Unboxing
Upon opening the package, you’ll find the GPD P2 MAX 2022, which we’ll examine in more detail shortly.
The user guide is also included, with both Chinese and English instructions.
In addition to the USB Type-C charging cable, the box contains a charger with the appropriate plug for your country.
Overview
The GPD P2 MAX 2022 measures 8.3 x 5.8 x 0.5 inches (21.3 x 14.95 x 1.42 cm) when closed and weighs 650g.
Featuring an 8.9-inch H-IPS touchscreen display with a native resolution of 2560×1600, the device boasts a crisp and vibrant image.
A 2-megapixel camera with up to 1600×900 resolution is built into the hinge on the lower half.
For added security, the power button on the right side includes an integrated fingerprint scanner.
The chiclet-style QWERTY keyboard is comfortable for typing over extended periods.
The touchpad below the keyboard has clickable left and right mouse areas.
On the left side, you’ll find a USB 3 port and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
On the right, there is a Micro HDMI output for connecting to a TV or monitor, as well as USB Type-C and USB 3 ports.
Technical Specifications
The GPD P2 MAX is powered by an Intel Pentium Silver N6000 with 4 cores and threads, running up to 3.3Ghz.
Graphics are managed by an Intel UHD Graphics 640, which supports up to 4K at 60Hz via the HDMI output.
The device comes with 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM and a 1TB NVME PCIe Gen 3 SSD for fast and efficient storage.
For wireless connectivity, the P2 MAX offers WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
Under high load, the fan noise reaches 49 decibels. However, in average office noise conditions, it is barely noticeable.
Expect around 2.5 to 3 hours of battery life when running the PassMark benchmark on a loop. In idle mode on the desktop, the device lasts approximately 10 hours.
System Benchmarks
PassMark
Starting with PassMark, the GPD P2 MAX 2022 scored 1,958, reflecting solid performance for an ultrabook of this specification.
PCMark
The device scored 2,646 on PCMark, which tests typical day-to-day tasks such as web browsing, video conferencing, and working with office documents. This score also indicates fast boot times.
3DMark
While not specifically designed for gaming, the P2 MAX is capable of running less demanding games at lower graphics settings. Scoring 399 on 3DMark, the device’s gaming capabilities are modest but not negligible.
Gaming Benchmarks
Forza Horizon 4
Running Forza Horizon 4 on Ultra settings at 1280×720, the P2 MAX 2022 scored 12 frames per second (fps). Surprisingly, performance was better than expected, with playable frame rates achievable at the lowest graphics settings.
Street Fighter V
When running Street Fighter V at 1080p on Maximum settings, the device averaged 11.6 fps at the end of the first match. However, by lowering the resolution to 720p and using a mix of low and medium settings, the device achieved 60 fps.
Final Fantasy XIV
The Final Fantasy XIV benchmark, running at 1920×1080 on the highest desktop settings, scored 1,064, reflecting a lower level of performance.
Benchmark Results Recap
Here’s a summary of the benchmark results:
Overall, the Pentium N600 series CPU produces good scores for the GPD P2 MAX 2022. The ultrabook is well-suited for daily tasks, from web browsing to working with office documents. While it doesn’t offer the high performance of a gaming laptop, it can still handle media and light gaming quite well.
Compared to the original P2 MAX model, which has the Intel Celeron 3965Y processor, you can expect a 200-300% increase in performance, depending on the task. If you own the older Celeron model, upgrading is highly recommended.
Comparison with Other GPD Models
With the latest revisions of GPD’s laptop-style devices now available, it’s helpful to compare them.
The GPD Win MAX 2021 is the high-end model targeted at users who want to work and play. It has the highest overall benchmark scores, built-in gaming controls, and is suitable for demanding workloads as well as demanding games.
The GPD Pocket 3 shares the same hardware specifications as the Win MAX but is more geared towards work use rather than gaming. Although you can still connect a controller and enjoy some demanding games, the Pocket 3 is ideal for day-to-day work tasks that can be equally demanding, such as image and video editing.
Emulation and Software Performance
The GPD P2 MAX 2022’s emulation capabilities are also noteworthy. While it’s not designed to be a dedicated gaming device, its Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor and Intel UHD Graphics 640 GPU allow it to run emulators for a variety of retro gaming consoles.
