Compare MSI Claw 8 AI Plus A2VM vs Retroid Pocket G2
In this technical comparison between the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus A2VM and the Retroid Pocket G2, we analyze the key features to help you choose.
The display is a highlight, featuring a resolution of FHD+ (1920 x 1200) for the Claw 8 AI Plus A2VM versus 1080p (1920 x 1080) for the Pocket G2.
Choosing between these two Portable Gaming Devices models often comes down to your budget, with prices around $899 - $1,099 USD and $199 USD.
| Specifications |
MSI Claw 8 AI Plus A2VM |
Retroid Pocket G2 |
|---|---|---|
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| Launch | ||
| Version | January 2025 | October 2025 |
| Performance | ||
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake) | Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 (4nm) |
| GPU | Intel Arc Graphics 140V (8 Xe2-Cores) | Adreno A22 |
| RAM | 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 (Memory on Package) | 8GB LPDDR5x |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 4) | 128GB UFS 3.1 |
| Expandable Storage | 1x MicroSD Card Reader (SD 4.0 / UHS-II) | 1x MicroSD Slot (Supports up to 2TB) |
| OS / Platform | Windows 11 Home (Copilot+ PC certified) | Android 15 |
| Game Store / Ecosystem | MSI Center M; supports all major Windows launchers (Steam, Xbox, Epic, etc.) | Google Play Store, Retroid Launcher, and pre-installed emulation frontend. |
| Display | ||
| Screen size | 8-inch | 5.5-inch |
| Resolution | FHD+ (1920 x 1200) | 1080p (1920 x 1080) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Panel type | IPS-Level (100% sRGB, 500 nits) | AMOLED (500 nits, 150% sRGB) |
| Touch support | Yes (10-point multi-touch) | Yes (10-point multi-touch) |
| HDR | - | Support for HDR10 content |
| Adaptive Sync / VRR | Yes (Variable Refresh Rate) | - |
| Audio | ||
| Speaker format | 2x 2W Stereo Speakers | Dual Front-firing Stereo Speakers |
| 3.5mm Headphone Jack | Yes (Combo jack) | Yes |
| Mic | Built-in Array Microphone | Built-in microphone |
| Supported codecs | Hi-Res Audio, DTS Sound Effect | Hi-Res Audio support |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) — Note: This is an upgrade over the single port on the 7-inch version. | USB Type-C (Supports OTG and DisplayPort Out) |
| Display Output | Supported via Thunderbolt 4 | 1080p via USB-C (DisplayPort) or Standard HDMI |
| Wi-Fi | Intel Wi-Fi 7 (BE201) | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth v5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Ethernet | Supported via Docking Station | Supported via USB-C adapter |
| Controls / Inputs | ||
| Built-in Controls | Hall Effect sticks and triggers, RGB ABXY, D-pad, Bumpers. | 3D Hall Effect Joysticks (with RGB rings), Analog L2/R2 Triggers, D-pad, ABXY (Dual-color injection molded) |
| Controller Features | 6-Axis IMU (Gyro), HD Haptics, 2x Rear Macro buttons (M1/M2). --- Fingerprint Sensor: Yes (integrated into the Power button). | Six-axis Gyroscope, customizable button mapping via Retroid software. |
| External Controller Support | - | Full Bluetooth and USB controller support. |
| Physical | ||
| Dimensions | 299 x 126 x 24 mm | 199.2 x 78.5 x 15.6 mm |
| Weight | 795 g (approx. 1.75 lbs) | 280 g |
| Color options | Black / Sandstorm (Limited Edition) | 16-Bit, Black, GameCube (Indigo), Turquoise, Yellow. |
| Cooling | Cooler Boost HyperFlow (Redesigned for the 8-inch chassis) | Active Cooling System (Internal fan with multiple speed modes). |
| Battery & Power | ||
| Battery Capacity | 80 Whr (Massive upgrade from the 7-inch model) | 5,000 mAh |
| Battery Life | Approx. 4+ hours of AAA gaming; up to 28 hours video playback. | Approx. 4–6 hours (Emulation), up to 10 hours (Indie/Media) |
| Charging | 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 (Supports up to 100W PD input via dock) | 27W Fast Charging (Type-C) |
| Misc | ||
| Inside the Box | Handheld, 65W or 100W Power Adapter (varies by bundle), Quick Start Guide. | Console, USB-C Cable, User Manual |
| Price | $899 - $1,099 USD | $199 USD |
| Full Details | Claw 8 AI Plus A2VM - Full Specifications | Pocket G2 - Full Specifications |