But all those machines cost around $2,000, even before today’s global RAM shortages. That might change now that AMD is launching two lower-end Ryzen AI Max Plus chips with full graphics capabilities but fewer CPU cores, specifically designed for gaming devices. They still pack 40 graphics compute units for 60 teraflops, but the Ryzen AI Max Plus 392 features 12 cores instead of 16, while the Max Plus 388 has just eight CPU cores.
“The reason we introduced the 392 and 388 chips is because those are the right products for the gamers we’re bringing in,” AMD client chip boss Rahul Tikoo explained during a press briefing. “Those two products were created in response to specific customer requests around gaming SKUs that we wanted to bring to market.”
It’s not entirely clear if the new Strix Halo devices will be more affordable than previous models, especially with RAM prices soaring, but consider this: Tikoo mentioned that AI Max systems “can be over the $1,000 to $1,500 price point” compared to standard Ryzen AI systems that typically start around $500. While “$1,000 to $1,500” might sound cheaper than $2,000, it’s best not to read too much into what could have been a casual comment.
