Compact GPD MicroPC 2 surpasses crowdfunding target - sequel to 2019's model boosts smartworking on the go while maintaining a weight less than 500g
The GPD MicroPC 2, a pocket-sized laptop, has made its way into the tech world with a splash, boasting a number of impressive features that set it apart from its predecessor.
A Larger, More Vibrant Display
The GPD MicroPC 2 boasts a 7-inch pivoting touch screen with Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, a significant upgrade from the 6-inch, 720p screen of its predecessor. The display is protected by 6th Gen Corning Gorilla Glass and features an anti-fingerprint coating for added durability. The screen can rotate fully to 180 degrees, offering greater flexibility and enabling a tablet mode, a marked improvement over the previous generation’s 150-degree tilt.
Enhanced Connectivity and Performance
Key specifications of the GPD MicroPC 2 include an Intel N250 CPU, noted as underpowered but significantly better than its predecessor, with options for the newer N300 CPU in some configurations. The device is equipped with a HDMI 2.1 port, two USB-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2, 10 Gbps throughput) capable of video output, supporting 4K at 60 Hz when external displays are used, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, 4 total USB ports, a Micro SD card slot for storage expansion, a 3.5 mm audio jack, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, and a fingerprint sensor for biometric unlocking.
The compact keyboard is designed primarily for thumb typing and includes both touchpad and traditional mouse button input methods for versatility. The device weighs less than 500 grams, emphasizing portability.
Impressive Build Quality and Battery Life
The GPD MicroPC 2 is housed in an ABS material, claimed to be flame retardant, with a Rockwell hardness rating of R109, and can pass a drop test from 5m (over 16ft). The device comes with 16GB LPDDR5-4800 RAM and a 512GB SSD PCIe Gen3 x4 as standard. The battery, with a capacity of 27.5 Wh, is claimed to deliver between two and eight hours of usage.
Pre-Orders Now Available
The crowdfunding campaign for the GPD MicroPC 2 has already gained over 6,000% of its funding goal, and interested buyers can pre-order for $495. Worldwide deliveries are expected to be made starting in September.
In terms of performance and user reviews, the MicroPC 2 provides a noticeable boost over its 2019 predecessor but remains targeted more towards IT professionals and mobile productivity rather than gaming, due to the limited power of the Intel N250. The device comes with Windows 11 Pro installed.
Reviews highlight the excellent build quality, impressive screen for such a small form factor, and the versatility brought by the pivoting screen. However, its computing power limits gaming capabilities and intensive computational tasks. The device excels as a niche mini laptop for mobile productivity and professionals needing connectivity and portability in one compact package.
[1] Crowdfunding Campaign [3] Review 1 [5] Review 2
- The GPD MicroPC 2's impressive features extend beyond its pocket-sized form factor, with the inclusion of smart-home-devices such as a fingerprint sensor for biometric unlocking, enhancing its technology to cater to modern convenience and security needs.
- Conversely, the GPD MicroPC 2, despite being a mini laptop, lacks the gadgets typically found in smart-home devices like voice assistants, maintaining its focus on mobility and productivity, rather than transforming into a full-fledged smart home hub.
