MSI Claw A8: The New AMD-Powered Gaming Handheld
Introduction
The Claw A8 BZ2EM is the new handheld gaming device MSI unveiled at this year's Computex event. With this release, MSI is switching strategy as this is their first portable gaming model to use an AMD chip, specifically the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor. MSI's handheld devices such as the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw A1M used to be powered by Intel Core Ultra processors only.
The handheld is now powered by AMD intentionally to match ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, both of which have grown in popularity. MSI, through AMD, hopes to attract more customers and boost their position in the rapidly advancing handheld gaming market.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme |
| Graphics | Integrated AMD Radeon 890M |
| Memory | Up to 24GB LPDDR5x-8000 RAM |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD (user-replaceable) |
| Display | 8-inch IPS-level, 1920 x 1200 (FHD+), 120Hz refresh rate with VRR |
| Brightness | Up to 500 nits |
| Battery | 6-cell, 80Wh Li-Polymer |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Connectivity | Two USB 4 Type-C ports, headphone jack, microSD card reader |
| Special Features | Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, fingerprint reader |
| Colors | White and Lime Green |
Performance and Power
Processor and Graphics
The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor paired with integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics, all built into the Claw A8 handheld. The combination of hardware is made to perform well with 1080p gaming, so this device is placed in the high-end gaming category. Figures from initial benchmarks indicate that the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme is as capable as the Intel Core Ultra 7 presents in the Claw 8 AI+, demonstrating MSI's care to maintain top performance in their premium handhelds.
Memory and Storage
With support for up to 24GB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM, the Claw A8 allows you to play demanding games and do various tasks at the same time. Users have a 1TB M.2 2280 SSD for storage and can exchange it if the need arises. A microSD card reader also allows you to expand the storage capacity.
Display
This device offers a vivid viewing experience on its 8-inch IPS display, which has a crisp resolution of 1920 x 1200 and can refresh at a rate of 120Hz. With VRR activated, there is no screen tearing and the game still runs smoothly even as frame rates fluctuate. The screen's brightness of 500 nits ensures it is seen clearly no matter how bright the surrounding environment gets.
Battery Life
The Claw A8 stands out with its large 80Wh Li-Polymer battery. This makes the Claw A8 stronger than before and it's significantly better than the competition, which usually offers 40Wh. Because of this, gaming sessions with this handheld are expected to last longer compared to other portable devices.
Conclusion
By using an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor and a Radeon 890M graphics card, the MSI Claw A8 has made a significant difference for MSI's line of handheld gaming devices. With a big and colorful 8-inch screen and an unmatched battery of 80Wh, it easily stands out in the portable PC gaming world.
