The handheld gaming console market has experienced rapid advancements, bringing powerful new devices that cater to gaming enthusiasts.
The Lenovo Legion Go, ASUS ROG Ally, and MSI Claw are three prominent entries that promise high-performance gaming on the go.
This detailed comparison explores each console’s processor, graphics performance, memory, storage, display, gaming experience, design, weight, battery life, and price to determine which console stands out.
Table of Contents
Processor Comparison
The heart of any gaming console is its processor. Here’s how these three contenders stack up:
- MSI Claw: This console is unique among the trio for using an Intel processor, which sets it apart from its AMD-equipped competitors. While specific benchmarks for the Intel chip in the MSI Claw weren’t provided, the consensus is that it lags slightly behind AMD in terms of raw gaming performance.
- Legion Go and ROG Ally: Both consoles feature the same AMD processor, resulting in similar processing capabilities. Benchmark tests suggest their processing power is roughly 2% higher than that of the MSI Claw.
This minor difference means that while the Legion Go and ROG Ally have a slight edge, it isn’t enough to create a significant disparity in everyday gaming scenarios.
Graphics Processing
Graphics capabilities are crucial for a seamless gaming experience. Let’s break down the graphics performance using 3DMark scores:
| Console | 3DMark Score | Relative Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Legion Go | 4,202 | Superior graphical processing power |
| ROG Ally | 3,595 | Robust performance |
| MSI Claw | 3,377 | About 30% behind Legion Go |
These scores indicate that while the Legion Go and ROG Ally provide excellent graphics performance, the MSI Claw falls behind, potentially affecting gameplay quality in graphically demanding games.
Memory and Storage
Memory and storage are vital for multitasking and game loading times:
- MSI Claw: Stands out with an option for up to 32GB of RAM, which is double the maximum offered by its competitors. This extra memory can significantly enhance multitasking and future-proof the device.
- Legion Go: Uses more advanced RAM technology, offering approximately 18% faster transfer speeds compared to the ROG Ally and MSI Claw.
- Storage:
- Legion Go: Features a 1TB M.2 SSD, ensuring fast read and write speeds.
- MSI Claw: Also offers 1TB of storage but with an older SSD model.
- ROG Ally: Provides 512GB of M.2 SSD storage, which might be a limiting factor for users with extensive game libraries.
The Legion Go’s advanced RAM and high-speed storage make it a formidable option for gamers prioritising speed and efficiency.
Gaming Performance
Gaming performance tests reveal how each console handles various popular games at 720p and 1080p resolutions:
Resident Evil 4
| Console | Average FPS |
|---|---|
| MSI Claw | 59 |
| Legion Go | 57 |
| ROG Ally | 57 |
Cyberpunk 2077
| Console | Average FPS |
|---|---|
| ROG Ally | 59 |
| Legion Go | 54 |
| MSI Claw | 30 |
Formula 1
| Console | Average FPS |
|---|---|
| ROG Ally | 117 |
| Legion Go | 109 |
| MSI Claw | 84 |
Minimum frame rates, which reflect the lowest performance dips, are also crucial for a consistent gaming experience:
Resident Evil 4
| Console | Minimum FPS |
|---|---|
| ROG Ally | 38 |
| MSI Claw | 15 |
Cyberpunk 2077
| Console | Minimum FPS |
|---|---|
| ROG Ally | 34 |
| MSI Claw | 3 |
Display
Display quality significantly affects gaming immersion. Here’s a comparison:
| Console | Size (inches) | Resolution | Screen Frequency | Brightness (nits) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legion Go | 8.8 | 2560 x 1600 | 144Hz | 500 |
| ROG Ally | 7 | 1920 x 1080 | 120Hz | 500 |
| MSI Claw | 7 | 1920 x 1080 | 120Hz | 500 |
The Legion Go’s larger, higher-resolution display with a faster refresh rate provides a visually richer experience. However, higher resolutions and screen frequencies can drain battery life faster.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical aspect of handheld gaming consoles. Here’s how each performs in a 720p Resident Evil 4 gaming test:
- MSI Claw: Lasts 114 minutes.
- ROG Ally: Provides 90 minutes.
- Legion Go: Offers 84 minutes.
The MSI Claw’s superior battery life is partly due to its efficient processor and lower display resolution, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions.
Design and Weight
Design and weight affect portability and user comfort:
- ROG Ally: Lightest at 668g.
- MSI Claw: Weighs 675g.
- Legion Go: Heaviest at 853g.
While design preferences are subjective, the ROG Ally and MSI Claw are generally praised for their ergonomic design. The Legion Go, though heavier, offers detachable controllers similar to the Nintendo Switch, adding flexibility but at the cost of increased weight.
Price and Value
Price plays a significant role in decision-making:
| Console | Price |
|---|---|
| MSI Claw | $800 |
| Legion Go | $750 |
| ROG Ally | $700 |
Considering their capabilities, the ROG Ally offers the best value for money with its balanced price and performance. The Legion Go provides high-end features at a premium, while the MSI Claw is the most expensive, which its extensive RAM and battery life might justify.
Conclusion
Each of these handheld gaming consoles has its unique strengths and potential drawbacks:
- ROG Ally: Emerges as the top performer with its robust hardware, stable gaming performance, lightweight design, and good value for money. Its only minor downsides are its average battery life and design ergonomics.
- Legion Go: Stands out for its superior graphics, advanced memory technology, and high-resolution display. However, its heavier weight and shorter battery life are notable disadvantages.
- MSI Claw: Excels in memory capacity and battery life but falls short in gaming performance and stability, making it less suitable for gamers seeking consistent high performance.
Future updates and iterations from these companies will likely address some of these issues, promising an even more competitive handheld gaming market. As it stands, the ASUS ROG Ally seems to offer the best overall experience for most gamers.