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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Verdict: The GPD Pocket 4 is an exceptionally capable Windows PC for its size, but it is neither a comfortable full-time laptop nor a conventional gaming handheld. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 version delivers strong CPU performance and unusually good integrated graphics in a 777-gram convertible chassis, alongside a superb 8.8-inch 144Hz touchscreen and an excellent selection of ports. Its compromises are equally clear: a cramped keyboard, awkward two-handed touchpad, loud fans under load, short gaming endurance, no HDR or VRR, and a price that reflects its compactness rather than value.
For mobile professionals, field technicians, administrators, developers, and enthusiasts who want a full Windows computer in the smallest practical package, the Pocket 4 is unusually compelling. For all-day typing, quiet gaming, or maximum performance per dollar, a conventional laptop or controller-equipped gaming handheld is a better choice.
What is the GPD Pocket 4?
The GPD Pocket 4 is an ultra-mobile Windows 11 PC with an 8.8-inch convertible touchscreen, physical keyboard, integrated touchpad, and laptop-style connectivity. It is closer to a miniature laptop or UMPC than to a Steam Deck, ROG Ally, or Legion Go: there are no built-in game controls, and its design prioritizes desktop software, ports, and portability over console-style gaming ergonomics.
That distinction matters. You can use the Pocket 4 for Office, browser work, remote administration, VPNs, development tools, legacy Windows software, and external displays. You can also play modern PC games, but you will generally need an external controller for the best experience.
#1 Best Overall
- [Ultra-Portable Performance Powerhouse] The GPD Pocket 4 is a cutting-edge mini laptop designed for users who demand high performance on the go. Equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor, this 2-in-1 device combines the portability of an 8.8-inch tablet with the processing power of a desktop. The integrated AMD Radeon 780M GPU ensures exceptional gaming performance, making this handheld device perfect for both work and play.
- [2-in-1 Versatility with Touchscreen Display] Experience adaptability with the GPD Pocket 4's design, featuring an 8.8-inch high-refresh-rate IPS panel. With a 144Hz refresh rate and 2.5K resolution, the display delivers crisp visuals and fluid motion. Its 10-point touch capability ensures smooth navigation, letting you switch between laptop and tablet modes. Whether browsing, working, or enjoying content, this 2-in-1 mini laptop offers productivity and entertainment in a compact form.
- [Next-Gen Graphics and AI Capabilities] With the GPD Pocket 4, gaming and creative tasks reach new heights. The integrated AMD Radeon 780M GPU, based on RDNA 3 architecture, offers enhanced performance, allowing you to enjoy demanding games and applications with ease. Additionally, the device features AMD's advanced AI technology, making it an ideal choice for those who require powerful AI processing on the go.
- [Expandable and Modular Design] The GPD Pocket 4 is not just a powerful mini laptop; it’s also highly customizable. With 16GB of LPDDR5x memory and 1TB of M.2 NVMe SSD storage, you can configure this device to meet your specific needs. The Pocket 4 includes an HDMI 2.1 & 2x USB-C for triple display output, as well as support for the following modules, 4G, MicroSD, KVM and RS-232 modules, making it a versatile tool for both gaming and professional use.
- [Long-Lasting Battery and Fast Charging] Stay productive and entertained all day with the GPD Pocket 4’s 44.8Wh battery, offering up to 9 hours of video playback. The device supports 100W PD fast charging, ensuring that you can quickly recharge and get back to work or play. Whether you're using it as a laptop or a tablet, the GPD Pocket 4’s efficient power management keeps you connected wherever you go.
This review focuses on the top-end Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 configuration tested by Notebookcheck, with 32GB of LPDDR5X-7500 memory and a 2TB SSD. GPD also lists Ryzen 7 8840U and Ryzen AI 9 HX 365 versions, with memory and storage combinations varying by market and seller. Results from the HX 370 model should not be treated as representative of every Pocket 4 SKU.
Design and portability
The Pocket 4’s appeal begins with its dimensions. The reviewed HX 370 unit weighs approximately 777g and combines a compact aluminum-style chassis with a convertible hinge, touchscreen, webcam, fingerprint reader, physical keyboard, and a remarkably broad port selection.
It is small enough for a small bag, tablet sleeve, or large jacket pocket, making it practical for field work, travel, service calls, and cramped environments where a conventional laptop is inconvenient. But small does not mean effortless to use. At nearly 800g, it becomes noticeable when held one-handed for long periods, and the compact keyboard limits how much the device benefits from being a full Windows computer.
