Fi 7 chip under one of the fans. For us, Wi-Fi actually performed better than wired internet at home in our tests, and it felt more powerful than usual.

The display doesn't change from the previous version. MSI's 8-in 1200p 120Hz variable-refresh-rate panel, which features 500-nit peak brightness and 100% RGB coverage, is still in use. We still consider the display suitable for gaming and media viewing. On the pricing front, MSI offers the handset for $1,500, but prices may vary depending on storage and RAM prices. Whether the specifications are worth the price will depend on how much you value portability, performance, and comfort.

Computex 2026 brings updates to the MSI laptop lineup.

MSI also launched new laptop versions at the event. An example of this is the Titan 18HX Dragon Edition Draco Epic. There are only limited hardware changes: the display is raised from 120 Hz to 240 Hz. Another cosmetic change mentioned by MSI involved applying a layered metal finish that reflects light differently at different viewing angles.

We also looked at two Prestige 14 Van Gogh editions. As reported earlier, it continues to sell out quickly and remains hard to find. Despite the low inventory, the Prestige 14 remains a hot seller in MSI's premium notebook lineup. In addition to the hardware displays, several nearby vehicles drew attention, including modified hatchbacks and a clean Subaru with its wheel design and detailing.