PC Gaming Lab

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU is set to launch in January 2025, aiming to power the next generation of gaming handhelds with some exciting new features and upgrades. This article will break down whether the Ryzen Z2-powered handhelds are worth the investment.

Key Features of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU:

• 3+5 Core Configuration: 3x Zen 5 cores, 5x Zen 5c cores.
• TDP: Expected to range from 9W to 30W, with a confirmed maximum of 28W.
• Architecture: Based on Zen 5 for CPU and RDNA 3.5 for the iGPU.
• Graphics: 12 RDNA 3.5 Compute Units (CUs), similar to AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
• Max Cache: 16MB, delivering faster data access.

Successor to the Z1 Extreme

The Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU will follow in the footsteps of the Z1 Extreme, which was based on the Zen 4 architecture and powered devices like the ASUS ROG Ally. However, AMD is transitioning to Zen 5 for its new generation of processors, with Ryzen 9000 and Ryzen AI 300 APUs already announced for desktops and laptops. With this next leap in handheld processing, the Z2 Extreme is expected to bring enhanced CPU performance, better battery efficiency, and overall system improvements.

Leaked Information Confirms Z2 Extreme APU Details

The leak surfaced through a shipping manifest shared by @Olrak29_, where the chip was identified as Z2X28W with the ID 100-000001684. The “Z2X” codename stands for Z2 Extreme, while the “28W” confirms its 28W TDP. This power envelope allows the APU to operate within a TDP range of 9W to 30W, giving device manufacturers flexibility in designing thermally efficient handheld gaming systems.

Power Efficiency and Battery Life Enhancements

One of the standout features of the Z2 Extreme APU is its improved power efficiency. With handheld gaming, battery life has always been a crucial factor, and AMD’s Senior VP, Jack Hyunh, emphasized that the Z2 Extreme will focus on optimizing power usage, potentially extending playtime between charges. This efficiency is further boosted by the use of Zen 5c cores, a more power-efficient variant of the standard Zen 5 cores, which will also improve multitasking and processing efficiency without drawing excessive power.

iGPU Based on RDNA 3.5 Architecture

The integrated graphics solution in the Z2 Extreme is another key highlight. Leveraging RDNA 3.5 technology, the iGPU is expected to deliver significant graphical performance with 12 Compute Units (CUs). This makes the Z2 Extreme a powerful contender for upcoming handheld devices that aim to deliver immersive gaming experiences with AAA titles and modern graphics settings.

Future Availability and Potential Devices

While no hardware manufacturers have yet confirmed the use of the Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, speculation is growing that next-generation handhelds like ROG Ally successors, Lenovo Legion Go, and other upcoming devices may utilize this chip. Given the lack of Strix Point-based gaming handhelds in the market, the Z2 Extreme APU could serve as the perfect replacement for older Zen 4-based APUs.

AMD has confirmed that the Z2 Extreme will be released in early 2025, positioning it to serve as a competitive option against Intel’s Lunar Lake and other mobile processors. Companies like MSI and ZOTAC are preparing for this next wave of handhelds, with MSI opting for Lunar Lake for its upcoming Claw 8, while ZOTAC has chosen a Zen 4-based chip for its Gaming ZONE lineup.

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU for next-gen gaming handhelds shows a lot of promise, but whether or not it’s the right choice for you depends on your priorities.

Reasons to Consider Buying:

1. Power Efficiency and Performance: The Z2 Extreme is expected to significantly boost both the gaming performance and battery life of handheld consoles. Compared to its predecessor, it should offer improved efficiency due to its 3+5 core configuration, combining Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores, which are optimized for performance and power-saving tasks.
2. RDNA 3.5 Graphics: It will come equipped with 12 Compute Units (CUs) based on RDNA 3.5 architecture. This promises to provide solid gaming graphics while running more efficiently than older architectures.
3. Battery Life Improvements: AMD claims the Z2 Extreme could offer up to a 300% boost in battery life over current handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally, making it a solid choice for portable gaming.

Potential Downsides:

1. Competition from Steam Deck: Although the Z2 Extreme-powered devices will likely outperform the Steam Deck in raw power, Steam OS offers a more user-friendly experience than Windows on these handhelds. Windows-based gaming handhelds, which will likely use the Z2 Extreme, still suffer from poor optimization for small displays and touch controls.
2. Limited Software Optimization: Windows on handheld devices can feel clunky compared to streamlined systems like SteamOS, requiring additional setup for optimal performance in some games​.
3. Cost Factor: Early rumors suggest that these handhelds might carry a premium price tag, which could make alternatives like Steam Deck or even older Z1 Extreme-based devices more attractive to budget-conscious buyers.

Conclusion

The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU is shaping up to be a game-changer for the next generation of handheld gaming devices. With its advanced Zen 5 architecture, power-efficient design, and RDNA 3.5 graphics, the APU promises to deliver improved performance while extending battery life. As AMD gears up for its early 2025 release, we can expect major gaming handheld manufacturers to adopt this powerful APU for their upcoming devices, giving gamers an optimized blend of performance and portability.