As Black Friday approaches, consumers are bombarded with enticing deals on gaming hardware, making it easy to overspend on underwhelming products. One such product is the MSI Claw, which may seem appealing at a staggering 38% off (now $429.99, down from $699.99). But before you hit that purchase button, let’s dive into why this gaming handheld doesn’t live up to the price tag—especially when a superior alternative, the ASUS ROG Ally, is available for just $349.99 (normally $499.99) during the sale.

Why the ASUS ROG Ally Reigns Supreme

At first glance, the MSI Claw's discount might draw you in, but don't be misled. Acting as an entry-level option, it falls short against the ROG Ally, which has proven to outshine it across the board. For anyone serious about handheld gaming, especially during the Black Friday rush, the ROG Ally is far superior in performance, design, and versatility.

When the Claw was put to the test, reviewers found that the ROG Ally provided much more consistent and higher frame rates in a wider array of games. Sure, the Claw boasts an Intel Core Ultra processor on paper; however, in reality, it often fumbles with performance, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences. The ROG Ally, with its dedicated AMD Ryzen Z1 or Z1 Extreme processors, is crafted for gaming, meaning you’ll get a much smoother experience.

Display and Battery Life: The ROG Ally’s Edge

Both devices sport a 7-inch 1080p IPS display; however, the ROG Ally elevates your gaming visuals with a 120Hz refresh rate, support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), full sRGB color coverage, and a brightness that peaks at 500 nits. Simply put, if you value vibrant colors and smooth animations, the ROG Ally is the way to go.

Let’s talk battery life—another crucial aspect to consider when choosing a portable gaming device. The ROG Ally delivers an impressive average of 2.5 hours of gameplay, stretching to 4 hours on lighter titles like “Balatro.” In stark contrast, the MSI Claw only manages 50 minutes to a disappointing 2 hours. For gamers on the go, that’s a significant downside.

Updates and User Experience

The ROG Ally has benefited greatly from post-launch updates, resulting in a stable and bug-free experience for most users. Meanwhile, the MSI Claw persists with software issues, including crashes and inconsistent game launches that can mar your gaming experience.

While the Claw does have some ergonomic grips that provide decent comfort during long sessions, the ROG Ally easily compensates with an extensive array of accessories. A standout option is the Dbrand Killswitch case, which is also available at a discount during Black Friday—ensuring your gaming handheld remains comfortable for extended use.

The Verdict: Skip the Claw, Get the ROG Ally

Even with Black Friday’s tempting 38% discount, the MSI Claw simply cannot compete with the ASUS ROG Ally. The latter not only costs less, but eclipses the Claw in almost every significant category. Don’t let the allure of a discounted rate sway your decision—make the smart choice and opt for the ROG Ally.

Maximize Your Gaming Experience

The ASUS ROG Ally is ready for action straight out of the box, requiring no additional purchases to get started—although an internet connection for downloads and updates is necessary. If you're looking to enhance your gaming library, consider investing in Xbox Game Pass, currently at an attractive price of $29.29 for three months at CDKeys, allowing access to numerous Xbox PC titles.

Additional accessories, like a decent power bank for extended battery life or a docking station, may enhance your overall experience but are certainly not mandatory.

Mark Your Calendars

Black Friday is set for November 29, 2024, and while the day itself is significant, many deals are already live in the lead-up to this shopping frenzy. If you're eyeing heftier savings, don't wait until the day of—secure the best offers while they last!

Cyber Monday follows soon after, on December 2, 2024, presenting another chance to snag great deals. So set your sights on the best, skip the MSI Claw, and make the wise investment in an ASUS ROG Ally this holiday season.