The highly anticipated GPD Win 5, one of the first gaming handhelds to feature AMD's powerful new Strix Halo architecture, is generating serious buzz. While the device is expected to start shipping to Indiegogo backers from November 2025, we're getting our first real look at its gaming performance thanks to early testing. And the results, especially for the more affordable model, are turning heads.
Popular tech YouTuber ETA Prime has just dropped a comprehensive video, putting the Ryzen AI Max 385 version of the Win 5 through its paces. This specific configuration is the more budget-friendly sibling to the top-tier AI Max+ 395, featuring a slightly scaled-back APU with a Radeon 8050S iGPU sporting 32 Compute Units. The big question on everyone's mind was: does the cheaper model hold up? The answer, based on these tests, is a resounding yes.
A Surprising Powerhouse in a Compact Frame
The GPD Win 5, even in this more accessible guise, is shaping up to be a formidable competitor in the PC gaming handheld space. ETA Prime's testing covered a range of modern and demanding titles, showcasing the device's versatility across different power envelopes.
The first test was Street Fighter 6 at 1080p resolution and Medium settings. With the TDP set to a modest 18W, the Win 5 delivered a perfectly stable 60 FPS, proving it can handle fast-paced fighting games with ease.
But the real surprises came next. Spider-Man 2, a title known for bringing even dedicated GPUs to their knees, was run at 1080p/Medium with a 28W TDP. The Ryzen AI Max 385 didn't just run it; it soared, achieving an impressive average of 74 FPS. ETA Prime also noted that with frame generation enabled, the framerate skyrocketed to around 130 FPS, a figure that would be respectable on a high-end desktop rig.
Tackling Open Worlds and Next-Gen Titles
The performance parade continued with Forza Horizon 5. At 1080p and Medium settings, and drawing only 17W of power, the handheld consistently pushed over 100 FPS, ensuring a buttery-smooth racing experience.
Perhaps the most telling test was Cyberpunk 2077, a benchmark for any system. Running at 1080p with High settings and FSR set to Quality, the GPD Win 5 delivered a very playable experience. At a 45W TDP, the average framerate was around 91 FPS, and even when dialed back to 25W, it held firm at a solid 60 FPS.
The testing didn't stop there. ETA Prime also benchmarked the handheld with the critically acclaimed Red Dead Redemption 2. For those looking to jump into the vast world of the Wild West, now is a great time, as the game is currently available on Humble Bundle for just $14.99. On the Win 5, at 1080p with no FSR assistance and a 45W TDP, the game ran at a smooth 75 FPS. The handheld also handled upcoming and recent titles like DOOM: The Dark Ages and Borderlands 4 with a "good overall experience," suggesting it has the horsepower to tackle future releases.
You can see all these impressive benchmarks for yourself in ETA Prime's full video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOSg9Tf-K3Y
The Verdict: High-End Performance is Becoming More Accessible
The key takeaway from this early preview is clear: the performance gap between the premium and "budget" models in the GPD Win 5 lineup is much smaller than many would have anticipated. The Ryzen AI Max 385 configuration is demonstrating that you don't necessarily need the absolute top-tier SKU to enjoy a premium, high-framerate gaming experience on the go.
For gamers eagerly awaiting the Strix Halo generation, this is incredibly promising news. It signals that the power of these new APUs is so substantial that even the more affordable variants can comfortably outperform many current-generation solutions. As we move closer to the November 2025 release window, the GPD Win 5 is firmly positioning itself as a compelling, high-value option in the crowded handheld market.
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