If there's something you'd like to see in the main review, feel free to leave suggestions. Games in this video: DBZ Kakarot Tomb Raider Alwa's Legacy Dirt 3 Freedom Planet Halls of Torment Gunfire Reborn Dungeons 3 Bioshock
Issue with total power is that there is plenty other things that affect it, from the Resolution, some kind of extra controllers for the screen, bad VRMs etc Its generally a sign of low quality components IMO
Great video as always Taki, so few channels in the endless sea of content that has become everyones RUclips feed actually get an instant click from me and have me watching the entire video without wanting to watch something else. This Channel does that consistently, such good stuff!
I love a flip-design approach over a Switch/PSVita clone, since it's width feels more like a regular joystick. Is a shame that no other company is making this design decision.
This has to be the main company I've looked at in awe since the GP2x when I had a PSP, and not bought from them for whatever reason. Then the Pandora, which took many years. This actually has promise based on what it has, the portability is great for those incredible specs!
Same here - went from a GP32, to a PSP, to various phone controllers and then FINALLY got a Win Max in 2020 after I had been eyeing up the GPD XD, XD+, Win 1 and Win 2 haha Was always eyeing up that Pandora too!
We have come so far. I remember the Win 2 not being able to lock Kotor 2 at 60fps. And it also liked to overheat if you charged and played at the same time.
You remember when we had those netbooks in the late 2000s that could like, barely run a web browser? Now we got handheld PCs that can throw hands (if not surpass) some gaming laptops like my old 3cm thick MSI 😭😭 Absolutely mind-boggling how far mobile chipset tech has come since the inception of Ryzen
Man, that's probably got more to do with Kotor 2 than the Win 2. That game is infamous. I think they ended up having to give free games to everyone who bought it on switch because it had a bug that made it impossible to complete and they weren't able to fix it.
I want the Nintendo Focus for $399 and with a 3D platformer pack-in game. If Nintendo is headed to VR, I can imagine it being similar to the Pimax Portal.
@@someguy9204It's been leaked that supposedly the switch 2 is coming out next year he could be referring to that. It will be reverse compatible but it will be running a new OS. How ever I think the whole "Nintendo Focus" specifically isn't real
6:42 The very first time I've seen anybody compare it to the original Max. Finally, thank you. And I must say, this, to me, really shows just how tiny the mini is.
I've had the Win 2 and the Win Max (and the Win 3), and the Max was great but just a bit too big for comfortable, couch-slumpy use. I'm really torn about signing up for the Win Mini, or waiting for the 8-series (or whatever) CPU equivalent next year or the year after. I also think there needs to be a battery tech revolution to take these devices to the next level. I need four hours at any TDP level, basically 🤣
As an owner of an original Win 1, I'm gonna be watching this device with anticipation. I liked the old Win (mostly because it was abnormally cheap around the time I heard about it), but it had two glaring issues that ultimately turned it into a paperweight. The device had a huge tendency to turn on my itself, as it had some kind of auto-power-on when the lid was lifted that I wasn't able to disable. And for some reason, this would constantly trigger even if I was just carrying the Win 1 in my pocket around so I'd frequently take it out to find it powered on and also quite warm. Which leads onto what killed it, and that was that it had the fatal design flaw of using the battery as a heatsink. Within a year, the battery effectively became unusable and lost all ability to hold a charge. I couldn't even charge it fast enough to be purely ran on wall power, so the Win just ended up useless. If all of those issues are no longer a thing with the Mini, I might grab one pretty much as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Especially with those grips.
I already own a Steam Deck but I love that the low end pricing for these handheld PCs are now around the cost of the ROG Ally, makes itt much more affordable for gamers on a budget. Great video Taki! ❤
I love that Win Mini. Definitely the better handheld gaming system. But as a hybrid laptop and on the go gaming option all in one, I think the Max may be better.
Your TDP analysis was very informative, i always noticed that my Ally uses less total power compared to other 7840u handhelds at same TDP, for example at 15W TDP the Ally has a total system draw of about 24W while 7840u devices draw a total of 28W. That also explains why in the Phawx Ally vs Win Max 2 test, the Ally was always behind the Win Max 2 at same TDP. Total power draw is what should be used to make comparisons
Hot damn! This is the very first gaming handheld that I’ve seen where I’ll cut the benchmark scores A LOT of slack. Reason fails me, as I just WANT THIS. I’ve been waiting YEARS for GPD to provide a true successor to the GPD Win 1/2 and they have not disappointed! This is EXACTLY what I’ve been waiting for, and I know there are other GPD fans that are just salivating for this product. If you’re an IT pro like me, this is a big deal for GPD fans. I’m just a little bit let down my the LCD panel, but GPD has always provided excellent, if somewhat wonky panels. For my needs, I just don’t need a panel that will go down to 40 Hz. It would be nice, but I’d much rather have 120 Hz static refresh rate panel than a display that does only 40 - 60 Hz. So few gaming devices support anything below 60 Hz that’s it’s a fringe issue for me, and I suspect that most will would choose 120 Hz over anything below 60 Hz. I understand that it shouldn’t be a binary choice and should support 40 Hz all the way to 120 Hz, but it’s such a tiny issue, for me. Even so, with a CPU/iGPU this powerful, I understand why that would be a deal breaker for some. The display looks stunning, if I assume that Taki is capturing accurate colors, and he usually does. I’m freaking geeked for this. I’ve waited so long for a device this size and had almost given up hope that GPD would risk big sales by going with a smaller Ryzen 7 7840U device that includes a usable backlit keyboard in a clamshell design. I look forward to Taki’s usual battery of benchmarks. I can already tell that Taki is impressed, which bodes exceptionally well for the GPD Mini. I didn’t expect the embargo to lift today, and couldn’t be happier with first impressions. Nice work, to both Taki and GPD! 👍
These handheld PCs feel sci-fi. I'm excited to see what the handheld market is like in 3-4 years. I decided I'm not even going to upgrade my desktop anymore and will just get one of the handheld PCs in a few years. GPD Win Mini is the first one that has tempted me, I have a Deck already so none of the others looked like they were worth it but this one feels like it could co-exist with my Deck.
You don’t need a 40Hz lock when there is a 120Hz option. 120 is evenly divisible by 40, and thus a 40fps lock on a 120Hz display would look and feel identical.
And that damn legion go is so tempting with 8.8" 144hz VRR at $800. I love the innovation of the right joycon becoming veritcal fps mouse. I did not see that coming 🤯
I can't wait for this to launch, we finally have a successor for the Win 2 that isn't just "good enough". I loved the Win 2 but it was too ahead of its time.
This is a great looking device! I wish GPD themselves were more reliable, but I hear that their support is horrid. Their devices are so cool, but I would hate to spend that much money and end up with a brick. Looks like their prices are getting better, though! $699 for the lowest tier, which is a more than serviceable gaming experience, sounds very good! That competes with the Ally and Deck! If I get one of their devices with this layout, I would probably want a Max instead of the Mini. These are great "jack of all trades" devices that aren't the best handheld gaming experience nor the best productivity experience, but if you want a device that does both, there's nothing better. Because of that, I would want a Max so that the keyboard is more usable. Though a lot of people are put off by how large the Max is for handheld play, so I'm glad they're offering smaller options.
Your voice is really nice to listen to. I was just watching another video where the narrator had a whiny, sarcastic, sliding drawl, and it's a world of difference.
