Tag: gaming handheld

  • New MSI Claw 8: Battery Life & Gaming Performance Details

    New MSI Claw 8: Battery Life & Gaming Performance Details

    Key Takeaway

    – MSI has not officially announced its Claw 8 EX AI+ gaming handheld but has teased a Glacier Blue version of the existing Claw 8 AI+.
    – Hands-on images from Mobile 01 show the Claw 8 EX AI+ retains an 8-inch 1200p/120Hz VRR display and the same I/O as its predecessor.
    – The new handheld reportedly achieves ~80 FPS average in Forza Horizon 6 using multi-frame generation on battery, though graphics settings were undisclosed.
    – It offers up to 4 hours of gaming battery life (similar to the Claw 8 AI+ in Endurance Mode), but does not improve comfort or grip over the current model.
    – MSI will not reveal pricing or availability for the Claw 8 EX AI+ during Computex 2026.

    Next Handheld Teased Quietly

    MSI isn’t making a big public announcement regarding its newest gaming handheld just yet. Instead, the company continues to tease another color variant of an existing product. The Glacier Blue version of the Claw 8 AI+ have been shown on MSI’s global website for more then a month now. This is just a visual refresh of the 8-inch device that we looked at in 2025, which currently cost around $1,881 on Amazon.

    Details Emerge About New Model

    Even without an official statement, different sources are starting to fill in the missing info about the upcoming Claw 8 EX AI+ (CG3EM). To recap, Intel already confirmed the existence of this handheld on May 28. Around that same time, some promotional photos leaked showing what the device looks like. Now, Mobile 01 has published some hands-on shots of the Claw 8 EX AI+ that was on show before Computex 2026. These images give us a clearer picture of the design.

    Performance and Design Observations

    Reportedly, the new Claw 8 EX AI+ is said to achieve about an 80 FPS average in Forza Horizon 6. This is accomplished using multi-frame generation technology while running on battery power. However, Mobile 01 never actually revealed what graphics settings were used for this test. The website also remarked that this new handheld is not much more comfortable or grippy compared to the existing Claw 8 AI+, despite the addition of some controller-style grips that should have improved handling.

    Same Display and Battery Claims

    Setting that minor complaint aside, the images that were shared reiterate that the Claw 8 EX AI+ keeps the exact same I/O as its predecessor. It also retains the same 8-inch display with 1200p resolution and a 120 Hz VRR panel. According to MSI’s own marketing material, the new handheld will be able to last up to 4 hours when you are gaming. For reference, MSI makes the exact same claim about the Claw 8 AI+ as well, but that is only true when operating in Endurance Mode.

    • From the coverage provided by Mobile 01, MSI will not be revealing any pricing information.
    • They also will not be announcing availability for the Claw 8 EX AI+ during the Computex 2026 event.


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  • OneXPlayer X1 Pro Global Release: AMD Gorgon Point & OCuLink

    OneXPlayer X1 Pro Global Release: AMD Gorgon Point & OCuLink

    Key Takeaway

    – Upgraded Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 CPU on the OneXPlayer X1 Pro (Gorgon Point) for modest performance gains over the previous Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 variant.
    – Similar core specs to the prior model: 65 Wh battery, 10.95-inch display, and OCuLink connectivity; still targeting the X1 Pro line.
    – 32 GB RAM with 1 TB or 2 TB storage options; starts at $1,799 with a keyboard included; pre-orders shipping June 1.

    One-Netbook unveils new OneXPlayer X1 Pro refresh

    One-Netbook has rolled out the updated OneXPlayer branded gaming handheld, continuing its trend of reworking the X1 family. The company had been teasing the OneXPlayer X2 Mini since mid April, yet it chose to circle back to the OneXPlayer X1 line, which last saw an update in September 2025 with the OneXPlayer X1 Air. The move keeps the focus on familiar chassis while nudging the internals forward a notch.

