MSI may switch to AMD chips for next-gen Claw handheld

The Claw 8 AI+ handheld gaming console by MSI currently features the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor based on the Lunar Lake architecture. It’s one of the few devices on the market not powered by AMD chips, which dominate the handheld gaming segment. However, recent leaks suggest MSI may shift direction and adopt AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor in its next iteration.

The rumor was first mentioned by X user CodeCommando in January and has recently been reaffirmed by hardware analysis site Igor’s Lab. If true, this would mark a significant strategic pivot for MSI, potentially balancing performance with reduced production costs.

The current Intel Core Ultra 7 258V powering the Claw 8 AI+ includes eight cores, eight threads, and an integrated Battlemage GPU. While it delivers strong performance—outpacing competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X—the device struggles with value for money. At approximately $900, it is priced considerably higher than alternatives like the Steam Deck or Ally X, making it less accessible to mainstream gamers.

A key reason for the high cost lies in the Lunar Lake chip’s on-package memory design, which is more expensive to manufacture than systems with separate memory modules. This cost factor may be prompting MSI to consider the Ryzen Z2 Extreme—a processor that could offer similar performance at a lower production cost.

Unveiled at CES 2025, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme features eight cores, sixteen threads, and a max clock speed of 5 GHz. Its integrated GPU boasts 16 RDNA 3.5 compute units—a 33% increase over the Z1 Extreme—promising improved graphics performance while maintaining a 35W power envelope, similar to Lunar Lake.

Switching to AMD would require MSI to redesign the motherboard and cooling system—technically demanding and costly changes. However, this investment could be offset by improved profit margins. While consumers might hope for a lower price, MSI is likely to maintain its premium product positioning and similar pricing.

Until MSI officially announces the next-generation Claw, the question of whether it will abandon Intel’s Lunar Lake platform remains unanswered. But if you're looking for a battle-tested device with a massive community, seamless Steam integration, and performance that’s already earned its stripes, the Steam Deck is still the handheld to beat. As always, for the latest news on hardware launches and industry developments, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.