AMD has introduced new processors for mobile systems. This could also mean a significant upgrade for gaming handhelds in the future. Early benchmarks indicate about 30% more performance. But there are still questions unanswered. The presented ROG Ally X from ASUS does not yet rely on AMD’s new model.
Which graphics chip is coming? AMD presented details about its new mobile processors at the CES 2024. These chips will be used in the future in laptops, convertibles, and presumably in gaming handhelds.
With the new “Ryzen AI 300” series, AMD also introduced a new iGPU. These are graphics chips that sit on the processor. And AMD has given the iGPU a powerful update compared to the last generation.
Where does the new iGPU stand?
- The new 890M follows the old 780M and is expected to be installed in all “Ryzen AI 300” products.
- The new chip is said to have 16 RDNA 3.5 CUs and run at 2,900 MHz. The old 780M only offered 12 RDNA 3 CUs at 2,800 MHz.
How much more performance is there? The British magazine PCGamer reports benchmarks of the 890M that look very positive so far. In initial comparative tests, the 890M is said to be 31% faster than the 780M. In direct comparison to the ROG Ally, performance is also expected to increase by 33%. In the ROG, the old 780M is installed.
When will Ryzen AI 300 be available in stores? The first laptops with AMD Strix Point (Ryzen AI 300) will be available in stores starting July 15, 2024.
It is uncertain how good the battery life will be with the new chip
What questions remain? For now, it’s just a few benchmarks and a comparison test. It is also uncertain whether manufacturers will choose an AMD chip with 890M for the next generation of handhelds. For example, MSI chose Intel for the MSI Claw and took a different path. Valve (Steam Deck) and ASUS (ROG Ally) currently rely on AMD.
In the new ROG Ally X, which will be released on July 22, 2024, ASUS still relies on the “AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme” processor with a graphics chip that offers 12 CUs, clocking up to 2.7 GHz (8.6 Teraflops). Therefore, the new Ryzen AI 300 is not yet being used here.
Another question is how the battery life will look with new devices: Steam Deck and ROG Ally provide plenty of performance in their current versions, but especially with modern titles, battery life is no fun.
More on gaming handhelds: Gaming handhelds are on the rise, and since the Steam Deck, many new devices have been launched. MeinMMO introduces you to the most well-known and important gaming handhelds you should know: The 8 best gaming handhelds of 2024 that you should know