    New internals bring modest gains

    In this edition, the OneXPlayer X1 Pro swaps the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 for the newer Ryzen AI 9 HX 470, hinting at a small bump in CPU performance per benchmarks. Whether the upgraded APU translates into a meaningful edge hinges on how well the system leverages the Ryzen processor alongside the Radeon 890M iGPU, which remains around 7% faster on paper. Real-world gains may vary in games and sustained workloads.

    Same design, same battery, same display

    Apart from the CPU upgrade, the X1 Pro retains the 65 Wh battery, the 10.95-inch display, and the OCuLink connectivity that users have come to expect from the model’s lineage. The overall footprint and feel should be familiar to owners and prospective buyers who value a proven form factor that balances portability with performance in handheld form.

    RAM, storage, and pricing clarified

    With the refreshed device, One-Netbook is offering configurations that include 32 GB of RAM and either 1 TB or 2 TB of storage, catering to gamers who want plenty of headroom for titles and files. Pricing begins at $1,799 and includes a keyboard. Pre-orders are slated to ship on June 1, continuing the brand’s pattern of tying availability to a firm shipping date.

    Note: This article does not include external sales links or reference to third-party review sites, and it omits image or source attributions. Prices and specs are presented as stated by One-Netbook’s current listing.


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  • Intel Arc G3 Extreme Launches with 14 Cores and Arc B390 Graphics

    Intel Arc G3 Extreme Launches with 14 Cores and Arc B390 Graphics

    Key Takeaway

    1. MSI’s upcoming gaming handheld, the Claw 8 EX AI+, is expected to feature the Arc G3 Extreme processor, with a listed price of €1,599.
    2. The Arc G3 Extreme includes a 14-core CPU, 12 MB L3 cache, and is designed as a higher-tier option compared to the standard Arc G3 and other handheld APUs.
    3. Performance claims regarding the Arc G3 Extreme should be approached cautiously, as benchmark data is preliminary and not definitive.
    4. MSI plans to unveil the Claw 8 EX AI+ at Computex 2026 in June.

    Initial Rumors about MSI’s New Gaming Handheld

    Early today, a retail store in Italy founds listed MSI’s next handheld gaming device for about €1,599, featuring a Arc G3 Extreme processor. This new model, known as the Claw 8 EX AI+, is likely to appear alongside the Claw A8 (which costs around $1,299 currently), rather than replacing older models too quickly. It seems MSI plans to introduce this at the upcoming tech exhibition, Computex 2026.

    Details About the Chipset and Benchmark Leaks

    Strangely, the same chipset has been seen on Passmark’s database before its official announcement. Intel might announce an Arc G3 version as an affordable alternative to their G3 Extreme, similar to how AMD launched the Ryzen Z2 and Z2 Extreme back in 2025. The specifications listed on the screenshot imply it’s meant for the Claw 8 EX AI+ handheld, rather than some different device. Also, the Arc G3 Extreme’s core architecture includes the Arc B390, a powerful 12-core iGPU combining Xe3 cores, but Intel currently restricts this to their Core Ultra X 300 series processor.

    Hardware Specifications and Performance Expectations

    The listing additionally specify that the Arc G3 Extreme features a 14-core CPU with 18 MB L2 cache and 12 MB L3 cache. It also has 2 Performance cores combined with 12 Efficient cores, but interestingly, it does not support Hyper-threading. Still, it’s too early to pass final judgment based solely on one benchmark test. Claims that the Arc G3 Extreme will outperform the Ryzen Z2 Extreme and other handheld APUs by a large margin are premature. MSI probably plans to launch the Claw 8 EX AI+ officially at the Computex 2026 event, in June.


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  • Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld Price Hike Exceeds $1500

    Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld Price Hike Exceeds $1500

    Key Takeaway

    1. Prices for Lenovo Legion Go S variants with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Z2 Go APUs have surged significantly, with increases of up to $680.
    2. The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme offers over twice the multi-core performance of the Ryzen Z2 Go but only about a 10% gaming performance improvement.
    3. The higher-end variant also includes double the RAM and storage compared to the lower-end models.

