The new GPD WIN 5 arrives with a choice of two robust processor models. Specifically, you can choose between the AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 and the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. In this handheld gaming PC article, we will conduct a full GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 comparison. Consequently, we intend to discover any differences in performance and learn which unit is best suited for your specific needs.
GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 Comparison Video
Hardware Differences Between Models
Regarding looks and features, both GPD WIN 5 models are identical. In fact, you possess the same hardware layout. Therefore, everything apart from the processor is indistinguishable. As a result, you will not find any variations in the display, controls, or other external features.
Exploring the Processor Specs
Let us take a brief look at the processors. The AMD Ryzen AI MAX 385 features 8 cores alongside 16 threads. Furthermore, it boasts a base clock of 3.6GHz and can boost up to 5GHz. Additionally, this portable gaming PC utilises Radeon 8050S graphics with 32 cores running at 2,800Mhz.
In comparison, the AMD Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 doubles the core count, bringing it up to 16. It also doubles the thread count to 32. Its base clock is 3 GHz, while the boost clock reaches up to 5.1GHz. Moreover, it features Radeon 8060S graphics with 8 additional cores, totalling 40. Finally, it runs at a slightly faster frequency of 2900Mhz.
Full GPD WIN 5 Technical Specifications
| CPU | AMD RYZEN AI MAX+ 395, 16-Core, 32-Threads, ZEN 5, Up to 5.1 GHz, 126 TOPS AMD RYZEN AI MAX 385, 8-Core , 16-Threads, ZEN 5, Up to 5 GHz, 106 TOPS |
| GPU | AMD Radeon 8060S (Integrated), RDNA 3.5, 40 CUs (2560 Stream Processors), 2.9 GHz, AMD FreeSync Premium AMD Radeon 8050S (Integrated), 32CUs, 2.8 GHz, AMD FreeSync Premium, |
| RAM | Up to 128GB LPDDR5x Unified Memory, 8000 MT/s |
| STORAGE | 1 TB / 2 TB / 4 TB M.2 NVMe Slot (2280) PCIe Gen4, Single-sided SSD 1x Mini SSD Card slot PCIe Gen4 x1 1x Micro SD card slot SD 3.0 Protocol |
| DISPLAY | 7-inch, 120Hz, 16:9, Native Landscape Gaming Screen, AMD FreeSync Premium, 100% sRGB, 315 PPI, 500 NITS |
| CONTROLS | Capacitive Joystick (Esports FPS grade, zero dead zone, zero drift) Hall Effect Triggers (Dual-mode long/short thread, 0.1mm accuracy, <0.1ms response) |
| POWER & BATTERY | 80Wh External Removable Lithium-Ion GPD FlexPowe 180W DC Power Adapter (AI PC-specific) |
| DIMENSIONS | GPD WIN 5 handheld: 10.5 x 4.3 x 0.95 inches (26.7 x 11.1 x 2.4 cm) GPD WIN 5 battery: 4.36 x 4.34 x 0.71 inches (11.07 x 11.03 x 1.81 cm) |
| WEIGHT | GPD WIN 5 handheld: 565g (1.24 lbs) GPD WIN 5 battery: 350g (0.77 lbs) |
Battery Life Test
We tested both GPD WIN 5 devices while running from the external battery at full display brightness. We ran the Cinebench 2024 multi-core benchmark on repeat until the GPD WIN 5’s switched off with 5% remaining battery.
At 55W TDP, we got a battery life of 55 minutes on the GPD WIN 5 AI MAX+ 395 model, and 62 minutes on the GPD WIN 5 AI MAX 385. At 28W TDP the 385 surprisingly only 66 minutes, while the 395 model made it to 69 minutes.
Fan Noise & Temperature Tests
The fans are identical in both GPD WIN 5 models and the peak noise are around 65dB for both. The fan curve is by default the same, and you can of course change the temperature triggers versus fan speed to your preference.
We checked the temperature at its warmest point, the 395 model was higher than the 385, around 46°C compared to 39°C.
GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395 System Benchmarks Analysis
We will compare the two GPD WIN 5 gaming handhelds at their peak supported TDP, which is 75W. Crucially, we only change the TDP for our benchmarks and do not perform any other tweaks. Thus, this approach gives us the best ‘out of the box’ comparison for this mobile gaming PC.