I have a GPD pocket 2, it's a fantastic litlle laptop, all metal case makes it feel really expensive, I take it everywhere with me, it runs my music production software just fine with low latency, it runs ps3/360 era games pretty well and it fits in my coat pocket, battery life is great as well
This will be good to play higher end titles connected to an EGPU via Oculink with the 15W all for the CPU. Plug in a display, keyboard and mouse and it's a nice desktop as well. It's looking like the mini can do it all.
Had a steam deck at release. Switched to a GPD Win Max 2 6800u shortly afterwards and never looked back. Superior in almost every way. The sticks are arguably worse, but completely functional. And after almost 1 year I no longer remember or care about the sticks being better. Mine feel perfect in the absence of a comparison.
Win mini looks extremely pleasing but I have very bad track records with GPD product. I’m still debating whether I should give GPD product a another chance.
@@sjoerdev quality control problems and bad customer service. like take for example the gpd win2, problems with battery, hinge problems and some other stuff. and to fix it the service would take forever and sometimes they'd send it back without anything done to it
@@sjoerdevone issue I know of is sometimes people who bought GPD handhelds would get a worm so most people just install a fresh install of Windows to remedy that, but it's still weird that they apparently sometimes do that.
Really love the flip handheld form factor. Where screen is on upper side from hand grip. Feels immersive, and love how neat it is when closed. I'd like to use it for browsing too aside from gaming. Keyboard and track pad are helpful. You're right, something to spend with our own money personally. At least to me too. Nice review!
The thing I'm most curious about with this model is the keyboard. I understand it won't be fantastic at that scale but I would want to use this as a laptop instead of just a gaming portable. A typing speed test against a more ideal keyboard might be nice.
It’s impossible to touch type on a keyboard this size when your hand is wider than half the keyboard. I learned that with Win Pocket, where all you get are accidental key presses when gaming. It’s too small for that. GPD has stayed true to “splitting the middle” with IT pros and gamers, and something that’s sold them A LOT of Win 1 and 2 models. If you need touch typing, this probably isn’t the right choice for you. I’d consider the Win Max 2, which was designed to include such a full featured keyboard. Folks, there is no single PC that’s going to do everything perfectly. The sooner you give up on that, the sooner you’ll enjoy the GAMES, and not just showing off your gaming hardware? This is perfectly suited for those who work in IT, but also game. There’s a pretty specific target audience for this and if you’re looking for a touch type keyboard on a 7” clamshell, I’m afraid you’re not just in the wrong aisle, you might be in the wrong store altogether? Go checkout Win Max 2 as GPD already made that for you. This is something else entirely. I genuinely didn’t expect to hear this after several generations of larger GPD devices that offer the exact same chipset? 🤔
@@kanabanakamura864 Dude, I hear you, loud & clear. I wasn’t sure if us old timers still had a say, despite many of us like Taki, Phawx and Russ at Retro Game Corp basically setting the table for all these glorious micro PCs that can *finally* play some games? What so many folks looking for their *first* gaming PC handheld simply may not realize that many of the manufacturers *READ* these comments to gauge reaction. I’m not so much breaking balls as letting those same mfgers know that there are many of us who’ve been at this for decades and are very willing to overlook the loss of ONE feature to gain half a dozen other features we know we want. I’ve spent the last two and half decades explaining to some very smart people why (after hearing about their needs) they probably don’t want the products they think they want. If I’m wrong, they’ll go buy something else, but having sold several hundred million dollars worth of hardware in the same time, I’m clearly getting through to the vast majority of folks I get to have a conversation with? I want GPD to KNOW that I’ll buy the Win Mini _because_ of that wonderful keyboard, not despite of it. I want recessed analog sticks along with analog triggers. I want GPDs tiny metal covers that conceal the analog sticks. Having all those wonderful ports on the very back of the device was already perfect, but the addition of a freaking OCULINK port is just pure gravy?! Put simply, GPD has earned my trust. I’ve owned several of their products and the only things I’ve wished for are things that didn’t exist, like multicore CPUs, fast GPUs and flash storage. I’ve also learned what to expect from mfgers who simply cannot afford to redesign the wheel with little or no guarantee of return on such an investment in engineering resources. Considering that some handheld mfgers, like ODM heavyweight ASUS (who have designed & sold more PCs than Dell & HP combined) don’t even include a keyboard with their similarly priced products? Why is this expected from some mfgers, but not all? 🤔 Regardless, I couldn’t be more excited for Win Mini. Well done, GPD! 👍
I think for better typing experience you'll have to go with the win max 2, or otherwise you could just plug in a smaller keyboard via usb. Nothing stops this handheld from being plugged into a bigger monitor and use full keyboard/mouse.
I have this with a GPD G1. And it's amazing! Also have a GPD Win Max 2021 also pretty amazing machine. Of course the GPD Win Mini with G1 feels around 9 times faster. But both are awesome. I love GPD. It's the only laptops I buy right now. Before I bought Lenovos. Also pretty happy with them, but GPD is catering to gaming really well. It's so mobile and so powerful. Got awesome battery life.
I love that the handheld market is getting crowded.. people seem to complain but the more competition the more we as customers win in pricing... just do your research and watch reviews and you'll find the handheld that suites you best. Great video as always!
Locking game at 40hz either with in game limiter or with RTSS (usually better) while in 120Hz should work fine? Kind of worrying about the heat at the side/top at 15W when not using a grip, how uncomfortable does it get? Good to see total charge drain used for comparison as I noticed some devices such as AYANEO 's recent ones can easily take more than 10W even at lower TDPs. Only negative is that the higher power drain maybe due to the other parts (screen etc) and the efficiency of electrical components involved and not due to them messing with the voltage.
This is pretty much the perfect handheld device imo, all it needs is black frame insertion for 120hz (60hz BFI) or even 130hz (this would give 65hz BFI), GPD could collaborate with Blur Busters to make either a firmware update for the display or driver, or even a piece of software to control the BFI, that would be incredible GPD if you are listening.
It will be close to exactly the same for the 7840u variants. The issue for the Mini is the heat dissipation at higher TDPs due to the size. That's why he recommends not to go over 20w. Hopefully going higher is fine. ill wait for more reviews before making the purchase otherwise id just get the Win Max 2 7840u
I kind of think this device is a "waste". Since it is much smaller, it is actually not as ergonomic or comfortable as the other handhelds. The Valve SteamDeck probably is the gold standard for comfort. Not just that, but it affects heat too. And the worst offender is going to be the battery life due to having a smaller unit. So what does that "extra portability" get you then? Well, nothing to be honest. In real-world or practical scenarios you will be lounging around the house with this. So nothing really gained over a VSD. Yet if you decided to leave the house, go outdoors, and take this with you..... well, you can't just grab it like you would for your keys, wallet, or phone. It won't fit into your pocket. You are going to have to bring a backpack. But hold on, if you need to bring a backpack, why not just put the SteamDeck in there instead? Exactly. Even going outdoors it doesn't get you anything extra. At least with gaming devices like: hacked new3DS, modded PS Vita Slim, PowKiddy RGB10 Max-1, Miyoo Mini, Anbernic RG 353m, RG 405m, RG 353ps, Retroid Pocket 2S, Retroid Pocket 3+.... ...well these devices will fit in the pocket opposite to your phone-pocket, and off you go, without needing a backpack. They effectively serve a different use-case, market category, or niche.
In fact, if you want the (2022/2023) current most balanced setup you would get an iPhone 15 Max, Retroid Pocket 3+, GPD Win-Max-3, and a PS5, so that you get access to Apps and Games from iOS, Android, Windows, and PlayStation. With alongside Emulation and Xbox Cloud. The previous/old setup (2018/2019) for most balanced gaming was with Samsung S10+ Razer JungleCat, iPad Pro with Controller, Windows Gaming Laptop (Intel 8th, GTX-16), and a PS4 Pro for the couch. Back then you got Android at it's best (phone), iOS at its best (tablet), Windows at its best (laptop), PlayStation at its best (console), and you had access to backwards compatibility, emulation, and Xbox Exclusives through Windows.