    Recent Price Surges in Gaming Handheld Devices

    The ongoing shortages seem to be driving prices for popular gaming handhelds higher and higher. Only a week ago, Lenovo made headlines for hiking up the cost of its AMD Ryzen Z2 Go powered Legion Go S by an astonishing $450. Now, the same story appears to be unfolding with the Z1 Extreme model, which is now facing a similar jump in retail price. Customers who had been eyeing this device are now faced with a much steeper entry point.

    Price Increase of Legion Go S Variants

    Previously, the Legion Go S with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, boasting 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1 TB SSD, was valued at just under $900 on Best Buy. But the latest revision with SteamOS now reaches a hefty $1,580, representing an approx. $680 surge. This drastic hike marks a significant strain for budget-conscious gamers looking to purchase the device. The Windows version with the same specifications is now priced just under $1,680, which is really stretching the limits of affordability for many consumers.

    Differences Between Variants and Performance Expectations

    • SteamOS model with AMD Z1 Extreme: now costs nearly $1,580
    • Windows edition with AMD Z1 Extreme: borders on $1,680
    • Lower-spec variant with Z2 Go, reduced RAM and storage, priced at ~$990

    In terms of hardware performance, the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which has 8 cores, outperforms the 4-core Ryzen Z2 Go by over two times in synthetic multi-core tests. When it comes to gaming performance, the GPU differences are less dramatic — the Radeon 780M (Z1 Extreme) roughly edges out the Radeon 680M (Z2 Go) by about 10%, depending on the game. Additionally, it’s critical to remember that the higher-tier model also offers doubled RAM and storage compared to its lower-end siblings.

    Market Impact and Consumer Concerns

    As these prices skyrocket, it’s clear that current supply chain issues are taking a toll on the gaming community. The steep premium for updated hardware may push many potential buyers away, especially those who had previously considered these devices affordable options. The rising costs also raise questions about the future accessibility of such portable gaming systems in an economy where prices are increasingly unpredictable.


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    • Lenovo Legion Go 2 Price Increased to $2,849 After $850 Hike

      Lenovo Legion Go 2 Price Increased to $2,849 After $850 Hike

      Key Takeaway

      1. The Lenovo Legion Go 2 has been recently priced at $2,849.99, marking a significant increase from previous prices.
      2. Retailers’ current listings are lower, but are likely to update to the new pricing once current stock depletes.
      3. The price hikes are most likely due to the ongoing memory crisis affecting component costs.
      4. The device has experienced multiple price increases since its September launch, with uncertainty remaining about further hikes.

      Price Increases by a Large Margin

      Recently, the Lenovo Legion Go 2 with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor quite dramatically increased in cost. Initially, it was priced at $1,350, then went up to $1,850, and now has jumped again to a staggering $2,849.99 on their official website. This huge escalation makes it clear that the device is now in a very high priced segment, probably making it less attractive for the average gamer or enthusiast looking for a portable gaming option.

      Current Retail Prices Compared to Official Listing

      Despite the official website showing a steep price of nearly $2,850, some retail shops are still selling the Legion Go 2 at much lower prices. For example, Best Buy offers it at $1,999, and B&H still has it for $1,849.99. But these prices are most likely for older units before the recent price hike. Soon, once current stock is sold out and new units are available, it’s expected that these stores will also update their prices to match the official $2,849.99, which is quite a leap from previous amounts.

      Understanding The Price Jumps

      Lenovo hasn’t officially explained why the price keeps increasing so steeply. But industry analysts believe that this is mainly due to the ongoing memory shortage crisis, causing the costs of critical parts like memory and storage to hike up quickly. Since its launch in September last year, the Legion Go 2 has had multiple price increases and there’s no guarantee that the last one was the final, leaving consumers to wonder what the future holds for this high-end handheld gaming device.


