GPD Win Max 2021 Review: A Powerful Handheld Gaming PC
GPD · 2021-09-01
The GPD Win Max 2021 is a clamshell handheld gaming PC offering either AMD Ryzen 7 4800U or Intel Core i7-1195G7 processors, up to 2TB SSD, and an 8-inch H-IPS touchscreen. It features dual fans, a 57Wh battery, and extensive connectivity including Thunderbolt 4.
Overview
The GPD Win Max 2021 is a versatile handheld gaming device that combines the form factor of a mini laptop with the portability of a gaming console. It is available with either an AMD Ryzen 7 4800U or Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor, both paired with 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM. The device features an 8.0-inch H-IPS touchscreen with a 16:10 aspect ratio and 1280x800 resolution. Storage options include 1TB or 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD, expandable via MicroSD. The clamshell design includes a full keyboard and dual analog sticks, making it suitable for both gaming and productivity.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 4800U (8C/16T, 1.8-4.2 GHz) or Intel Core i7-1195G7 (4C/8T, 1.2-5.0 GHz)
- GPU: AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (1.75 GHz) or Intel Iris Xe 96EU (1.4 GHz)
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 1TB/2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD + MicroSD slot
- Display: 8.0-inch H-IPS touchscreen, 1280x800, 60Hz
- Battery: 15000 mAh (57 Wh)
- Weight: 790 grams
- Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C x2, USB-A x2, Ethernet, HDMI, 3.5mm audio
- Cooling: Dual fans, dual heat pipes, top exhaust
Who It Is For
The GPD Win Max 2021 is ideal for gamers who want a powerful handheld that can run modern PC games and emulate consoles up to GameCube, Wii, and PS2. It also appeals to users needing a compact Windows device for productivity tasks, thanks to its built-in keyboard and extensive I/O. The clamshell design protects the screen and keyboard, making it suitable for on-the-go use.
Buying Notes
When purchasing, consider the processor choice: AMD offers better multi-core performance, while Intel provides higher single-core speeds and Thunderbolt 4. The device was originally launched via Indiegogo with early bird pricing ($669 for motherboard, $999 for full device) and later retail pricing ($837 and $1250 respectively). Check current availability and pricing from official GPD channels or authorized resellers. Note that the device runs Windows, so ensure compatibility with your preferred games and software.
| CPU | AMD Zen 2 / Intel Tiger Lake-U |
|---|---|
| GPU | AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 / Intel Iris Xe 96EU (i7-1195G7) |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR4 |
| Name | GPD Win Max 2021 |
| Brand | GPD |
| Weight | 790 grams |
| Battery | 15000 mAh (57 Wh) |
| Cooling | Dual fans, dual heat pipes, intake at bottom, exhaust at top edge |
| Storage | Built-in 1TB / 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD & External MicroSD |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Clamshell / Foldable |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 4800U / Intel Core i7-1195G7 |
| Body Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 207 mm x 145 mm x 26 mm |
| Screen PPI | 188.68 |
| Price Range | $700 - $2000 |
| Screen Size | 8.0 inches |
| Screen Type | H-IPS touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi 6, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C x2, USB-A x2, Ethernet |
| Launch Price | $669 (IGG) / $837 (Retail) (i7-1195G7 / 4800U Motherboard) $999 (IGG) / $1250 (Retail) (i7-1195G7 / 4800U Full Device) |
| Release Date | 2021/09 |
| Screen Ratio | 16:10 |
| Video Output | HDMI |
| CPU Frequency | 1.8 GHz - 4.2 GHz (AMD) / 1.2 GHz - 5.0 GHz (i7-1195G7) |
| Other Sensors | Microphone, Hall effect joysticks |
| Shell Material | Metal |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Screen Resolution | 1280 x 800 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 1.75 GHz (AMD) / 1.4 GHz (96EU - i7-1195G7) |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores 16 threads (AMD) / 4 cores 8 threads (Intel) |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to GameCube, Wii, PS2 |