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Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
MSI Claw A8 Gaming Performance Review : RYZEN Z2 Extreme
What if the future of handheld gaming wasn't tied to Windows or consoles? Imagine a device that combines the raw power of AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme with the open source flexibility of Linux, delivering a portable gaming experience that challenges the status quo. Enter the MSI Claw A8, a bold contender in the handheld market that dares to redefine what's possible for Linux gaming. With its innovative hardware and promising benchmarks, it's easy to see why this device is making waves. But as with any innovation, the road to perfection is paved with challenges—software limitations and incomplete functionality hint at the hurdles still ahead. In this review, ETA Prime explore what makes the MSI Claw A8 a standout in the burgeoning world of Linux gaming. From its innovative APU to its surprising performance advantages over Windows, this device offers a glimpse into a future where open source gaming isn't just viable—it's competitive. But is the Claw A8 ready to meet the expectations of gamers seeking seamless performance and portability? By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of whether this ambitious handheld is a revolution in the making or a work in progress. Key Features of the MSI Claw A8 The MSI Claw A8 is the first handheld device to feature AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, a processor specifically designed for gaming. Its specifications highlight a balance of power and portability, making it a serious contender in the handheld gaming market. Powerful APU: The Ryzen Z2 Extreme features 8 cores and 16 threads, with clock speeds reaching up to 5 GHz, making sure smooth performance even in demanding games. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme features 8 cores and 16 threads, with clock speeds reaching up to 5 GHz, making sure smooth performance even in demanding games. Ample Memory: Equipped with 24 GB of RAM, the device allocates 8 GB to the Radeon 890M integrated GPU (iGPU), enhancing multitasking and graphical capabilities. Equipped with 24 GB of RAM, the device allocates 8 GB to the Radeon 890M integrated GPU (iGPU), enhancing multitasking and graphical capabilities. Impressive Graphics: The Radeon 890M, with 16 compute units, delivers robust graphical performance, allowing high-quality visuals on a portable platform. These features position the Claw A8 as a device capable of handling modern gaming demands while maintaining the portability expected of handheld systems. Linux Compatibility: Progress and Limitations While the hardware of the Claw A8 is undeniably impressive, its software compatibility presents a more nuanced picture. The device demonstrates the potential of Linux gaming but also highlights areas where further development is needed. Steam OS Challenges: The popular Linux-based gaming platform, Steam OS, does not currently boot on the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, limiting its out-of-the-box appeal for some users. The popular Linux-based gaming platform, Steam OS, does not currently boot on the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, limiting its out-of-the-box appeal for some users. Basite OS Success: Basite OS, another Linux-based operating system, has been successfully installed and runs smoothly, showcasing the device's adaptability. Basite OS, another Linux-based operating system, has been successfully installed and runs smoothly, showcasing the device's adaptability. Core Functionality: Essential features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, and controller support work seamlessly on Basite OS, making sure a functional gaming experience. Essential features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, and controller support work seamlessly on Basite OS, making sure a functional gaming experience. Inactive Features: Certain elements, including the rear macro keys and additional front buttons, remain non-functional, highlighting areas for future software updates. These mixed results underline the evolving nature of Linux gaming on handheld devices. While some limitations may deter potential users, the Claw A8 demonstrates that Linux gaming is a viable and promising option. MSI Claw A8 RYZEN Z2 Extreme Gaming Watch this video on YouTube. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on handheld games consoles. Performance Benchmarks: Linux Outshines Windows The MSI Claw A8 delivers impressive gaming performance on Linux, often surpassing its Windows counterpart in key benchmarks. This performance highlights the potential of Linux as a gaming platform when paired with advanced hardware like the Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU. Cyberpunk 2077: Achieves 51 FPS on Basite OS compared to 46 FPS on Windows at a 25W TDP, showcasing better optimization on Linux. Achieves 51 FPS on Basite OS compared to 46 FPS on Windows at a 25W TDP, showcasing better optimization on Linux. Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Runs at 70 FPS on Basite OS versus 64 FPS on Windows at 1080p low settings, demonstrating Linux's capability to handle demanding titles. Runs at 70 FPS on Basite OS versus 64 FPS on Windows at 1080p low settings, demonstrating Linux's capability to handle demanding titles. Other Games: Titles such as Street Fighter 6 , Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart , Elden Ring , The Witcher 3 , and Spider-Man 2 also show promising results, further solidifying Linux's viability as a gaming platform. These benchmarks emphasize the Claw A8's ability to deliver a high-quality gaming experience, making it a strong contender in the handheld gaming market. Battery Efficiency: Optimizing Performance and Longevity Battery life is a critical consideration for handheld gaming devices, and the Claw A8 offers impressive flexibility in this area. By using third-party tools like Simple Decki TDP Control, users can adjust the device's TDP (Thermal Design Power) to balance performance and battery life effectively. Low-Power Gaming: At a 6W TDP, the device achieves over 9 hours of battery life during low-power indie gaming sessions, making it ideal for extended playtime. At a 6W TDP, the device achieves over 9 hours of battery life during low-power indie gaming sessions, making it ideal for extended playtime. Performance Scaling: With a TDP range of 4W to 40W, users can prioritize either maximum performance for demanding games or extended battery life for casual gaming. This adaptability ensures that the Claw A8 can cater to a variety of gaming needs, from casual sessions to more intensive gameplay, without compromising on usability. Challenges and Future Potential Despite its strengths, the MSI Claw A8 faces several challenges that could impact its adoption among Linux gaming enthusiasts. These hurdles, however, also highlight areas for potential growth and improvement. Software Limitations: The lack of official Steam OS support restricts its appeal to a broader audience, particularly those already invested in the Steam ecosystem. The lack of official Steam OS support restricts its appeal to a broader audience, particularly those already invested in the Steam ecosystem. Incomplete Features: Non-functional rear macro keys and additional buttons detract from the device's overall usability, underscoring the need for further software development. Nevertheless, the Claw A8's strong performance on Basite OS and its potential for future software optimizations suggest a promising trajectory. As Linux gaming continues to evolve, devices like the Claw A8 are likely to benefit from improved compatibility, enhanced functionality, and broader software support. A Milestone for Handheld Linux Gaming The MSI Claw A8 represents a significant step forward in the realm of handheld Linux gaming. Its powerful hardware, combined with the performance advantages of Basite OS, positions it as an intriguing option for gamers seeking an alternative to Windows-based devices. While challenges such as incomplete feature functionality and limited software support remain, the Claw A8's early results are encouraging. With further optimizations and broader Linux compatibility, this device has the potential to set a new standard for portable gaming, paving the way for a more diverse and accessible gaming landscape. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Reviews, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Tom's Guide
3 days ago
- Tom's Guide
MSI Claw A8 with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme gets August launch date in Europe — here's when it may release globally
Next-gen gaming handhelds are upon us, as the MSI Claw A8 looks to be the first to deliver AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme performance. Now, it's set to launch in Germany this August — but there's still no sign of a global release date. According to MSI Germany, the MSI Claw A8 is set to launch between August 4 and August 10, as it states it will be released from "week 32" of this year (spotted by VideoCardz). Pre-orders are also available around Europe, with prices at €999 at the German MSI Store. This comes a month after the MSI Claw A8 launched in China, but there's been no mention of when it will launch in other markets, including the U.S. and the U.K. However, gaming outlet Press Start has reported that the MSI Claw A8 will release in September, with prices starting at $1,749 AUD. Both European and Australian prices put the MSI Claw A8 at over $1,100 when converted, with many believing the gaming handheld will come in at $999. Along with the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally X tipped to be around the same price, it shows the PC handhelds are going to be quite the pricey venture for all markets. Interestingly, MSI announced it's releasing an update that fixes the performance drops in "Manual Mode" when adjusting TDP, among other updates. Despite the handheld not being released to global markets yet, it's already getting a big update. MSI appears to be staggering its launch of its MSI Claw A8 in different markets, as there's currently no word when it will arrive in the U.S. Tariffs could be to blame, but with these releases, it could be inching towards an official release date soon. With the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X set to launch this fall, likely to be around October or November, MSI will want to beat Microsoft's gaming handheld to the punch, seeing as the Xbox Ally X also comes with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Now, with a launch date set in Australia for this September, it's likely the other markets will follow suit — if not a little later in the month. Of course, this is all just speculation, but with the MSI Claw A8 already set to arrive in Germany (and likely the rest of Europe) this August, and the gaming handheld already getting an update, it's looking like it won't be long until we see the MSI Claw A8 arrive in more markets around the globe. For now, we'll have to sit tight and wait awhile to see when the Ryzen Z2 Extreme-equipped MSI Claw A8 officially launches. It's set to deliver a major boost in PC handheld gaming, sporting an 80Wh battery, up to 24GB of RAM and an 8-inch 1080p 120Hz display. We were impressed with the upcoming handheld in our hands-on with the MSI Claw A8, so here's hoping it sticks the landing. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Tom's Guide
21-07-2025
- Tom's Guide
The MSI Claw A8 is now available to pre-order in Europe — when is it coming to North America?