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      • OnePlus Gaming Handheld Leak Suggests Powerful Performance with Upgraded SoC

        OnePlus Gaming Handheld Leak Suggests Powerful Performance with Upgraded SoC

        Key Takeaway

        1. The OnePlus gaming handheld is expected to feature a tweaked GPU based on the Dimensity 9500, promising strong, “console-level” performance.
        2. The device may offer a significant performance increase, potentially making it comparable to a “mini Dimensity 9600.”
        3. The device is still in rumor phase, and its existence or final specifications are uncertain, so information should be viewed with caution.

        OnePlus Gaming Handheld Rumors and Expectations

        Rumors are swirling about a new gaming handheld from OnePlus that will be quite a unique device. Though not many details about its main features have been revealed, a recent leak suggests that it will be capable of providing impressive performance. The leak comes from Digital Chat Station, indicating that the device might be packing some serious hardware to stand out in the crowded gaming market.

        GPU Insights and Performance Potential

        According to this leaker, OnePlus has experimented with the GPU of the Dimensity 9500, and the results looks promising. The device is reported to use a custom version of the ARM Mali G1-Ultra MC12 GPU, which could supposedly deliver “console-level” gaming without overclocking. Digital Chat Station describes it as a “significant leap,” hinting that this could give the handheld an unfair advantage in performance over competitors. It should be noted that while the Dimensity 9500 wasn’t initially a favored chip for gamers, it eventually garnered some recognition, pushing its relevance up like the Oppo Find X9 which is priced at around $710.80 on TradingShenzhen for a 12/256 GB model.

        Battle of the GPUs and Emulator Support

        With improvements in emulator support for Mali GPUs on Dimensity chips, these SoCs are now quite competitive when matched against Snapdragon processors in gaming. The Mali G1-Ultra MC12 is said to be capable of handling almost all Android AAA titles smoothly. Still, it may face some issues in emulating PC games, which require more power and compatibility. The rumor hints that the upgraded GPU in the OnePlus device might elevate the overall performance, possibly comparable to a “mini Dimensity 9600.” Still, it’s important to remember that all of these details are unconfirmed, and so far, this device remains just a rumor, which means it could still be canceled or changed before official release.

        Final Thoughts and Cautions

        As of now, everything about this OnePlus gaming handheld looks promising but mostly speculative. The source, Digital Chat Station, mentions this info on Weibo, and since it’s a translated post, there might be some nuances lost in transfer. Potential buyers should wait for official confirmation before getting too excited, because even if the device gets developed, it might never make it to the market. So, consider all this information carefully and keep an eye out for more trustworthy updates in the future.


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      • RG Rotate: New Anbernic Retro Handheld with Better Charging Performance

        RG Rotate: New Anbernic Retro Handheld with Better Charging Performance

        Key Takeaway

        1. Anbernic’s next-generation gaming handheld, likely named ‘RG Rotate’, has not been officially announced but new leaks suggest its imminent reveal.
        2. The device features a 3.8V, 2000mAh battery, smaller than previous models, but supports faster charging at 10W (5V/2A).
        3. The public has gathered multiple visual leaks, fueling anticipation of an upcoming official announcement.

        Unveiling the Mystery of Anbernic’s New Handheld

        So, it seems Anbernic ain’t said a word yet about their next big thing in gaming gadgets. But, well, the internet’s been buzzing with some juicy tidbits. Looks like we got a sneak peek of the new handheld, and folks are pretty excited. Everyone’s guessin’ an official announcement could be just around the corner now.

        Early Photos and Rumors

        Back in March, a blurry photo leak showed off what might be Anbernic’s new console. It’s kinda hard to tell what it is exactly, but the device sort of resembles that old Motorola Flipout. Then, just recently, several videos popped up on Bilibili thanks to a popular channel called Handheld Penguin. These videos gave us a better looks, but still, the image was kinda smushed into pixel art, so we couldn’t say with 100% certainty what the device’s true name is.

