AMD’s push into the handheld gaming space continues with the launch of the Z2 series processors, marking the next step in portable gaming performance. After the successful partnership with Valve on the Steam Deck’s custom Aerith processor and the introduction of the Z1 series, AMD’s new Z2 chips bring even more power and efficiency to the table. However, the key question for many is not just how powerful these chips are, but which devices will feature them first?

What is the AMD Z2 Series?

The AMD Z2 series is a range of mobile processors designed for handheld gaming consoles, offering a range of models to cater to different needs: the Z2, Z2 Extreme, and Z2 Go. These processors bring impressive performance with multiple cores, high clock speeds, and next-gen graphics capabilities, but they differ in terms of TDP, GPU cores, and overall performance.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the three models:

• Z2: 8 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum boost frequency of 5.0 GHz, 12 graphics cores, and a maximum 30W TDP.
• Z2 Extreme: 8 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum boost frequency of 5.1 GHz, 16 graphics cores, and a maximum 35W TDP, offering a higher graphical performance.
• Z2 Go: A more budget-oriented option with 4 cores and 8 threads, a maximum boost frequency of 4.3 GHz, 12 graphics cores, and a 15-30W TDP.

These chips are designed to provide a balance between CPU performance and graphics performance, catering to the growing demand for powerful handheld gaming devices that can handle modern games and software while maintaining long battery life.

What Makes the Z2 Series Stand Out?

The Z2 series focuses on performance improvements that directly impact the gaming experience on handheld devices:

• Higher Core and Thread Count: The Z2 and Z2 Extreme models both feature 8 cores and 16 threads, making them capable of handling multitasking and demanding gaming workloads.
• Graphics Performance: The Z2 Extreme’s 16 graphics cores give it a significant edge over the Z2 (12 cores), resulting in better graphics performance, crucial for AAA games and graphically intensive tasks.
• Efficient TDP Range: The Z2 series comes with a flexible TDP range from 15W to 35W, offering a good balance of power consumption and performance, allowing handheld consoles to maintain a manageable temperature while still providing powerful gameplay.

Which Devices Will Feature the Z2 Series Chips?

Although AMD has confirmed that companies like Valve, Lenovo, and ASUS are expected to be some of the first to use the Z2 series, there is no official word yet on the exact devices that will feature these chips.

Potential First Devices with Z2 Series Processors:

• Valve: While rumors about a new Steam Deck with Z2 chips circulated, Valve has officially denied any such plans. However, Valve remains one of AMD’s partners, and the company may eventually adopt these chips in future handheld consoles.
• Lenovo and ASUS: Both companies have not yet announced any specific devices featuring the Z2 chips, but their partnerships with AMD suggest they could be among the first to release Z2-powered devices in 2025.
• Acer: While Acer has already launched a Blaze 8 and Blaze 11 with various screen size options, it’s possible they’ll refresh their lineup with Z2 processors in the second half of 2025.

What Does This Mean for Handheld Gaming?

The introduction of the Z2 series processors by AMD is a game-changer for handheld gaming. With significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance, these chips will enable gaming consoles to run more demanding games, handle complex graphics, and provide longer gaming sessions on a single charge. The flexible power consumption options allow handheld manufacturers to create devices that suit different use cases, whether you’re after a high-performance gaming machine or a budget-friendly portable console.

AMD Z2 Series Processor Specifications:

Final Thoughts

The AMD Z2 series processors are set to elevate the handheld gaming experience, offering a blend of powerful performance, efficiency, and advanced graphics capabilities. While we don’t know which exact devices will be the first to adopt these chips, it’s clear that AMD’s collaboration with major manufacturers like Valve, Lenovo, and ASUS will make the Z2 series a key player in the world of portable gaming.

With flexible TDP options, strong graphical capabilities, and more efficient performance than its predecessors, the Z2 series is bound to have a significant impact on handheld gaming devices in 2025 and beyond. Stay tuned as we await announcements from major brands, and get ready for a new wave of gaming consoles that push the boundaries of portable performance.

Learn more about AMD Ryzen AI Max and Ryzen AI Max PRO Series Processors.