The GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 represent the pinnacle of portable gaming PC innovation. Designed for gamers and professionals, these devices offer exceptional performance, sleek designs, and versatile functionality. While both devices are powerful, their differences in form factor, features, and intended use cases make each suited for specific needs. In this detailed comparison of the GPD WIN 4 2024 vs GPD WIN MAX 2 2024, we’ll explore their strengths and differences to help you choose the perfect handheld gaming computer.
Compact Designs for Different Needs
Form factor plays a critical role in choosing between the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024, as each caters to different portability preferences. The GPD WIN 4 2024 is a true handheld gaming computer with a 6-inch display and a sliding keyboard design that allows for quick transitions between gaming and typing. Its ultra-compact dimensions of 8.6 x 3.6 x 1.1 inches (22.0 x 9.2 x 2.8 cm) and weight of 598g (1.31 lbs) make it one of the most portable gaming computers available. This makes it ideal for users who value extreme portability and want a device they can easily carry anywhere.
In contrast, the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 leans toward a mini-laptop design, with its larger 10.1-inch screen and integrated full-sized keyboard. Measuring 8.9 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches (22.7 x 16 x 2.3 cm) and weighing 1005g (2.21 lbs), it is less pocketable but offers a more comfortable experience for extended use. Its larger form factor makes it better suited for professionals who want a versatile device that seamlessly transitions between gaming and productivity. For those who require consistent internet access, the WIN MAX 2 also includes an optional 4G LTE module, a feature absent in the WIN 4.
Powerful Hardware Under the Hood
The GPD WIN 4 2024 vs GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 comparison reveals that both devices are built with performance in mind. Both are equipped with AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processors, featuring 8 cores, 16 threads, and clock speeds that boost up to 5.1 GHz. The integrated Radeon 780M GPU further enhances gaming capabilities, delivering smooth frame rates and high-quality graphics for modern games.
While the WIN 4 sticks to its high-performance configuration, the WIN MAX 2 offers an additional option with a Ryzen 5 processor and a Radeon 760M GPU. This alternative configuration provides slightly reduced performance but improved energy efficiency, appealing to users with less demanding requirements.
Both devices offer robust RAM configurations, with the WIN 4 featuring 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM, while the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 supports configurations of 32GB or an impressive 64GB. For storage, both support PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs with options up to 4TB. Expandable storage options include a microSD slot for the WIN 4 and a combination of full-size SD and microSD slots for the WIN MAX 2, making them versatile for both gaming and professional needs.
Display Quality and Usability
The displays on the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 are designed to complement their form factors. The WIN 4 features a 6-inch Full HD screen with a resolution of 1920×1080 and a sharp 368 PPI. Its compact size and high pixel density make it perfect for immersive gaming on the go. The screen also supports refresh rates of 40Hz and 60Hz, allowing users to balance performance and battery life.
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024, on the other hand, boasts a 10.1-inch 2.5K touchscreen with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a 90% screen-to-body ratio. The larger screen enhances multitasking and offers a more immersive experience for gaming and productivity. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, it provides durability for users who take their portable gaming PC on the go. The screen’s 400 nits brightness ensures visibility in various lighting conditions, making it a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Benchmark Performance: A Close Battle
Benchmarking results for the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 highlight their strengths as portable gaming PCs, showcasing their ability to handle a variety of tasks and applications. From system-wide performance to GPU-intensive tasks and machine learning, both devices excel in their categories with only minor differences.
PCMark 10 results show that both devices are well-suited for productivity tasks, digital content creation, and daily workloads. Scoring around 7,000 points, they exceed the threshold for advanced productivity needs, making them ideal for multitasking and creative applications. While the WIN MAX 2’s larger screen and keyboard enhance usability for office work, the WIN 4 demonstrates that even a compact gaming PC can excel in professional scenarios.
Geekbench 6, focusing on CPU performance, highlights the balanced capabilities of these devices. The WIN MAX 2 slightly edges out the WIN 4 in single-core performance with a score of 2508 versus 2497. However, the GPD WIN 4 2024 takes the lead in multi-core tasks, scoring 11343 compared to the MAX 2’s 10900, thanks to its efficient thermal design and compact optimization. These results show both devices are more than capable of handling demanding applications, from gaming to productivity.
Geekbench AI measures machine learning and artificial intelligence tasks, where the WIN MAX 2 outperforms in single-precision tasks with a score of 2882 compared to the WIN 4’s 2851. However, the WIN 4 surpasses in half-precision tasks, scoring 1507 against the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 1503. These close results emphasize that both devices are competent in handling AI workloads, with differences that are unlikely to affect most users significantly.
3DMark benchmarks test GPU performance, and the results favor the WIN 4 in almost every category. In Time Spy, which assesses DirectX 12 performance, the WIN 4 scores 3158 compared to the MAX 2’s 3114, suggesting smoother visuals in modern games. Night Raid, focused on integrated graphics, sees the WIN 4 at 28102 versus the MAX 2’s 27221, and in Fire Strike (DirectX 11), the WIN 4 scores 7411 against 7307. These results demonstrate the WIN 4’s slight edge in GPU optimization, making it better suited for demanding graphical tasks.
