Latest news with #MSIClawA8BZ2EM
Tom's Guide
29-05-2025
- Tom's Guide
MSI's Claw 8 AI+ just proved me dead wrong — thanks to this game-changing update
As you can tell by my hype levels around the AMD-armed MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM, I've been quick to count-out the Claw 8 AI+ packing Intel inside. That's not to say it's a bad device — actually it's rather good, and I know Intel has proclaimed that gaming handhelds are the company's 'number one priority.' But from the wider support of AMD's FSR optimizations vs Intel's XeSS, to the better power efficiency in my own use, anything with Ryzen in the name is what my money's on. But a huge driver update from Intel just made me eat my own words. I've been testing this for the past few weeks (including during my long haul flight over to Computex 2025) to see what performance and power efficiency gains I can get. Spoiler alert: Intel has basically caught up! This is the most powerful 7-inch gaming handheld you can buy — packing the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (with that shiny new driver update), 32GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD. On top of that, the FHD 120Hz display is gorgeous. Same as above, but with a larger 1920 x 1200 display that looks brighter in use, alongside a 1TB SSD inside and a bigger battery to power it all. Back at the end of April, Intel pushed out a performance update to improve gaming on its 200V Lunar Lake chips — specifically targeting the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+. If you don't have it yet, head over to Intel's driver site and download 32.0.101.6734 or newer. In this update, Intel is promising two things: And all of this is happening at the custom 17W profile in the Claw, which means you're getting more out of your graphics for the same amount of power consumption — at least on paper, so let's put that to the test. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Most interestingly, I started this whole thing not feeling so confident. That's because the 3DMark benchmarks were actually slightly lower than pre-update. I know the rudimentary 3DMarks aren't necessarily the most accurate reading compared to actual in-game performance, but it's still a graphics benchmark. This made me fear that things may have actually headed in the wrong direction. But then I opened my regular rotation of in-flight games and…well…the difference is night and day! This makes me think that Intel has quietly reassigned some of that power away from the CPU in favor of the GPU. 3DMark is a graphics test, but there is a CPU component to it as well. And the end result is benchmarks that look comparatively weaker, but game performance is boosted dramatically. But of course. This isn't really how you play on handhelds — you take any resolution scaling and frame generation techniques you can get, and the resulting difference is big. Whether I was speeding through Mexico at over 200 MPH in Forza Horizon 5 or walking my way through the densely populated Night City in Cyberpunk 2077, there was no stuttering in any of these games. Frame rates were impressively smooth for a device this small drawing as little power as it is. Luckily, the flight I was on had power outlets so I could play games the whole time. But I did want to check the battery, so I unplugged and fired up Forza Horizon 5. This is the proof that I needed to see. You're getting more out of that GPU while also maintaining pretty much the same battery life. Of course, you can reduce that power to 8 watts to get even more if you dabble in some less demanding games too! With the 7-inch model at $899 and the Claw 8 AI+ you see here weighing in at $999, these are pricey investments for a gaming handheld. For context, the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS is shipping for $600 — granted it's got a lower-powered AMD Ryzen Z2 Go chip in there, but the point stands! It goes even further when you realize that the same Legion Go S with Windows is $200 more. Turns out not only does Windows 11 kind of suck on a gaming handheld (and to everybody only discovering this now, we've been telling you for nearly a year now), turns out it's pricey too. This is indeed the most powerful handheld you can get, and Intel has officially thrown its hat into the ring to square up to AMD. But now, we need something like this to be more affordable to really duke it out.
