GPD Win Mini: Defying the Laws of Physics

The GPD Win Mini is a unique clamshell handheld PC, and it packs a lot of power. In this review we'll test all its features and see if it's worth your consideration.
Buy one here: www.indiegogo.com/projects/gp...
Updated video discussing pocketability, thumb typing, and more: • GPD Win Mini: Pocketab...
GPD Win 4: www.indiegogo.com/projects/gp...
GPD Win Max 2: www.indiegogo.com/projects/gp...
This was a review unit sent to me by the manufacturer. All opinions are my own, they did not see this review ahead of time, and no money was exchanged in any way.
Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
00:40 specs and pricing
02:44 unboxing and impressions
06:00 controls and ergonomics
09:08 trackpad and typing
11:00 size and weight comparisons
13:29 software experience
15:14 PC game testing
19:46 GPD Win Mini grips
21:50 emulation testing
23:49 summary (likes and dislikes)
26:28 conclusion
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This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
#GPD #PCgaming #handheldPC #emulation

[@RetroGameCorps]

Hi everyone, some quick points of clarification from the video: - Thank you for the feedback about "thumb typing" (I didn't realize until today that it was an actual phrase!), and yes that was the point I was trying to make when in the video I said that it worked fine in terms of quickly and conveniently inputting a hotkey or username/password. In hindsight I should have also demonstrated footage of me using my thumbs to type as well -- but in this use case, yeah it works well just like how it does on the GPD Win 4. Because the Win Mini's form factor, I chose to show footage of why it didn't seem to be a practical device in terms of using it like a "small laptop" or productivity device. That's what my brain kept focusing on, due to its shape. Admittedly, I never owned one of those keyboard phones and so the whole concept is unfamiliar to me, but I see now that there are a lot of people looking for this exact use case! - Regarding the recessed thumbsticks, it's the same experience on the Win Max 2. Their recessed quality wasn't as impactful to me on the Win Max 2 because there were so many other factors at play that prevented me from enjoying the experience -- asymmetrical layout, the thick and squarish experience of holding it, etc. For the Win Mini many of those barriers were removed, but also brought the recessed sticks more to the forefront of my gaming experience. So I wouldn't consider either device to be ideal for handheld gaming, but for slightly different reasons. - Pocketability! Again this was something that didn't cross my mind because I don't consider this device to be pocketable at all. In hindsight I should have taken the time to demonstrate this by measuring it with calipers or trying to actually squeeze it into a pocket, but at the time of filming/reviewing it was a foregone conclusion that the Win Mini is something that is portable and easy to throw into a bag, but would only fit in very large pockets (like a front hoodie pocket, for example). Thanks again for the excellent feedback, and please keep your questions coming! This is certainly an interesting device and I'm starting to better understand people's enthusiasm about it. Obviously it's not a great fit for my own use case and preferences but I'll try my best to demonstrate how well it works for those who are most interested in it.

[@michaelmodernsonicfan5341]

dang how much bigger than the 2dsxl is it for it to not be considered pocketable 🤔2dsxl was already big for me but slightly bigger for all the proformance sounded good enough but now you have me questioning smh

[@MrDenim4219]

What kind of bottoms do you typically wear, Russ? That can be a deciding factor on if it's pocketable or not. In my case, I'm usually wearing either cargo pants or cargo shorts depending on the time year so pocket size won't be an issue. It'll be pocketable for me because I can slip the device into the cargo pocket of whichever I'm wearing and will be able to easily pull it on when on the L or when I get a free moment at work.

[@madboyokc]

Appreciate your honest and thorough feedback Russ. I sold my Win4 because the placement of the right joystick caused my big hands to cramp and fall asleep within 20 minutes of gaming. I sold my Win4 in hopes the Win Mini would bring a superior joystick experience, and you just saved me making the same mistake twice. I appreciate what you do man! $800-1000 is no small purchase

[@bland9876]

​@@michaelmodernsonicfan5341if I remember correctly the New 2DS XL is slightly smaller than the New 3DS XL so ya.

[@sindrisuncatcher653]

How much fan noise did you get from this, and other tiny GPD machines you've tried? I imagine heat management in a case that tiny is a puzzle, so are we talking about a tiny jet engine in your hands or did they manage to keep it pretty quiet?

[@gunstorm05]

Note on the keyboard: It's not designed to be used like a traditional keyboard, it's designed as a thumb keyboard - Typing using your thumbs, while the device is handheld. At least on my Win 2, I've always found it was sufficient for that. Additionally: The size and clamshell is *the* draw for the Win Mini. Specifically, for one thing that none of the other "alternative" devices you recommended at the end: Pocketability. The Win Mini can fit in a pocket, while none of the others can.

[@thatdarnskag5043]

Somebody should mount this to their wrist/forearm and do a bit of cool one-handed typing, like some kinda cyberpunk hacker.

