Latest news with #RyzenZ2Extreme
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.
Yahoo
15-06-2025
- Yahoo
AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme just brought AI to handhelds — should the competition be worried?
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. AMD's new Ryzen Z2 Extreme lineup has just been expanded with a game-changing twist: A built-in AI engine capable of 50 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of on-device AI compute. That puts it well above Microsoft's 40 TOPS Copilot+ PC requirement, and ahead of Intel's upcoming Lunar Lake platform and Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon X Elite. What sets this chip apart is its AI credentials and the fact that it delivers this power in a 35-watt envelope, making it suitable for compact handheld devices and ultra-portable laptops. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme is built on AMD's new Zen 5 CPU architecture, paired with RDNA 3.5 integrated graphics and support for LPDDR5X-8000 memory. It features 8 cores and 16 threads with up to 24MB of cache and a Radeon GPU with 16 compute units. The NPU is based on AMD's second-generation XDNA architecture, which handles AI inference without drawing heavily on CPU or GPU resources. This chip is a direct successor to the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which powered high-end handhelds like the original ROG Ally. It significantly upgrades efficiency, graphics performance, and AI capabilities. The dedicated NPU is capable of offloading Windows Studio Effects, AI-driven upscaling, noise suppression, and even real-time virtual assistant features, all of which run locally. Not everyone is thrilled by AMD's approach. Critics point out that the Z2 lineup actually comprises four different generations of silicon under a single name. PC Gamer emphasizes how Ryzen Z2 A appears to be nothing more than a rebranded Steam Deck's Van Gogh APU, with old Zen 2 CPU cores and RDNA 2 GPU, despite AMD pretending it's fresh silicon. Similarly, the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme is simply the existing Strix Point Z2 Extreme chip with the NPU enabled; there are no changes to core or GPU configurations beyond flipping on the AI engine. Critics argue that this muddied naming strategy makes it harder for consumers to understand what they're buying. Others also question the NPU's real-world impact. While the presence of AI hardware brings potential for on-device features such as adaptive gameplay and upscaling, some argue that RDNA 3.5 still lags behind AMD's desktop RDNA 4 and far behind Nvidia's Tensor core-equipped GPUs. At best, the benefit is currently theoretical. AMD's new chips are arriving just in time for a wave of next-generation handhelds. Asus has already confirmed that it's building new devices around the Z2 series. The Asus ROG Ally X is expected to feature the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, while Lenovo's Legion Go 2 and Go S are set to include both high-end and lower-tier options. Lenovo and MSI have also confirmed new devices around the Z2 series. MSI is adding a Z2 Extreme configuration to its Claw handheld, while Lenovo's Legion Go 2 and Go S are set to include both high-end and lower-tier options. AMD's move into AI-capable handheld chips puts pressure on Intel and Qualcomm. The Core Ultra 7 155H includes an integrated NPU rated at about 11 TOPS, while Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite offers up to 45 TOPS. Intel's upcoming Lunar Lake platform is also expected to reach 45 TOPS. By delivering 50 TOPS in a power envelope that works in handheld devices, AMD currently holds the edge in AI performance per watt. Unlike Snapdragon chips, AMD's processors are x86-based, meaning they offer full compatibility with the existing Windows game library. That remains a major advantage for handheld PCs. Combining high-end gaming performance with serious AI power, AMD is clearly looking to take the lead in bringing AI into the gaming handheld space. And with strong OEM support and a lineup that covers both premium and entry-level use cases, the Ryzen Z2 series may well power the next wave of portable PCs. If you're waiting for a handheld that can handle both AAA games and AI workflows, AMD just gave you 50 trillion reasons to pay attention. Xbox Ally X aims high, but there's one thing holding it back Nintendo seems ready for a problem the Switch 2 might face Intel Nova Lake: Everything we know so far
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.