@ekinteko its obviously not for u, but everyone else begs to differ. As an owner of a main rig pc with a 4080 and a steam deck.. i wait to get my hands on this because of its form factor. That itself u fail to understand. Compared to steamdeck it is also a lot lighter, which to me is a very big deal, not to mention a better 1080p 120hz screen. U mentioned so many consoles that the mini can emulate without a hitch. It is definitely pocketable if u are not wearing skinny jeans. The phawx claims the back pocket will not be a problem with skinny jeans. Also, ur argument about carrying a bag is silly. U might as well tell everyone to get a laptop then.
@@genexis_ I don't think you read my comments properly, or have a comprehension problem. You CAN bring a laptop, but you would also need a controller. Something like the Valve SteamDeck has the controller integrated into the system. And obviously the Valve SteamDeck is old now and it is a budget option, your point there is moot. And it is a "console" like a portable PS4, that's how Valve sees it. They don't see it as a PC, since it lacks keyboard, trackpad, and Desktop Programs/WindowsOS, and most people don't use it for that purpose anyway. Valve is merely the good-guy where they don't prevent you from using the device however you want to, they are the opposite of Nintendo. Also, you made the assumption that this is not for me. Maybe it is? I am not a typical use-case. HOWEVER! I just gave you an outline for what a more typical use-case would look like. An indoors device versus outdoors device. The GPD Win-1 was hardly pocketable, everyone knows this. I am an early supporter. Then came the legendary upgrade, yet the GPD Win-2 was actually a bit larger. And now we have this GPD Win-Mini and it is a bit larger than that. It is PORTABLE device. To majority of people, this is NOT pocketable. I'm talking regular jeans and pants. It will fit into huge, baggy pants, workerslacks, or the inside pocket of a jacket. But it is certainly NOT in the same category as say the iPhone Max/Retroid Pocket 3+ sizewise. This is in the same category as the iPad Mini/Valve SteamDeck, talking sizewise.
I'm so stuck between this and the Win Max 2. The Win Mini has the best size for portability for me but Win Max 2 has the better keyboard size and layout. Either way, GPD has been a great competitor in the handheld PC market.
@@samgoff5289 Yes but I think you're forgetting that 10 years ago was 2013, already decent smartphones, decent specced laptops and decent PC power in consumer electronics in general was already a thing. Some compact computers like the NUC was just becoming a thing and some handheld windows PCs but they almost always used an Intel Atom processor.
Like to add from a different review: you can remap the input on the controller when triggered to mouse mode. So the left joystick can be remapped to have keyboard input like WASD with the buttons being 1,2,3,4 or what keys the game uses like zxc or hjk. I am gonna love this feature as it make non-controller or partial contoller supported games use "controller" while also still access keyboard functions [some games disable keyboard or alter the user interface when switched to a native controller] This feature will be a godsend while playing a old mmorpg on the go/while standing either for light grinding or to go to the auction house n browsing for items. Hyped for the release of the win mini. Throw it in a small sling and whenever a 10 minute clothes/grocery shopping/cafe trip end up turning into an hour I dont have to miss out on timed events ✨
I've been keeping a close eye on this, I have a steam deck and made a few videos about it but because of the size and storage issues ive just not used it much since last year. Ever since I heard about this a month ago it sounds perfect for me, big enough so that games that don't scale well are still relatively readable, but small enough to be pocketable. The pocketability was honestly the biggest selling point for me, the win 2 was cool for it's time but imo was held back by a tiny screen and a gpu not designed for gaming, hence a lot of weird bugs and glitches. This however has the amd drivers, they raw apu power and form factor to basically be the computer I use, event the specs are better than my proper gaming laptop (gpu aside obv). there are a few minor issues like you mentioned (no vrr/freesync, heat dissapation etc.) but because of the form factor these are tradeoff's that im willing to make, the only real issue to be will be if they come out with a significantly better model next year. Great video and looking forward to the main one (Btw i would like to see Teardown and Spiderman tested on this, can it do 1080 60 or is that too much for it?)
It's a hardware company. They make 100% of their income from hardware sales. If they don't out several new units each year they will go bankrupt in a matter of months. 😅
I'm curious what the docked performance numbers look like with an external gpu. I'd really love to have a foldable handheld that can replace my laptop setup to game on the go but be deployed for better performance.
It basically IS a laptop without a separate GPU, so any GPU you add to it should perform the same as it would on the equivalent laptop (minus whatever, for not being soldered to the mainboard). AMD claims the 7840u beats Apple's M2 chip in "application performance", so...
I’m liking GPD’s form factor but I’m waiting for its next version. 7040 cpus still feel not the performance I want since I tend to play AAA games and also maybe next gen APUs might be more efficient so I can squeeze more battery life on the form factor.
Nice impressions video. This would be an instant purchase for me if it had an internet modem and VRR (VRR really should be standard on these devices where they're rarely going to be running high framerates in games). Oculink port (eGPU) and USB 4 (Portable AR/VR glasses) really increase options for how this device can be used outside of the standard use cases. Really nice to see this kind of product coming to market. It is the most optimized min/max compromise solution for pocketable + screen real estate. I hope many people buy it so more companies make a variety of such devices.
This product is so close to beeing perfect 😢 They should 100% reconsider the screen. VRR would be the dream, but 40 heart is a absolute MUST! Also, the heat situation could be a little better I think. They really need a high quality fan this time
I wonder how the lower-end 7640U would fare at those TDP levels. It has 2 fewer cores and 4 fewer CUs to keep fed, so clocks should be higher for a given TDP. Obviously, that doesn't make up for the lack in hardware, but the comparison would be interesting for sure.
Great video, and really smart of you to opt for total system usage rather than just SoC usage. I do feel like the 7840u is a 15-20W TDP chip. TDPs lower than that and the chip is simply too chained from its actual muscle power. Therefore I am excited how the 7640u version compares to the 7840u version at those lower TDPs. Maybe the difference is so small, it makes no difference opting for the more expensive 7840u? Regardless, I'd use this as a complimentary device to the already excellent A1 Pro I use now.
This is actually super cool, i am going to keep an eye on this one. Been thinking about grabbing a portable for when i have to take 4 day work trips. Something small like this would be awesome.
Problem is unlike steam or any console maker they don’t have online game stores were they can make money. If steam didn’t have an online game store, the steam deck would cost more because the steam deck is sold at a lost knowing they will make more money from games.
Top of the line laptop components, 1080p 120hz monitor, high quality controller, keyboard, all engineered in a slim highly portable device... honestly it's a great price
@@rawdiggitydog most of then are tech insensitive steam deck/apple fan boys who just go with whatever big corps throws at them and adapt to the product
Hey Taki thanks for sharing your 1st impressions. Have you played long enough to compare to the ROG Ally's battery life? Do you believe the 7640U version will run cooler and might potentially last longer?