Emulation software such as RetroArch or standalone emulators for systems like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, PlayStation 1, and Nintendo 64 run smoothly on the P2 MAX 2022. Frame rates remain stable, and the games are responsive, providing a satisfying gaming experience for fans of classic titles.
In addition to emulation, the GPD P2 MAX 2022’s performance with various software applications is commendable. Productivity software such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and web browsers all run efficiently on the device.
For lightweight photo and video editing, applications like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro are usable, but keep in mind that the P2 MAX 2022 is not designed for intensive professional-level editing work. Similarly, coding and software development tasks can be accomplished using IDEs like Visual Studio Code, although compiling large projects might take longer than on a more powerful machine.
The GPD P2 MAX 2022 comes with Windows 10 pre-installed, but it is also compatible with Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Fedora. Users who prefer a Linux-based operating system can install their preferred distribution, further expanding the device’s versatility and customization options.
Conclusion
The GPD P2 MAX 2022 is a compact and capable ultrabook that offers a great balance between performance, portability, and battery life. Its technical specifications, combined with a comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad, make it ideal for daily tasks, light gaming, and even some emulation. While it may not be the most powerful machine on the market, it’s an excellent choice for users who require a portable device for work, entertainment, or a combination of both.
If you’re interested in purchasing the GPD P2 MAX 2022, you can find it on the official GPD Store. Be sure to check for any available discounts, promotions, or bundle deals that may be running at the time of your purchase. With the GPD P2 MAX 2022 in your hands, you’ll have a versatile and reliable ultrabook to help you stay productive and entertained wherever you go
Accessories and Peripherals
To enhance the user experience and expand the capabilities of the GPD P2 MAX 2022, there are various accessories and peripherals available. These optional additions can help tailor the device to better suit individual needs and preferences.
External Mouse and Keyboard
Although the GPD P2 MAX 2022 features a comfortable built-in keyboard and responsive touchpad, some users might prefer to connect an external mouse and keyboard, especially during extended work sessions. The device’s USB ports and Bluetooth support allow for easy connection of wired or wireless peripherals, providing greater flexibility in terms of input devices.
USB Hub
Given the limited number of USB ports on the GPD P2 MAX 2022, a USB hub can be a valuable accessory. A hub allows you to connect multiple USB devices simultaneously, such as external hard drives, USB flash drives, or other peripherals. Opt for a powered USB hub to avoid overloading the device’s power supply when connecting multiple power-hungry peripherals.
External Monitor
The Micro HDMI port on the GPD P2 MAX 2022 enables you to connect an external monitor, TV, or projector. This can be particularly useful when working on tasks that require more screen real estate or when presenting content to a larger audience. With support for up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, the device can deliver high-quality video output to compatible displays.
Carrying Case
A protective carrying case or sleeve is a wise investment to safeguard your GPD P2 MAX 2022 from scratches, dings, and other potential damage while on the go. Choose a case that offers adequate padding and protection without adding too much bulk to maintain the device’s portability.
Cooling Pad
Although the GPD P2 MAX 2022’s cooling system is sufficient for most tasks, a cooling pad can help maintain lower temperatures during prolonged, resource-intensive workloads. A cooler device not only extends the ultrabook’s lifespan but also ensures optimal performance.
Additional Storage
The GPD P2 MAX 2022 comes with a generous 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen 3 SSD, but for users who require even more storage, an external hard drive or high-capacity USB flash drive can be a practical solution. With USB 3.0 support, the device can transfer data to and from external storage at high speeds, ensuring quick and efficient access to your files.
Software Optimization
To maximize the performance of the GPD P2 MAX 2022, it’s essential to keep the device’s software up-to-date. Regularly updating the operating system, drivers, and installed applications will ensure that your ultrabook runs smoothly and securely.
Additionally, avoid installing unnecessary software or running too many background processes, as these can consume valuable system resources and slow down the device. Use built-in system utilities or third-party tools to optimize the device’s performance and keep it running at its best.
Final Thoughts
The GPD P2 MAX 2022 is a versatile and portable ultrabook that delivers impressive performance for its size. Its solid technical specifications, comfortable input devices, and compatibility with various peripherals and accessories make it an excellent choice for users who need a reliable device for both work and play.
Whether you’re a professional on the go, a student in need of a compact laptop, or simply someone who values portability and performance, the GPD P2 MAX 2022 is a device worth considering. Check out the official GPD Store to explore the latest deals and purchase your GPD P2 MAX 2022 today.