Cinebench 2024 Performance
Starting with Cinebench 2024, we see that the expected single-core scores are the same. However, for multi-core scores, we do notice a substantial variation in performance. Specifically, there is up to a 47% difference at 75W TDP.
Geekbench 6 Results
Next, in the Geekbench 6 benchmarks, we see the 385 ever so slightly in front regarding single-core performance scores. Conversely, for multi-core performance, the 395 model takes the lead. Here, it shows a difference of 20% at 75W TDP.
3DMARK Scores
Regarding 3DMARK’s Time Spy, Night Raid, and Fire Strike tests, we observe a mix of highs and lows. For Time Spy and Fire Strike, we see around a 4% difference between the two GPD WIN 5 units. However, with the Night Raid benchmark, we witness a far larger 16% gap in scores.
Gaming Performance: GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395
For our portable gaming computer benchmarks, we are running at 1080P across a range of TDPs. 4W is the lowest, while 75W is the highest setting for the GPD WIN 5.
Forza Horizon 5
On Forza Horizon 5, we can see that at 4W, there is a minor difference within the margin of error. However, at around the 15W range, the 385 outperforms the 395 by a noticeable amount. As we increase the TDP, the 395 starts to take the lead. For instance, we see a 12% difference at 28W, 22% at 55W, and an 8% difference at 75W TDP.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
Turning to Shadow of the Tomb Raider, we again see similar frames per second from 4W TDP up to around the 28W area. Subsequently, that is where the 395 model begins to pull ahead. At 55W and 75W TDP, we see roughly a 10% difference between the two GPD WIN 5 models.
Cyberpunk 2077
Regarding Cyberpunk 2077, we were not surprised to see similar patterns up to the 28W TDP area. Again, the 395 model speeds in front beyond that point. We do see smaller differences though. Surprisingly, there is only around a 7% difference at 55 and 75W TDP on this compact gaming PC.
Summary of the Benchmark Results
Keeping in mind this is an out-of-the-box test with no processor optimising, there are some interesting results. In terms of pure CPU power, the GPD WIN 5 395 model clearly outperformed the 385 in multi-core tests. There were no surprises there.
Regarding gaming performance on this handheld gaming computer, we generally see similar results. Sometimes, the 385 is slightly ahead from 4W TDP up to the 28W TDP area. Then, from there onwards, the 395 enjoys anywhere from a 7% to a decent 22% performance lead.
The difference will largely vary based on the game’s demands. It depends on whether the title is CPU or GPU intensive, or a combination of both. Also, we must not forget optimisations such as core parking. Providing more power to the CPU or GPU can make noticeable differences for both GPD WIN 5 devices.
Final Verdict: GPD WIN 5 385 vs 395
Comparing the GPD WIN 5 prices for the two models (32GB/2TB configurations), there is around a $180 difference. This equates to approximately a 10% price gap. Regarding overall performance at lower TDPs, we see similar results. However, we see up to a massive 22% gap at higher TDPs in games. Furthermore, the gap is as high as 47% in pure CPU multi-core performance.
Making the Right Choice
If you are planning to mainly game at lower TDP, for example while on battery or from 4W to 28W, the 385 makes sense. Overall, you will get fairly similar performance to the 395 under these conditions. Plus, it comes at a lower price.
Alternatively, you might want the best of both worlds. Let’s say you are gaming on battery during the daily commute, then gaming in the evening while docked. In that case, you can enjoy the extra 7 to 22% performance increase based on our tested games. This costs around a 10% increase in price. Therefore, it is an attractive investment for a reasonable price.
One thing is sure; both models of the GPD WIN 5 are very impressive. You can happily run most games at 1080P with decent graphics settings. Consequently, you do not have to worry about tweaking everything to squeeze out an extra couple of FPS. All of our tests are out of the box. However, you can spend a little time optimising the GPD WIN 5 for even more performance if you wish.
Which would you choose?
Which model would you buy? Or perhaps you already own one? Let us know in the comments which GPD WIN 5 you would choose.
Finally, do not forget you can purchase the GPD WIN 5 here in various configurations. These range from 32GB up to a massive 128GB RAM option from us at DROIX. You get a two-year warranty and excellent customer service with knowledgeable staff. It makes all the difference!
Read or Watch Our Full GPD WIN 5 Review
You can read our full GPD WIN 5 review here which is based on the 395 model, but covers everything you need to know for both. You can also find our GPD WIN 5 docking station review here.