The convertible design provides useful flexibility for touchscreen interaction, presentations, and tablet-style use. It is less convincing as a pure handheld tablet: Windows 11 and desktop applications remain more comfortable with a desk, stand, mouse, or external display. An active stylus would make tablet mode more useful, but the Notebookcheck review does not establish that one is included in the retail package.
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The keyboard is broadly similar to the Pocket 3’s layout, with small keys packed into a limited area. It is usable for short messages, terminal commands, keyboard shortcuts, remote sessions, and emergency edits. It is much less suitable for long-form typing or all-day writing.
Touch-typing accuracy suffers from the reduced key size and unusual layout, especially if you are moving between the Pocket 4 and a full-size laptop. The keyboard is a genuine advantage over a controller-only handheld, but it is not equivalent to the keyboard on even a compact conventional ultraportable.
The integrated touchpad is functional for cursor movement, but its mouse buttons sit on the opposite side. Selecting text, dragging files, and performing click-and-drag operations generally require both hands. That arrangement is manageable on a desk and awkward on a lap, in a train seat, or while holding the computer.
For sustained productivity, budget for a compact mouse. A USB-C dock and external keyboard can turn the Pocket 4 into a capable desktop workstation, but doing so also reduces the point of carrying such a small computer unless portability between workstations is your priority.
The 8.8-inch 144Hz display is a major strength
The 8.8-inch IPS touchscreen has a 2560×1600 resolution, 16:10 aspect ratio, 144Hz refresh rate, 10-point capacitive touch, and approximately 343 pixels per inch. It is one of the Pocket 4’s strongest features and a substantial upgrade over the Pocket 3.
Text is exceptionally sharp, the 16:10 shape provides useful vertical space, and 144Hz makes scrolling and general desktop movement feel smooth. The high pixel density is particularly valuable for remote administration, code, documents, and detailed interfaces, although Windows scaling is often necessary on such a small, high-resolution panel.
There are important limitations. This is not an OLED display, it does not support HDR, and Notebookcheck reports no FreeSync or Windows variable-refresh-rate support. The glossy touchscreen can reflect surrounding light. In games, 144Hz does not mean the Radeon 890M will drive demanding titles at 144 frames per second; you will normally reduce the internal resolution and graphics settings.
The display is therefore excellent for desktop sharpness and light games, but not a complete premium gaming-panel package. Fixed refresh can also make fluctuating frame rates and tearing more visible than they would be on a VRR-equipped gaming handheld.
Rank #2
- [Lighter, thinner, and smaller] A size similar to that of a cell phone and only 0.7kg in weight.Put it in your pocket at any time and use it at anywhere
- [Active cooling]Built-in pure-copper heat pipe, large-diameter heat output pipeline,and increased fan power drive, keeping the machine body within the 35°C temperature range acceptable by human body
- [6-8 hour long battery life]Pocket offers longer battery life. Whether you're surfing the Internet, playing games, or watching videos,Pocket is enough
- [Compact body, outstanding performance]The CNC integrated aluminum alloy body, all-fit FHD screen,German Red Dot Design Award
Ports and modular features
The Pocket 4 is unusually well equipped for a device this small. The tested configuration includes:
- USB-A 2.0
- USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
- USB-C 10Gbps with DisplayPort and power delivery
- USB4 40Gbps with DisplayPort and power delivery
- HDMI 2.1
- 2.5Gb Ethernet
- 3.5mm headset jack
- MicroSD card reader
- Fingerprint reader
Notebookcheck places the USB-A 2.0 port and audio jack on the right, USB-C and USB4 on the rear, and HDMI plus USB-A on the left. Only one USB-C port supports USB4.
This selection makes the Pocket 4 far more useful for office, laboratory, networking, and field work than its size suggests. You can connect external displays, a USB-C dock, wired networking, storage, cameras, and other peripherals without immediately resorting to a hub. The 2.5Gb Ethernet port is particularly useful for NAS work, device administration, and transferring large files.
USB4 may also enable external-GPU setups, but that should be treated as an accessory-dependent possibility rather than a guaranteed out-of-box feature. Likewise, GPD’s modular KVM-related functionality needs careful checking: dedicated modules are sold separately according to GPD Direct Japan. Confirm which module, inputs, software, and accessories are included in the exact listing you purchase.
Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 performance
The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is the main reason to choose the top-end Pocket 4. It has 12 cores and 24 threads, paired with Radeon 890M integrated graphics. In Notebookcheck’s tested 32GB/2TB configuration, it scored:
| Test | Result |
|---|---|
| Cinebench R23 multi-core | 16,546 points |
| Cinebench 2024 single-core | 117 points |
| Cinebench 2024 multi-core | 956 points |
| PCMark 10 | 7,471 points |
Those are impressive results for a sub-kilogram computer. Applications launch quickly, multitasking is strong, and the processor has enough headroom for demanding office work, development, remote sessions, and heavier CPU workloads.
