MSI is proving its ambition to dominate the handheld gaming market with the new Claw A8, introduced at Computex 2025. Based on benchmark results from reviewer Golden Pig Upgrade in China, this device recorded a significant performance increase compared to its predecessor, the Claw 8 AI+, especially when running AAA games at a low power consumption of 17W.
Ryzen Z2 Extreme asserts dominance in low power ranges
In a series of tests across 10 titles, the Claw A8, equipped with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme “Strix Point” chip, led in average FPS and frame rate stability. Games such as Far Cry 6, Monster Hunter Wilds, Elden Ring, and Cyberpunk 2077 all delivered superior results compared to the Claw 8 AI+. This confirms AMD’s advantage in the handheld gaming segment.
However, Intel still maintains an edge in certain titles. Hitman 3 is an example, where the Core Ultra 7 258V slightly outperforms the older Claw A8. Additionally, in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord and F1 24, Intel showed better 1% low frame rates, helping to maintain a more stable experience.
Configuration comparison and 30W power levels
At a higher power level of 30W, benchmark results show that the difference between the two devices does not change significantly. Intel gains an advantage in 5 titles, but AMD still holds the lead in most categories.
Regarding hardware, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme utilizes 3 high-performance Zen 5 cores + 5 power-efficient Zen 5c cores, paired with a Radeon 890M 16 CU RDNA 3.5 GPU. Meanwhile, the Core Ultra 7 258V integrates 4 Lion Cove cores + 5 Skymont cores, with an 8-core Arc Xe2 GPU.
Differences in design make the Claw A8 perform worse in handheld environments with limited battery life.
Price and potential in the handheld gaming market
With a price range of 900 – 1,000 USD, both the Claw A8 and Claw 8 AI+ models are reasonable for their performance. However, the Claw A8 is rated higher due to its ability to maintain high FPS in the 15 – 20W range, along with a 35W TDP ceiling when connected to AC power, demonstrating superior versatility.
Amidst fierce competition from the ASUS ROG Ally, Steam Deck, and Lenovo Legion Go, MSI with the Claw A8 is not just catching up but has the potential to set a new standard for handheld gaming in 2025.
Overall, the MSI Claw A8 with Ryzen Z2 Extreme delivers powerful performance while maintaining optimal power consumption for a handheld device. Although the Intel Core Ultra 7 still scores points in some games, AMD still asserts its superior position. This is certainly one of the most anticipated handheld gaming devices of the year.
