The market for portable consoles does not stop innovating, and the incursion of the MSI Claw with two distinct hardware offerings has sparked the interest of those seeking power and versatility in gaming. Two recently launched chips, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme and the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, have faced each other in a direct comparison that helps clarify which of the two offers better performance for the most demanding users.
This comparison is especially relevant, since MSI It's one of the few brands that offers its console in versions with both AMD and Intel processors. They've been tested under real-world conditions, thoroughly analyzing the performance and efficiency of both models.
MSI Claw: Two distinct variants
In the current range, MSI has launched the Claw A8 powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme., and the Claw 8 AI+ with the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V. The model with chip AMD Incorporates 8 Zen 5/Zen 5c cores and a Radeon 860M GPU with 16 RDNA 3.5 CUs. In the case of the model with Intel, Core Ultra 7 258V has 8 Skymont-Lion Cove cores and a Xe2-LPG GPU with 8 Xe2 cores, in addition to being based on Lunar Lake architecture.
The two devices have been subjected to a series of playable tests in 1080p and with consumption settings of 17W and 30W to check the behavior under different energy demands.
Real-life test results: gaming and energy consumption
To measure the performance of both processors, we have used 10 popular titles such as Far Cry 6, Monster Hunter Wilds, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Hitman 3, Elden Ring, Assassin's Creed Shadows, Cyberpunk 2077, Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, Resident Evil Village and F1 24.
With the consumption set at 17 W (the standard value for Intel chip), the MSI Claw with Ryzen Z2 Extreme has demonstrated slightly higher performance, achieving an average of up to 7,4% more FPSAMD's model prevails in most games, especially when it comes to maintaining fluidity in the most demanding scenarios. The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V only manages to win in a couple of them, and by a minimal margin.
By increasing the power to 30 W, the difference is further reduced and the Intel version manages to outperform AMD version in several titles, but the margin is small and the overall result continues to lean towards the AMD chip, although with a smaller average advantage, around 5,4% FPS.
Key factors: autonomy, efficiency and choice
One aspect that cannot be overlooked in this type of device is the autonomy. The analyses indicate that, although both chips manage energy well, at higher consumption levels the usage time without charging is limited, remaining around two hours in the configuration of 30 W. Whereas in 17 W, the console is more efficient, maintaining a similar gaming experience and with smaller performance differences than would be expected given the hardware of both versions.
It is noted that Intel's Lunar Lake architecture has significantly improved in terms of efficiency and graphics performance compared to previous generations. However, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme continues to maintain the lead, especially due to its greater number of CPU cores and threads, as well as a more powerful GPU based on RDNA 3.5. To delve deeper into the impact of these improvements on similar processors, it is interesting to consult Analysis of other high-performance AMD processors.
The results also show that the performance gap between both models is so tight that the purchase decision It could depend more on price and availability than a clear difference in raw power. The MSI Claw variants are separated by amounts ranging from 20 and 50 euros. Firmware availability and updates can affect the user experience, so for those looking to customize their console, it may be advisable to check The best Linux distributions to optimize performance.
Both models offer good options for those who want a powerful and versatile handheld console, although the AMD version maintains a slight advantage in most scenarios. We'll have to wait for its final release in more regions to be able to compare the experience outside of the Asian market, where they are currently more present. If you'd like more information on systems optimized for portable devices, check out Linux for mini PCs and its rise in compact devices.