[@deBaer]

I have the original GPD Win, and I have used the keyboard both as a thumb keyboard while holding the device in my hands and as well as for "traditional" typing with the index fingers wthile it's on a table. I even wrote long minutes with it the second way. Touch-typing is out of the question, of course, since the keys are too small for resting the fingers on the home row. But what I really don't understand with the keyboard is the staggered layout. I thought it was an honest mistake with the first GPD Win, that they just didn't think about the layout (the block of stupid function keys in the right is proof for this), but than, the Win 2, the Pockets and the Micro PC all came along and they didn't improve on the keyboard ergonomics. And now I'm looking forward for my MNT Pocket Reform which is a bit thicker than GPD's offerings, but does have a real hands compatible keyboard with mechanical switches and a nice matrix layout. www.crowdsupply.com/mnt/pocket-reform

[@chimrichalds81]

I pocket my Gpd win 4 all the time but need a belt

[@gunstorm05]

@@chimrichalds81 not worried you'll mess up the sticks?

[@ryandaeveltolliver1218]

I totally agree! I was looking to upgrade from my deck and really wanted the Ally because of the 7840, but Win Mini is my favorite of the 7840 Handhelds so far and probably won't change because the Pocketability. Definitely saving up to get this for this holiday! As always, Awesome video!

[@shilze1]

I think one thing you don't really consider is that this is the most modern clamshell device we have that doesn't just amount to being a mini laptop, and a return to form for GPD after a few years of their handhelds being in a horizontal form. The Win 4 might have similar performance but it doesn't have the same appeal. Put another way, i think this has the same appeal difference that the Retroid Pocket 3+ has compared to the Retroid Pocket flip. Both are virtually identically but the Flip wants people who want to put a DS in their pocket again.

[@ReadGameCraftCook]

The keyboard was the biggest reason I considered it over the max 2. A thumb keyboard is great in mmorpgs when you want to type a quick message. Also reminds me of using blackberry phones. You don’t have to put the device down to type like max 2. Ultimately I chose the bigger screen of the Max 2 though.

[@baka_ja_nai]

Sadly, Max 2 is currently unavailable witn 7840U(((

[@ReadGameCraftCook]

@@baka_ja_naisorry, maybe they will get more gpu in stock to make them later. 🤞

[@SilverReviews]

I love my Max 2, it's my perfect device. But I love this one too and I get how it appeals to other. I just love the play and work aspect of my Max 2. I still saved up to get a Mini as well, so I can't wait to get it!

[@Phiidyn]

That twist!

[@captainchuppachup]

Why did he try to use it like a normal keyboard? Clearly its not supposed to be like that. Weird thing to do.

[@ergosteur]

For me, the keyboard and pocketability are the key features. I currently use a GPD MicroPC for sysadmin-type work and it ended up doing some double-duty for retro emulated and PC games. However I was left wanting a more powerful device than the Celeron N4100 series CPU in the MicroPC. With the Win Mini I'm hoping to be able to have a fully capable PC I can have with me at all times, so I can do anything whether work, gaming, or multimedia editing wherever I am, docking using USB4 or Oculink when needed. I can't justify buying a gaming handheld like a Steam Deck or ROG Ally, but with the potential for this to do productivity as well, it helps bring more value to the higher price.

[@ancientflames]

the keyboard isn't a feature for me. I'd rather have proper controller layout. I know the keyboard is good for shortcuts and what not, but the rog ally, steam dec k and Legion Go proved we don't need that as long as there is a decent software.

[@ergosteur]

@@ancientflames then all those other devices are the ones for you, and this is the one for me

[@ahuman4013]

@@ancientflames honestly, as a casual gamer, the layout is (mostly) fine. my main issue now that I have it is just the analog sticks not being up to par

[@ancientflames]

@@ahuman4013 yeah I agree on the sticks. The layout isn’t the problem, it’s just not fun to try and get anything done in windows on a keyboard like that.

[@TheBlitzsnake]

The 7840U remains a game changer in the handheld front. It allows all these form factors and can still play current-gen AAA games despite all those limitations! I am a bit disappointed there was no word on fan noise though. Apparently that's a big issue with this device.

[@sylvesterchen6095]

Hi, someone on the Chinese internet tested it when running at full load, the fan noise that can be heard by the human ear in the handheld position is around 44 dB. However this is the result of testing an early version about a month and a half ago, and this is likely to change by the time the official version goes on sale, as GPD intends to change the case material from metal to fibre and plastic to improve handheld temperatures.

[@R.B.90]

I'm new to PC gaming. How often does AMD upgrade their chips? I got a OneXPlayer 2 last year which uses the 6800U. Meaning I'm not interesting in upgrading so soon. But if the 7840U is going to be the best chip for another couple years then I'll consider it. Otherwise I can wait for the next generation of chips.