I can’t believe how much bad their was to this device. Bad loud cooling, bad battery life, gets uncomfortably hot over 15 watts, no VRR, no refresh rate under 60hz (no 40hz option) bad speakers, only takes one 2230. The only thing it does better than most is that it’s more compact. The price they’re asking on indiegogo is too much with all of these shortcomings. I still respect how much you tried to sell it as a great device though 😂
@@Tantuhard when you take into account the only good thing it has going for it… I agree it’s a great device. When you take into account every single other thing about it it’s a terrible device that no one should buy. It’s worse than a steam deck and worse than the rog ally at everything but being smaller. They didn’t even get the analog sticks right. They should be on the inside with the dpad and face buttons on the outside… like a steamdeck
missed this somehow and just found out. when i woke up this morning i dreamed of saving up for a win max 2. now i want nothing more than a win mini. holy shit am i in awe of where things have come from when i could only hope to buy so much as a win 2. just fucking wowzers, GPD and AMD. saving up for this and a steam deck OLED immediately gd (great vid as always taki
One of these with an eGPU would probably be a good setup for someone who spends a lot of time away from home. The only problem is it does seem rather expensive.
I like how this model looks. Not to big on GPD, but it's a nice lil' PC! I remember wanting the Win 2 back when it came out but it was unaffordable for me at the time. I did eventually get a GPD MicroPC which I used far less than I thought I would, mostly because I became afraid of it breaking due to the fact I discovered later that build quality was questionable. I have a Steam deck now and I use it with confidence. The GPD has had it's battery removed when it died (thankfully didn't puff up) and I'll eventually set up a dedicated use for it at some point.
Interesting will be to see comparison with 7640 version,as seems device expected not be used for tdp higher than 18tdp,in this case,how much difference will be, between 7840 and 7640 in practice,also interesting thermal tests on this device,and on higher tdp too.
Maybe it isn't an issue, but I've often wondered on these Win devices if playing something that primarily uses the controller is a bit of a pain on account your hands accidentally press the keyboard keys. Anyone have one that could comment on that? I do really love the clamshell and that it seems like it'd be super-duper versatile to play all sorts of games. It also seems much better suited for a device with a Windows OS on it than handhelds with only a controller.
I'm still using my archaic GPD Win1 I bought in 2017. Stopped gaming on it as the batteries generally go bad within less than a year because of the heat, regardless of the copper modding. Just using it as a traditional laptop PC and it has been great with the current battery lasting 3 years. I have one more spare encase. Definitely may get the low tier version of the Win Mini. Don't need too much ram or SSD storage. Just something that isnt too slow and is pocketable like my old warhorse.
What an exciting time for handheld gaming! More and and more options for us people with family and jobs to still be able to play games, I hope the industry keeps moving forward. Meanwhile at Sony.....
i remember wanting the first few GPDs even tho they couldnt even game. Now im a proud steam deck owner and seeing how far they have come is just amazing to see. didnt the first model come with intel h? how far weve come
Given the 120hz rate, is 40hz necessary? I thought it was a problem of 40/60 not being a whole number, so you had to display frames an uneven amount of time causing the stuttering, while a 120hz display could display every frame for 3 cycles.
The Main thing I want to know is how much cooler the device would be If I used the 7640u version of this instead, less cores should be less heat right? A device like this "in my opinion" is meant for lower spec games, with the option of being able to still do AAA titles at the heat cost, because do to its size I plan on using if often for long periods of time
I owned a win2, win3 , and now win4 . I missed the clam shell design from the win 2 as it made the unit feel more robust if that makes sense .. but it did get really hot , and I had to replace the front face plate twice because the hinge kept snapping the plastic… I hope gpd will fix these problem with this new design
Maybe it's just me, but I thought the game comparison with Ally and Deck both of them looked better then the Mini. Looking at the mountains, the shadows in them, etc. Maybe the screen on the Mini was just too bright for my taste, not sure. Either way I am definitely interest and will be watching how the Mini does going forward. Great video!
Is it possible you could say or link what games you're playing? That'd be neat! Wow Handheld market is changing so fast I love it! I hope we get more janky handhelds. I wish I was a rich gamer guy. But I'm happy with what I have right now. 😅
If there's something you'd like to see in the main review, feel free to leave suggestions.
Games in this video:
DBZ Kakarot
Tomb Raider
Alwa's Legacy
Dirt 3
Freedom Planet
Halls of Torment
Gunfire Reborn
Dungeons 3
Bioshock
Elden Ring gameplay!!!
Ps3/Xbox 360 emulation like Infamous, Nba Street Homecourt or Fifa street
Issue with total power is that there is plenty other things that affect it, from the Resolution, some kind of extra controllers for the screen, bad VRMs etc
Its generally a sign of low quality components IMO
does this unit support the AMD FSR 3 ?
Would be nice to have a featured games list on the description. Anyone knows this game at 10:04?
Great video :)
Great video as always Taki, so few channels in the endless sea of content that has become everyones RUclips feed actually get an instant click from me and have me watching the entire video without wanting to watch something else.
This Channel does that consistently, such good stuff!
This thing is slightly bigger than a 3ds xl and that is insane
This is emulation powerhouse. While still able to do emails on the go in pocket size
but can it play wario ware twisted?
@@ShadowZero27probably
@@ShadowZero27yeah?
@@HelixAdamOxfordchill dude it was just a question jeez
I love a flip-design approach over a Switch/PSVita clone, since it's width feels more like a regular joystick. Is a shame that no other company is making this design decision.
Same. I wish NVIDIA was able to continue their SHIELD Portable. That with the controls of the steam deck will be great.
@@1EdgarAI would love it if valve ever made a steam deck 2 with a clamshell design like the nvidia shield.
a flip steam deck would be perfect
This has to be the main company I've looked at in awe since the GP2x when I had a PSP, and not bought from them for whatever reason. Then the Pandora, which took many years. This actually has promise based on what it has, the portability is great for those incredible specs!
@@cloudycolacorp Kind of insane that you have all those! The Pandora was pretty mythical, I remember it being on preorder for the longest time
Same here - went from a GP32, to a PSP, to various phone controllers and then FINALLY got a Win Max in 2020 after I had been eyeing up the GPD XD, XD+, Win 1 and Win 2 haha
Was always eyeing up that Pandora too!
So happy to see the GP2X and Pandora mentioned here. My Pandora sits next to my bed and I played it last week.
@@TimmeeBee You lucky devil!
Anyone here got a Pyra?
We have come so far. I remember the Win 2 not being able to lock Kotor 2 at 60fps. And it also liked to overheat if you charged and played at the same time.
You remember when we had those netbooks in the late 2000s that could like, barely run a web browser? Now we got handheld PCs that can throw hands (if not surpass) some gaming laptops like my old 3cm thick MSI 😭😭 Absolutely mind-boggling how far mobile chipset tech has come since the inception of Ryzen
Man, that's probably got more to do with Kotor 2 than the Win 2. That game is infamous. I think they ended up having to give free games to everyone who bought it on switch because it had a bug that made it impossible to complete and they weren't able to fix it.
I want the Nintendo Focus for $399 and with a 3D platformer pack-in game. If Nintendo is headed to VR, I can imagine it being similar to the Pimax Portal.
@@Dec4AllTimeAlwaysWhat's a Nintendo Focus?
@@someguy9204It's been leaked that supposedly the switch 2 is coming out next year he could be referring to that. It will be reverse compatible but it will be running a new OS. How ever I think the whole "Nintendo Focus" specifically isn't real
6:42 The very first time I've seen anybody compare it to the original Max. Finally, thank you. And I must say, this, to me, really shows just how tiny the mini is.
I've had the Win 2 and the Win Max (and the Win 3), and the Max was great but just a bit too big for comfortable, couch-slumpy use. I'm really torn about signing up for the Win Mini, or waiting for the 8-series (or whatever) CPU equivalent next year or the year after. I also think there needs to be a battery tech revolution to take these devices to the next level. I need four hours at any TDP level, basically 🤣
@@gospelofrye6881any devices in the works?
