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

Handheld gaming PCs have steadily gained popularity since the launch of the Steam Deck in 2022. For nearly two years, the most advanced devices relied on the Z1 Extreme chipset. However, the MSI Claw A8, unveiled at Computex 2025, marks a significant shift as it introduces the newly announced Z2 Extreme chipset from CES 2025.

Similar to the recent Claw 8 AI, the MSI Claw A8 features a few updated specifications. The maximum RAM capacity has decreased from 32GB to 24GB of LPDDR5X, running at 8,000MHz. Additionally, the display now supports variable refresh rate (VRR), reducing instances of screen tearing compared to the previous model, despite both screens being 120Hz Full HD panels.

The most notable change lies in the processor upgrade, shifting from the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V to the AMD Z2 Extreme. This gaming APU boasts 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores, featuring more compute units than the 12 in the Z1 Extreme while advancing the architecture by half a generation.

MSI has also introduced an enhanced version of the Claw 8 AI+, featuring a new color option and a larger 2TB SSD. Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V, this model remains distinct from the Z2 Extreme variant.

Scheduled for release later this year, the MSI Claw A8 lacks a confirmed launch timeline or pricing details. Given the $999 price tag of the Claw 8 AI+, it's safe to assume this AMD-powered device won't come cheap.

The AMD Z2 Extreme Race Heats Up

Announced somewhat quietly at CES 2025, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme garnered attention nearly five months ago. Despite its unveiling, no handheld device equipped with this chip has reached store shelves yet. Manufacturers are now racing to be the first to bring it to market.

Technically, the Lenovo Legion Go 2, which debuted alongside the Z2 Extreme at CES 2025, is powered by the new chipset. However, Lenovo has remained silent regarding its availability. Instead, the company released the Z2 Go-powered Legion Go S, which offers lower performance and a higher price than the initial Legion Go.

Rumors suggest that the Asus ROG Ally 2 may also utilize the Z2 Extreme, though the device itself has yet to be officially announced. Furthermore, there are speculations that Asus and Microsoft might collaborate on an Xbox-branded version of the Ally 2, likely powered by the Z2 Extreme as well.

One handheld confirmed not to feature the Z2 Extreme is the Steam Deck 2. Valve has publicly stated that the advancements offered by the new Z-series chips from AMD do not constitute a substantial enough leap to warrant a new handheld. While this implies skepticism about the Z2 Extreme's capabilities, the emergence of alternative Steam Deck models will offer improvements over current offerings—a positive development for consumers.