The GPD Win 5 is poised to disrupt the portable gaming landscape, presenting a distinctive design choice that sets it apart from conventional handhelds. This new device, powered by AMD's potent Strix Halo processor, foregoes an integrated power source in favor of an external battery attachment or direct AC connection. This unconventional approach, highlighted during its reveal at ChinaJoy, sparks debate regarding its true portability and user experience, despite its demonstrated capacity for high-performance gaming.

GPD's decision to omit an internal battery in the Win 5 stems from the formidable power demands and thermal output of the AMD Ryzen AI Max 395 chip. This processing unit, alongside its integrated GPU, consumes a significant amount of power, as evidenced by gameplay of 'Black Myth: Wukong' where the CPU and GPU drew approximately 56W and 55W respectively. To manage these considerable energy requirements and dissipate heat effectively, users must either connect the device directly to a power outlet via a dock or port, or attach a dedicated external battery pack.

The external battery, which connects to the Win 5's rear, raises ergonomic concerns due to its thickness. While the device itself appears slender, the added bulk of the battery could impact comfort, particularly for users with larger hands. Initial thermal observations during testing indicated that the top vents reached around 57 degrees Celsius and the screen approximately 47 degrees when running Windows. During intense gaming, the CPU and GPU maintained temperatures in the low 70s, suggesting reasonable thermal management despite the powerful components.

This reliance on an external power solution places the GPD Win 5 in a peculiar position within the handheld gaming PC market. Unlike competitors that prioritize integrated batteries for on-the-go convenience, the Win 5's design, while potentially enabling greater performance, introduces a practical challenge for users. Carrying an additional battery pack or being tethered to a power source could undermine the very essence of portable gaming. Although no official release date or pricing details have been confirmed, and some specifications may evolve, the current model prompts reflection on whether this trade-off in portability is justified by its raw processing power.

Despite the inherent trade-offs, the GPD Win 5 showcases the capabilities of the Strix Halo architecture in a compact form factor, delivering smooth frame rates in demanding titles. However, the market for Strix Halo-powered handhelds is still developing, with other manufacturers like Ayaneo also exploring similar high-performance devices, notably with integrated batteries. The long-term viability and appeal of GPD's design will ultimately depend on its final pricing, thermal efficiency, and how well it addresses the practical needs of gamers seeking a truly portable yet powerful experience.