TechRadar

We tried new handheld gaming PCs from MSI, Asus and Acer — our top picks from Computex 2026

Jun 5, 2026 9 min
handheld gamingcomputex 2026intel arc g3 extremegaming pc
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Summary

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TechRadar editors test and discuss new handheld gaming PCs powered by the latest Intel Arc G3 Extreme processors at Computex 2026.

In this hands-on review from Computex 2026, TechRadar editors Josephine Watson and Matt Hanson evaluate the newest wave of handheld gaming PCs, focusing on devices powered by Intel's upcoming Panther Lake processor lineup, specifically the Arc G3 Extreme chip. They analyze three major devices—the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, the Acer Predator Atlas 8, and the OneXPlayer 3—discussing their improved gaming performance, ergonomic designs, and the impact of Intel’s XeSS 3 upscaling. The discussion highlights the trend toward '3-in-1' form factors and ponders whether these premium-priced handhelds can effectively compete with mid-range gaming laptops in both price and raw performance.

Verdict

Various (MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, Acer Predator Atlas 8, OneXPlayer 3, Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20)
handheld gaming pc

The new Intel Arc G3 Extreme chip provides a significant performance boost that allows handhelds to handle AAA titles, making them increasingly competitive alternatives to mid-range gaming laptops.

Depends

Pros

  • ✓ Significant performance increase with Intel Arc G3 Extreme chip 0:50
  • ✓ Improved ergonomics and better button placement on MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ 3:24
  • ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 form factor and high-quality 144Hz OLED screen on OneXPlayer 3 8:37

Cons

  • ✗ High expected price point (~$1,500) may make them less attractive than gaming laptops 5:03
  • ✗ Lack of performance upgrades in the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 anniversary model

Specs

Intel Arc G3 Extreme cores 14 CPU, 14 threads, 12 Xe GPU 0:42
MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ screen 8-inch 120Hz VRR IPS 2:13
OneXPlayer 3 screen 8.8-inch 144Hz OLED with VRR & HDR 8:35

Best for

  • Mobile gamers seeking AAA performance
  • Early adopters of new chip technology

Not for

  • Budget-conscious buyers
  • Those looking for maximum value over form factor

Key Points

  • 0:34 Introduction to the Intel Panther Lake (Core Ultra S3) processor and the Arc G3 Extreme chip, which Intel claims is 44% faster than the previous Core Ultra 258V.
  • 2:05 Hands-on with the MSI Claw 8 EX AI+, featuring improved ergonomics, a new 8-inch 120Hz display, and vibrant void purple colorway.
  • 5:31 Overview of the Acer Predator Atlas 8, Acer's first-ever PC gaming handheld, featuring adjustable triggers and a design inspired by the ROG Ally X.
  • 7:29 Examination of the OneXPlayer 3, a unique 3-in-1 device that supports AI, gaming, and productivity with a detachable keyboard and stand.
  • Discussion of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20, a special anniversary edition handheld bundled with AR glasses, emphasizing visual experience over raw performance upgrades.

Worth watching if: You are a tech enthusiast or potential buyer interested in the next generation of handheld gaming PCs and wanting to understand how the latest Intel chipsets compare to current market leaders.

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