However, the HX 370 name does not tell the whole story. Notebookcheck found the Pocket 4 approximately 15–20% slower than the average laptop using the same processor. A larger Asus TUF Gaming A14 with the same chip achieved roughly 35% higher multi-thread performance in the cited comparison, largely because it can sustain higher power levels.
The correct conclusion is that the Pocket 4 offers laptop-class performance for its size, not the same sustained performance as a full-power HX 370 laptop. Its compact cooling system and power targets are part of the bargain.
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Gaming performance: powerful graphics, the wrong controls
Radeon 890M graphics are unusually capable for an integrated GPU in such a small PC. In Notebookcheck’s tested comparisons, the Pocket 4 averaged roughly 5–15% better gaming performance than the Asus ROG Ally’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme.
That makes the Pocket 4 a credible occasional gaming machine, but not automatically a better gaming handheld. The ROG Ally and similar devices include integrated controls; the Pocket 4 does not. For controller-focused games, an external gamepad is effectively part of the setup.
Realistic expectations are more important than the 1600p native resolution. Demanding games should generally target 720p, 1080p, or around 1200p with reduced settings and, where appropriate, upscaling. Notebookcheck found Baldur’s Gate 3 reasonably playable at 1200p and low settings, while games such as Cyberpunk 2077 require more aggressive compromises.
Light games, older titles, strategy games, and less demanding esports software benefit most from the 144Hz panel. Modern AAA games will not normally use its full refresh rate, and the lack of VRR means you may need to tune frame-rate caps and settings to avoid distracting tearing.
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Rank #3
![LANRUO GPD Pocket 4 [AI 370-32GB+2TB] Modular Handheld Laptop PC Notebook 8.8' 2560x1600 Rotating Screen Tablet PC Computer Win 11 Home OS 180 Degrees Rotation AI PC](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Ui1BnbquL._SL160_.jpg)
- GPD Pocket 4's CPU & GPU : AMD Ryzen A1 9 HX-370 processor, 12 Cores/24 Threads. Base Frequency 2 GHz Max Turbo Frequency Up to 5.1 Ghz Graphics: AMD Radeon 890M RNDA3 Graphics card. graphics framework 16 graphics cores / 2900 MHz graphics Frequency.
- GPD Pocket 4's I/O: USB4(40Gbps)x1, HDMI 2.1x1, Full-Featured USB-C 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps)x1, USB-A 3.2 Gen2(10Gbps)x1, USB-A 2.0 HighSpeed(480 Mbps)x1,RJ45 Network Portx1, 1x 3.5mm Headset& Microphones.Besides,Our GPD pocket 4 Also has 4 kinds of Modular I/O Ports-- MicroSD card Reader Module(Standard Configuration) and 4G LTE Module, RS-232 module and KVM module.(Not included in Standard configuration,Need to be purchased separately from our store.)
- GPD Pocket 4's Screen an 8.8-inch LTPS high-refresh display with exceptional visual performance. Powered by LTPS technology, it delivers a remarkable 97% DCI-P3 wide color gamut and professional-grade ICC color calibration. The 2.5K resolution has a 16:10 aspect ratio which results in a pixel density of 343 ppi, while the 144Hz refresh rate elevates the display to gaming-level smoothness. With a peak brightness of 500 nits and DC dimming technology, the screen offers vivid, precise visuals that redefine the viewing experience.
- GPD Pocket 4's Battery: 44.8WH large capacity battery. 2 Hours Of Heavy Use, 4-9 Hours Of Moderate Use, 10 Hours Of Light Use, Depending On The Specific Environment Of Use. Equipped with a 45Wh high-capacity battery and 100W PD fast charging(50% Charge in 30 Minutes), the system directly powers the motherboard while the battery supports charging. This setup provides a comprehensive, fast, and reliable charging experience, ensuring your AI PC always operates efficiently.
- GPD Pocket 4 System OS Recovery: Here's the instruction of a simply re-installation to resolve software/driver issues: 1, Long press power button for 2-3 seconds to boot your laptop.Multiple Click "Tab" key when you see power led on.Then you can enter the System Recovery page. Touch the "Start" Icon on the screen when you log into the System Recovery page and then wait for the automatic reinstallation process,all problem resolved.