        Details and Confirmations From Forums

        Last week, the Open Source Handheld Game Forum shared a clearer picture. On this image, you can distinctly see the name “RG Rotate”. It’s quite promising! The picture also revealed some technical specs, like a 3.8V battery with a 2,000 mAh capacity. This is a little smaller compared to the batteries in other models like RG34XX SP or RG35XX SP, which are typically priced around $69. But here’s the twist, the RG Rotate can support fast charging at 10 W with a 5V/2A input, meaning it might charge quicker and better than some of the cheaper models that only charge at 5V/1.5A.

        What To Expect Next

        Given all these leaks and leaks, we expect Anbernic might announce the device soon. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how it performs and what new features it’s gonna have. With these bits of info floating around, it’s safe to say this handheld could turn some heads in the gaming community. So, keep your eyes peeled for any official news from the brand, as it looks like good things are coming.


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      • Ayaneo Launches Pocket Air Mini B.Duck Edition with MTK G90T

        Ayaneo Launches Pocket Air Mini B.Duck Edition with MTK G90T

        Key Takeaways

        1. Ayaneo has launched the Pocket Air Mini × B.Duck Limited Edition gaming handheld, inspired by retro designs and celebrating the Year of the Horse Spring Festival.

        2. The device features a 4.2-inch 4:3 high-definition display, a bright yellow finish, and themed patterns, promoting a fun and lighthearted gaming experience.

        3. It is powered by a MediaTek MTK octa-core G90T processor, has a 4500 mAh battery, and includes Hall-effect joysticks and triggers for enhanced precision in gameplay.

        4. The handheld is equipped with an active cooling system to support intensive gaming sessions, with leaks suggesting it may have 3 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage.

        5. Ayaneo’s self-developed Android software ecosystem is included, but pricing details are still pending and will be revealed during a Product Sharing Session.

        Days after an exciting leak unveiled a new device from Ayaneo, the company has officially launched the Pocket Air Mini × B.Duck Limited Edition. This new gaming handheld, inspired by retro designs, is based on Ayaneo’s first budget-friendly model and celebrates the Year of the Horse Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese Lunar New Year.

        About B.Duck

        B.Duck is a well-known character brand from Hong Kong, managed by Semk International. It is famous for its cheerful yellow duck mascot and has gained popularity through extensive licensing across Asia.

        Design Features

        The striking B.Duck Limited Edition sports a 4.2-inch 4:3 high-definition display, identical to the regular version. It maintains the same compact form factor and traditional control layout. However, the standout feature is its bright yellow finish, adorned with a lively B.Duck design on the back. There are also themed patterns and a gradient effect that enhance its visual appeal.

        Ayaneo states that the refreshed, vibrant design aims to inspire a sense of “fun and lightheartedness,” thereby enriching the handheld gaming experience.

        Performance Specifications

        Under the hood, the Pocket Air Mini × B.Duck Limited Edition runs on a MediaTek MTK octa-core G90T high-performance processor and is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery. Gamers can enjoy classic titles with “enhanced precision” thanks to the Hall-effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Additionally, the device features an active cooling system with a fan, designed to support more intensive gaming sessions.

        Previous leaks suggest it will have 3 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage, but these details have yet to be confirmed by the official announcement.

        Additional Information

        Other attractive features include Ayaneo’s “self-developed Android software ecosystem.” While pricing details have not been disclosed yet, the company has assured that more product information will be shared during a Product Sharing Session.

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      • Analogue Pocket Restocked with New Price Increase

        Analogue Pocket Restocked with New Price Increase

        Key Takeaways

        1. The price of the Analogue Pocket has increased from $199 to $239, with new pre-orders starting March 4, 2026.
        2. The docking station for the Analogue Pocket is priced at $99.99 and will also ship in June 2026.
        3. The price hike is attributed to a 10% US tariff on global imports.
        4. European customers face additional costs, totaling nearly €300, due to import VAT and shipping fees.
        5. The Analogue Pocket uses original game cartridges with an FPGA chip instead of running ROM files through an emulator, featuring a high-resolution 3.5-inch display.