The MSI Claw A8 is now available to pre-order in Europe. That's significant since this is the first time that the new gaming handheld is available to markets outside of China. Although we don't yet have a North American release date, this news gives us hope in the States that we'll see MSI's machine arrive on our shores soon. Per VideoCardz reports, European vendors like Alza and currently have the MSI Claw A8 priced at €975 and €978 (respectively). This is slightly less than the current MSI Claw 8 AI+, which retails for $999. Austria, Germany and Slovakia are the first European countries that can pre-order MSI's new handheld, though none of the aforementioned retailers say when the Claw A8 will start shipping. As we've reported, the MSI Claw A8 will be the first gaming handheld to utilize an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor. This could make it one of the most powerful Windows 11 handhelds yet. On top of that, the Claw A8 features a more ergonomic design and even comes in a bold new Neon Green color. It has all of that with the same 80Wh battery, up to 24GB of RAM and an 8-inch 1080p 120Hz display. In his MSI Claw A8 hands-on preview, Jason England said he was floored by the handheld's gaming performance. When playing Lies of P on his Asus ROG Ally, he sets the game to medium graphical settings and turns on resolution scaling to achieve 60 frames per second. With these same settings, Lies of P ran at an astonishing 100 fps. We'd need to get the handheld into our lab for formal testing, but Jason's experience bodes well for the handheld. I was disappointed with the original MSI Claw 7, but the company made a big improvement with the MSI Claw 8+ AI. Now that MSI is using an AMD chip for the Claw A8, we could see the strongest Steam Deck competitor yet. As for North American pricing, I wouldn't be surprised if the MSI Claw 8 costs $999 like the Claw 8 AI+. A lower price would be better, but given its updated specs and the ongoing uncertainty with US tariffs, I'm not sure MSI can drop the price much lower. I hope I'm wrong about that, but we'll hopefully hear about a North American release soon. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Tom's Guide
16-07-2025
- Tom's Guide
AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme benchmarks revealed — here's how the MSI Claw A8 and ROG Xbox Ally X may perform
Gaming handhelds are about to see a major boost in gaming performance thanks to AMD's new flagship chip, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, and we now have a taste of what to expect thanks to new benchmarks. The first AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme benchmarks are in on Geekbench, as spotted by X user Olrak29_, showcasing the performance we can expect in the upcoming MSI Claw A8 — both in CPU and GPU performance. In the Geekbench 6 CPU results, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme-equipped MSI Claw A8 delivered a 2,748 single-core score, along with a 12,182 multi-core score. This is a strong improvement over its predecessor, the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, with around a 27% boost overall compared to other Geekbench benchmarks (via Wccftech). We expected a major boost in performance, with AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme coming with 8 cores and 16 threads based on Zen 5 architecture for faster multitasking, 15W to 35W power output and 16 GPU cores from its Radeon 890M iGPU with AMD's RDNA 3.5 to deliver FSR and frame-gen tech to boost frame rates. Speaking of graphics, the GPU performance is also shown on Geekbench, with a Vulkan score of 45,064 and an OpenCL score of 37,970. As per the Geekbench results, this pushes past the AMD Ryzen 9 HX 370 (44,399/37,297) and crushes the Z1 Extreme (34,715/29,632). According to the results shown on Geekbench, here's how it measures up against the previous Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU in the Asus ROG Ally X, along with the laptop equivalent AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in the Asus TUF Gaming A14 in our testing. Devices Geekbench 6 Single core Geekbench 6 multi-core MSI Claw A8 (AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme) 2748 12182 Asus ROG Ally X (AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme) 2565 11085 Asus TUF Gaming A14 (AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370) 2863 12729 As you can see, this shows a smaller boost in CPU performance (a 6-9% boost), but given the Z2 Extreme APU is made for handheld gaming, this is still a solid uplift, and the GPU power it appears to offer will make this chip a beast for gaming on the move. Plus, it isn't certain if this ran on 15W or 30W power, and the MSI Claw A8 tested appears to use 16GB of DDR5 RAM as opposed to the 24GB it can go up to. