GPD’s Win 5 Handheld: Bold AMD Power, Divisive Design Choices
At ChinaJoy 2025, GPD showcased its ambitious Win 5 gaming handheld – the first device powered by AMD’s flagship Strix Halo APU (Ryzen AI MAX 300 series). While the chip promises revolutionary integrated graphics performance (up to 40 RDNA 3.5 CUs), the design decisions have split the handheld gaming community.
The Good: Next-Gen APU Power
- RTX 4060-Level Claims: GPD Win 5 boldly advertises desktop-class GPU performance in handheld form (though real-world testing is pending).
- Strix Halo Muscle: The 45W+ TDP APU features up to 16 Zen 5 cores and groundbreaking iGPU power – a potential game-changer.
- Robust Cooling: Dual fans address thermal demands of the high-wattage chip.
The Controversial: Design Trade-Offs
- Modular Battery Pack:
- No built-in battery – requires attaching an external pack for portable use.
- Criticism: Adds bulk, limits “grab-and-go” convenience. Users can’t swap smaller batteries.
- Outdated Charging:
- Uses a large laptop-style power brick (160W shown) with a barrel jack.
- Criticism: No USB-C PD despite 240W support in USB4 – seen as a backward step.
- Missing Features:
- No sliding keyboard (a Win series staple).
- No OCuLink port for eGPU expansion.
- Awkward power button placement (accidental presses).
Community Backlash
Early reactions from enthusiasts:
“Why use a barrel jack when USB-C exists?”
“The external battery isn’t even usable as a power bank.”
“Without the pack, it’s just a plugged-in handheld.”
Context & Competition
- First-Mover Tax: As the pioneer with Strix Halo, GPD Win 5 faces engineering hurdles.
- AYANEO’s Approach: Competitor NEXT2 will use Strix Halo with a built-in battery (in a larger chassis).
- Laptop Comparison: Some argue similarly priced gaming laptops offer better ergonomics.
Key Unknowns
- Battery Life: Unconfirmed (depends on pack capacity).
- Performance Validation: Can it truly match RTX 4060 in 30-50W power limits?
- Price: Expected to be premium (no confirmation).
Also, Read
- NVIDIA N1X SoC Spotted on Windows – Furmark Leak Hints at Desktop ARM Future
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9000X Launched – 64-Core Enthusiast CPU at $4,999
- GPD Win 5 Unveiled – World’s First Strix Halo Handheld with 16-Core AMD Power
The Verdict
GPD deserves credit for pushing handheld boundaries with Strix Halo’s raw power. However, the modular battery, proprietary charger, and missing features feel out of step with modern portable convenience. This may appeal to tinkerers, but mainstream gamers might wait for refined designs from competitors.