        The Analogue Pocket Gaming Handheld was first revealed in October 2019 with a price tag of $199. When pre-orders kicked off in December 2021, the cost had already jumped to $219. Now, there’s another price hike on the way.

        Availability and Pricing Changes

        After being out of stock for several weeks, the gaming handheld will be up for grabs again on the manufacturer’s online shop starting Wednesday, March 4. However, the new price will be $239. At the same time, the docking station can also be ordered for $99.99. Both items are set to ship in June 2026. According to a post from Analogue on X, this latest price rise is due to US tariffs, which are currently at 10% on global imports.

        Shipping to Europe

        Analogue does deliver to Europe, but they don’t give a discount to buyers there, even though shipping directly from China wouldn’t incur customs duties. Because of import VAT, a shipping fee of $42, and possible charges from the shipping company, European customers end up spending nearly €300 on the gaming handheld.

        Unique Specifications

        The Analogue Pocket stands out in the market since, unlike the Anbernic RG40XXV, it doesn’t run ROM files through an emulator. Instead, it uses original game cartridges with an FPGA chip, which is designed to replicate games particularly well. The handheld features a 3.5-inch display with a resolution of 1,600 x 1,440, which is exactly ten times that of a Game Boy, allowing for excellent game scaling. More information on the specifications can be found on Analogue’s official site.

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      • Lenovo Legion Go 2 Handheld with Z2 Extreme Priced at €1,500

        Lenovo Legion Go 2 Handheld with Z2 Extreme Priced at €1,500

        Key Takeaways

        1. The Legion Go 2 features detachable controllers and a built-in kickstand, enhancing versatility despite its heavy weight of over 900 grams.
        2. It boasts an impressive 8.8-inch OLED display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and peak brightness levels exceeding 1100 nits, though the resolution is lower than the previous model.
        3. Performance upgrades with the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme are minimal, with similar performance available from other brands at lower prices.
        4. Intel’s new processors, like Panther Lake, can offer significantly better gaming performance while maintaining similar power consumption.
        5. While the Legion Go 2 is a strong contender in image quality, its high price may not be justified compared to alternatives.

        We recently took a look at Lenovo’s latest gaming handheld, the Legion Go 2. Like the previous model, this one also features detachable controllers and comes with a built-in kickstand. This adds some versatility in usage, especially given its hefty weight of over 900 grams, which you will definitely feel after some time of use.

        Impressive Display

        One of the standout upgrades is the display, as Lenovo has incorporated an 8.8-inch OLED screen that boasts a refresh rate of 144 Hz. While the resolution has dropped from the prior IPS setup (1920 x 1200 compared to 2560 x 1600 pixels), the visual experience is truly stunning: vibrant colors, deep blacks, quick response times, and impressive contrast. HDR gaming enthusiasts will be pleased too, since the OLED can hit peak brightness levels exceeding 1100 nits. Overall, the Full-HD resolution aligns better with the capabilities of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme.

        Performance Concerns

        Now, let’s address a concern. AMD laid a solid groundwork for portable gaming devices with the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, and the Z2 Extreme with the Radeon 890M offers a minor upgrade. Meanwhile, Intel has also made strides with its Lunar Lake processors and Arc Graphics 140V integrated GPUs. This means that the performance landscape has only seen slight enhancements over the years.

        The Z2 Extreme in the Legion Go 2 meets what’s expected, but the catch is that you can find similar performance from brands like Asus or MSI for significantly less than €1,000. You should really consider if spending that much is wise right now, especially since Intel’s new Panther Lake processors can deliver up to 70% more gaming performance within similar power constraints.

        Conclusion

        In summary, the Legion Go 2 stands out as a solid gaming handheld that provides excellent image quality compared to many competitors. However, whether the high price is justified remains a point of debate.

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