The freshly released GPD WIN 5 offers two powerful processor choices. Specifically, users can select either the AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 or the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. In this handheld gaming PC review, we conduct a comprehensive GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 showdown. Therefore, our goal is to uncover any performance discrepancies and determine which option best suits your requirements.

GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 Comparison Video

Visuals and Features in the GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395

Visually, both GPD WIN 5 units are indistinguishable. Indeed, the chassis and features remain identical. Consequently, everything except the processor is exactly the same. You will see no changes in the screen, buttons, or other ports on the GPD WIN 5.

Analysing the GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 Processor Specs

Let us briefly examine the chips. The AMD Ryzen AI MAX 385 sports 8 cores and 16 threads. Moreover, the GPD WIN 5 385 has a 3.6GHz base clock boosting to 5GHz. This portable gaming PC utilises Radeon 8050S graphics with 32 cores running at 2,800Mhz.

Conversely, the AMD Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 doubles the core count to 16. It also increases threads to 32. The base speed is 3 GHz, boosting to 5.1GHz. Furthermore, the GPD WIN 5 395 includes Radeon 8060S graphics with 40 cores. Lastly, it runs at a slightly quicker 2900Mhz.

Full GPD WIN 5 Technical Specifications

Battery Life Comparison on the GPD WIN 5

We assessed both GPD WIN 5 gadgets using external battery power at maximum brightness. Specifically, we looped the Cinebench 2024 multi-core test until the GPD WIN 5 shut down with 5% battery remaining.

At 55W TDP, the GPD WIN 5 AI MAX+ 395 lasted 55 minutes. Meanwhile, the GPD WIN 5 AI MAX 385 lasted 62 minutes. Surprisingly, at 28W TDP, the 385 managed 66 minutes, whereas the 395 achieved 69 minutes.

GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 Fan Noise and Thermals

The cooling fans are identical in both GPD WIN 5 versions. Peak noise hits roughly 65dB for each. Additionally, the default fan curve is the same, though you can tweak the GPD WIN 5 settings to your preference.

We measured heat at the hottest spot which is towards the bottom area. The GPD WIN 5 395 was warmer at roughly 46°C. In contrast, the 385 model sat at 39°C.

GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 System Benchmarks Analysis

We compare the two GPD WIN 5 consoles at their 75W maximum TDP. We only altered the TDP and avoided other tweaks. Hence, this provides a fair ‘out of the box’ test for this mobile gaming PC.

Cinebench 2024 Scores

Starting with Cinebench 2024, single-core results are equal. However, multi-core scores show a huge gap. There is a 47% difference at 75W on the GPD WIN 5.

Geekbench 6 Performance

In Geekbench 6, the GPD WIN 5 385 is ever so slightly ahead in single-core tasks. Yet, for multi-core work, the GPD WIN 5 395 leads. It holds a 20% advantage at 75W TDP.

3DMARK Graphical Tests

3DMARK’s Time Spy, Night Raid, and Fire Strike show varied results. For Time Spy and Fire Strike, the GPD WIN 5 models differ by about 4%. However, Night Raid shows a larger 16% gap in scores.

Gaming Tests: GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395

For these portable gaming computer tests, we run at 1080P across various TDPs. 4W is the minimum, and 75W is the max for the GPD WIN 5.

Forza Horizon 5 Analysis

In Forza Horizon 5, the 4W difference is negligible. However, at 15W, the GPD WIN 5 385 beats the 395 significantly. As TDP rises, the 395 takes over. We see leads of 12% at 28W, 22% at 55W, and 8% at 75W.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Results

With Shadow of the Tomb Raider, FPS is similar from 4W to 28W. Afterwards, the GPD WIN 5 395 pulls ahead. At 55W and 75W, there is a 10% gap between the GPD WIN 5 units.

Cyberpunk 2077 Frame Rates

For Cyberpunk 2077, we saw similar trends up to 28W. Again, the GPD WIN 5 395 speeds ahead later. Differences are smaller, though. Surprisingly, there is only a 7% gap at 55W and 75W on this compact gaming PC.

Summarising the GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 Benchmarks

Considering this is an unoptimised test, the results are intriguing. Regarding raw CPU speed, the GPD WIN 5 395 beat the 385 in multi-core tests. For gaming on this handheld gaming computer, results are often close. Sometimes, the GPD WIN 5 385 leads from 4W to 28W. From there, the 395 holds a 7% to 22% lead.

Differences depend on the game. It matters if the title needs CPU, GPU, or both. Also, optimisations like core parking help. These tweaks improve performance on both GPD WIN 5 devices.

Final Verdict on the GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395

Comparing prices for the 32GB/2TB GPD WIN 5 models, there is a $180 difference. This is roughly 10%. At low TDPs, performance is similar. However, we see a 22% gap at high TDPs in games. Moreover, the gap hits 47% in CPU tasks.

Which GPD WIN 5 Should You Choose?

If you game at low TDP, like 4W to 28W on battery, the GPD WIN 5 385 is logical. You get similar performance to the 395 here. Plus, the price is lower.

Alternatively, you may want versatility. If you game on the go and docked, the GPD WIN 5 395 is better. You get a 7-22% boost for a 10% price hike. Thus, it is a solid investment.

Both GPD WIN 5 models are impressive. You can run most games at 1080P easily. You need not tweak settings for 60 FPS. While our tests were standard, you can optimise the GPD WIN 5 further.

Where to Buy the GPD WIN 5

Which model would you buy? Or perhaps you already own one? Let us know your GPD WIN 5 choice in the comments.

GPD WIN 5 Gaming Handheld PC

Shop now

Finally, buy your GPD WIN 5 here in various specs. Options range from 32GB to 128GB RAM at GPDSTORE. You get a two-year warranty and great service. It makes all the difference!

Read or Watch Our Full GPD WIN 5 Review

You can read our full GPD WIN 5 review here which is based on the 395 model.