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MSI Claw A8 Handheld PC Debuts with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme
MSI has commenced sales of the Claw A8 PC Handheld, the direct successor to the original Claw, despite it’s possibly confusing name. While not yet physically available in stores, the complete specifications have been finalized, and pre-sales are now underway in Asia. The device is listed on JD.com, a major Chinese retailer, showcasing both the official price and a subsidized version.
MSI Claw A8 Pricing and key Specifications Unveiled
Pricing in China ranges from 5949 to 6999 RMB, which equates to approximately €810 with a state subsidy or €950 without, including VAT. The Chinese government provides a 15% subsidy for specific products to encourage consumer adoption. However, even with the subsidy, the price remains relatively high, potentially impacting its global marketability.
Did You No? The global handheld gaming market is projected to reach $14.8 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2024 [1].
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Price (China, subsidized) | ~€810 (5949 RMB) |
| Price (China, no subsidy) | ~€950 (6999 RMB) |
| Availability | Pre-sale in Asia |
AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme: A Handheld First
The MSI Claw A8 marks a important milestone as the first commercially available device powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU. This is notable considering that Asus and Lenovo were initially expected to be the primary launch partners for the Ryzen Z1 series, while MSI initially partnered with Intel. Asus is reportedly developing a ROG ally Xbox edition, and lenovo is working on a Go 2, but neither has released a device featuring the Z2 chips.
pro Tip: Keep an eye on import duties and taxes if you’re considering purchasing the MSI Claw A8 from outside of Asia. These costs can considerably increase the final price.
Enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 7
MSI has also quietly upgraded the Claw A8’s connectivity, now supporting Wi-Fi 7. This is an betterment over the Wi-Fi 6e compatibility initially announced at Computex. This enhancement aligns it with future devices based on Intel Lunar Lake in terms of wireless capabilities, providing a valuable advantage for a gaming device designed for long-term use.
AMD is actively developing additional Ryzen Z2 APUs for portable devices,but specific details remain scarce beyond the announcements from Asus and Lenovo. For now, MSI is taking center stage. Will MSI decide to lower the price for Western markets, or will they focus on a niche audience? What are your thoughts on the pricing strategy?
The Rise of Handheld Gaming PCs
Handheld gaming PCs have emerged as a compelling alternative to conventional consoles and gaming laptops, offering portability and the ability to play PC games on the go. The market has seen increased competition, with major players like Valve (Steam deck), Asus (ROG Ally), and now MSI entering the fray. These devices typically run on either Windows or Linux-based operating systems, providing access to vast libraries of games. The key to their success lies in balancing performance, battery life, and price, making them attractive to both casual and hardcore gamers.
frequently Asked Questions About the MSI Claw A8
- What is the MSI Claw A8?
- The MSI Claw A8 is a PC handheld device, succeeding the original Claw model, and is the first to officially feature the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU.
- What is the price range of the MSI Claw A8 in China?
- the MSI Claw A8 is priced between 5949 and 6999 RMB in China, which translates to approximately €810 with a state subsidy or €950 without, including VAT.
- What are the key features of the MSI Claw A8?
- Key features of the MSI Claw A8 include the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU and support for Wi-fi 7, an