As an owner of an original Win 1, I'm gonna be watching this device with anticipation. I liked the old Win (mostly because it was abnormally cheap around the time I heard about it), but it had two glaring issues that ultimately turned it into a paperweight.
The device had a huge tendency to turn on my itself, as it had some kind of auto-power-on when the lid was lifted that I wasn't able to disable. And for some reason, this would constantly trigger even if I was just carrying the Win 1 in my pocket around so I'd frequently take it out to find it powered on and also quite warm. Which leads onto what killed it, and that was that it had the fatal design flaw of using the battery as a heatsink. Within a year, the battery effectively became unusable and lost all ability to hold a charge. I couldn't even charge it fast enough to be purely ran on wall power, so the Win just ended up useless.
If all of those issues are no longer a thing with the Mini, I might grab one pretty much as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Especially with those grips.
Did you order one? I see options to buy on the website.
I already own a Steam Deck but I love that the low end pricing for these handheld PCs are now around the cost of the ROG Ally, makes itt much more affordable for gamers on a budget. Great video Taki! ❤
the retail price of the version he has there is $1150 (before sales tax)
@@huzcerthey have a version on the website for $700
Low-end pricing?
$700 is low end. Right, lol.
$700 definitely is the most common low end but older models will get cheaper as time goes on.
For a handheld, this is just...*chef's kiss*
For the price, however, that's just something else...
This is exactly what i wanted. Perfect size. Screen resolution and performance
This with a truly no bezel 8" screen if I was being selfish.
I love that Win Mini. Definitely the better handheld gaming system.
But as a hybrid laptop and on the go gaming option all in one, I think the Max may be better.
Your TDP analysis was very informative, i always noticed that my Ally uses less total power compared to other 7840u handhelds at same TDP, for example at 15W TDP the Ally has a total system draw of about 24W while 7840u devices draw a total of 28W. That also explains why in the Phawx Ally vs Win Max 2 test, the Ally was always behind the Win Max 2 at same TDP. Total power draw is what should be used to make comparisons
Ally does a good job of keeping total power draw low. I haven't found other stuff that can compare.
I have the Win Max. One of the best devices in my collection. Love it.
Hot damn! This is the very first gaming handheld that I’ve seen where I’ll cut the benchmark scores A LOT of slack. Reason fails me, as I just WANT THIS. I’ve been waiting YEARS for GPD to provide a true successor to the GPD Win 1/2 and they have not disappointed! This is EXACTLY what I’ve been waiting for, and I know there are other GPD fans that are just salivating for this product. If you’re an IT pro like me, this is a big deal for GPD fans.
I’m just a little bit let down my the LCD panel, but GPD has always provided excellent, if somewhat wonky panels. For my needs, I just don’t need a panel that will go down to 40 Hz. It would be nice, but I’d much rather have 120 Hz static refresh rate panel than a display that does only 40 - 60 Hz. So few gaming devices support anything below 60 Hz that’s it’s a fringe issue for me, and I suspect that most will would choose 120 Hz over anything below 60 Hz. I understand that it shouldn’t be a binary choice and should support 40 Hz all the way to 120 Hz, but it’s such a tiny issue, for me. Even so, with a CPU/iGPU this powerful, I understand why that would be a deal breaker for some. The display looks stunning, if I assume that Taki is capturing accurate colors, and he usually does.
I’m freaking geeked for this. I’ve waited so long for a device this size and had almost given up hope that GPD would risk big sales by going with a smaller Ryzen 7 7840U device that includes a usable backlit keyboard in a clamshell design.
I look forward to Taki’s usual battery of benchmarks. I can already tell that Taki is impressed, which bodes exceptionally well for the GPD Mini. I didn’t expect the embargo to lift today, and couldn’t be happier with first impressions. Nice work, to both Taki and GPD! 👍
Great comment mate!
Well said I love this. Is the screen only 60hz then?
Good to see GPD keep making true portable UMPC formats with Win4 and now with Win Mini!
This one might actually get me to buy! Was excited for your video
These handheld PCs feel sci-fi. I'm excited to see what the handheld market is like in 3-4 years. I decided I'm not even going to upgrade my desktop anymore and will just get one of the handheld PCs in a few years.
GPD Win Mini is the first one that has tempted me, I have a Deck already so none of the others looked like they were worth it but this one feels like it could co-exist with my Deck.
Exactly. Tryna see how this money sitting though 😭
You don’t need a 40Hz lock when there is a 120Hz option. 120 is evenly divisible by 40, and thus a 40fps lock on a 120Hz display would look and feel identical.
This looks really good. I wish it was out before I bought my Ally, but I'm going to wait for the next processors before I get a other handheld.
Have the exact same thoughts.
And that damn legion go is so tempting with 8.8" 144hz VRR at $800. I love the innovation of the right joycon becoming veritcal fps mouse. I did not see that coming 🤯
Well it depends on how much you paid. The higher end models of this thing are really a different segment of the market.
It looks pretty revolutionary for its time. It's like a hybrid of a GBA SP and a laptop.
Exactly
more like a nintendo ds
@@LukaDeezNutslmao GBA is a better comparison than DS dude 😂
Where’s that second screen?
I can't wait for this to launch, we finally have a successor for the Win 2 that isn't just "good enough". I loved the Win 2 but it was too ahead of its time.
Did you order it?
@@juniorelizondo4144 I did
Hey taki, how are you? How do you enable CHARGE LEVEL and BATTERY on the overlay?
This is a great looking device! I wish GPD themselves were more reliable, but I hear that their support is horrid. Their devices are so cool, but I would hate to spend that much money and end up with a brick. Looks like their prices are getting better, though! $699 for the lowest tier, which is a more than serviceable gaming experience, sounds very good! That competes with the Ally and Deck!
If I get one of their devices with this layout, I would probably want a Max instead of the Mini. These are great "jack of all trades" devices that aren't the best handheld gaming experience nor the best productivity experience, but if you want a device that does both, there's nothing better. Because of that, I would want a Max so that the keyboard is more usable. Though a lot of people are put off by how large the Max is for handheld play, so I'm glad they're offering smaller options.
Your voice is really nice to listen to.
I was just watching another video where the narrator had a whiny, sarcastic, sliding drawl,
and it's a world of difference.
I have a GPD pocket 2, it's a fantastic litlle laptop, all metal case makes it feel really expensive, I take it everywhere with me, it runs my music production software just fine with low latency, it runs ps3/360 era games pretty well and it fits in my coat pocket, battery life is great as well
This will be good to play higher end titles connected to an EGPU via Oculink with the 15W all for the CPU. Plug in a display, keyboard and mouse and it's a nice desktop as well. It's looking like the mini can do it all.
Had a steam deck at release. Switched to a GPD Win Max 2 6800u shortly afterwards and never looked back. Superior in almost every way. The sticks are arguably worse, but completely functional. And after almost 1 year I no longer remember or care about the sticks being better. Mine feel perfect in the absence of a comparison.
Do you use the keyboard/trackpad at all? I imagine they don’t work well for actual gaming right?
Which version did you end up getting? The cheapest one I see is $700 😅
@@thomasbryans6547 I have a the 1T 32gb 6800U.
So happy you got your video out first before ETA Slime.
Win mini looks extremely pleasing but I have very bad track records with GPD product. I’m still debating whether I should give GPD product a another chance.
GPD has significantly improved over last years. Choosing between AYA, GPD and Onexplayer(Aokzoe) I would definitely go with GPD.
why the bad track record? what happened?
