AMD Unveils Next-Gen Gaming Laptop Chips Using Previous Architecture

AMD has recently unveiled its next-generation Ryzen 8000 series processors, specifically designed for high-performance gaming laptops. Leading the charge is the powerful Ryzen 9 8945HX, which boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, with a boost clock reaching up to 5.4GHz. Despite the excitement surrounding this launch, it's important to note that these new processors are based on the last-generation Zen 4 architecture, unlike the Ryzen AI 300 series chips released earlier this year.

In addition to the flagship Ryzen 9 8945HX, AMD is rolling out three other processors for gaming enthusiasts. The lineup includes the Ryzen 7 8745HX, which features 8 cores, 16 threads, and a boost clock of 5.1GHz. These new processors closely mirror the specifications of their predecessors, such as the AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX, which also sports 16 cores and a 5.4GHz boost clock with 80MB of cache.

These Ryzen 8000 series processors are set to be paired with the most advanced graphics chips available in high-end gaming laptops. My earlier review of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Mobile highlighted some performance struggles when it was coupled with the lower-power AMD Ryzen AI HX 370 processor, despite its newer Zen 5 architecture. In contrast, the Ryzen 9 8945HX can be configured to operate at a TDP ranging from 55W to 75W, promising a significant performance boost. Although a Zen 5 chip with the same power budget would likely yield even better results, the Ryzen 9 8945HX should still offer substantial improvements.

If you've been holding out for the latest from AMD to upgrade your gaming laptop, you won't have to wait much longer. These new processors are expected to find their way into high-end gaming laptops in the coming months. Below, I've detailed the specifications of the new Ryzen 8000 series chips for your convenience.

AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX Specs

AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX Specs

AMD Ryzen 7 8840HX Specs

AMD Ryzen 7 8745HX Specs