Cinebench R24 evaluates rendering performance for CPUs and GPUs. Both devices achieve similar results in single-core tests, but the GPD WIN 4 2024 edges ahead in multi-core tasks due to its superior thermal efficiency. This benchmark solidifies both devices as capable tools for creative professionals needing portable rendering solutions.
Gaming Performance Across Popular Titles
Gaming is where both the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 shine. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor and Radeon 780M GPU, they deliver smooth and immersive experiences across a wide range of titles. Let’s break down their gaming prowess in key games.
Forza Horizon 5, a graphically intensive open-world racing game, runs beautifully on both devices. At 1280×800 resolution with medium settings, the WIN 4 maintains an average frame rate of 65 FPS, providing fluid and responsive gameplay. The WIN MAX 2 performs similarly, though its larger screen enhances the immersive experience by making the game world feel more expansive. While both devices handle the game well, the WIN 4’s compact form factor makes it easier to play on the go, while the WIN MAX 2’s larger display is better suited for long, stationary gaming sessions.
Street Fighter VI, a fast-paced fighting game known for its stunning visuals and tight controls, is another standout on these devices. Both the WIN 4 and WIN MAX 2 deliver stable 60 FPS gameplay at 1280×720 resolution with high settings, ensuring smooth and responsive matches. Competitive gamers will appreciate the WIN 4’s ergonomic design for quick reflexive inputs, while the WIN MAX 2’s larger screen provides better visibility of in-game details. This title highlights the capability of these handheld gaming computers to handle graphically demanding games without breaking a sweat.
Other Popular Titles
Other games also perform admirably on both devices, showcasing their versatility as portable gaming PCs:
- Cyberpunk 2077: Playable at 1280×800 resolution with low settings, delivering 30-40 FPS on both devices.
- Elden Ring: Runs at 1280×720 resolution with medium settings, achieving 40-50 FPS for a smooth action RPG experience.
- Hades: This roguelike excels at max settings and 1080p resolution, running flawlessly at 60 FPS on both devices.
- Doom Eternal: A fast-paced FPS, handles 1280×720 resolution with medium settings, offering 60 FPS consistently.
While the WIN 4’s smaller screen and lightweight design make it perfect for extended handheld gaming sessions, the WIN MAX 2’s larger screen is ideal for immersive gameplay when portability is less of a priority.
eGPU Performance Boost: Unlocking Desktop-Class Gaming
Both the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 support external GPU (eGPU) solutions, such as the GPD G1 or ONEXPLAYER eGPU docks. These docking stations allow users to connect powerful desktop-class graphics cards to their portable gaming PCs, dramatically enhancing graphical performance. When paired with an eGPU, these devices can handle even the most demanding AAA titles at ultra settings, with smooth frame rates and enhanced visual fidelity. This feature transforms the WIN 4 and WIN MAX 2 into hybrid devices, capable of serving as both portable gaming computers and powerful home gaming setups.
The eGPU compatibility also future-proofs these devices, enabling users to upgrade their gaming capabilities as newer graphics cards become available. The GPD WIN 4 2024, with its slightly better GPU optimization, sees a noticeable boost in performance, making it a perfect choice for those who want to maximize gaming power while maintaining portability. Similarly, the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024, with its larger screen and laptop-like design, becomes an even more versatile machine for gaming, productivity, and creative workflows when paired with an eGPU. This flexibility makes eGPU support a significant advantage for users who want to push the boundaries of what a compact gaming PC can achieve.
Productivity Features: Gaming Meets Work
While gaming is the primary focus, both devices shine in productivity tasks as well. The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 larger screen, full-sized keyboard, and optional 4G LTE module make it a versatile workstation for professionals. It excels in tasks like video editing, multitasking, and video conferencing, offering a laptop-like experience in a portable form factor.
The WIN 4, while smaller, is still capable of handling productivity tasks thanks to its powerful hardware. Its sliding keyboard is suitable for quick typing and light work, making it a great companion for users who need a portable gaming computer that can also handle occasional professional tasks.
GPD WIN 4 2024 vs GPD WIN MAX 2 2024: Final Thoughts
The GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 are both exceptional portable gaming PCs, but their differences make them better suited for distinct use cases. The WIN 4 is ideal for gamers who prioritize portability and want a compact gaming PC that can handle modern games on the go. Its smaller form factor, lighter weight, and excellent gaming performance make it perfect for handheld use.
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 on the other hand, is better suited for users who need a device that balances gaming and productivity. Its larger screen, full-sized keyboard, and optional LTE connectivity make it a versatile choice for professionals who also enjoy gaming.
Whether you’re looking for a gaming-first device or a multi-functional mobile gaming PC, both devices deliver exceptional performance and features. Choosing the right one ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
What’s Your Take? Share Your Thoughts!
Have you tried the GPD WIN 4 2024 or GPD WIN MAX 2 2024? Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or both, we’d love to hear your experiences with these devices. Share your thoughts on gaming performance, productivity, and how these handheld gaming computers fit into your lifestyle. Your insights can help others make an informed decision!