@@sjoerdev quality control problems and bad customer service. like take for example the gpd win2, problems with battery, hinge problems and some other stuff. and to fix it the service would take forever and sometimes they'd send it back without anything done to it
@@sjoerdevone issue I know of is sometimes people who bought GPD handhelds would get a worm so most people just install a fresh install of Windows to remedy that, but it's still weird that they apparently sometimes do that.
Really love the flip handheld form factor. Where screen is on upper side from hand grip. Feels immersive, and love how neat it is when closed. I'd like to use it for browsing too aside from gaming. Keyboard and track pad are helpful. You're right, something to spend with our own money personally. At least to me too. Nice review!
The thing I'm most curious about with this model is the keyboard. I understand it won't be fantastic at that scale but I would want to use this as a laptop instead of just a gaming portable. A typing speed test against a more ideal keyboard might be nice.
If thumb typing is your thing, it's good enough.
It’s impossible to touch type on a keyboard this size when your hand is wider than half the keyboard. I learned that with Win Pocket, where all you get are accidental key presses when gaming.
It’s too small for that. GPD has stayed true to “splitting the middle” with IT pros and gamers, and something that’s sold them A LOT of Win 1 and 2 models. If you need touch typing, this probably isn’t the right choice for you. I’d consider the Win Max 2, which was designed to include such a full featured keyboard.
Folks, there is no single PC that’s going to do everything perfectly. The sooner you give up on that, the sooner you’ll enjoy the GAMES, and not just showing off your gaming hardware? This is perfectly suited for those who work in IT, but also game. There’s a pretty specific target audience for this and if you’re looking for a touch type keyboard on a 7” clamshell, I’m afraid you’re not just in the wrong aisle, you might be in the wrong store altogether?
Go checkout Win Max 2 as GPD already made that for you. This is something else entirely. I genuinely didn’t expect to hear this after several generations of larger GPD devices that offer the exact same chipset? 🤔
@@kanabanakamura864 Dude, I hear you, loud & clear. I wasn’t sure if us old timers still had a say, despite many of us like Taki, Phawx and Russ at Retro Game Corp basically setting the table for all these glorious micro PCs that can *finally* play some games?
What so many folks looking for their *first* gaming PC handheld simply may not realize that many of the manufacturers *READ* these comments to gauge reaction. I’m not so much breaking balls as letting those same mfgers know that there are many of us who’ve been at this for decades and are very willing to overlook the loss of ONE feature to gain half a dozen other features we know we want.
I’ve spent the last two and half decades explaining to some very smart people why (after hearing about their needs) they probably don’t want the products they think they want. If I’m wrong, they’ll go buy something else, but having sold several hundred million dollars worth of hardware in the same time, I’m clearly getting through to the vast majority of folks I get to have a conversation with?
I want GPD to KNOW that I’ll buy the Win Mini _because_ of that wonderful keyboard, not despite of it. I want recessed analog sticks along with analog triggers. I want GPDs tiny metal covers that conceal the analog sticks. Having all those wonderful ports on the very back of the device was already perfect, but the addition of a freaking OCULINK port is just pure gravy?!
Put simply, GPD has earned my trust. I’ve owned several of their products and the only things I’ve wished for are things that didn’t exist, like multicore CPUs, fast GPUs and flash storage. I’ve also learned what to expect from mfgers who simply cannot afford to redesign the wheel with little or no guarantee of return on such an investment in engineering resources.
Considering that some handheld mfgers, like ODM heavyweight ASUS (who have designed & sold more PCs than Dell & HP combined) don’t even include a keyboard with their similarly priced products? Why is this expected from some mfgers, but not all? 🤔
Regardless, I couldn’t be more excited for Win Mini. Well done, GPD! 👍
Check out the Winmax 2
I think for better typing experience you'll have to go with the win max 2, or otherwise you could just plug in a smaller keyboard via usb. Nothing stops this handheld from being plugged into a bigger monitor and use full keyboard/mouse.
I have this with a GPD G1. And it's amazing! Also have a GPD Win Max 2021 also pretty amazing machine. Of course the GPD Win Mini with G1 feels around 9 times faster. But both are awesome. I love GPD. It's the only laptops I buy right now. Before I bought Lenovos. Also pretty happy with them, but GPD is catering to gaming really well. It's so mobile and so powerful. Got awesome battery life.
I love that the handheld market is getting crowded.. people seem to complain but the more competition the more we as customers win in pricing... just do your research and watch reviews and you'll find the handheld that suites you best. Great video as always!
Locking game at 40hz either with in game limiter or with RTSS (usually better) while in 120Hz should work fine?
Kind of worrying about the heat at the side/top at 15W when not using a grip, how uncomfortable does it get?
Good to see total charge drain used for comparison as I noticed some devices such as AYANEO 's recent ones can easily take more than 10W even at lower TDPs.
Only negative is that the higher power drain maybe due to the other parts (screen etc) and the efficiency of electrical components involved and not due to them messing with the voltage.
There is no disassembly... How often will you change the wires? But it looks beautiful.
What software do you use to get the fps on the screen like that?
msi afterburner
Riva Tuner Statistics Server (RTSS). It comes as part of MSI Afterburner
@@e2rqeythat Riva tuner right?
@@JJEByeah, RivaTuner Statistics Server
@@JJEB yeah, lol sorry the original way I wrote it was redundant
I am using win max 2. And I can say that it is a great device, simply fantastic.
This is pretty much the perfect handheld device imo, all it needs is black frame insertion for 120hz (60hz BFI) or even 130hz (this would give 65hz BFI), GPD could collaborate with Blur Busters to make either a firmware update for the display or driver, or even a piece of software to control the BFI, that would be incredible GPD if you are listening.
Why would you need the frame insertion? You will be able to run games at 60 with regular frame pacing without it.
really cool. Hopefully we'll see an actualy pocketable GPD Pocket 1&2 alike soon as well
would love to see a comparison between this and the GPD Win 4 in terms of performance, size, and functionality
It will be close to exactly the same for the 7840u variants. The issue for the Mini is the heat dissipation at higher TDPs due to the size. That's why he recommends not to go over 20w. Hopefully going higher is fine. ill wait for more reviews before making the purchase otherwise id just get the Win Max 2 7840u
I kind of think this device is a "waste".
Since it is much smaller, it is actually not as ergonomic or comfortable as the other handhelds. The Valve SteamDeck probably is the gold standard for comfort. Not just that, but it affects heat too. And the worst offender is going to be the battery life due to having a smaller unit.
So what does that "extra portability" get you then? Well, nothing to be honest. In real-world or practical scenarios you will be lounging around the house with this. So nothing really gained over a VSD. Yet if you decided to leave the house, go outdoors, and take this with you..... well, you can't just grab it like you would for your keys, wallet, or phone. It won't fit into your pocket. You are going to have to bring a backpack. But hold on, if you need to bring a backpack, why not just put the SteamDeck in there instead? Exactly. Even going outdoors it doesn't get you anything extra.
At least with gaming devices like: hacked new3DS, modded PS Vita Slim, PowKiddy RGB10 Max-1, Miyoo Mini, Anbernic RG 353m, RG 405m, RG 353ps, Retroid Pocket 2S, Retroid Pocket 3+....
...well these devices will fit in the pocket opposite to your phone-pocket, and off you go, without needing a backpack. They effectively serve a different use-case, market category, or niche.
In fact, if you want the (2022/2023) current most balanced setup you would get an iPhone 15 Max, Retroid Pocket 3+, GPD Win-Max-3, and a PS5, so that you get access to Apps and Games from iOS, Android, Windows, and PlayStation. With alongside Emulation and Xbox Cloud.
