AMD is expanding its Z2 series with two exciting models: the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme and the more economical Ryzen Z2 A. Both are aimed at handheld gaming PCs and promise high performance, AI boost and modern graphics solutions – a significant step for mobile gaming enthusiasts and IT professionals alike.
- Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme with 8 cores, integrated XDNA2 NPU (up to 50 TOPS), RDNA 3.5 iGPU (16 CUs).
- Ryzen Z2 A is based on the Van Gogh design (Steam Deck level), 4 cores (Zen 2), RDNA 2 GPU (8 CUs).
Short & sweet
- NPU Boost: AI Z2 Extreme integrates a specialized NPU for AI tasks and offloading.
- Graphics performance: RDNA 3.5 with 16 CUs – significantly more powerful than its predecessor.
- Scalable TDP: 15-35 W, ideal for balanced performance and efficiency.
- Van Gogh power: Z2 A relies on proven Zen2 module, solid graphics with lower consumption.
Graphics and computing upgrade in the Z2 Extreme
The Z2 series is based on the new Strix Point chips with Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme comes with eight cores (3 × Zen 5, 5 × Zen 5c), 16 threads, boost clock rates of up to 5 GHz and an RDNA 3.5 graphics unit (16 CUs).
The AI model extends this setup with an XDNA2 NPU with up to 50 TOPS performance – ideal for local AI rendering, game optimization and efficient system offloading.
With this hardware combination, future handhelds will be able to run AAA titles smoothly with better energy efficiency.
Example: Expected in devices like the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally X or the MSI Claw A8. According to Tom’s Guide, the latter reached 100 fps in “Lies of P” at Computex – a strong indication of impressive gaming performance.
Ryzen Z2 A – entry into the Z2 universe
The Ryzen Z2 A relies on AMD’s proven “Van Gogh” APU (like the Steam Deck), offers four Zen 2 cores, eight threads, 8 CUs RDNA 2 and is therefore a solid, power-saving solution for handhelds.
This makes it ideal for portable devices with longer runtimes and lower prices. It is expected to be used in more affordable or compact handhelds such as the base model of the ROG Xbox Ally. The AI-Z2-Extreme thus represents the new top model, while the Z2 A remains a price-performance performer.
Use & future outlook
The AI Z2 Extreme is expected to be found in premium handhelds with a large display, 24 GB+ RAM and fast memory – such as the ROG Xbox Ally X or MSI Claw A8. Release of the devices is planned for the end of 2025, with prices likely to be over USD 1,000.
The Z2 A will tend to serve entry-level to mid-range devices. Here, AMD is building on solid features with compact consumption.
| Model | Cores/threads | iGPU | Special feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Z2 Extreme | 8/16 | RDNA 3.5 (16 CUs) | +XDNA 2-NPU (≈50 TOPS) |
| Z2 Extreme | 8/16 | RDNA 3.5 (16 CUs) | High-end Strix Point, without NPU |
| Z2 | 8/16 | RDNA 3 (12 CUs) | Zen 4 기반, mainstream |
| Z2 A | 4/8 | RDNA 2 (8 CUs) | Van Gogh base, economical |
| Z2 Go | 4/8 | RDNA 2 (12 CUs) | especially for Legion Go S |
| Z1 Ext./Z1 | older | RDNA 3/740M | Predecessor generation |
Conclusion
AMD is clearly targeting the growing segment of handheld gaming PCs with the new Z2 chips:
- The Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme delivers top performance and integrated AI power – ideal for demanding AAA games on the go.
- The Z2 A brings price-conscious users into this ecosystem – with familiar Van Gogh compatibility.
- Availability is planned for the end of 2025 as part of new handheld releases. Prices are still unclear, but the high-end segment will probably start at over €1,000.
Both models complement AMD’s Z2 family: for power gamers and budget users alike. Whether gaming performance or efficient AI usage – AMD now offers targeted options for mobile gaming enthusiasts.
