Let’s be real: sometimes you need to rip off the band-aid, and that’s exactly what MSI did by waving goodbye to Intel in their latest handheld console. The original MSI Claw had high hopes, but swapping in Intel hardware proved to be a gamble that didn’t pay off. Performance stuttered, software support was spotty at best, and frustration set in for gamers expecting a smooth ride.
So MSI took a step back, listened to the feedback, and decided to shake things up. With the Claw 8 AI+ barely out the door, they’re already back with a bolder move: a full-on AMD makeover. No more patchy driver updates or throttling—just pure AMD power under the hood.
AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme: Power Under the Hood
The real star of the show is the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, packing eight Zen 5 cores and a potent Radeon 890M GPU with 16 RDNA 3.5 cores. It’s a big leap from the Intel-based model, promising snappier frame rates, cooler temperatures, and beefier battery life. Combined with 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, this console is seriously geared up to tackle modern AAA titles.
In benchmarks, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme flexes its muscles by outperforming its Intel counterpart in raw CPU and GPU tests. But beyond numbers, it translates to smoother gameplay, quicker load times, and the freedom to crank up graphical settings without sweating over thermal throttling. For handheld gamers, this is the kind of upgrade that turns frustration into fun.
Design, Display, and Connectivity
On the outside, the Claw A8 keeps the same sleek chassis that made the original stand out, complete with comfortable grips and responsive controls. You still get that crisp 8-inch Full HD LCD display running at 120Hz, which makes fast-paced shooters and action-packed RPGs look and feel buttery smooth. The balance of clarity and refresh rate is spot-on for on-the-go gaming marathons.
However, there’s a small trade-off: nixing Intel means moving down from Wi-Fi 7 to Wi-Fi 6E, plus Bluetooth 5.3 instead of newer standards. While some early adopters might miss top-tier wireless speeds, Wi-Fi 6E is no slouch, and it still offers low latency for online play. If you’re connected to a solid router, you’ll barely notice the difference.
Release Date, Pricing, and Community Hype
As of now, MSI hasn’t dropped any hard dates or price tags for the Claw A8. That mystery might be driving you nuts, but it’s also part of the suspense. MSI tends to unveil pricing closer to launch, so keep an eye on Computex announcements and the official MSI channels for updates. Early rumors suggest it could land in the $549 to $649 range, which would be competitive for the specs on offer.
Gamers and tech enthusiasts alike are buzzing in online forums and on Discord, speculating about battery performance, dock compatibility, and potential accessories. MSI’s own community server is lighting up with comparisons to rival handhelds like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally. Enthusiasts are already sharing mock-ups, overclocking tips, and wishlist features—proof that the hype train is in full motion.
Final Thoughts: Is the Claw A8 a Game-Changer?
All things considered, MSI’s bold pivot to AMD seems like a winning play. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, paired with generous RAM and a high-refresh display, sets the Claw A8 up as a serious contender in the handheld market. Sure, dropping Wi-Fi 7 stings a bit, but the trade-off feels worth it when you’re getting top-tier processing power for under your fingertips.
If you’re tired of compromise and ready to embrace a handheld that doesn’t sputter under pressure, the MSI Claw A8 could be your ticket. Stay tuned for that price reveal and official launch—this AMD-powered beast might just claw its way to the top of your shopping list.