Tom's Guide
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
I tried the updated Zotac Zone handheld and one big change makes it a true Steam Deck rival
One of my favorite handheld gaming PCs from last year's show is back at Computex 2025 in a big way with seriously more powerful internals and a sleek all-white colorway. While we did get to go hands-on with the new AMD-powered MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM, this particular handheld is from Zotac. Last year at Computex, the Zotac Zone really impressed me with its symmetrical thumbsticks, gorgeous 7-inch AMOLED display, Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers and a few other nifty features I hadn't seen before. In fact, I liked it so much, I even considered picking one up for myself. However, it was hard to come by and all of that initial hype died down quickly since the original Zotac Zone arrived quite late in the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U's life cycle. Now though, Zotac is back with a brand new version of its Zone handheld that builds upon what worked with the original while making one major change that won't only potentially make it cheaper but will also help when it comes to game performance. Everything I liked about the original Zotac Zone is still here from its symmetrical thumbsticks to the trackpads below them like on the Steam Deck. Likewise, both thumbsticks also have a turnable dial at their base which you can use to quickly adjust things like the device's volume without having to reach around to the volume buttons up top. One thing that I thought was particularly cool about the original Zotac Zone is how I was able to use the dial underneath the right thumbstick to scroll through menus in Horizon Forbidden West. These dials can also be customized to your liking and I'm sure this new powerful Zone will retain this unique feature. Another thing that immediately set the Zotac Zone apart from other handhelds is that — just like on the PS Vita — it has a front-facing camera. From taking video calls to live streaming while you play, I always thought this was a neat addition that I'd like to see other handheld gaming PCs copy. One difference between the original and this new model though is that the camera has been moved from the handheld's left to right side which feels a bit more natural, at least to me. Processor AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Graphics AMD Radeon 890M RAM 24-32GB LPDDR5X Storage 1TB NVMe M.2 2280 SSD Display 7-inch AMOLED Resolution 1920 x 1080 Battery 48.5 Wh Connectivity Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 Ports 2 x USB4, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, microSD card reader Dimensions 12.2 x 5.3 x 1.6 inches OS Manjaro Linux, Steam Gaming Mode Besides its new all-white design, the biggest change hardware-wise when it comes to this updated Zone handheld is that Zotac is giving its internals a major refresh. It sports a much faster Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 chip with Radeon 890M graphics, a 48.5Wh battery, 1TB SSD, a microSD card reader and a pair of USB4 ports. While the new Zotac Zone's specs are pretty much finalized, a company rep on the show floor asked me what I thought would make more sense memory wise: 24GB or 32GB of RAM. There are now several handheld gaming PCs like the Asus ROG Ally X and the new MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM that ship with 24GB of RAM. However, at the moment, only the Lenovo Legion Go and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition can be outfitted with up to 32GB of RAM. There could very well likely end up being two models of the new Zone but with 32GB of RAM and a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Chip, this updated handheld is going to be able to run almost everything you throw at it, especially considering the other big change Zotac is making. Let's face it, putting Windows 11 on a handheld is expensive for manufacturers and it also makes using the device to play games a whole lot more tedious. Microsoft's latest operating system just wasn't designed with handheld gaming in mind whereas Valve built SteamOS for this very purpose from the ground up. Well, with the new Zone, Zotac is ditching Windows for Linux and this could be a game changer for the updated handheld. Not only is Linux a more lightweight operating system overall, tons of the best PC games have already been optimized for it thanks to the Steam Deck. Unlike the Steam Deck which is based on Arch Linux, the new Zotac Zone will run Manjaro Linux. While Arch is more bleeding edge and gets updates faster, Manjaro has a more user-friendly experience. Similar to the Steam Deck, you'll be able to access a full Linux desktop environment on the Zotac Zone. Then when you want to game, you can switch over to Steam Gaming Mode where you'll have a more game-friendly UI which is almost identical to the one on the Steam Deck. With the two buttons under the touchpad on the right of the Zotac Zone, you'll be able to bring up a quick menu while playing games. The Home button brings up Zotac's own quick menu while the button with three dots brings up the same quick menu you'll find on the Steam Deck. It's always nice to have options right? The decision to make the switch from Windows to Linux is a welcome one and with all that extra power under the hood, this updated Zotac Zone handheld