by Table of Contents
Overview: MSI Goes AMD with Claw A8
At Computex 2025, MSI officially launched the MSI Claw A8, a successor to its original Intel-based Claw handheld. The Claw A8 marks a strategic shift in MSI’s approach by using AMD’s new Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, signaling a direct response to increasing competition from Valve, ASUS, and Lenovo.
This move places MSI directly in the AMD handheld ecosystem, promising better GPU performance and efficiency — a key factor for mobile gamers. With its sleek design, high-refresh-rate display, and gaming-focused specs, the Claw A8 is positioned to be a serious Steam Deck competitor.
MSI Claw A8 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | MSI Claw A8 |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme |
| GPU | Integrated RDNA 3 GPU |
| RAM | Up to 24GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | Up to 1TB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 8-inch Full HD (1920×1080), 120Hz |
| Battery | 80Wh dual-cell battery |
| OS | Windows 11 Home |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, microSD |
| Color Variants | White, Lime Green |
| Weight | Approx. 675g |
Key Improvements Over the Original Claw
MSI’s first Claw model received mixed feedback, mostly due to its Intel Meteor Lake chip, which struggled under gaming loads. The Claw A8 addresses those issues head-on:
- Better GPU Performance: Thanks to AMD’s RDNA 3 architecture.
- More Efficient Battery Usage: AMD’s chips are more power efficient, potentially giving longer play time.
- Faster RAM: Boosted to 24GB LPDDR5 for smoother multitasking.
- Improved Thermals: Redesigned heat pipes and dual-fan system.
This marks a much-needed refinement based on real-world gamer feedback.
Gaming Performance and Expectations
While exact benchmarks haven’t been published yet, early demos at Computex showed titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, and Forza Horizon 5 running smoothly at medium to high settings at 1080p — a big jump from the Intel-based version.
AMD’s Z2 Extreme chip is expected to rival the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which powers the ROG Ally. Early performance expectations suggest:
- 10-15% performance uplift vs Z1 Extreme
- Consistent 60 FPS gameplay in most AAA titles
- Improved thermal throttling control
Design & Build: Sleek Yet Rugged
The Claw A8 features a clean, futuristic design with smooth grips and redefined shoulder buttons. Unlike most handhelds that offer only black or gray colors, MSI spices things up with White and Lime Green variants.
Ergonomic Upgrades:
- Larger grips for extended gaming sessions
- Improved analog stick feedback
- Haptic triggers with better response time
- Custom RGB ring lighting around thumbsticks
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
Let’s compare the MSI Claw A8 with its top rivals:
| Feature | MSI Claw A8 | ASUS ROG Ally Z1E | Steam Deck OLED |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme | Ryzen Z1 Extreme | Custom AMD APU |
| Display | 8″ FHD, 120Hz | 7″ FHD, 120Hz | 7.4″ OLED, 90Hz |
| RAM | 24GB LPDDR5 | 16GB LPDDR5 | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| OS | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | SteamOS 3 |
| Price (Est.) | $999 | $699 | $649 |
The MSI Claw A8 is the most premium offering among these, targeted at enthusiasts who want the best specs and features.
Availability and Pricing
As of now, MSI has not officially revealed the release date or pricing of the Claw A8. However, based on its predecessor and current-gen competitors, experts speculate:
- Estimated Starting Price: $999 USD
- Expected Launch: Q3 2025
- Available In: North America, Europe, and Asia
Stay tuned for updates during the official Computex follow-up announcements.
MSI Claw A8 – Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with RDNA 3 GPU | High estimated price (~$999), making it premium-priced |
| 8-inch 120Hz Full HD display for smooth and immersive visuals | Potentially short battery life under heavy gaming loads |
| Up to 24GB LPDDR5 RAM – more than most competitors | Heavier and bulkier than Steam Deck and other handhelds (~675g) |
| Runs Windows 11 – supports all major game launchers | No Linux support – lacks SteamOS optimization |
| Expandable storage via microSD + up to 1TB NVMe SSD | Non-upgradable RAM and storage (soldered components) |
| Stylish, ergonomic design with color variants (White + Lime Green) | Availability may be region-limited at launch |
| Advanced cooling system with dual fans for better thermal control | Possibly overkill for casual gamers who prefer simpler devices |
Authoritative Sources
For further reading and reliable news updates:
- The Verge – MSI Claw A8 Launch
- MSI Official Website – Gaming Products
- Tom’s Hardware – AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Preview
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is the MSI Claw A8 better than Steam Deck?
In terms of raw performance, yes. It has better RAM, CPU, and GPU. But Steam Deck offers better Linux optimization.
Q2. Can I install Steam and Epic Games Launcher on it?
Yes. Since it runs Windows 11, you can install all major PC game launchers.
Q3. Does it support external GPUs (eGPUs)?
Not officially announced, but the USB4 port might make it possible.
Q4. Is the RAM upgradeable?
No, it’s soldered to the motherboard like most handhelds.
Q5. Is MSI Claw A8 worth the price?
If you’re looking for high-end handheld gaming and multitasking capabilities — absolutely.
Final Verdict
The MSI Claw A8 is not just a refresh — it’s a bold re-entry into the gaming handheld race. With AMD’s power, sleek design, and enhanced RAM, MSI is no longer playing catch-up. It’s setting a new benchmark for what premium portable gaming should look like in 2025.
