Handheld gaming has become very popular nowadays, especially in the year 2025. The handheld gaming industry has evolved a lot compared to the past, and as a result, we have some of the most powerful handheld consoles today, like the Rog Ally X, Steam Deck OLED, and MSI Claw 8 AI+.
These portable powerhouses let you play AAA games, indie titles, and even retro classics on the go. Each handheld console brings unique features, cutting-edge technology, and innovation to cater to different types of gamers. These devices bring PC-level gaming experiences to your hands, letting you play your favourite games whenever and wherever you want with the best graphics and visuals, including AAA titles, without worrying about system/monitors. Gamers want a handheld that delivers high performance, long battery life, and affordability.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down the specifications, key features, pros and cons, and performance of the Steam Deck OLED, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw to help you decide which handheld is the best fit for your gaming needs.
Why Handheld Gaming Consoles Are a Big Deal in 2025
Power and flexibility on the go into a portable form factor – This is the biggest reason why handheld consoles have become so popular today, and will remain in demand over the decades. The Steam Deck Oled, ROG Ally X, and MSI Claw 8 AI+, run PC games, support cloud gaming, and offer access to massive game libraries via platforms like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games Store. With recent releases like Doom: The Dark Ages and Monster Hunter Wilds pushing graphical boundaries. Devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw aren’t just niche gadgets anymore—they’re redefining portable gaming. Each one has a different take on design, performance, software ecosystem.
Steam Deck OLED
Developer: Valve Corporation
Platforms: SteamOS 3.5 (based on Linux) – Plays PC games via Steam, Game Pass (Cloud), and more
Released (OLED version): November 2023
Specifications
- Processor: Custom AMD APU (Zen 2, 4 cores, 8 threads, 2.4–3.5 GHz)
- Graphics: AMD RDNA 2, 8 CUs, 1.0–1.6 GHz
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5 (6400 MT/s quad 32-bit channels)
- Storage: 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD (plus microSD slot)
- Display: 7.4-inch OLED, 1280×800 x RGB, 90Hz, HDR OLED
- Battery: 50Wh
- Weight: 1.41 lbs (640g)
- Operating System: SteamOS (Linux-based)
- Price: $549 (512GB), $649 (1TB)
Pros
- Gorgeous OLED Display
- Vibrant colors with HDR support and 90Hz refresh rate
- Better Battery Life
- A great Ecosystem- Seamless integration with Steam, full Linux support
- Affordable compared to competitors
- Trackpads enhance control versatility
- Strong community support for tweaks and mods
Cons
- Lower resolution (800p) compared to 1080p rivals
- Limited out-of-the-box support for non-Steam games
- Slightly heavier and bulkier
Performance in 2025
In terms of raw performance, the Steam Deck OLED delivers a solid handheld experience even in 2025. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring run steadily at 30–40 FPS on medium settings, while titles like Hades II and Hi-Fi Rush easily push 60 FPS on high. The upgraded thermal design keeps the device cooler during longer sessions, and the snappier SSD improves load times.
Check more on Official Website: Steam Deck OLED
Asus ROG Ally X
Developer: ASUS
Platforms: Windows 11 – Native support for Steam, Xbox App, Epic Games Store, Battle.net
Released: June 2024
Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (Zen 4, 8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.1 GHz)
- Graphics: AMD RDNA 3, 12 CUs, up to 2.7 GHz
- RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X (7500 MT/s)
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (plus microSD slot)
- Display: 7-inch IPS LCD, 1920×1080, 120Hz, VRR
- Battery: 80Wh
- Weight: 1.49 lbs (678g)
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Price: $799
Pros
- Powerful Ryzen Z1 Extreme
- 1080p Display with VRRMassive 80Wh Battery
- Windows 11 Versatility (Steam, Epic, Xbox Game Pass)
- Ergonomic and Lightweight
- Superior performance for AAA games
Cons
- Windows 11 can be clunky on a small screen
- High Price tag
- No OLED display
- BIOS updates may cause gaming performance dips
Performance in 2025
The ROG Ally X runs most modern games surprisingly well for a handheld. Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom: The Dark Ages hit around 50–60 FPS on Medium with FSR, while Elden Ring stays smooth at 40–50 FPS. Lighter titles like Hades II and Hi-Fi Rush easily run at 60 FPS on High settings. It’s powerful enough to feel like a mini gaming laptop in your hands.
