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00:00:00 – 00:31:05
The video is a detailed review and discussion of the GPD Win Max 2, a hybrid device combining the functionalities of a small laptop and a gaming handheld. The review highlights the device's new 7840u chip, improved RAM speed, and extensive connectivity options, including an oculink port, HDMI out, and USB4 ports. The device also boasts a 1600p resolution display and a battery capacity of 67 watt-hours. The GPD G1, featuring a Radeon RX 7600 MXT GPU and multifunctional USB-C dock capabilities, is also examined, noting its compact size and faster data transfer advantages.
Discussions cover various aspects, such as device ergonomics, with critiques on the control layout and handheld gaming comfort. The screen's brightness and thin bezels receive praise, though the backlit keyboard is noted as cramped. The video explores tools and apps for adjusting gaming settings, with a preference for the "Handheld Companion" app for its convenience in simulating controllers and managing power settings automatically.
Retro game emulation performance is evaluated, recommending manual TDP adjustments for less demanding tasks and auto TDP for more intensive emulators. The custom Linux firmware, Batocera, is highlighted for its efficiency in running retro games, offering better battery life and lower CPU and GPU loads compared to Windows. The presenter suggests different use cases where the GPD Win Max 2 might be beneficial and shares personal plans to use it both as a gaming device and a work laptop during a trip.
Overall, the GPD Win Max 2 is portrayed as a versatile but expensive option, suitable for users who need a single device to serve multiple functions and those who frequently travel, while less ideal for budget-conscious users or those who already own specialized devices.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, Russ from Metro Gamecore reviews the refreshed GPD Win Max 2, which features an updated 7840u chip and an oculink port. This device is a hybrid between a small laptop and a gaming handheld, catering to users who need both functionalities in one device. The review compares it to the previous model, noting improvements in RAM speed (up to 7500 mega transfers per second) and detailing the specs, such as a 1600p resolution display, a 67 watt-hour battery, and various connectivity options including HDMI out and USB4 ports. Russ notes the device’s weight (2.3 pounds) and its potential for LTE access. He explains that while the Win Max 2 is more expensive than typical laptops and handhelds, it offers unique advantages by combining both functionalities. He concludes by unboxing the device, finding its contents and build similar to the previous model.
00:05:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on the GPD G1 device and its features. The GPD G1 is notable for its multifunctionality, serving as both a USB-C dock with Oculink capability and containing a Radeon RX 7600 MXT mobile GPU. This enhances graphics performance and offers faster data transfer through its Oculink port, while also being compatible with USB4. The presenter expresses interest in testing this device due to its compact size and wide compatibility.
The segment then provides a detailed examination of the device’s ports and physical characteristics, including multiple USB ports, an HDMI port, headphone jack, exhaust vent, fan intake, and a fingerprint sensor on the power button. The keyboard, though cramped due to the device’s 10-inch size, includes a full function bar. The presenter compares the typing experience favorably to an Apple keyboard and notes their typing speed improvements.
The GamePad controls are also reviewed, highlighting small Hall sensor analog sticks (which prevent stick drift), a PS Vita-style D-pad, and face buttons with a soft click. Despite praising the component choices, the presenter criticizes the ergonomics, noting discomfort due to its flat, laptop-like design when used for handheld gaming, especially compared to devices with real grips like the Steam Deck.
00:10:00
In this part of the video, the reviewer discusses their ongoing issues with the GPD Win Max 2, specifically the control layout. They explain that the placement of the analog sticks, D-pad, and face buttons feels imbalanced, making navigation awkward. Certain games benefit from this setup, though generally, they would prefer the D-pad and left analog stick swapped for better balance. The device includes a webcam and features magnetic concealment plates for professional settings. Ergonomic issues are noted, with the reviewer finding it most comfortable on a table or while lying down. The screen is praised for its brightness and thin bezels, but can be too bright at minimum settings. The reviewer also notes the backlit keyboard and mentions two pre-installed apps, with a focus on the customizable Motion Assistant for TDP settings.
00:15:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses various tools and apps for adjusting gaming settings on a handheld gaming device. They highlight features such as adjusting the resolution and refresh rate, mapping back buttons, and configuring keys for older PC games. The speaker prefers using the “Handheld Companion” app, which simulates Xbox or DualShock controllers, and features a convenient sidebar for adjusting settings like the frame rate limit and TDP (Thermal Design Power). The speaker primarily uses auto TDP mode to set a target frame rate, enhancing power efficiency during gameplay. They find this method effective for various games, although auto TDP sometimes sets higher power profiles than expected. Despite occasional frame rate dips, the speaker favors auto TDP for its convenience in managing power settings automatically.
00:20:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses various functionalities of a device, which can be used as an extended display or a mini PC when connected to an external monitor. The video covers retro game emulation performance, noting that auto TDP settings typically result in higher power consumption even for less demanding games. Manual TDP adjustments are suggested for lightweight emulation tasks, while auto TDP works better for more demanding emulators like PS2, GameCube, and Wii U. The Nintendo Switch emulator Yuzu particularly benefits from auto TDP, which adjusts power dynamically to prevent stutter. The segment also explores the use of Batocera, a custom Linux firmware for retro gaming, which runs efficiently on the device and offers some advantages over the Windows interface, such as better screen brightness control and lower power demands for low-end emulation.
00:25:00
In this part of the video, the presenter discusses the performance advantages of using Batocera for retro game emulation over Windows. They highlight that Batocera has lower CPU and GPU loads, resulting in better battery life for lightweight retro games. Specific emulators, like those for the original Xbox and Nintendo 3DS, perform significantly better on Batocera. The presenter recommends using Batocera for everything up to the Wii U, while retaining Windows for high-end systems like Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Nintendo Switch.
The video then shifts to evaluating the GPD Win Max 2, considering different user scenarios where it might be useful, such as for those wanting an all-in-one device, frequent travelers, and those interested in using an eGPU. Conversely, it suggests avoiding the Win Max 2 if the user already has a good laptop or handheld device, is a couch gamer, or is very budget-conscious. Finally, the presenter shares their personal use case for the GPD Win Max 2, particularly for an upcoming vacation where it will serve both as a gaming device and a functional laptop.
00:30:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses their plan to use the GPD Win Max 2 both as a work laptop and a gaming PC during an upcoming trip. They mention the possibility of also bringing a Mio Mini but emphasize the versatile capabilities of the Win Max 2. The speaker invites viewers to share their thoughts in the comments, including whether they own a Win Max 2, their use cases for it, or reasons for not planning to get one. They conclude by thanking viewers for watching and encouraging them to like and subscribe.