Engadget
07-05-2025
- Engadget
ASUS and Microsoft's Xbox-branded handheld appears in leaked FCC photos
New photos leaked from the FCC appear to confirm that an Xbox-branded handheld gaming console is coming soon. A listing shows two versions of ASUS's ROG Ally 2 handheld, a dark model with a dedicated Xbox labeled button at the top left and a white version with the same button blacked out. The latter could carry a different function or be removed altogether from the production model, according to the leak (related to Wi-Fi modules) from Videocardz seen by The Verge . The models otherwise look identical but carry different specs, according to other parts of the listing. Both have 7-inch 120Hz displays, but the ROG Ally 2 Xbox version (RC73X1) will come with an AMD 8-Core 36W Ryzen Z2 Extreme and 64GB LPDDR5X memory, while the regular model (RC73YA) will pack an AMD 4-core 20W AMD Aeirth Plus chip (memory unknown). Compared to the ROG Ally, the Rog Ally 2 has a thicker design and more rounded grips. It also offers a pair of USB-C controllers, along with HDMI and 3.5mm connectors, according to the rear view. It's not yet known what the Xbox button will do, but Microsoft is expected to add features like support for the Xbox Game Bar, Play Anywhere functionality and Game Pass Ultimate. It could go even deeper, possibly launching the Xbox app on Windows, according to Videocardz . Some peripherals like the Backbone One already carry an Xbox button to open up the Xbox guide, show available games and more. We'll have to wait and see more details, but as Engadget's Sam Rutherford put it, "the case for an Xbox handheld seems so obvious it's kind of surprising Microsoft didn't announce one years ago."
Metro
07-05-2025
- Metro
Xbox handheld pic leaks in new photos of collaboration with Asus
Photos have emerged of Xbox's upcoming Asus handheld collaboration, which is expected to be released later this year. Microsoft has been teasing plans for two separate handhelds for some time now, with one being a next gen device and the other a third party collaboration. Based on a teaser trailer from last month, the latter appears to be a team-up with Asus, which launched its own handheld gaming device, the Asus ROG Ally, in 2023. The company's collaboration with Xbox, codenamed Project Kennan, has now seemingly leaked in full, through a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) listing in the US. As reported by VideoCardz, the pictures appear to show two variants of the upcoming Asus ROG Ally 2. The white version looks like the standard version of the handheld, while the black version is believed to be the Xbox device, aka Project Kennan. There isn't much to differentiate the two systems on the surface – very dusty exterior aside – but a button on the upper left of the black device appears to show a dedicated Xbox button (it's lacking any colour, but you can just about see the 'X' outline). This same button is on the white version too, although it doesn't appear to have the same Xbox marking. According to the leaked listing, the black Xbox model will be more powerful than its white counterpart. The former is said to use the Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with 8 cores and 36w TDP (thermal design power), while the white model uses AMD Aeirth Plus with 4 cores and 20w TDP. It's unclear whether the Xbox version will have a dedicated operating system, or if it will simply have better integration with the Xbox app through Windows. Considering Microsoft is working on another handheld though, which is a few years away, this will likely intended only as a stop-gap solution to test the market. More Trending Interestingly, Microsoft recently debuted a new 'Xbox PC' brand as part of its reveal for Gears Of War: Reloaded, so it's possible this Asus device could fit under that moniker. However, don't expect this to come cheap. The original Asus ROG Ally costs around £599 through the official store, and after Microsoft's recent price hikes due to US tariffs, it's likely this device will burn a significant hole in your wallet. Aside from the price, the big question is when this handheld will be officially shown. Microsoft has an Xbox summer showcase on June 8, but considering this is primarily an Asus device, it might instead debut at the Computex 2025 trade show on May 20, 2025. Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter, and sign-up to our newsletter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Nintendo Switch 2 is less than a month away – here's where you can pre-order MORE: Games Inbox: Was GTA 6 Trailer 2 a disappointment? MORE: 8 hidden details from GTA 6 Trailer 2 that show how the game will play