The previous/old setup (2018/2019) for most balanced gaming was with Samsung S10+ Razer JungleCat, iPad Pro with Controller, Windows Gaming Laptop (Intel 8th, GTX-16), and a PS4 Pro for the couch. Back then you got Android at it's best (phone), iOS at its best (tablet), Windows at its best (laptop), PlayStation at its best (console), and you had access to backwards compatibility, emulation, and Xbox Exclusives through Windows.
@ekinteko its obviously not for u, but everyone else begs to differ. As an owner of a main rig pc with a 4080 and a steam deck.. i wait to get my hands on this because of its form factor. That itself u fail to understand. Compared to steamdeck it is also a lot lighter, which to me is a very big deal, not to mention a better 1080p 120hz screen. U mentioned so many consoles that the mini can emulate without a hitch. It is definitely pocketable if u are not wearing skinny jeans. The phawx claims the back pocket will not be a problem with skinny jeans. Also, ur argument about carrying a bag is silly. U might as well tell everyone to get a laptop then.
@@genexis_ I don't think you read my comments properly, or have a comprehension problem.
You CAN bring a laptop, but you would also need a controller. Something like the Valve SteamDeck has the controller integrated into the system. And obviously the Valve SteamDeck is old now and it is a budget option, your point there is moot. And it is a "console" like a portable PS4, that's how Valve sees it. They don't see it as a PC, since it lacks keyboard, trackpad, and Desktop Programs/WindowsOS, and most people don't use it for that purpose anyway. Valve is merely the good-guy where they don't prevent you from using the device however you want to, they are the opposite of Nintendo.
Also, you made the assumption that this is not for me. Maybe it is? I am not a typical use-case. HOWEVER! I just gave you an outline for what a more typical use-case would look like. An indoors device versus outdoors device.
The GPD Win-1 was hardly pocketable, everyone knows this. I am an early supporter. Then came the legendary upgrade, yet the GPD Win-2 was actually a bit larger. And now we have this GPD Win-Mini and it is a bit larger than that. It is PORTABLE device. To majority of people, this is NOT pocketable. I'm talking regular jeans and pants. It will fit into huge, baggy pants, workerslacks, or the inside pocket of a jacket. But it is certainly NOT in the same category as say the iPhone Max/Retroid Pocket 3+ sizewise. This is in the same category as the iPad Mini/Valve SteamDeck, talking sizewise.
pretty cute device. i will keep my win max 2 because of the size of the keyboard. but i’m impressed by the performance for this size.
I'm so stuck between this and the Win Max 2. The Win Mini has the best size for portability for me but Win Max 2 has the better keyboard size and layout. Either way, GPD has been a great competitor in the handheld PC market.
Same issue. Maybe I'll get the mini and a laptop separately
i pick the mini. the win max looks and feel like a regular mini laptop. btw is mini out yet?
the grips make this device so much more attractive
If you gave this to someone even just 10 years ago they would've had a stroke. The amount of power packed into that thing is crazy.
Well duh literally anything 10 years later would blow anything else away...even a phone
I totally agree, CPU wise this thing is the same as a high end desktop
@@samgoff5289 Yes but I think you're forgetting that 10 years ago was 2013, already decent smartphones, decent specced laptops and decent PC power in consumer electronics in general was already a thing. Some compact computers like the NUC was just becoming a thing and some handheld windows PCs but they almost always used an Intel Atom processor.
@@Tantuhard lol no, but I think it's comparable to high range laptop tho (but if it run in full power only)
I know developers with slower machines it really is wild.
Like to add from a different review: you can remap the input on the controller when triggered to mouse mode. So the left joystick can be remapped to have keyboard input like WASD with the buttons being 1,2,3,4 or what keys the game uses like zxc or hjk.
I am gonna love this feature as it make non-controller or partial contoller supported games use "controller" while also still access keyboard functions [some games disable keyboard or alter the user interface when switched to a native controller]
This feature will be a godsend while playing a old mmorpg on the go/while standing either for light grinding or to go to the auction house n browsing for items.
Hyped for the release of the win mini. Throw it in a small sling and whenever a 10 minute clothes/grocery shopping/cafe trip end up turning into an hour I dont have to miss out on timed events ✨
I've been keeping a close eye on this, I have a steam deck and made a few videos about it but because of the size and storage issues ive just not used it much since last year. Ever since I heard about this a month ago it sounds perfect for me, big enough so that games that don't scale well are still relatively readable, but small enough to be pocketable.
The pocketability was honestly the biggest selling point for me, the win 2 was cool for it's time but imo was held back by a tiny screen and a gpu not designed for gaming, hence a lot of weird bugs and glitches. This however has the amd drivers, they raw apu power and form factor to basically be the computer I use, event the specs are better than my proper gaming laptop (gpu aside obv). there are a few minor issues like you mentioned (no vrr/freesync, heat dissapation etc.) but because of the form factor these are tradeoff's that im willing to make, the only real issue to be will be if they come out with a significantly better model next year.
Great video and looking forward to the main one (Btw i would like to see Teardown and Spiderman tested on this, can it do 1080 60 or is that too much for it?)
It's a hardware company. They make 100% of their income from hardware sales. If they don't out several new units each year they will go bankrupt in a matter of months. 😅
Finally, waiting has paid off, this one is impressive and the pricing isn't horrible.
Is the bottom of your unit made out of plastic?
I'm curious what the docked performance numbers look like with an external gpu. I'd really love to have a foldable handheld that can replace my laptop setup to game on the go but be deployed for better performance.
It basically IS a laptop without a separate GPU, so any GPU you add to it should perform the same as it would on the equivalent laptop (minus whatever, for not being soldered to the mainboard). AMD claims the 7840u beats Apple's M2 chip in "application performance", so...
Some other youtubers have made videos of the Win Mini connected to an eGPU playing games.
Thanks Taki! How is the heat at a tdp of around 22w? I usually run my wm2 18-25 watts depending on the game. Would that be too hot in your opinion?
I’m liking GPD’s form factor but I’m waiting for its next version. 7040 cpus still feel not the performance I want since I tend to play AAA games and also maybe next gen APUs might be more efficient so I can squeeze more battery life on the form factor.
Maybe wait 1.5 years
Nice video on this device. Amazing how you added your own mods.👍🏼
Nice impressions video.
This would be an instant purchase for me if it had an internet modem and VRR (VRR really should be standard on these devices where they're rarely going to be running high framerates in games).
Oculink port (eGPU) and USB 4 (Portable AR/VR glasses) really increase options for how this device can be used outside of the standard use cases.
Really nice to see this kind of product coming to market. It is the most optimized min/max compromise solution for pocketable + screen real estate.
I hope many people buy it so more companies make a variety of such devices.
This product is so close to beeing perfect 😢 They should 100% reconsider the screen. VRR would be the dream, but 40 heart is a absolute MUST! Also, the heat situation could be a little better I think. They really need a high quality fan this time
It's a 120hz screen. Locking it to 40hz with rtss will work fine. It's not VRR but it's still gonna be playable at that fps
"Anyone who's ever typed on a Blackberry will feel right at home" is probably the highest praise you could give to a keyboard.
Not having VRR is a real bummer.
Wasn't even a thought for me
Honestly my biggest issue with this device. Would of been the perfect handheld if it did.
Ngl it’s way better than what I honestly expected
They will probably add VRR in a future update.
@@netako yea I don't think so bro. If it was gonna have VRR it would have it at launch.
I have been waiting for this for a long time!
OMG MY DREAM!
What a perfect device. its been a long time since the dawn of the legendary GPD Micro PC.
