MSI Claw 8 Gaming Handheld Fueled by AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU with 24 GB LPDDR5X Memory

Introducing the MSI Claw 8, a cutting-edge gaming handheld that leverages the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU to deliver impressive gaming performance. Notably, this device features a reduction in memory, providing 8 GB less than its predecessor.

MSI Claw 8 with Ryzen Z2 Extreme: A New Era in Handheld Gaming

Recently unveiled at Computex, the MSI Claw 8 stands out from its sibling, the Claw 8 AI+, with a few design tweaks. While the overall layout remains strikingly similar, the Claw 8 introduces a reimagined grip for an enhanced user experience. Let’s delve into the specifications of this innovative gaming device.

Designated as Claw 8 BZ2EM, this handheld showcases the capabilities of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU—a custom chip specifically optimized for handheld gaming. This APU features an innovative architecture with 8 cores and 16 threads, comprising four cores from the Zen 5 architecture and four from Zen 5c, promising formidable processing capabilities.

The integrated graphics processor (iGPU) in the Claw 8 is the same as that found in the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 model, featuring the powerful Radeon 890M—renowned for its exceptional performance on mobile platforms. Although the Strix Halo series offers more advanced options, their premium cost prevents them from being an accessible choice for portable devices at this time. The Radeon 890M, however, is a robust alternative, rivaling lower-tier dedicated GPUs, ensuring an enjoyable gaming experience.

In terms of memory, the MSI Claw 8 offers a VRAM capacity of 24 GB LPDDR5X—down from the 32 GB provided by the Claw 8 AI+—although its memory speed is slightly lower at 8000 MT/s compared to the AI+’s 8533 MT/s. Aside from these differences, the remaining specifications align closely with those of the Claw 8 AI+, encompassing display quality, connectivity options, and battery features.

The Claw 8 boasts an impressive 8-inch IPS-level display with a sharp 1920x1200p resolution, complete with variable refresh rate (VRR) and touchscreen functionality. Its brightness can peak at 500 nits, mirroring the specifications of the Claw 8 AI+.Additionally, both models share an advanced cooling solution—Cooler Boost HyperFlow—equipped with dual fans and dual heat pipes for optimal thermal management during intense gaming sessions.

MSI Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition — Image Credit: msi.com

Connectivity options on the Claw 8 are robust, featuring two USB4 ports that support 40 Gbps bandwidth, along with Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed wireless internet and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless peripheral connections. Notably, this model is 30 grams lighter than the Claw 8 AI+, which has also seen a re-release as the Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition, highlighting an appealing white design. Both the Claw 8 BZ2EM and the Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition will be available in various colors, although specific release dates and pricing details are yet to be announced.

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