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

Since the launch of the Steam Deck in 2022, the handheld gaming PC market has been on a steady rise. However, for the past two years, the top-tier devices have been equipped with the same Z1 Extreme chipset. Enter the MSI Claw A8, which was unveiled at Computex 2025 and marks the debut of 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 some notable tweaks. MSI has reduced the maximum RAM from 32GB to 24GB of LPDDR5X, running at a brisk 8,000MHz. Additionally, the A8's display now boasts VRR (variable refresh rate) support. While both the Claw A8 and Claw 8 AI feature 120Hz FullHD panels, the A8's VRR feature promises a smoother gaming experience with reduced screen tearing.

The most significant upgrade in the MSI Claw A8 is the switch from the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V to the AMD Z2 Extreme. This gaming APU packs 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores. The GPU's increased number of Compute Units—from 12 in the Z1 Extreme to 16—coupled with an architectural upgrade to RDNA 3.5, sets the stage for enhanced performance.

MSI also introduced an updated version of the MSI Claw 8 AI+, featuring a fresh colorway and a larger 2TB SSD, yet it remains powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 285V.

While the MSI Claw A8 is slated for release later this year, specifics on its launch window and pricing remain under wraps. Considering the MSI Claw 8 AI+ retails at $999, the AMD-powered A8 is likely to command a premium price as well.

The AMD Z2 Extreme Race Is On

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme made a quiet entrance at CES in January 2025. Half a year later, we're still eagerly awaiting the first handheld to hit the market with this new silicon. The race is on to see which manufacturer will be the first to bring it to consumers.

The Lenovo Legion Go 2, also showcased at CES 2025, is set to be powered by the Z2 Extreme, but Lenovo has kept silent on its release timeline. Instead, they've released the less potent and pricier Z2 Go-powered Lenovo Legion Go S.

Rumors suggest that the upcoming Asus ROG Ally 2 may also harness the power of the Z2 Extreme, though an official announcement is still pending. There's buzz about a potential collaboration between Asus and Microsoft for an Xbox-branded version of the Ally 2, which would likely feature the Z2 Extreme as well.

However, the Steam Deck 2 will not be joining the Z2 Extreme party. Valve has stated that the next generation of Z-series chips from AMD doesn't represent a significant enough leap to warrant a new handheld. While this might cast a shadow over the Z2 Extreme's capabilities, new Steam Deck alternatives powered by this chip will still offer improved performance over current models, which is a positive development for gamers.