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Regardless, the improvements are clear, and this also gives us a look at what the ROG Xbox Ally X will deliver, seeing as Microsoft's upcoming handheld comes with the same Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU. Rumor has it that the ROG Xbox Ally X may be priced around $799 to $899, and recent reports indicate the MSI Claw A8 will be around $860. While the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme looks to offer significant boosts in gaming performance, it's set to come at a premium cost. Many of the best gaming handhelds don't come cheap, but considering consoles like the recently launched $599 Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS and $449 Nintendo Switch 2 are far less, it will be interesting to see how the latest handhelds with Z2 Extreme performance take off. For a better look at how well MSI's upcoming handheld performs, check out our hands-on with the MSI Claw A8. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Tom's Guide
04-07-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
I love the MSI Claw A8, but its price proves PC handhelds are officially going off the rails — here's why
There's a very real chance that PC gaming handhelds could cost a thousand dollars as standard, and the pre-order pricing for the MSI Claw A8 with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme proves it. As confirmed by MSI, the new handheld is launching this month, and preorders have started in Asia on MSI's store, and the price given is 6,999 RMB. There is a lower price, that's offered via the Chinese government's 15% subsidy on consumer tech, which means you could get it for 5,949 RMB. But when flipped to USD, that subsidized cost is just under $740, and without, that skyrockets to $860. Pop sales tax on top and we're talking a thousand bucks. Now I know gaming handhelds can be expensive, but if we're at a point where they could be vastly more expensive than vastly more powerful gaming laptops, something's gone wrong here. If you want my personal recommendations on what to get instead, tap here to jump on down to those (including some tasty Prime Day deals). But for those of you who want more context on what just got revealed, let's talk about it. Everything seems largely the same as what I tested at Computex — giant 80Wh battery, all the same ports, a 1200p display (which we now know has a 500-nit peak brightness). But seeing WiFi 7 is a surprise. Previously, MSI confirmed to me that this was rocking WiFi 6E, so for online gaming, this has now become an altogether stronger machine. I'm a big fan of that. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. That doesn't take away from the inflationary pressure being felt by this potential price. Of course, there will be a variation . We're talking about the price in China here, with one version coming with the government's 15% subsidy, and the higher price including sales tax. But with the current global climate, I dare say that we could see that price go up. For example, the Intel-based MSI Claw 8 AI+ is priced the same as this AMD counterpart in China. The MSRP over here is $999, and when you take into account just what kind of gaming hardware you could get for a thousand bucks, that's where I start to fear that PC gaming handhelds are going off the rails. And it makes me especially nervous about the ROG Xbox Ally X. The simple answer is get a gaming laptop. But allow me to go into both scenarios here: Don't let that 0.9-inch thinness deceive you — the MSI Thin is a powerful beast with AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of super fast DDR5 RAM and a spacious 1TB SSD. Pair that with a 15-inch 1080p 144Hz display for fluid gaming and you've got a stellar system at its cheapest ever price. Inside, you get an Intel Core i5-13420H CPU, RTX 4050, 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD. This is enough to run AAA games at 1080p medium settings and squeeze 60 FPS out of them. In my hands-on time with the MSI Claw A8, I talked about how pricing being unknown makes me a bit nervous. Looking at the decent performance gains with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme in a bubble of not thinking about cost was impressive, but the price tag has to be fair. And put simply, if this pricing translates the way I'm thinking over to the U.S. and U.K., this ain't it. Handheld gaming does come with a premium, I get that. But not this kind of premium. If the Steam Deck proved anything, it's that you can get surprisingly impressive gaming performance from lower power (and lower cost) internals. And I can only cross my fingers and hope that $1,000 doesn't become the new defacto standard for handhelds.
