MSI Claw A8: The First Next-Gen Handheld Gaming PC

The handheld gaming PC market has seen significant growth since the launch of the Steam Deck in 2022. Over the past two years, the most powerful devices have utilized the Z1 Extreme chipset. However, the MSI Claw A8, unveiled at Computex 2025, marks a pivotal shift as it is the first handheld to incorporate the newly announced AMD Z2 Extreme chipset from CES 2025.

The MSI Claw A8 shares similarities with the recently launched Claw 8 AI, but with notable spec adjustments. MSI has reduced the maximum RAM from 32GB to 24GB of LPDDR5X, operating at 8,000MHz. Additionally, the display now features VRR (variable refresh rate) support. While both devices boast 120Hz FullHD panels, the A8's VRR technology minimizes screen tearing, enhancing the visual experience.

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 includes 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores. With more Compute Units than the 12 found in the Z1 Extreme, and an advanced architecture, the Z2 Extreme promises superior performance.

Alongside the Claw A8, MSI also introduced an updated MSI Claw 8 AI+ model, featuring a fresh colorway and a larger 2TB SSD, yet it retains the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V.

While the MSI Claw A8 is slated for a release later this year, specific launch details and pricing remain undisclosed. Given the MSI Claw 8 AI+ retails at $999, it's likely that the AMD-powered Claw A8 will command a premium price.

The AMD Z2 Extreme Race Is On

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme was quietly announced at CES in January 2025. Five months later, no handheld with this new silicon has hit the market, sparking a race among manufacturers to be the first to launch. The Lenovo Legion Go 2, also introduced at CES 2025, is set to use the Z2 Extreme, but Lenovo has not provided any release timeline. Instead, they released the less powerful and pricier Z2 Go-powered Lenovo Legion Go S.

Rumors suggest that the Asus ROG Ally 2 may also feature the Z2 Extreme, although no official announcement has been made. Speculation is rife about a potential collaboration between Asus and Microsoft for an Xbox-branded version of the Ally 2, which would likely use the same chipset.

Interestingly, the Steam Deck 2 will not utilize the Z2 Extreme. Valve has stated that the Z-series chips do not represent a significant enough leap to justify a new model. While this might question the Z2 Extreme's prowess, new alternatives to the Steam Deck will still offer improved performance over current models, which is a positive development for gamers.