[@cheeeeezewizzz]

the 6800u did the same

[@cheeeeezewizzz]

​@R.B.90 the upgrade the moment another chip becomes available

[@R.B.90]

@@cheeeeezewizzz that wasn't what I asked but thanks lol

[@craftycuber6800]

The gpd win mini looks awesome I have been waiting to hear your thoughts on it

[@Dagothdaleet]

This is amazing. I have been looking for something like this!

[@yurf0]

Love the unbiased reviews. Thanks for continuing to test all these new devices for us!

[@j_eezus_christ_bro_chill]

"UNBIASED" LOOOOOOL YOUR SLOT AT THE COMEDY CLUB IS OPEN FOR WHENEVER YOU WANNA SLAY LIKE THAT MY FRIEND 🤣🤣🤣😂😂

[@SomeOne-wr1wr]

​@@j_eezus_christ_bro_chillYou let your own username down. Take your own advice.

[@yurf0]

Do you have any point? Or just shitposting?@@j_eezus_christ_bro_chill

[@arthurdurham]

It's kind of amazing how little you have to compromise relative to that size and form factor. I can't wait to get mine!

[@__m-a-x__]

this device looks exactly like something I would draw/"design" in math class instead of paying attention. childhood me would've been absolutely blown away by something like this.

[@HentaiJedi]

As someone who ordered the mini and owns a Max 2, I can say that the Max 2 is just too heavy to hold and play comfortably. I even use custom made grips to alleviate this, but it feels like holding a dinnerplate. I am excited to enjoy the mini when I finally get mine in, but I do have some worries about the lip of the device with the included grips as you've said, and the heat. Other than that, I feel like it would be the perfect machine for many of the games that I want to play, and being able to fit in my pocket is a huge deal for me. When you recommended the Win 4 I considered it. I went to take a look. I'm not sure about it. The screen not being angled towards you makes me wonder if gameplay would be awkward, because you would have to tilt the device upwards more to aim the screen at your face. If you hold it naturally while sitting it will point up to the sky. This is not an issue with my max 2 though, and won't be an issue with the mini either since they have clamshell hinges for their screens. That and also, the Win 4 while i could fit it in my pocket, I feel like the analog sticks would snag all the time in my pocket and possibly get damaged. Thanks again for covering this device, there hasn't been anything new on it in weeks, and you've mentioned a few things that I didn't consider and other reviewers havent shown.

[@tomoprime217]

Hey can you tell me if the mini sticks are exactly the same as the Max 2 as Retro Game Corp didn't mention anything about the really short pivot versus traditional tilt of normal analog sticks in his Win Max 2 review. I mean both are recessed hall effects but his only complaint then was that they were not symmetrically placed. Drives me nuts if this is something new to consider or if he forgot to mention it the 1st time.

[@gospelofrye6881]

I "upgraded" from the Win 2 to the original Win Max (only 8 inch) and even it is too big and heavy. Plus it had that halo-effect on the display, nightmare. I also have an original OneXplayer which has impeccable build quality, really super nice, but it's just too big for couch-slumpin' time. I don't know how anybody plays on a Steam Deck!

[@rjsprojects]

I absolutely love the idea of this form factor in a handheld. If my steam deck was destroyed this would probably be a top 3 contender for me.

[@chocoblin5887]

other 2?

[@rjsprojects]

Hypothetically I would be looking at the GPD Win 4, Win Mini, or another steam deck.@@chocoblin5887

[@TheToxicHusky]

Love the review but where was the pocket test?! Thats my favorite part to see just how small and portable these things are.

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

i was waiting for it, when I saw him standing up I was expecting it to happen but I guess he said Nah Man, I ain't gone do it, lol

[@luckytran]

Would love a GPD Win 4, but with a flip screen instead of a slide out one. Best of both worlds! The screen would be protected, and you get the ergonomics of a handheld in a compact form factor.

[@sindrisuncatcher653]

I think that the real draw here is the portability. Most gaming handhelds are very long, with big thick grips, and the controls sticking up high from the surface. You can use them at home, but that almost defeats the purpose. You can put them in a mid-size to large bag if you're not worried about damaging the joysticks or you have a cover for them, but then you might as well be toting a laptop. The Win Mini is closer to the size of a 3DSXL, which means that a lot of people will be able to literally carry an entire computer (plus game controller) in their pocket. The Win Max seems like more of a compromise; it takes /most/ of selling points of the mini version, plus /most/ of what you want from a small laptop, but compromises on both ends with a weight and control scheme that you aren't going to want to use as a handheld as much, a scale that looks nice but doesn't fit anywhere that a full laptop doesn't, and a keyboard/trackpad that are less convenient than you would get on a proper laptop. The Mini version sacrificed the laptop side of things almost completely in order to go all in on being a portable gaming device, and seems to have done pretty great at that (other than some heat management issues).

[@jstenoien]

Honestly, I want one so bad. It's basically the dream cyberdeck

[@ShadowDrakken]

This feels like the return of the PDA... in the best possible way. Sure it's rough around the edges, but the PDA scene has been dead for over a decade. Anything new in that arena is a positive.

