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Getting Started with the GPD WIN Mini

5 min read

Welcome to our getting started with the GPD WIN Mini guide. The GPD WIN Mini is a compact and powerful handheld gaming PC that combines the portability of a pocket-sized device with the performance of a high-end laptop. Featuring a clamshell design with a 7-inch 120Hz high-refresh gaming screen, the WIN Mini is powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen 7 8840U, offering exceptional gaming and multitasking capabilities.

This device is aimed at on-the-go gamers and professionals who demand desktop-level performance in a ultra-portable form factor. With its built-in gamepad controls, keyboard, and touchpad, the WIN Mini is versatile enough for both gaming and productivity tasks.

Our getting started guide aims to help you quickly set up and optimize your GPD WIN Mini, ensuring you can make the most of its impressive features and performance right out of the box.

Inspect the GPD WIN Mini #

When you first receive your GPD WIN Mini, we recommend performing an inspection to ensure everything is in working order:

  • Check the device case/shell: Carefully examine the outer case for any cracks, dents, or other damage that may have occurred during shipping.
  • Test all keyboard keys: Test the keyboard at https://keyboard-test.space/ to ensure all keys are registering correctly.
  • Test all buttons and joysticks: Ensure all buttons and joysticks are responsive and registering properly at https://hardwaretester.com/gamepad. You can use the built-in gamepad tester or a game to verify functionality.
  • Touchscreen functionality: Test every part of the touchscreen to ensure it responds correctly to touch. Make sure you can interact with all corners and areas of the screen without any unresponsive zones.
  • Verify clamshell hinge: Test the clamshell hinge that allows the screen to open and close. Ensure it operates smoothly and holds the screen securely at various angles.
  • Test USB ports: Plug in common USB devices such as a mouse, keyboard, or flash drive to ensure all USB ports are functioning properly.
  • Check Oculink port: If you have compatible accessories, test the Oculink port to confirm it’s working correctly.
  • Verify audio output: Test the speakers and headphone jack to ensure clear audio output.

By thoroughly inspecting your GPD WIN Mini, you can ensure that all components are working as intended and address any issues promptly.
If you have any issues, here at GPD Store we offer our full support. Just head over to our Contact Us page and reach out.

Update GPD WIN Mini Windows & Drivers #

Updating Windows 11 #

Keeping your GPD WIN Mini up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and security. Here’s how to check for and install Windows 11 updates

  1. Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon or pressing the Windows Key
  2. Select the Settings icon (gear symbol) or type “Settings” in the search bar and press RETURN(Enter).
Image showing the first step on updating Windows 11 on the GPD Pocket 3

  1. In the Settings window, click on “Windows Update” in the left sidebar.
  2. To check for available updates, click the “Check for updates” button.
Step 3 @ GPD | PC Gaming Handhelds & Mini Laptops

  1. If updates are available, Windows will begin downloading them automatically.
  2. Once downloaded, you may need to restart your GPD WIN Mini to complete the installation process.
Step 2 @ GPD | PC Gaming Handhelds & Mini Laptops

Note: Your GPD WIN Mini is set to automatically check for updates, but it’s a good practice to manually check periodically. You can customize update settings by clicking “Advanced options” in the Windows Update menu

How to Update Drivers on the GPD WIN Mini #

Windows Update #

Windows Update is the simplest and most reliable method for updating most drivers:

  1. Open the Start menu and click on Settings (gear icon).
  2. Select “Windows Update” from the left sidebar.
  3. Click “Check for updates.”

Windows will automatically download and install available driver updates along with other system updates.

Device Manager #

For more specific driver updates:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
  2. Expand the category for the device you want to update.
  3. Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”
  4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers.”

AMD Drivers Updates

Since the GPD WIN Mini uses AMD processors, the AMD Auto-Detect driver updates will update the GPU and chipset related drivers.

  1. Download and install the AMD Auto-Detect and Install Driver Updates from here.
  2. Run the software and follow the prompts to choose what to update or install.

Note: Always download drivers from official sources to ensure system stability and security. While Windows Update covers most essential drivers, using the AMD tool can help keep AMD-specific components optimized for your GPD Win Mini. By regularly updating your drivers, you’ll ensure your mini laptop maintains peak performance and compatibility with the latest software and hardware

Must-Have Software for the GPD WIN Mini #

To maximize the potential of your GPD WIN Mini , consider installing these essential applications:

Performance Optimization #

GPD MotionAssist: Essential for configuring TDP settings, gyro controls, and other device-specific features.

Gaming #

Steam: The primary platform for PC gaming, offering a vast library of titles compatible with the WIN Mini.
RetroArch: For emulating classic games from various consoles.

Productivity #

Microsoft Office or LibreOffice: For document editing and creation.
OneNote: Ideal for note-taking, especially with the device’s touch screen support.

Entertainment #

VLC Media Player: A versatile media player for various video and audio formats.

Utilities #

7-Zip: For file compression and extraction.
ShareX: A powerful screenshot and screen recording tool.

Development #

Visual Studio Code: A lightweight, versatile code editor suitable for coding on the go.

Security #

Malwarebytes: Additional protection against malware and viruses.

Customization #

AutoHotkey: For creating custom keyboard shortcuts and macros, which can be particularly useful on the compact keyboard of the WIN Mini.

Remember to adjust in-game settings for optimal performance, as the WIN Mini performs best when you balance visuals with frame rates

Must Have Accessories For Your GPD WIN Mini #

GPD G1 eGPU Docking Station #

The GPD G1 is a powerful accessory for the GPD WIN Mini, offering significant performance boosts through its external GPU and expanded connectivity options.

  • The GPD G1 supports multiple display outputs, including HDMI 2.1 (4K 120Hz) and dual DisplayPort 1.4a connections, enabling versatile multi-monitor setups.
  • Expanding connectivity, the GPD G1 provides additional USB ports, a high-speed SD card reader, and a USB 4 port with 65W power output.
  • Despite its powerful features, the GPD G1 maintains a compact and portable design, making it easy to carry alongside the WIN Mini.
  • The GPD G1 offers flexible connectivity through OCuLink (with 63Gbps effective bandwidth) and USB 4.0, ensuring compatibility with various devices beyond the WIN Mini.

DroiX PM14 portable monitor #

The GPD WIN Mini pairs perfectly with the versatile 14-inch 4K Ultra HD DroiX PM14 portable monitor, offering an expanded visual workspace ideal for gaming, productivity, and content creation. With its high-resolution display, touchscreen capabilities, and wide color gamut, the PM14 enhances the experience of using the compact handheld gaming PC.

  • The PM14 boasts a sharp 4K (3840×2160) resolution display with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, delivering stunning visuals for games and media.
  • It provides versatile connectivity through Mini HDMI and USB-C ports, ensuring compatibility with a variety of devices, including the GPD WIN Mini.
  • The monitor is available in both touch and non-touch models, catering to different user preferences.
  • Weighing just 578g and featuring a slim profile, the PM14 is highly portable, complementing the mobility of the GPD WIN Mini.

Where to buy the GPD WIN Mini #

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