I wonder how the lower-end 7640U would fare at those TDP levels. It has 2 fewer cores and 4 fewer CUs to keep fed, so clocks should be higher for a given TDP. Obviously, that doesn't make up for the lack in hardware, but the comparison would be interesting for sure.
Great video, and really smart of you to opt for total system usage rather than just SoC usage. I do feel like the 7840u is a 15-20W TDP chip. TDPs lower than that and the chip is simply too chained from its actual muscle power. Therefore I am excited how the 7640u version compares to the 7840u version at those lower TDPs. Maybe the difference is so small, it makes no difference opting for the more expensive 7840u? Regardless, I'd use this as a complimentary device to the already excellent A1 Pro I use now.
Lets gooooooooooo
Best review I have seen win mini , now they have the 8840 even better
this is so annoying no usb a, as all the small flash drives are usb a and gamepad dongles as well
Calling them Mini, Ally and Deck sounds so cute!
The lack of a 4G/5G module feels like a big miss.
especially when the Winmax 2 has 4g.
id just tether it to my phone
i’m happy for the win 2 sized design to come back
GPD = Gonna Pretty much Die.
This is actually super cool, i am going to keep an eye on this one. Been thinking about grabbing a portable for when i have to take 4 day work trips. Something small like this would be awesome.
700 dollar price point is ridiculous
Problem is unlike steam or any console maker they don’t have online game stores were they can make money. If steam didn’t have an online game store, the steam deck would cost more because the steam deck is sold at a lost knowing they will make more money from games.
Top of the line laptop components, 1080p 120hz monitor, high quality controller, keyboard, all engineered in a slim highly portable device... honestly it's a great price
@@bocadog3I'm glad that people like you have common sense. Some of these people don't think straight
@@rawdiggitydog most of then are tech insensitive steam deck/apple fan boys who just go with whatever big corps throws at them and adapt to the product
@@Fldllsenah, most of them used their own affordability and don't care if the company get anything from the product or not
Hey Taki thanks for sharing your 1st impressions. Have you played long enough to compare to the ROG Ally's battery life? Do you believe the 7640U version will run cooler and might potentially last longer?
I can’t believe how much bad their was to this device. Bad loud cooling, bad battery life, gets uncomfortably hot over 15 watts, no VRR, no refresh rate under 60hz (no 40hz option) bad speakers, only takes one 2230. The only thing it does better than most is that it’s more compact. The price they’re asking on indiegogo is too much with all of these shortcomings. I still respect how much you tried to sell it as a great device though 😂
For the size, this is a great device.
@@Tantuhard when you take into account the only good thing it has going for it… I agree it’s a great device. When you take into account every single other thing about it it’s a terrible device that no one should buy. It’s worse than a steam deck and worse than the rog ally at everything but being smaller. They didn’t even get the analog sticks right. They should be on the inside with the dpad and face buttons on the outside… like a steamdeck
missed this somehow and just found out. when i woke up this morning i dreamed of saving up for a win max 2. now i want nothing more than a win mini. holy shit am i in awe of where things have come from when i could only hope to buy so much as a win 2. just fucking wowzers, GPD and AMD. saving up for this and a steam deck OLED immediately gd (great vid as always taki
One of these with an eGPU would probably be a good setup for someone who spends a lot of time away from home. The only problem is it does seem rather expensive.
I like how this model looks. Not to big on GPD, but it's a nice lil' PC!
I remember wanting the Win 2 back when it came out but it was unaffordable for me at the time. I did eventually get a GPD MicroPC which I used far less than I thought I would, mostly because I became afraid of it breaking due to the fact I discovered later that build quality was questionable. I have a Steam deck now and I use it with confidence. The GPD has had it's battery removed when it died (thankfully didn't puff up) and I'll eventually set up a dedicated use for it at some point.
Amazing living the best life 👍🏼
Great work and do care for your health too
Thanks for the review! Also the wattage insight was eye opening
I'm loving the gaming pc explosion right now!
Interesting will be to see comparison with 7640 version,as seems device expected not be used for tdp higher than 18tdp,in this case,how much difference will be, between 7840 and 7640 in practice,also interesting thermal tests on this device,and on higher tdp too.
Taki with the current TPD/TEMP limit would it make sense to just buy the 7640u? been really struggling with this choice and would love your input.
Leaning to probably, but I've never used 7640U.
Now this has me excited. 🔥
Maybe it isn't an issue, but I've often wondered on these Win devices if playing something that primarily uses the controller is a bit of a pain on account your hands accidentally press the keyboard keys. Anyone have one that could comment on that?
I do really love the clamshell and that it seems like it'd be super-duper versatile to play all sorts of games. It also seems much better suited for a device with a Windows OS on it than handhelds with only a controller.
I love a good clamshell. I don't need this at all, but I'm so tempted 😭
I'm still using my archaic GPD Win1 I bought in 2017. Stopped gaming on it as the batteries generally go bad within less than a year because of the heat, regardless of the copper modding. Just using it as a traditional laptop PC and it has been great with the current battery lasting 3 years. I have one more spare encase. Definitely may get the low tier version of the Win Mini. Don't need too much ram or SSD storage. Just something that isnt too slow and is pocketable like my old warhorse.
What a great and detailed review. Was that dungeon keeper you were playing? You bringing me back if it was ❤
I would love to get my hands on this and try it out. I loved the original GPD Win's size.
What an exciting time for handheld gaming! More and and more options for us people with family and jobs to still be able to play games, I hope the industry keeps moving forward.
Meanwhile at Sony.....
Awesome video! This device looks like my dream handheld
i remember wanting the first few GPDs even tho they couldnt even game. Now im a proud steam deck owner and seeing how far they have come is just amazing to see. didnt the first model come with intel h? how far weve come
First Win had Intel Atom.
Win 2 had an m3-7Y30/8100Y depending on revision. It’s only been getting better from there.
Looking forward to this dropping, Much prefer the clamshells over the other hamdhelds. My gpd win 2 is dying so I'll probably upgrade to this.
Given the 120hz rate, is 40hz necessary? I thought it was a problem of 40/60 not being a whole number, so you had to display frames an uneven amount of time causing the stuttering, while a 120hz display could display every frame for 3 cycles.
How would you compare this to the Rog Ally in terms of overall gaming and experience etc ?
Honestly, if I had the money for it i'd sell my steam deck and get one of these. I really like the clamshell desing, much easier to travel with
I wonder how this will compare with the Lenovo Legion Go. The physical keyboard is nice at least, as is the additional RAM.
The Main thing I want to know is how much cooler the device would be If I used the 7640u version of this instead, less cores should be less heat right? A device like this "in my opinion" is meant for lower spec games, with the option of being able to still do AAA titles at the heat cost, because do to its size I plan on using if often for long periods of time
These new gpd device are beautiful 😍
I owned a win2, win3 , and now win4 . I missed the clam shell design from the win 2 as it made the unit feel more robust if that makes sense .. but it did get really hot , and I had to replace the front face plate twice because the hinge kept snapping the plastic… I hope gpd will fix these problem with this new design
When will the IndieGoGo go live?
Maybe it's just me, but I thought the game comparison with Ally and Deck both of them looked better then the Mini. Looking at the mountains, the shadows in them, etc. Maybe the screen on the Mini was just too bright for my taste, not sure. Either way I am definitely interest and will be watching how the Mini does going forward. Great video!
Is it possible you could say or link what games you're playing? That'd be neat! Wow Handheld market is changing so fast I love it! I hope we get more janky handhelds. I wish I was a rich gamer guy. But I'm happy with what I have right now. 😅
Added it to the pinned comment.