[@samsoulee]

The weight and the form factor are really appealing !!!! this looks like the perfect device for international plane travels.

[@SimplyIta]

Very thorough review, your insights really helped me. What I wanted to know is, how will it feel as a minimalist all in 1 PC if you had the GPD external GPU as part of your home set up with an external keyboard, mouse and monitor using oculink as well as using it outside for gaming. Do you think this is a device that one can get used to as their all in 1 computer?

[@ashleystenton8633]

I think it would be neat if, where the controls are that removed from the device, as a rectangular shaped controller so you could play with it attached or unattached.

[@typingcat1814]

I don't really think the Win Mini and Win Max are comparable. As others have said it's not reasonable to judge the Win Mini for lacking a touch-typing experience, that's like judging a bicycle for lacking 4 wheel drive. That said I think your remarks on the Win Mini vs Win 4 are right on the mark. The Mini might be worth it for people whose main reason not to get the Win 4 was that they wanted a clamshell. A clamshell's chief advantage is its overall portability and the Mini delivers.

[@Graylord88]

For me it's the handheld typing possibility, I really want the ability to quickly manage some stuff, document things, maybe tweak some coding etc in one my projects, without needing a surface to put it down on. Say on the bus, in the passenger seat, in the waiting room somewhere, etc. Managing these kinds of things on a touch device like a phone is just clunky. I'm definitely going to use parsec to play heavier games through my desktop anyway.

[@Kinrian2797]

It mentioned in IGG from GPD the C-Shell been replaced and there no pressure on 25w with some heat at 28w. Waiting for GPD to release a video regarding the new shell 🎉

[@Groboman]

they better send those versions for review

[@asmrnaturecat984]

Replaced with plastic...

[@Kinrian2797]

@@asmrnaturecat984 Have to wait and see x.x Ik they mentioned replacing a part of it with the material use for other handhelds. Not sure if they are doing the entirety of it or section of it.

[@acanthoscurriageniculata7141]

This looks really cool

[@Schatten.mensch]

Yes, if I could afford either of them I'd definitely go for the Win Max 2 - with a device like this I'd rather think about it as an ultra portable laptop with gaming functionality rather than a gaming handheld and that just requires a usable keyboard.

[@Graylord88]

I believe the keyboard is made for thumb-typing. I was hoping to get some thoughts on that as I'm seriously considering the device, but I'm worried that the keyboard may be ever so slightly too wide to comfortably reach the central keys like GHBY for me.

[@shaderdream]

This looks like it's not really much wider than a typical controller, so if you can reach the middle of your controller just fine, you can probably reach the middle of the keyboard just fine. I don't consider my hands to be large and I can reach the middle keys on the Win 4 at least ok, so I'd imagine the Win Mini to be much better in that aspect. Unless you have particularly small hands and can't reach the middle buttons on modern controllers with your thumbs, I would think you would have no issues.

[@Graylord88]

@@shaderdream Yeah, It's pretty much the same width as my phone's height, and I can type in landscape on that. I'm just not sure how much the grips and bulk of the device will further push my hands apart.

[@jackofblades3171]

The Nvidia Shield Portable had the best thumbstick positions because it allowed full sized controller sticks snug under the screen. They did this by holding the device at an odd angle which was fine when it has a hinged screen to tilt.

[@baselessowl]

Getting close to 400k!!!

[@masternas45]

That typing method used in video was crazy 😂

[@ghostsauce3109]

Russ the thumbnail is legendary 🎉

[@andrewray2507]

Man i would have loved for this form factor to work better. My least favorite thing about my steam deck is putting it into a bag and taking it somewhere. I really wish there were more square options like this. Hope they make an update in the future though. I think this has a lot of potential.

[@Astro_Oogo]

I am a P2 Max owner and have been looking for a smaller version of the P2 with a trackpad for a while. This will become my daily driver laptop

[@TheSoloQueue]

This thing is awesome i love the design of the win mini & Destiny 2 on the win 4 runs amazing i didnt expect it to be so great

[@westjademusic821]

Been watching your channel for a while now and I never noticed how cool your sleeve is. I like that asian art style.

[@salitz91]

This and the Win Max 2 look like fantastic deployment machines for gaming, videos and communicating with family. Probably the best use case I can imagine. The last couple, I brought my 3DS and full laptop. This would have been preferable to cut down on space and worrying about a 15 inch screen breaking in bag shuffling.

[@GolfTechie79]

The final Win Mini retail model is the only version that 99.999% of users will care about, handing out these flawed overheating testing units and allowing multiple YT reviews at this stage makes no sense to me? Get all the testing and software/hardware revisions done THEN send the youtubers the retail unit for review.

[@keymot1491]

GDP are so weird even tho they are pioners they never grasped that handheld PCs have risen in popularity They still think it's that niche nerdy community

[@ctrl_x1770]

​@@keymot1491GPD and other similar companies like AYN and Ayaneo are at this point still quite niche. It's really only the huge companies like Steam or ROG that have any significant traction.

[@SilverReviews]

They used these reviews to figure out and troubleshoot problems. Which allowed them to have a better product for retail release.

[@raze2012_]

​@@SilverReviews yeah, it's a mix of beta testing and PR. also gotta realize that shipping takes a while, so waiting for review copies to arrive and the time to evaluate feedback until the retail version can set your release back 2 months.

[@BrianJones-wk8cx]

The size and performance and really impressive for the form factor. I’m still tempted by the bigger brother Win Max 2, not so much as a gaming device but a super portable netbook. I’m not really aware of a comparable 10” device … though I may be missing something?

[@hugojmaia]

If you're looking at it as a portable netbook, the win max 2 does come with the 2 metal plates to disguise it as a regular netbook. It is a lot more stealth in that regard than gaming notebooks.

[@gierrah]

@@hugojmaia if you give it some time, GPD might release another product under their GPD pocket line, which is more utility/business focused than their WIN line. I've got the GPD P2 MAX which was Intel based, but it looks like there could be a coming pocket 4 looking on the discord. That would likely not have built in controls.

[@SilverReviews]

Win Max 2 is legit my favourite device. It is the best of both worlds. I've used it to do work when I'm travelling, and used it on long haul flights to play games as well as on the go. It's such an amazing device.

[@oscarguzman3017]

I'm convinced this man is obsessed with quiet buttons

[@joshuaroughan3350]

Russ didn't remind me to grab a snack for this half hour video, now my family is starving.

[@adrestuc]

Thanks for the review! How does it work with an external display and peripherals (mouse, keyboard)?

[@gumbyx84]

Great review. Would it be possible to get the config file for your on-screen OSD?

[@KtotheL]

I actually love this device... It's one of the more innovative ones out there right now. Also the price is fairly reasonable when you consider it. (I have weighed in all of them myself always with the max options) basically for me what it will come down to is the screen/keyboard what I can do to expand it. now the smartest thing to do (for me personally) would be to wait till thunderbolt 5 comes out next year maybe spring but of course then it's going to be expensive at the start so there's always that... If I had a device like this I would always be using a mouse probably a keyboard maybe even an external monitor most of the time except for when I'm out and about. It's all about case use really and what you can afford... The fact is though if you use oculink you have that capability right now you don't have to wait for thunderbolt 5 so it's quite tempting for me personally... As I said I've looked at all the other itinerations I mean everything that's available with handhelds and all that and I really like this one or the Max 2.

[@mariusgabrielciocarlan2447]

Hello, What is the temperature of the GPD laptop in normal use as a laptop (mail, microsoft office, instagram, internet browsing)? I think that when used for games, it heats up more than for normal tasks, like a larger laptop that has a 12.5 inch or 13.3 inch display. Can you do some tests and a review in this regard? Thanks!

[@kumarp3074]

I have the GPD MicroPC and wonder what kind of support this will get in the future. Software updates for the GPD MicroPC only lasted about a year before the company stopped releasing them.

[@SilverReviews]

microPCs were old devices that when released they were outdated in comparison to the others. the newer devices have been getting steadier and more realistic updates. haven't had any issues with my gen 1 win max or gen 1 win max 2

[@dinosoup]

I am an initial backer, i too am concerned about the heat issues but i am made more confident in my order because they have been extremely responsive about the fixes they are working on. If it goes south, i guess ill just be SOL.

[@iBangAPES]

i truly believe the Win Mini is an amazing feat of SFF PC Handhelds, but i'll still be leaning towards the Win4 overall but i still won't jump the gun on purchasing one just yet. Despite ALPS sticks still being adequate, i would personally prefer Hall Effects for the Win4 and since i don't own a PC Handheld yet i might just wait around the corner for the Ryzen 8000 series APU. Though a feature i wish for in future handhelds is the power delivery priority. Essentially if the device is in docked/plugged in, it WON'T use the battery at all in the background and all power is fed from the port. There are some laptops that have this feature but i have not seen it on a PC Handheld. Really helpful if you plan on docking the PC Handheld all day. I will 100% replace my current desktop PC (3200g CPU) for a modern PC Handheld

[@namcojr]

Hey Russ, thanks for another great review. Is an Odin2 review in the works still? Thanks!

[@RetroGameCorps]

Yes, Friday.

[@Furzball]

I'm tempted to get one cause it seems more pocket friendly that Steamdeck. Unless it burns my leg or pants in said pocket.I want to try it in different techsperiments, like hooking it up to Xreal glasses, try to make a smaller kit for bringing laptop to work (smallest I have is phone, BT folding keyboard, and a mouse) that is still windows/linux and programmable. Maybe mod up some games on it. IDK but still waiting on retail reviews, though wallet is getting itchy for it.

[@TylerRolloGuitar]

I think the intended typing experience is with your thumbs, like the older blackberry phones

[@mansoso3903]

Gpd are so awesome. Love their products!

[@j_eezus_christ_bro_chill]

Why

[@gusonian8637]

Hey, thanks for your videos! Really well done. Could you make a guide on how to install mods/pc ports for some of the games on various systems? I’m trying to figure out how to use Portmaster on JELOS to play Ship of Harkinian (the OoT PC port) and SM64+ (a mod for the SM64 PC port) and Mario Sunburn (a mod for SMsunshine). JELOS is a super common OS for these kind of devices so that would be great for any mods/ports: like a complete reference video.

[@R.B.90]

I have a OneXPlayer 2 and as much as i love it i do wish i went with something smaller. Maybe not the Win Mini but something like the Ayaneo devices from last year are probably in the sweet spot. The only thing i would miss about the OneXPlayer 2 is taking off the controllers, attaching the keyboard with a wireless mouse, popping the kickstand out and using it as a mini laptop. Thats a cool feature. But gaming on it more than 30 minutes i get tired of holding it.

[@Thump2030]

I think it also depends on the games you play, if you don't play games like god of war then you won't miss the extra tdp. To me the clam shell is the #1 draw and the 7840, what has me concerned is the button placement and if that is comfortable to use or not, not the dpad so much as the abxy buttons.

[@AugustusMcMillan]

im going to buy one. i dont think buyers compare this to whats on the market. its unique.

[@derosam69]

Russ do you plan on doing the updated review once they fix the heat issue?

[@KentHambrock]

I had the first GPD Win and loved it, despite how stupidly underpowered it was. For me, it was being able to carry around a whole laptop *in your pocket.* However, while I wanted the new Win Mini, the Win Max 2 suited my current needs more, so that's what I ended up with.

[@SlyInH3ll]

It would be nine to be able to swap out the thumbsticks for taller ones. Of course that would work only when the unit is opened and would need to be removed to close the clamshell and potentially damage the screen if forgotten. But still, on my fightstick I can remove my stick for transport or to swap for a different stick style. But that would help with the ergonomics... and having the option to customize is always nice

[@RetroGameCorps]

Yeah I think something like the magnetic sticks in the Xbox elite controllers might be great, but you’d have to have a place to store them when not in use too.

[@SlyInH3ll]

@@RetroGameCorps those grips that you screwed under could have a compartement for that

[@tomoprime217]

He I've seen someone (Retro Tech Dad) who used the switch Skull & Co. skin, cqc, and fps thumb grips set joystick caps on a Win Max 2 to extend the height and he can still close the lid. What I don't know is if this is the exact same sticks as the Win Max 2. He never mentioned the really short tilt issues on those recessed analogs! Update: Retro Game Corp confirmed the sticks do match the Win Max 2 in design so they are not worse off.

[@millyawns]

If they are GuliKit Hall sticks you can take off the tops and replace them. Surprised that wasn't clarified or mentioned in the vid :/

[@gospelofrye6881]

Not really the same thing, but my Win 2's thumbsticks borked out after a thousand hours or so, and I replaced them with the thumbsticks from my old PS Vita! Didn't even have to solder - both devices the whole thumbstick just clicks into place and attaches with a ribbon cable.

[@AnalogByte]

"The KEYBOARD is a nice additional bonus, but not really a KEY feature with the device." ... I see what you did there lol Great video as always!

[@djmorris666]

THANKS a lot. I think we have reached peak 7840u (as we did with 6800 some time ago). Time for the next (hopefully) significant jump…

[@JSON_bourne]

Any way you can show off the LTE adapter. They said it cannot be securely attached to the back of the win mini. Curious how irs meant to be used.

[@hugojmaia]

I sprung for a win max 2 model with a 6800U, it's an older model, but my god it has made me want to play games.

[@Teapose]

For a micro sized portable PC, this seems pretty lit. I’ve never really wanted this form factor for gaming though, it’d annoy me.

[@eldino]

Since this mini-pc has the keyboard, it would be very interesting to see RTS games running on it, like 0AD or Age of Empires.

[@PinkDan12345]

Was watching another YT video and switched off that shit immediately when I saw Russ posted a new video… this is the way

[@TheRealAlpha2]

Glad to finally hear someone say they prefer the symmetrical thumbsticks, though too bad they aren't particularly the best. In most modern 3D games you spend more time with your thumbs on both sticks controlling movement and camera so the asymmetrical design never made sense to me. As for the keyboard I'm sure it's meant to be thumb typed rather than finger typed like a regular keyboard. I've always hated touch pads with tap to click as default. It's far to easy to accidentally tap while sliding or have a momentary pause in the OS register as a click. Price will always be a factor so it's not a great buy... maybe in a year or two if they even still exist them the price might lower, but by then there could be other devices.

[@Birdulon]

No joke, I categorically excluded every asymmetrical stick handheld including the Win Max 2. Almost every game I play is twinstick or d-pad+face buttons and I don't want my screen being at an angle from an asymmetrical grip.