is already looking really promising. The original Zotac Zone was one of my favorite devices at Computex last year. In fact, we even gave it our award for best gaming handheld since the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus was locked away in a glass case and I didn't actually get a chance to go hands-on with it until CES 2025. Keep in mind that the upgraded Zotac Zone I got to try this year at Computex is still a prototype, so we might see some changes in the final model. I'm just hoping that this time around, it will be more readily available as it could easily end up being one of the best Steam Deck alternatives if it's priced competitively. Still, with no Steam Deck 2 currently in the works or on the way, the Zotac Zone running Linux will give you the Steam Deck-like experience with a lot more power for all the latest games.I'll be keeping a close eye on this one myself as I've always wanted to put the Zotac Zone through its paces in a home environment and not on the crowded C
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Time of India
MSI reveals new Claw A8 handheld with AMD Ryzen power
In the world of handheld consoles, MSI Claw is a renowned name. Despite the dominance of Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PS Portal, Asus ROG Ally, and many more, this Windows based has held firm in the console market. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Now it seems MSI is looking to carry forward its legacy to a whole new level as the company has recently revealed the latest Claw A8 BZ2EM handheld gaming PC at Computex 2025. This recently announced system is jam-packed with impressive specs, which has made the gaming community go frenzy over it. The all new MSI Claw A8 is now revealed MSI has revealed the MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM along with a new edition of Claw 8 AI+. | Image via MSI. The recently revealed handheld console is going to be the first leap ever by MSI from Intel-based chips to AMD-powered processors. The MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM is going to feature a custom made processor, which is designed specifically for handheld gaming. The main highlight of this processor is its insane power efficiency, which is obviously needed for a handheld device. Not only that, this chip keeps the console a lot cooler, which is again an important aspect for a handheld gaming PC. Now coming to the GPU, the MSI Claw A8 will boast a Radeon 890M graphic card, which is obviously a part of AMD's APU. The GPU is based on the RDNA 3.5 architecture with 16 computing units, which is best in this segment in terms of visual performance. Keeping in mind the capability of this APU, this upcoming system is supposed to run modern AAA titles at 1080p with ease. With an 8-inch full HD (1920x1080) 120Hz touchscreen display, this console will have up to 24 GB of DDR5 RAM along with up to 1 TB of M.2 SSD. However, the most exciting feature has to be its 80Wh battery which is massive for a handheld console. Steam Deck, which is one of the most popular handheld gaming devices in the market right now, has a 40Wh battery. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now So, in Claw A8, it's double. Despite revealing so much information, MSI is yet to disclose the release date and price details of this highly promising handheld gaming device. Looking at the price of the currently available Claw 8 AI Plus, which is priced at $999.99, the Claw A8 is believed to priced in that similar range. Read More:
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Business Standard
20-05-2025
- Business Standard
MSI unveils AMD Ryzen-powered Claw A8 gaming handheld at Computex 2025
Taiwanese electronics brand MSI has officially unveiled a new variant of its Claw A8 handheld gaming device at Computex 2025, this time powered by AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor. The new model will offer up to 24GB of DDR5 RAM, slightly less than the 32GB available on the Intel-powered version. The AMD-powered Claw A8 BZ2EM marks MSI's entry into offering dual chipset options for its gaming handheld line-up. While the Intel version is already on the market, the AMD edition expands the line-up to give consumers more hardware flexibility. MSI has not yet disclosed pricing details or the expected launch date for the AMD version of the Claw A8. MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM: Details The MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM is a handheld gaming device equipped with some powerful hardware under the hood. According to a report by The Verge, MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM's core is the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, paired with an AMD Radeon 890M GPU. The system reportedly supports up to 24GB of RAM. The device is likely to feature an 8-inch full HD (1080p) display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support. Storage options will reportedly include a single M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 slot along with a microSD card reader, providing flexibility for expanding game libraries and media. According to the report, MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM will be shipped with a 80Wh battery and will run on Windows 11 Home, giving users access to a full desktop operating environment. Despite its performance capabilities, the device will reportedly be relatively compact and portable, measuring 299.5 x 126.2 x 24mm and weighing in at 765 grams. MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM: Expected specifications Display: 8-inch, 1080p, 120Hz, VRR Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme GPU: AMD Radeon 890M RAM: Up to 24GB Storage: 1x M.2 2280 (PCIe 4.0 x4) and 1x microSD card reader Battery: 80Wh Operating System: Windows 11 Home Dimensions: 299.5 x 126.2 x 24mm Weight: 765g
