The last instalment in the GPD series of handheld gaming PCs is here. This review will delve into how the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 stands up against its 2023 predecessor and its sister models, the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN Mini 2024 models.
Unboxing The GPD WIN Max 2 2024
What’s in the Box
Starting strong with the unboxing, the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 package includes:
- GPD WIN Max 2024: The portable gaming computer.
- User Guide: Available in Chinese and English.
- Power Supply: With the correct adapter for your country.
- USB Type-C cable: Used for charging.
Device Overview
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 measures 8.9 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches (22.7 x 16 x 2.3 cm) and weighs 1005g. It boasts a 10.1-inch touchscreen with a native resolution of 1200P, which can be adjusted up to 1600P. This display size is ideal for both productivity and gaming on this handheld gaming PC.
Controls and Connectivity
The lower part of the device features a backlit keyboard that is very comfortable to type on. Above the keyboard are removable covers that reveal standard gaming controls, including hall sensor analogues, a D-Pad, gaming buttons, a Microsoft Precision TouchPad, and a built-in camera for video calls.
On the left side, you’ll find micro and full-sized SD card slots. The right side houses two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The front has a power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor for secure login.
The back of the device includes triggers and shoulder buttons, along with USB 4 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a full-size HDMI port, an Oculink port for eGPU docking stations like the GPD G1, and a 3.5mm headphone port.
On the bottom, there are two additional macro buttons that can be configured through the provided software. There are also removable covers for M.2 2230 SSD expansion and an optional 4G LTE module.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | GPD WIN 4 2024 (8840U) |
|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 7 8840U, 8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.1GHz |
| GPU | AMD Radeon 780M, up to 2700 MHz |
| RAM | 32GB/64GB LPDDR5x 6400Mhz |
| STORAGE | 2TB/4TB M.2 NVME SSD |
| DISPLAY | 10.1″ IPS touchscreen, 1920×1200 resolution, supports up to 2560×1600, 16:10 aspect ratio, 299 PPI |
| I/O | 1x USB 4 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A 1x OcuLink (SFF-8612) 1x HDMI 1x Micro SD card reader 1x SD card reader 1x 3.5mm audio port |
| COMMUNICATIONS | Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5.2 |
| BATTERY | 67Wh Li-polymer |
System Benchmarks & Tests
We put the WIN Max 2 2024 through various system benchmarks and used the results to compare against the 2023 model as well as other 8840U CPU devices, such as the GPD WIN Mini 2024. Following this, we ran a series of system benchmarks on the WIN MAX 2 2024 by utilizing the GPD G1 2024 eGPU docking station, which demonstrated comparable performance to the WIN 4 2024 in various game benchmarks, highlighting the potential of the 780M GPU when paired with the eGPU.
Battery Life
During our tests with Cinebench running on a loop, the battery lasted 1 hour and 52 minutes. For average usage, expect between 6 to 8 hours of battery life.
Thermals and Fan Noise
- Fan Noise: Peaks at 60 dB
- Temperature: Reaches 43 °C on the keyboard area and 63 °C on the exhaust grill
PCMark
- Score: 7,085, outperforming the GPD WIN 4 2024 and showing a notable improvement over the 2023 model.
Cinebench
- Single-Core: 1,768
- Multi-Core: 12,997, leading in single-core performance and nearly matching the GPD WIN 4 2024 in multi-core performance.
3DMark
- Time Spy: 3,114
- Night Raid: 27,221
- Fire Strike: 7,307, showing minor differences compared to the previous model and the WIN 4 2024.
Gaming Benchmarks
Forza Horizon 5
- At 1080P 28W, the performance shows slight improvement over the 2023 model and near-identical FPS at 720P.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
- Consistent performance at 1080P with slight drops at 720P as TDP decreases.
Call of Duty Modern Warfare III
- Strong performance at 1080P, with lower comparative performance at 720P as TDP is reduced.
Street Fighter VI
- Mixed results with minor FPS differences.
Gaming and Emulation
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 handles various games and emulation tasks efficiently, making it a versatile handheld gaming computer suitable for both gaming and work. The 8840U CPU offers some improvements over last year’s model, enabling older consoles to run at lower TDPs and providing a smoother experience for newer systems.
Final Thoughts
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 shows significant improvements over the 2023 model, especially with the upgraded 8840U processor. While it might not be worth upgrading from the 2023 model, it is an excellent choice for new buyers, offering a great balance of work and gaming capabilities.
The 10.1-inch screen is ideal for both productivity and gaming, making it a strong contender against the GPD WIN 4 2024 and GPD WIN Mini 2024 models. For those who prioritize portability in their gaming device, the GPD WIN Mini 2024 might be a better option.
Overall, the GPD WIN MAX 2 2024 is a robust and versatile portable gaming computer that offers substantial improvements and excellent performance for both work and play.
You can learn more and order the GPD WIN Max 2 2024 here.