Thermals, fan noise, and sustained performance
The Pocket 4’s performance comes with audible cooling. Notebookcheck measured approximately 55W average consumption during combined Prime95 and FurMark stress testing, and 50.1W during Cyberpunk 2077 at FHD Ultra without FSR. Idle consumption at 150cd/m2 was approximately 6.91W.
During gaming and other sustained workloads, the fan becomes loud and noticeable. Performance mode can increase power use and noise, while quieter modes reduce the device’s performance headroom. This is not a silent computer for a library, meeting room, or bedroom gaming session.
The small chassis also limits sustained performance compared with larger laptops. Short bursts can feel extremely fast, but long compiles, renders, stress tests, and extended gaming sessions expose the difference between a high-end chip and a high-power implementation of that chip.
Notebookcheck additionally identified SSD throttling under load. That weakness is most relevant during sustained transfers, large installations, and other workloads that keep the storage device busy for extended periods.
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Battery life
The Pocket 4 uses a 45Wh battery. GPD Direct advertises approximately nine hours of continuous video playback, but that is a vendor claim under a particular test condition, not a promise of nine hours of mixed productivity or gaming.
Gaming endurance is substantially less favorable. Notebookcheck lists short battery life during gaming among the Pocket 4’s disadvantages, which is unsurprising given the HX 370’s power consumption, bright high-resolution display, and active cooling.
For travel, the realistic use case is short mobile work sessions followed by charging from USB-C or working near an outlet. Video playback and light office work should last considerably longer than demanding games, but exact runtime will depend on brightness, refresh rate, power mode, connected peripherals, and whether an external display is attached.
Storage and expansion
The reviewed system included a 2TB SSD, while retail configurations vary. That capacity is useful for a Windows installation, applications, and several large games, but the value depends heavily on the final configuration price.
The reported SSD throttling under sustained load is a more meaningful concern than peak sequential speed. Large file copies and game installations may slow as the drive heats up. The MicroSD reader is convenient for photographs, media, and portable files, but buyers should not assume that a card is an ideal replacement for the internal SSD for demanding games or sustained high-speed work without testing the exact card and reader combination.
Storage-replacement and upgrade details can vary by production revision. Confirm the physical drive format, access procedure, warranty implications, and available capacities for the exact unit before buying on the assumption that an upgrade will be straightforward.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Windows 11 on a tiny screen
Windows is both the Pocket 4’s greatest practical advantage and one of its usability challenges. It supports the broad desktop software ecosystem: full browser extensions, corporate VPNs, remote-desktop clients, device-management tools, Office applications, legacy programs, and specialist utilities that may not exist on SteamOS or console-oriented handheld interfaces.
That flexibility comes with maintenance. Windows scaling, touch targets, drivers, firmware, power profiles, and thermal modes may require adjustment. Desktop software designed for a larger screen can be awkward at 8.8 inches, especially when the keyboard and touchpad are also constrained.
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- [Ultra-Portable Performance Powerhouse] The GPD Pocket 4 is a cutting-edge mini laptop designed for users who demand high performance on the go. Equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, this 2-in-1 device combines the portability of an 8.8-inch tablet with the processing power of a desktop. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M iGPU ensures exceptional gaming performance, making this handheld device perfect for both work and play.
- [2-in-1 Versatility with Touchscreen Display] Experience adaptability with the GPD Pocket 4's design, featuring an 8.8-inch high-refresh-rate IPS panel. With a 144Hz refresh rate and 2.5K resolution, the display delivers crisp visuals and fluid motion. Its 10-point touch capability ensures smooth navigation, letting you switch between laptop and tablet modes. Whether browsing, working, or enjoying content, this 2-in-1 mini laptop offers productivity and entertainment in a compact form.
- [Next-Gen Graphics and AI Capabilities] With the GPD Pocket 4, gaming and creative tasks reach new heights. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M iGPU, based on RDNA 3.5 architecture, offers enhanced performance, allowing you to enjoy demanding games and applications with ease. Additionally, the device features AMD's advanced AI technology, making it an ideal choice for those who require powerful AI processing on the go.
- [Expandable and Modular Design] The GPD Pocket 4 is not just a powerful mini laptop; it’s also highly customizable. With 64GB of LPDDR5x memory and 2TB of M.2 NVMe SSD storage, you can configure this device to meet your specific needs. The Pocket 4 includes an HDMI 2.1 & 2x USB-C for triple display output, as well as support for the following modules, 4G, MicroSD, KVM and RS-232 modules, making it a versatile tool for both gaming and professional use.