Tom's Guide
20-05-2025
- Tom's Guide
I just tested the MSI Claw A8 with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme — it's so good it made me forget about the Nintendo Switch 2
'When are you going to make an AMD version of the MSI Claw?' You have no idea how many times I've asked this question to MSI — how relentless I've been in wanting them to branch out from Intel and take a taste of Team Red. In fact, it got to the point that when I finally got my hands on the MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM at Computex 2025, a certain company asked a simple question: 'happy?' And oh boy am I, but not just because of the decision made to jump to Ryzen Z2 Extreme. Because that could've just been it and I would be satisfied, but MSI went all-out here with a fresh new aesthetic popping all kinds of color finishes, overhauled ergonomics that make this feel incredible in the hand, and buttons that feel clicker and more satisfyingly tactile. Pair that with that same giant 80Wh battery, up to a massive 24GB of RAM and a gorgeous 1080p 120Hz display, and you're looking at what could very well be one of the best gaming handhelds you can buy — yes, possibly even better than Nintendo Switch 2 (in my opinion). But I do have two questions that are being left worryingly unanswered. First, with the move to AMD, that means we can get SteamOS, right? …right!? And second, while there isn't any pricing information, the fact the Intel version can be found for $949 makes me rather concerned that the BZ2EM could very well break into a four-figure price tag. Let me take you through what I do know, though. And what I do know is that this thing is a beast. Processor AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme GPU AMD Radeon 890M RAM Up to 24GB Display 8", 1080p, 120Hz, VRR Storage 1x M.2 2280 (PCIe 4.0 x4) and 1x microSD card reader Battery 80Wh Operating System Windows 11 Home Wireless connectivity 299.5 x 126.2 x 24mm (11.79 x 4.97 x 0.94) Weight 765g Welcome to the Team Red Claw. But MSI has done a lot more than just change the internals. Let's talk about it. We've all been expecting the Asus ROG Ally 2 to welcome us into the world of AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme. But MSI has stolen the company's thunder and burst through the door with its new Claw. This is great for offering choice for gamers between using the built-in graphics of Intel or AMD, but given what I experienced, I'd anticipate most players to opt for the Z2. Why? Well because it's phenomenal in gaming. Normally when playing Lies of P, I'm making strategic choices to balance between fidelity and frame rate — opting for a mix of medium and high settings (with resolution scaling turned on) to achieve 60 FPS on my Asus ROG Ally. Meanwhile, flick on those exact same settings here, and I had to do a double take at the 8-inch display running at a fully locked 100 FPS. I wasn't able to see the wattage going to the chip on the stand, but if it's anywhere close to like-for-like, the performance improvement is going to be significant. First of all, shout-out to the fact that this is not just another gray, black or white gaming handheld. The bold pop of color across the front of the shell here is an eye-catcher that gives this serious gaming machine a far more fun aesthetic than I expected — big fan! Second, MSI has made some tweaks to the ergonomics here that makes it feel immediately better than past versions, and even better than my Steam Deck. The grips are now squared off which makes it far easier to grab a hold of, the joysticks have a nice accurate smoothness to them, the buttons feel more pronounced on the face of it and have a nicer, more tactile click to them. Everything comes together in a gaming package I'd love to spend hours and hours with! So we're off to an amazing start, but I do have two little issues. MSI is celebrating the variety of choice gamers get here between Intel and AMD, which is all fine and good. But that doesn't address the whole Windows 11 kind of sucking on a gaming handheld screen. Lenovo's played a fast one by offering either Windows or SteamOS, and MSI should absolutely do the same now they have a chip that supports it! Much like a lot of the tech I'm seeing at Computex this year, there's a big unknown about prices. That much is the same for the new Claw, and I'm a little nervous. Why? Well the Intel alternative to this is already on sale… for $949. So what the hell is the maxed out Ryzen Z2 model going to cost!? But worries aside, one thing is clear: the MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM is a serious contender to the crown. MSI has gone on such a journey of transformation — from having a rather weak start with the first generation packing that old Intel Core Ultra chip, to leading the pack with Z2 Extreme. If you're serious about ultraportable gaming on-the-go, this should be on your watchlist. Once we've tested it properly, expect a scored review.
