AMD Unveils Next-Gen Gaming Laptop Chips Using Last-Gen Architecture

AMD has recently unveiled its next-generation Ryzen 8000 series processors, designed specifically for high-performance gaming laptops. Leading this lineup is the formidable Ryzen 9 8945HX, which, unlike the Ryzen AI 300 series chips introduced earlier this year, is based on the previous-generation Zen 4 architecture.

AMD is launching a total of four new processors tailored for gaming enthusiasts. At the pinnacle is the Ryzen 9 8945HX, boasting 16 cores and 32 threads, with a boost clock reaching up to 5.4GHz. For those looking for a slightly less powerful but still highly capable option, the Ryzen 7 8745HX offers 8 cores and 16 threads with a 5.1GHz boost clock. These new chips closely mirror the specifications of their predecessors; for instance, the Ryzen 9 7945HX also features 16 cores and a 5.4GHz boost clock alongside 80MB of cache.

Despite being built on the Zen 4 architecture, these processors are set to be integrated into high-end gaming laptops alongside the most advanced graphics chips available. My earlier review of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Mobile highlighted its performance limitations when paired with the lower-power AMD Ryzen AI HX 370, which utilizes the newer Zen 5 architecture. In contrast, the Ryzen 9 8945HX can be configured to operate within a power range of 55W to 75W, promising a significant performance enhancement. While a Zen 5 chip with the same power budget would likely offer even greater performance, the Ryzen 8000 series should still deliver robust gaming experiences.

If you've been anticipating AMD's latest processors to upgrade your gaming laptop, you'll be pleased to know that these new chips are expected to be incorporated into high-end gaming laptops in the coming months. Below, I've detailed the specifications of the new Ryzen 8000 series processors: