GPD Win 5 Features High-End AMD Strix Halo Chip, Requires External Battery for Extended Play

A new development in handheld gaming personal computers, the GPD Win 5, is making waves with its inclusion of AMD's formidable Strix Halo processor. While this chip boasts impressive central processing capabilities, its significant power demands and heat generation have historically presented challenges for integration into compact devices. GPD's innovative solution for the Win 5 involves a unique approach to power management, opting for an external battery system.

This pioneering handheld machine features a 7-inch, 120 Hz variable refresh rate display and will be available with either the AI Max 395 or 385 chip variants. Both processors share a thermal design power (TDP) ranging from 45 to 75 watts, a range that typically necessitates robust cooling solutions and substantial power sources, often exceeding the practical limits for portable gaming. Traditional handhelds usually operate at much lower TDPs to ensure portability and extended battery life.

To overcome the inherent power and thermal challenges posed by the Strix Halo chip, the GPD Win 5 notably lacks an integrated battery. Instead, users can connect a backpack-mountable 80 Wh polymer lithium-ion external battery. This external power pack is designed to provide up to two hours of continuous, intensive gameplay. Alternatively, the device can be powered directly via a 180W wall adapter, offering a stationary gaming experience without battery constraints.

This unconventional power solution means that using the GPD Win 5 for extended periods or in mobile settings requires more logistical planning than typical handheld devices. Users will need to carry the external battery or locate an electrical outlet, blurring the lines between a truly portable gaming experience and a more desktop-like setup. While the exact weight and pricing details remain unconfirmed, these factors will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining the device's market reception. The GPD Win 5 is slated for its official unveiling at Chinajoy 2025, an expo held in Shanghai, with a hardware release anticipated in October of this year. However, its global market availability has yet to be announced.

Initial assessments of the Strix Halo chip, particularly the Max 390 variant, have indicated strong CPU performance, though questions remain regarding its ability to rival dedicated graphics processing units. The 395 chip, which includes the more advanced Radeon 8060S graphics, promises enhanced performance over the 390's Radeon 8050S. Nevertheless, the true performance impact within a handheld form factor, especially considering the external power dependency, will require hands-on evaluation. The GPD Win 5 represents an intriguing step in the evolution of handheld gaming, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a portable device while introducing new considerations for convenience and power supply.