Official Website: Asus ROG Ally X
MSI Claw 8 AI+
Developer: MSI
Platforms: Windows 11 – Full access to Steam, Xbox, Epic, GOG, and other PC platforms
Released: January, 2025
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake, 8 cores, 8 threads, up to 4.8 GHz)
- Graphics: Intel Arc 140V (Xe2, 8 cores, up to 2.05 GHz)
- RAM: 32GB LPDDR5X (8533 MT/s)
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (plus microSD slot)
- Display: 8-inch IPS LCD, 1920×1080, 120Hz, VRR
- Battery: 80Wh
- Weight: 1.65 lbs (750g)
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Price: $899–$999 (price varies due to tariffs)
Pros
- Intel Lunar Lake Powerhouse
- Neural Processing Unit (NPU) supports AI like Windows Copilot
- Large 8-Inch Display
- 80Wh Battery for Long Playtime
- Hall Effect Joysticks
- Two-Tone Design
Cons
- High Price tag
- MSI Center M software is less polished than Armoury Crate
- Heavier than competitors
Performance in 2025
The Claw 8 AI+ handles demanding titles like Black Myth: Wukong, Cyberpunk 2077, and Elden Ring at 40–50 FPS on medium settings with XeSS enabled. Forza Horizon 5, Spider-Man Remastered, and Resident Evil 4 Remake run smoothly at 60 FPS with minor tweaks. Lighter games like Hades II, Dead Cells, and Helldivers 2 easily hit 90–120 FPS, making the most of the 120Hz display. MSI Claw 8 AI+ offers a compelling Intel-powered alternative with AI-driven improvements and solid battery life
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Steam Deck OLED | ROG Ally X | MSI Claw 8 AI+ |
| Processor | AMD Zen 2 (4C/8T, 2.4–3.5 GHz) | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (8C/16T, up to 5.1 GHz) | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (8C/8T, up to 4.8 GHz) |
| Graphics | AMD RDNA 2 (8 CUs, 1.0–1.6 GHz) | AMD RDNA 3 (12 CUs, up to 2.7 GHz) | Intel Arc 140V (Xe2, 8 cores, up to 2.05 GHz) |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5 (6400 MT/s) | 24GB LPDDR5X (7500 MT/s) | 32GB LPDDR5X (8533 MT/s) |
| Storage | 512GB / 1TB NVMe SSD + microSD | 1TB NVMe SSD + microSD | 1TB NVMe SSD + microSD |
| Display | 7.4″ OLED, 1280×800, 90Hz, HDR | 7″ IPS LCD, 1920×1080, 120Hz, VRR | 8″ IPS LCD, 1920×1080, 120Hz, VRR |
| Battery | 50Wh | 80Wh | 80Wh |
| Weight | 1.41 lbs (640g) | 1.49 lbs (678g) | 1.65 lbs (750g) |
| OS | SteamOS (Linux-based) | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Price | $549 (512GB), $649 (1TB) | $799 | $899–$999 |
Real-World Gaming Scenarios
Here’s how each handheld performs in common 2025 gaming scenarios.
1. Playing AAA Games (e.g., Doom: The Dark Ages, Monster Hunter Wilds)
- MSI Claw 8 AI+: Best performance (50–60 FPS at 1080p, high settings)
- ROG Ally X: Close second (40–50 FPS at 1080p).
- Steam Deck OLED: Solid at 720p (30–40 FPS, medium settings).
2. Indie and Retro Gaming (e.g., Hades II, Emulators)
- Steam Deck OLED: Excels with SteamOS and easy emulator setup (via EmuDeck)
- ROG Ally X/Claw: Capable but require more setup for emulators
3. Cloud Gaming (e.g., GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming)
- ROG Ally X/Claw: Windows 11 makes cloud gaming apps (e.g., Xbox, GeForce Now) easier to install.
- Steam Deck: Requires desktop mode but works well with GeForce Now
4. Travel and Portability
- ROG Ally X: Lightest and slimmest, ideal for travel
- Steam Deck OLED: Bulkier but durable with a carrying case included
- MSI Claw 8 AI+: Heaviest, less travel-friendly
5. Budget Gaming
- Steam Deck OLED: Cheapest with excellent performance for the price
- ROG Ally X/Claw: Premium options for those with bigger budgets
Game Library Access Comparison
| Device | Operating System | Native Game Support | Supported Platforms | Ease of Access |
| Steam Deck OLED | SteamOS (Linux-based) | Steam games (via SteamOS, Proton for Windows games) | Steam, Epic Games Store*, GOG*, Xbox Game Pass* (*requires setup) | Console-like simplicity; non-Steam platforms need desktop mode and tweaking |
| ROG Ally X | Windows 11 | All Windows-compatible PC games | Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, EA Play, Ubisoft Connect, GOG, Battle.net | Seamless access to all platforms; Windows navigation can be clunky on a handheld |
| MSI Claw 8 AI+ | Windows 11 | All Windows-compatible PC games | Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, EA Play, Ubisoft Connect, GOG, Battle.net | Seamless access to all platforms; Windows navigation similar to ROG Ally X, with MSI Center M for streamlined controls |
Notes:
- Asterisks (*) indicate platforms requiring additional setup or workarounds on Steam Deck OLED.
- Supported platforms assume compatibility with the device’s hardware and software as of May 2025.
- Ease of access considers user interface and setup complexity for accessing game libraries.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy in 2025?
Choose the Steam Deck OLED if:
You want the best value, a console-like experience, and an OLED display.
Choose the Asus ROG Ally X if:
You prioritize performance, battery life, and versatility. It’s great for multi-platform gamers (Steam, Xbox, Epic) and those who want a lightweight device for AAA titles like Black Myth: Wukong.
Choose the MSI Claw 8 AI+ if:
Need the most powerful handheld with a large display and durable controls. It’s best for enthusiasts who play demanding games (Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2)
Check More
PS Plus May 2025 (Essential, Extra, Premium): New & Leaving Games Best Free Steam Games for PC Gamers in 2025 Xbox Game Pass May 2025 Lineup: Must-Play New Games & Titles Leaving SoonEach handheld has its own strengths, so your best choice depends on how and what you love to play.
🎮 Happy Gaming🔥
In 2025, handheld gaming is no longer just a niche—it’s a serious, portable way to experience AAA gaming.
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Absolutely loved your article! You’ve done a fantastic job comparing the top handheld gaming devices of 2025. Your detailed analysis of the Steam Deck OLED, MSI Claw 8 AI+, and ROG Ally X provides valuable insights for gamers looking to choose the best device for their needs. I was particularly impressed by the MSI Claw 8 AI+’s performance, boasting a 20% higher average frame rate compared to its competitors, thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor and 32GB of RAM. The inclusion of features like Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 7 further enhances its appeal. However, the ROG Ally X’s ergonomic design and impressive battery life, courtesy of its 80Wh battery, make it a strong contender as well. The Steam Deck OLED’s vibrant display and seamless integration with the Steam ecosystem also deserve praise. Your comprehensive comparison has certainly made it easier for gamers to make an informed decision. Kudos to you for putting together such an insightful and informative piece!
Thanks 🙂