AMD continues to push the boundaries of integrated graphics technology with its latest rumored chip, the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 388. This new chip is said to be built on the innovative Strix Halo design, which boasts the largest integrated GPU AMD has ever produced. Unlike its predecessors in the Strix Halo lineup, the Max+ 388 features a streamlined architecture with fewer CPU cores, allowing it to harness the full potential of its robust integrated GPU. This unique configuration positions it as a frontrunner for the next generation of high-performance gaming handhelds.
Market Dominance and Performance Potential
AMD has established a commanding presence in the market for gaming handheld chips, powering devices such as the Steam Deck in both LCD and OLED variants, as well as the Xbox Ally X. The anticipated GPU power of the Ryzen AI Max+ 388 significantly surpasses that of these existing models, setting a new benchmark for portable gaming performance.
Recent leaks from PassMark, a CPU benchmarking software, reveal that the Max+ 388 is equipped with Radeon 8060S-level graphics. The inclusion of “Max+” in its name suggests that this chip utilizes the full GPU capabilities of the Strix Halo design, featuring an impressive 40 compute units (CUs) built on AMD’s latest RDNA 3.5 architecture. While the current Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variant has also been available for some time with 40 CUs, the Max+ 388 distinguishes itself with a reduced number of CPU cores—only eight compared to the 16 found in its predecessor.
This configuration of fewer CPU cores paired with a powerful GPU makes the Max+ 388 particularly intriguing. The high-end variants of Strix Halo have traditionally come with a hefty price tag, but this new model holds the promise of delivering exceptional performance at a more accessible cost.
Comparative Power and Performance
To illustrate the GPU’s capabilities, consider that the Steam Deck is equipped with just eight CUs based on the older RDNA 2 architecture, while the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme in the Xbox Ally X features 16 CUs utilizing the same RDNA 3.5 architecture. This positions the Max+ 388’s GPU as potentially 2.5 times more powerful than that of the Xbox Ally X, a significant leap in performance.
The potential of the Strix Halo design was evident in our review of the Asus ROG Flow Z13, which utilizes the Ryzen AI Max 390 variant. Despite having 12 CPU cores and a slightly less powerful GPU with 32 CUs, it delivered remarkable gaming performance, achieving an average of 50 frames per second in Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p with high detail settings. In contrast, to achieve the same frame rate on the Xbox Ally X, we had to lower the detail settings to medium and employ FSR upscaling at 720p.
The Ryzen AI Max+ 388 could elevate this performance even further, potentially offering higher frame rates without the steep ,000 price tag associated with the Flow Z13.
Future Implications for Handheld Gaming
While the Max+ 388 is expected to be a substantial and powerful chip, it is unlikely to be priced below 0 anytime soon. The only current handheld utilizing the Strix Halo architecture is the GPD Win 5, which retails around ,000. However, if the rumored Max+ 388 materializes, it could pave the way for more competitively priced devices, perhaps allowing for a ,500 Xbox Ally X with 2.5 times the performance.
As we await further developments regarding this promising AMD chip, enthusiasts can explore our guides on the best Steam Deck accessories and gaming headsets to enhance their portable gaming experience.
