The Claw A8 from MSI now runs on AMD’s performance-driven platform.

Although the device features only 24GB of RAM which is below the 32GB of memory found in last year's Intel-based Claw 8 AI Plus model it maintains an 8-inch full HD screen alongside a 120Hz refresh rate and a 1TB M.2 SSD. The AMD-powered Claw A8 will be available in two color options: white and lime green.

Although MSI's original Claw handheld had a rocky debut in March 2024, the launch of the Claw 8 AI Plus marked a strong comeback for the brand. Lenovo chose one of AMD’s new handheld-focused chips for the Legion Go S however it runs the less powerful Z2 Go version which my colleague Sean Hollister described as “unable to compete” against its predecessor’s Z1 Extreme.

With the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V under the hood and a 2TB NVMe SSD, the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus ‘Polar Tempest’ delivers next-level performance and storage. MSI describes its white coating as “glittering.” MSI has not provided release dates or pricing details for either device but they are expected to be priced similarly to the standard Intel-powered MSI Claw 8 Plus which Best Buy offers at $999.99.

This Claw model's maximum memory capacity remains below that of the Intel-powered devices in MSI's lineup. The device supports up to 32 GB of memory but most games will not utilize the additional 8 GB. MSI has equipped its first AMD-powered Claw with the same battery pack that delivers ample power thanks to its impressive 80Whr capacity. AMD's processor requires less power compared to its Intel counterpart which results in marginally extended battery longevity between charges.