[@TipsyJellyHead]

Hi @RetroGameCorps for the thumbsticks do you think it easy to fit grip covers while being able to close the lid? Will it be easy to replace the stick if not?

[@RetroGameCorps]

Hi I did an updated video the other day where I showed just that, unfortunately they didn't allow the lid to close properly.

[@electrofreak0]

Should've have a trackpoint like IBM thinkpads; such an under-utilized option for pointing device control. And before someone says IBM/Lenovo has a patent on it, my Dell laptop from work has an equivalent device built into it's keyboard so there's no reason it couldn't be implemented

[@CouchPotator]

Do you think a 3ds style slider "joystick" would be a choice?

[@robertwendal5894]

The TDJ lowest model is also a 7640 for $599, with a massive screen. Just wonder how that performance is, I wish these manufacturers would send the most budget option to reviewers, we always see the high end but most of us don't buy the handhelds that are as much as a laptop with an RTX dedicated GPU.

[@ClaudioLuke]

Excellent 👍

[@cyberdude274]

What RTSS/MSI AB Settings you use to show everything including the Battery?

[@tn74h50]

Hi, Which 7840U Handheld has the best battery life typically in your opinion? Thanks,

[@dajavax]

the keyboard is meant for thumb typing, you should probably test it like that...

[@TheStuffMade]

Looks like nice device 👍 but I agree they could've gone a bit more crazy with the form factor to make it more comfortable when gaming.

[@lc7ineo]

I love the WinMax 2. The thing is... for me, it's, first, a small laptop that I can carry around and a gaming device second, the win mini seems to be a gaming device first and an attempt at a laptop second, and for that, we already have the steam deck.

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

I ordered the same model as you, Would you say this device is Pocketable, I had the Original GPD WIn and I loved it because of the Portability. I was hoping to have that same laptop in the pocket experience with this one

[@j_eezus_christ_bro_chill]

If they don't show a pocket test it most-likely barely fits in average pockets, is super uncomfortable, or just straight up doesn't fit at all. If you look at 11:57 it is about the size and thickness of the Steamdeck screen alone. Would you really want that heavy slice of the Steamdeck slapping against your leg every step you take, cmon man. I have a Pocket 3 and while it fits in my cargo shorts, I would never carry it more than 30ft in there across my house. It sounds like you have fomo for tiny devices and I did too, but dont fall for this BS.

[@robhulson]

Yeah, give Sea of Stars some love for your demoes!

[@ontil68]

Could you wirelessly run a separate mouse and keyboard setup with this?

[@mrwii5741]

I really enjoyed the GPD Win max but it was too big! Something smaller like this feels more right for me!

[@MobileTechGaming]

Funny enough, I'm looking forward to getting my order despite the heat. I find the gpd win 3 &4 's screens too small and a 7 inch is perfect. However, on a steam deck or equivalent it takes up too much space/ is too bulky. From my poverty the biggest drawback is the fact that it uses a 2230 ssd rather than a 2280 which is in the win4.

[@michaelbmw1931]

Whqt is he difference

[@MobileTechGaming]

@michaelbmw1931 Cost of a 4tb 2280 ssd is around £160-170. A 2tb 2230 is around £180-190

[@michaelbmw1931]

@@MobileTechGaming 4tb 😳 wow this tech is going so fast .

[@FrankensteinID]

How about the lower spec model? Is it good enough?

[@ChaoSJino]

I'm old enough to remember the days when under "laptop" and "notebook" PCs we had something called a "palmtop" :D And this just... I don't know. It reminds me of that old term. :D I think it fits.

[@Swenglish]

"Handheld" has kind of replaced "palmtop". Maybe because "palmtop" doesn't make any sense. It's not like you rest it on top of your palm; you hold it with two hands.

[@TheKatsMeow113]

It kind of reminds me of old cellphones, like the Sidekick!

[@ChaoSJino]

@@Swenglish in all honesty if I ever decide to buy one of those and use it for non-gaming purposes, like... Dunno... Chat or text documents, I'll probably just use one hand to hold it and the other to type. Even with my phone I'm still not entirely used to thumb-typing with two hands. :D

[@Swenglish]

@@ChaoSJino That seems like a recipe for dropping it on the floor and breaking it.

[@ChaoSJino]

​@@Swenglish How? I mean... It's not gonna rest loose on my palm, I'll be holding it.

[@Boogie_the_cat]

That'd make a pretty sweet expensive hand warmer in winter. Shame about the other seasons. Cuz with that price, it seems like a rare fail for GPD

[@VFerg]

Wish they came up with something where you could pop the joysticks up so they sit higher and pop back down when you want to close it up. You could probably get those height adjusters to add an inch which may help.

[@CYPH3RsD0M41N]

Great device. However, the price point is a bit too steep compared to what's currently available in the market. Fantastic analysis, as always.

