AMD is aggressively pursuing its goal of “mobile gaming dominance” with the unveiling of three distinct chip families, signaling a significant leap forward in laptop and mobile gaming performance. The star of the show is the Ryzen AI Max series, formerly known by the codenames “Strix Halo,” which marks a new pinnacle for AMD’s mobile graphics. These chips boast up to 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, the most powerful GPU ever integrated into an AMD chip, coupled with a robust 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a high-bandwidth memory interface capable of 256GB per second. AMD claims the top-tier Ryzen AI Max Plus 395 significantly outperforms Intel’s flagship Lunar Lake Core 9 288V, with 1.4x better graphics and 2.6x superior 3D rendering performance. Even Apple’s M4 Pro MacBook Pro faces a formidable challenge from the AI Max Plus. These chips are designed for high-performance, power-hungry scenarios, with a TDP of up to 120W, suggesting they are best suited for plugged-in or docked usage. Partners like HP and Asus are already on board, with HP planning a Z2 Mini G1a desktop and ZBook Ultra G1a laptop, and Asus incorporating the chips into its ROG Flow Z13 gaming tablet.
Alongside the AI Max series, AMD introduces “Fire Range,” a new lineup of HX- and X3D-series laptop chips focused on complementing discrete GPUs rather than integrated graphics. The highlight is the expansion of AMD’s lauded 3D V-Cache technology to the mobile platform. The new 9955HX3D inherits the massive 144MB cache of its desktop predecessor, the 7945HX3D, promising substantial frame rate improvements. AMD also introduced lower-tier X3D mobile chips, diversifying the options for gamers seeking the performance benefits of 3D V-Cache without necessarily needing the absolute top-tier model. This expansion signifies AMD’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge gaming technology to laptops, providing a competitive edge against Intel’s offerings.
The third family of chips centers around the Z2 series, designed for mobile workstations and emphasizing improved performance and battery life over previous generations. While details on specific performance metrics and battery life remain scarce, AMD promises significant enhancements. This focus on mobile workstations highlights AMD’s strategy to cater to a broader market beyond gaming, addressing the needs of professionals who require powerful and portable computing solutions.
AMD’s unveiling also includes two new X3D desktop chips, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D, further solidifying its dominance in the desktop gaming market. The company boldly proclaims these CPUs as the “world’s best processor for gamers and creators,” underscoring their confidence in the performance advantages of 3D V-Cache. These desktop chips complement the mobile offerings, demonstrating a cohesive strategy to provide best-in-class performance across the entire computing spectrum.
The Ryzen AI Max series represents a bold attempt to challenge both Intel and Apple in the high-performance mobile space. The combination of powerful RDNA 3.5 graphics, Zen 5 CPU cores, and high-bandwidth memory creates a compelling package for demanding users. The focus on high wattage indicates a prioritization of performance over extreme battery life, targeting users who prioritize raw power. The integration of these chips into devices from partners like HP and Asus suggests strong industry adoption and a positive outlook for the future of the AI Max platform.
The introduction of Fire Range and the expansion of 3D V-Cache to more mobile chips demonstrate AMD’s commitment to elevating mobile gaming experiences. By offering a range of X3D options, AMD caters to various performance needs and price points, ensuring gamers have access to this innovative technology regardless of their budget. The Z2 series, while less detailed in its initial unveiling, promises a step up for mobile workstations, highlighting AMD’s broader focus beyond gaming. Coupled with the new desktop X3D chips, AMD presents a comprehensive and ambitious portfolio that positions it for continued growth and potential market leadership in both mobile and desktop computing.
