MSI is reportedly planning to launch its next-generation Claw handheld gaming PC, which will be equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme processor. This move signifies the Claw’s shift from the Intel camp to AMD, which will undoubtedly bring some impact to the handheld market.
Previously, MSI launched the Claw 8 AI+, powered by the Intel Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V processor. As its first handheld product, it achieved a relatively bright performance in the market. This device not only pioneered the use of Intel’s latest processor but also garnered attention for its high efficiency and unique design. However, perhaps due to the lack of follow-up products from Intel, or perhaps because AMD’s Z2 offers better performance, sources indicate that MSI is considering adopting AMD’s Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme in its next-generation Claw. This processor, with its powerful performance and AI optimization capabilities, is becoming AMD’s trump card in the handheld market.
The Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme features an 8-core, 16-thread configuration with a maximum boost clock of up to 5.0 GHz. It is equipped with a 16-core RDNA 3.5 integrated graphics card, promising impressive performance. Its built-in dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) further enhances AI computing power, enabling efficient handling of complex tasks in games, such as image optimization and real-time rendering. In contrast, Intel’s Core Ultra 7 258V reportedly underperforms in gaming workloads, which may be a significant reason for MSI’s switch to AMD. AMD’s RDNA 3.5 architecture demonstrates advantages in graphics processing, especially in high frame rate and low power consumption scenarios, potentially providing handhelds with longer battery life and more stable performance.
This move by MSI is not its first attempt at collaborating with AMD. At CES 2025, there were already reports indicating that MSI was developing a handheld device based on the Ryzen Z2. AMD has shown strong performance in the handheld market in recent years, successfully attracting manufacturers like ASUS and Lenovo with processors such as the Ryzen Z1 Extreme. In contrast, Intel’s market share in handheld processors is smaller, and MSI’s shift could further solidify AMD’s leading position.
The new Claw is expected to continue MSI’s consistent high-quality design. Referencing the Claw 8 AI+, the device features an 8-inch Full HD touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ensuring smooth and responsive visuals. Additionally, the inclusion of an 80Wh high-capacity battery and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports enhances battery life and expandability. While upgrading the hardware, the new product may also optimize the cooling system and control experience, such as improving joystick accuracy and button feedback, to meet players’ demands for comfortable handling.
Although MSI has not yet announced the specific release date and pricing, industry speculation suggests that the new Claw may debut in mid-2025, with a price likely comparable to existing high-end handhelds, ranging from $800 to $1000. Whether MSI will completely abandon Intel or launch dual versions with both AMD and Intel processors remains uncertain. However, considering the extremely high demands for performance and efficiency in the handheld market, AMD’s Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme undoubtedly provides strong support for MSI.
The competition in the handheld market is currently intensifying. The ASUS ROG Ally X has secured a place with its excellent performance and ergonomic design, while the Lenovo Legion Go 2 also showcased a prototype powered by the Ryzen Z2 Extreme at CES 2025. If MSI’s new Claw can fully leverage the advantages of the AMD processor while making breakthroughs in software optimization and game compatibility, it has the potential to stand out in this competitive landscape.
As the competition between AMD and Intel in the handheld field intensifies, players will welcome more choices. This transition by the MSI Claw signifies another leap in handheld performance. In the coming months, more details will be revealed, further unveiling this new product.