- [Long-Lasting Battery and Fast Charging] Stay productive and entertained all day with the GPD Pocket 4’s 44.8Wh battery, offering up to 9 hours of video playback. The device supports 100W PD fast charging, ensuring that you can quickly recharge and get back to work or play. Whether you're using it as a laptop or a tablet, the GPD Pocket 4’s efficient power management keeps you connected wherever you go.
The Pocket 4 is therefore excellent as a portable Windows workstation that frequently connects to a desk, dock, or external monitor. It is less convincing as the only computer for someone who expects every task to be comfortable directly on the built-in hardware.
Which Pocket 4 configuration should you buy?
GPD Direct Japan lists three principal processor families: Ryzen 7 8840U, Ryzen AI 9 HX 365, and Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. Memory and storage combinations vary by market and seller, so compare the complete SKU rather than the processor name alone.
- Ryzen 7 8840U: the sensible choice for browsing, office work, remote administration, light development, and general Windows use if it is meaningfully cheaper. It should not be expected to match the HX 370 in heavier multitasking or integrated-graphics gaming.
- Ryzen AI 9 HX 365: a middle option for buyers who want more headroom than the 8840U without paying for the top configuration.
- Ryzen AI 9 HX 370: the enthusiast choice for heavier compiling, virtual machines, demanding multitasking, and the strongest integrated graphics available in the Pocket 4 range. It also makes the heat, fan noise, and battery compromises more relevant.
The HX 370 is worth choosing only if its extra CPU and GPU performance matters to your workload. For basic productivity, the lower-end model may deliver a better overall experience because the keyboard, display, and portability remain the same while the price can be lower.
How it compares with other device types
Versus a conventional ultraportable
A normal 13- or 14-inch laptop wins for typing comfort, screen size, sustained performance, battery capacity, repairability, and mainstream support. The Pocket 4 wins when volume, connectivity, and the ability to carry a complete Windows PC in a very small bag matter more than ergonomics.
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An ROG Ally X, Steam Deck, Legion Go, or similar device is a better fit for buyers who primarily want to play games from the built-in controls. The Pocket 4 has a stronger desktop-workstation identity and more natural keyboard-based administration, but requires an external controller for many games.
Versus the GPD Pocket 3
The Pocket 4 is the substantially more capable and modern option, with a sharper, faster display and stronger performance. The Pocket 3 remains relevant if the used or discounted price is much lower and your work does not need the newer CPU and GPU headroom.
Versus a GPD Win model
A GPD Win device is generally the better direction for buyers who want integrated controls and gaming-first ergonomics. The Pocket 4 is better suited to keyboard-driven Windows work, ports, and external-display use.
Price and total ownership cost
Price varies by country, seller, tax, import status, promotion, and configuration. Notebookcheck reported an approximate $1,300 price for its review configuration and cited Indiegogo pricing ranging from roughly $895 for a lower-end 8840U model to more than $1,400 for a tested-class HX 370 configuration. These are historical and channel-specific figures, not a universal current US street price.
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GPD Direct Japan listed a price signal of ¥214,000 tax included, but the accessible listing does not establish a reliable US-dollar equivalent or the exact selected configuration. Check the final regional listing before purchase.
Also account for the accessories that make the Pocket 4 easier to use: a compact mouse, USB-C dock, external controller, MicroSD card, protective sleeve, and any dedicated modular accessories. GPD states that dedicated modules are sold separately, so modular functionality may increase the real cost.
Who should buy the GPD Pocket 4?
- Buy it if: you need a complete Windows PC in the smallest practical form factor; value ports and Ethernet; regularly connect external displays or USB devices; work in the field; administer systems remotely; or want strong integrated graphics without carrying a conventional laptop.
- Avoid it if: you need comfortable all-day typing; want quiet gaming; expect long gaming battery life; require a built-in controller; want OLED, HDR, or VRR; need the maximum sustained HX 370 performance; or are seeking the best gaming performance per dollar.
Final verdict
The GPD Pocket 4 is more than a novelty UMPC. In the HX 370 configuration, it is a genuinely fast Windows computer with an excellent high-density touchscreen, unusually broad connectivity, and integrated graphics that can handle modern games with sensible settings.
Its limitations prevent it from replacing every laptop or gaming handheld. The keyboard is cramped, the touchpad is awkward, the fans are loud under sustained load, gaming battery life is short, storage can throttle, and the display lacks HDR and VRR. Its price also demands that you value compactness and flexibility more than raw value.
Buy the Pocket 4 if your priority is maximum capability per cubic inch. Choose the HX 370 for demanding work and integrated-graphics gaming, or a lower configuration if your needs are mainly office work and administration. Choose a conventional ultraportable for typing comfort, or a controller-equipped handheld for gaming-first use.
Quick Recap
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