Introduction: The Next Step in Handheld Gaming Innovation
Since the launch of the Steam Deck in 2022, handheld gaming PCs have steadily gained popularity among gamers seeking portable yet powerful gaming experiences. Over the past two years, most high-end handhelds have relied on the same Z1 Extreme chipset, limiting hardware evolution. However, at Computex 2025, MSI announced the Claw A8, which could mark a significant leap forward as the first handheld device powered by the new AMD Z2 Extreme processor introduced earlier this year at CES 2025.
Design and Display Enhancements
The MSI Claw A8 shares similarities with the recently released Claw 8 AI, but there are notable upgrades. The device now features a maximum of 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, clocked at 8,000MHz—down from 32GB in previous models, possibly to optimize power consumption and thermal performance. The display remains a 120Hz Full HD panel but now supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), reducing screen tearing and providing smoother visuals during intense gaming sessions. This enhancement aims to deliver a more seamless gaming experience on the go.
Hardware Breakthrough: From Intel to AMD
The most significant hardware upgrade lies in the switch from Intel’s Core Ultra 7 285V to AMD’s Z2 Extreme APU. This new processor combines 8 Zen 5 CPU cores with 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores, promising a substantial boost in gaming performance. The Z2 Extreme boasts more Compute Units than the Z1 Extreme, and its architecture is a generation ahead, reflecting AMD’s latest advancements in mobile gaming technology. This transition indicates MSI’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge performance in portable form factors.
Additional Updates and Price Expectations
Alongside the Claw A8, MSI has announced an upgraded version of the Claw 8 AI+ featuring a new color palette and a larger 2TB SSD for increased storage capacity. This model still utilizes the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V processor. The Claw A8 is expected to launch later this year, although MSI has yet to specify an exact release date or pricing details. Given that the Claw 8 AI+ is priced at around $999, it’s likely that the AMD-powered Claw A8 will come with a premium price tag, reflecting its high-performance hardware.
The Race for the Z2 Extreme-Powered Handhelds
The AMD Z2 Extreme: A New Era in Mobile Gaming
Announced quietly at CES 2025, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme represents a significant step forward in mobile gaming hardware. While it has yet to appear in stores, anticipation is high for the first devices to showcase this powerful chipset. The Z2 Extreme offers substantial performance improvements, making it a prime candidate for next-generation handheld gaming PCs.
Potential Devices and Market Competition
One of the first devices to feature the Z2 Extreme is the Lenovo Legion Go 2, which debuted at CES 2025. However, it has not been released yet, and there’s little clarity on its official launch date. Instead, Lenovo released the Legion Go S, which is less powerful and more expensive, indicating a cautious approach to the new hardware.
Other manufacturers are also rumored to be working on Z2 Extreme-powered devices. The upcoming Asus ROG Ally 2 is expected to adopt the new chipset, and there are rumors of a possible Xbox-branded version of the device, potentially a joint effort between Asus and Microsoft. These developments suggest a competitive landscape for next-gen handhelds equipped with AMD’s latest mobile processors.
The Future of Handheld Gaming Devices
Interestingly, Valve has confirmed that the next-generation Steam Deck will not utilize AMD’s Z2 Extreme chips. They stated that the new Z-series architecture doesn’t represent enough of a technological leap to justify a new device. Still, upcoming alternatives with the Z2 Extreme are expected to offer better performance than current models, promising improvements for gamers seeking portable power.
Ava Martin
Ava is a technology writer and digital tools expert who focuses on how innovation shapes our daily lives. She reviews the latest gadgets, apps, and software platforms, explaining their practical benefits in simple, relatable terms. Ava is particularly passionate about productivity hacks, cybersecurity, and smart home tech, making her a go-to source for readers who want to stay tech-savvy without the jargon.