[@creaturecore13]

The win 4's keyboard was terrible to use because the controls are to the side of it making it hard to reach with your thumbs to hit what you want. Also the 6" screen was too small to game on comfortably. The mini is even more compact while folded up but you get a 7" screen. As for comfort i don't have the mini in hand to compare, but the win 4 felt like you where holding a brick. Was the most uncomfortable device i ever used and sold it for a $200 loss. I might get the mini if they fix the heat transfer issue up to at least 20w. I wouldn't use more then 20w in handheld mode anyway because of battery life. I still also feel they used the wrong cpu for this unit. This should have been the same cpu in the deck given the wattage that chip runs best at

[@Qk1K]

I really want one as I find I get a sore neck from looking down at my belly for long periods which is where i set my ally to play most times. That and the protected screen,touch pad and keyboard.

[@cakes1831]

I've been following gpd for years and it's shocking how far tech has shrunk

[@zacthegamer6145]

Wish this had 2280 NVMe, VRR, and 7500 MT for ram. I love the form factor. Waiting for AyaNeo Flip and probably for 8000 series Ryzen APUs refresh. I already got ROG ally with 4TB 2280 NVMe.

[@CT-ue4kg]

You'll always be waiting for the next upgrade if you think like that

[@zacthegamer6145]

@@CT-ue4kg I already got the ROG ally with 2280 NVMe upgrade (4TB), got a gaming laptop/desktop and other retro consoles plus vita/new 3DS XL and Galaxy Fold 3/Iphone 14 Pro Max. Am I gonna miss anything! Besides the form factor, this is not an upgrade but a side grade…I may be more inclined for Lenovo Legion Go!

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

8000 series from what I hear is not much of a jumping performance, its kinda like rdna 3 and a half

[@zacthegamer6145]

@@Moes_Prep_and_Tech Yeah, tell me about it. But, hear me out, 7500 mt on ram is about 10% better in performance compared to 6400 and RDNA 4 will be another 15-20% on top of that. It is worthwhile to wait for me as I already own one RDNA 3 device.

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

its still gonna be rdna 3 but with higher specs @@zacthegamer6145

[@CreativityNull]

I wonder if the analog sticks would feel better if they swapped positions with the dpad and face buttons, that way you're not arching your thumbs as hard.

[@GKuriboh]

Having something like this would make some of my Online Gaming better.

[@williamfrieden1]

Interesting, anyways, keep it up! Looks like a cool device!

[@tomoprime217]

I thought the back buttons are there in the front as L4 and R4?

[@deathvalley314]

Can you please check to see if the USB c ports can do video out. I have the win max 2 and it just can't do video out through USB c and that's really annoying to say the least

[@protaginets]

Maybe it was limited on battery? If it's plugged in do you get more power?

[@johnsducks9816]

Been debating between the $700 version of this and the Win 4 I like everything else about the mini so much but having switch style joysticks is definitely a turnoff I thought they were the same ones as the win 4

[@gospelofrye6881]

The thumbsticks are just the same size as the Joycons, not the same tech. They are hall effect joysticks so state of the art and no dead zones. Only thing is the recessed design which seems to be a matter of personal taste (and maybe thumb shape, haha).

[@johnsducks9816]

@gospelofrye6881 yeah I honestly don't mind playing shooters on my switch lite but those games are rly designed for the little joysticks and have a bit more aim assist I think. I actually decided to just pay someone to mod my switch lite instead of getting either of them and wait for a handheld pc that is truly pocketable

[@tomoprime217]

1) Retro Game Corp, what about the fan noise! You mention thermals but how loud is the fan? 2) Did you try to type with your thumbs? Just want to know how that felt too. 3) Did you ask for the unlocked Bios? Supposedly GPD is going to offer it as optional for all backers. Its in indiegogo comments. 4) Did battery life vary on your fan curve changes and different brightness levels, and volume settings? You usually give some rough estimates in a simple slide with some games at the end at various TDPs. 5) Do these Mini analog sticks match the short recess problem of the Win Max 2 or are these slightly worse than that? As I dont recall you mentioning that in Win Max 2 review. So I am confused. Note other reviewers tried joycon covers to extend Win Max 2 height and lid closed ok. Just wonder if mini has clearance. Or is throw mini sticks that different than win max 2. I am so lost. Thank you for a very detailed review!

[@millyawns]

Are those Gulikit sticks? Can you take the tops off?

[@silverwolflee6978]

Basically the way I see this is that its a updated version of the GPD Win 1 with how small the keyboard is

[@jonathanaguilar710]

I preordered one, it's my dream handheld, but I just wish battery was a bit better. I don't plan to use past 15w so heat and highest performance possible are not a big deal to me. I had a win max 2, it was too bulky and a pocket 3 and that wasnt powerful enough. I think the win mini is the one

[@Graylord88]

People will probably find some neat tricks to improve the battery with time.

[@tomoprime217]

But are these sticks the same as your Win Max 2 or worse?

[@twotonepostmalone2239]

11:58 love it. "And just because I can..." just flexing lol