"MSI Claw A8: Unveiling the First Next-Gen Handheld Gaming PC"

Handheld gaming PCs have been steadily gaining traction since the Steam Deck burst onto the scene in 2022. For the past two years, the top-tier handhelds have relied on the Z1 Extreme chipset. However, the MSI Claw A8, unveiled at Computex 2025, marks a significant shift as the first handheld to utilize the Z2 Extreme chipset, which was announced at CES 2025.

The MSI Claw A8 shares similarities with the recently launched Claw 8 AI, but there are notable spec adjustments. MSI has reduced the maximum RAM from 32GB to 24GB of LPDDR5X, running at 8,000MHz. Additionally, the display now features VRR (variable refresh rate) support. While both devices boast 120Hz FullHD panels, the A8 is designed to minimize screen tearing.

The most significant upgrade in the MSI Claw A8 is the transition from the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V to the AMD Z2 Extreme. This gaming APU comes equipped with 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores. The GPU's increased number of Compute Units, now at 16 compared to the 12 in the Z1 Extreme, along with the updated architecture, promises enhanced performance.

MSI also introduced an updated version of the MSI Claw 8 AI+, featuring a new color and a larger 2TB SSD. This model continues to be powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V.

The MSI Claw A8 is slated for release later this year, though specific launch details and pricing remain undisclosed. Considering the MSI Claw 8 AI+ retails at $999, the new AMD-powered A8 is expected to come with a premium price tag.

The AMD Z2 Extreme Race Is On

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme was quietly announced at CES in January 2025. As we approach nearly five months later, no handheld featuring this new chip has hit the market, sparking a race among manufacturers to be the first to launch.

The Lenovo Legion Go 2, also debuted at CES 2025, is set to be powered by the Z2 Extreme, but Lenovo has yet to provide a timeline for its market entry. Instead, they introduced the less powerful and more expensive Z2 Go-powered Lenovo Legion Go S.

Rumors suggest that the Asus ROG Ally 2 will also adopt the Z2 Extreme, though no official announcement has been made. Speculation is rife about a potential collaboration between Asus and Microsoft to create an Xbox-branded version of the Ally 2, which would likely feature the Z2 Extreme as well.

In contrast, the Steam Deck 2 will not utilize the Z2 Extreme. Valve has stated that the new Z-series chips from AMD do not represent a sufficient generational leap to warrant a new handheld. While this might temper expectations for the Z2 Extreme's capabilities, the new handheld alternatives powered by this chip will still offer improved performance over current market offerings, which is a positive development.