Based on what we’ve seen, most reviewers who got hold of the MSI Claw A8 when it was previewed on the Computex show floor a couple of months ago were happy with how the new AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme-powered handheld turned out, quick to point out its improved ergonomics over the original. We also got to spend a brief amount of time with the device and had no immediate complaints about how it feels in your hands. However, fans with more hands-on experience beg to differ.

Fans have pointed out a couple of aspects of the design that may make the handheld uncomfortable to use for an extended period of time. First of all, the pointed edges are a contrast to the rounded edges on the previous Claw 8 AI+ model, and there’s also a problem with the face buttons seemingly running out of space.

MSI Claw A8 could have a couple of unergonomic design flaws

One user on Reddit, u/Miles051511, has bluntly (sharply?) pointed out in a recent post that the MSI Claw A8 ergonomics leave much to be desired. They claim that it “starts to get really uncomfortable” after around an hour of use, calling the grip “a clear downgrade” compared to the previous Claw 8 AI+ model, which has rounded edges and no awkward sharp corners.

On top of that, a close-up of the face buttons makes it obvious that the B button is placed in a way that means it overlaps an edge. Users have been quick to call this “ugly” – it’s certainly a strange design choice compared to most handhelds on the market. The previous version of the MSI Claw, as well as the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and Legion Go, make sure the face buttons have enough room on a flat surface rather than practically hanging over the edge.

The new handheld has been available in China for a little while, so a few hands-on reviews have already been circulating the web as people benchmark the Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor. It’s the first Z2E handheld to hit the market, which makes it an important launch considering both Lenovo’s and ASUS’s next handhelds will be powered by Z2 chips.

Pre-orders for the MSI Claw A8 appeared outside of China (in Europe) last week, but we’re still waiting for a proper global launch that includes key regions like the United States. It also recently went up for pre-order in Australia, so more and more fans will be able to test the MSI Claw A8 for themselves to see how comfortable (or uncomfortable) it really is.

About the Author

Charlie Noon

Charlie is the Affiliate manager for PC Guide. He has a vast understanding of most PC hardware and consumer essentials, using his knowledge to provide the best products and the biggest deals.