The competition in the handheld gaming PC world is heating up, and MSI is looking to make some serious waves. MSI’s Claw handheld PC entered the handheld arena earlier this year, equipped with an Intel chipset, but rumors suggest a dramatic pivot in the company’s strategy. Reports indicate that MSI may soon switch to AMD processors for its next-generation high-end Claw handheld devices — a move that could significantly change the landscape of portable gaming.
Why the Shift to AMD?
At the heart of this rumor lies one undeniable truth: AMD dominates the handheld gaming market right now. Devices like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, powered by custom AMD APUs, have demonstrated the efficiency, power, and flexibility AMD’s architecture brings to handheld form factors.
MSI’s initial Claw, while praised for its sleek design and robust build quality, fell somewhat short when it came to performance efficiency — particularly in comparison to AMD counterparts. With Intel’s Meteor Lake architecture not delivering quite the right balance between power and thermals, MSI appears ready to revisit the foundations of its handheld platform.
Potential Benefits of the AMD Shift
Switching to AMD chips offers several clear advantages:
- Superior power efficiency – Crucial for extended gaming sessions without interrupting the flow.
- Strong integrated graphics – AMD’s RDNA3-powered iGPUs are among the best in the game.
- Enhanced developer support – AMD’s open approach offers more finely-tuned optimizations for handheld experiences.
- Proven track record – Most successful handheld gaming PCs use AMD silicon at their core.
What This Means for Gamers
If MSI does make the jump to AMD chips, it could make the Claw a significantly more competitive device within the already fast-growing handheld gaming segment. Here’s how gamers could benefit:
1. Improved Battery Life
One of AMD’s key advantages is its stellar performance-per-watt ratio. For users, this translates to longer gameplay time on a single charge. Intel chips, particularly those in the Meteor Lake family, are powerful but are often more power-hungry, making them less ideal for portable gaming machines where battery life is precious.
2. More Gaming Power in a Compact Form
AMD’s APUs blend multi-core CPU architecture with powerful integrated graphics. With support for cutting-edge RDNA architecture, games run smoother and look better without the need for discrete GPUs. As seen with the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, titles like Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077 are not only playable but impressive in handheld format when AMD tech is under the hood.
3. Enhanced Compatibility
Thanks to tools like AMD’s FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution), games are optimized to scale well on lower wattage systems. These features promise greater visual fidelity and improved framerates — perfect for gamers on the go.
The Claw Reimagined: What to Expect
While we haven’t seen a full spec sheet or official confirmation yet, rumors hint at a bold redesign with AMD at its core. Enthusiasts and insiders alike are speculating potential inclusions such as:
- AMD Ryzen Z1 or Phoenix-series APUs – Built for gaming power and portability
- 8- to 16-core hybrid CPU setups – For next-gen multitasking and power efficiency
- RDNA3-based GPU performance – Delivering console-like graphics in the palm of your hand
- Faster LPDDR5X RAM – Supporting higher game load speeds and multitasking fluidity
Display Upgrades And Design Enhancements?
Alongside a chip upgrade, we might see MSI polishing other hardware elements. OLED or high-refresh-rate LCD screens, better cooling solutions, and enhanced haptics are all on the table. Expect MSI to compete directly with higher-tier rivals like the ROG Ally X or even the Steam Deck OLED model.
MSI’s New Strategy: Learning from the Market
Releasing a Windows-based handheld PC in a market crowded with Linux-based and AMD-powered competitors was a bold move. However, compared to its AMD-driven peers, reviews noted that MSI’s Intel-based Claw suffered in some areas such as thermal efficiency and game optimization.
This rumored AMD transition signals a crucial insight: MSI is listening — not just to tech critics, but to the gaming community. With widespread demand for devices that offer both power and portability, an AMD-powered Claw could lead MSI into a whole new chapter of relevance in the handheld space.
Speculation vs. Reality: When Will We Know for Sure?
At this time, MSI has made no official announcement regarding the new AMD Claw. However, multiple reputable sources have reported insider leaks suggesting that development is already underway. With major tech conventions like Computex and CES always promising big reveals, it’s possible we might see a public unveiling in the near future.
Conclusion: A New Claw, A New Contender?
The handheld gaming market is more than just a niche — it’s become a battleground where performance, innovation, and efficiency reign. MSI’s rumored move from Intel to AMD for its high-end Claw PC isn’t just an internal design decision — it could be the strategy that determines the company’s future in this space.
If the rumors hold true, this pivot could result in a device that delivers premium AAA gaming in the palm of your hand, challenging titans like ASUS, Valve, and even Nintendo at their own game. One thing is certain: gamers are watching closely, and MSI’s next move could claw its way into an elite club of handheld legends.
Stay tuned for more updates as the story develops and official announcements roll out.
