Have you ever wished for a laptop that fits in your pocket without sacrificing essential features? The GPD MicroPC 2 might just be the answer to that dream. This ultra-portable handheld laptop challenges the notion that compact devices must compromise on functionality. Weighing in at just 490 grams and boasting a 7-inch 1080p display, it’s a device that aims to redefine what it means to work on the go. But can something this small truly deliver on productivity, or is it just another novelty? In this assessment, we’ll explore whether the MicroPC 2 lives up to its promise of blending portability with practicality, offering a unique solution for professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts alike.
Throughout this review, ETA Prime uncovers the surprising versatility of the GPD MicroPC 2, from its upgraded Intel N250 processor to its extensive connectivity options that rival full-sized laptops. You’ll discover how its thoughtful design—complete with a swivel screen, backlit keyboard, and integrated fingerprint sensor—caters to users who demand both mobility and functionality. Whether you’re curious about its real-world performance, intrigued by its potential as a secondary device, or skeptical about its limitations, this exploration will provide insights into whether the MicroPC 2 is truly worth your attention. After all, in a world where portability often comes at a cost, could this device strike the perfect balance?
GPD MicroPC 2 Overview
TL;DR Key Takeaways :
- The GPD MicroPC 2 is a lightweight, ultra-portable laptop with a 7-inch 1080p IPS display, swivel screen, and backlit QWERTY keyboard, designed for professionals and students prioritizing mobility and functionality.
- Powered by an Intel N250 processor, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD, it offers smooth multitasking and fast storage performance, though it is not intended for intensive workloads or high-performance gaming.
- Extensive connectivity options include two USB-C 10Gbps ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI 2.1, a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack, making it highly versatile for various professional and personal use cases.
- Usability features such as a swivel screen, right-hand trackpad with physical mouse buttons, and a fingerprint sensor enhance adaptability and convenience for everyday tasks in confined spaces.
- With a 27.5Wh battery supporting 45W USB-C fast charging, the device provides up to four hours of video playback, making it suitable for short work sessions and travel, while maintaining a competitive position in the ultra-portable laptop market.
Compact Design Built for Mobility
Weighing only 490 grams, the GPD MicroPC 2 is remarkably lightweight, making it an excellent choice for users who require a portable device without compromising essential features. Its 7-inch 1080p IPS display delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, with a 16:9 aspect ratio that ensures compatibility with most modern applications. The inclusion of a swivel screen enhances flexibility, allowing users to seamlessly transition between laptop and tablet modes depending on their needs.
The device features a backlit QWERTY keyboard with dome switches that provide tactile feedback, making sure a comfortable typing experience even in confined spaces. Despite its compact size, the keyboard is highly functional and well-suited for productivity tasks. Security is further enhanced by an integrated fingerprint sensor that doubles as the power button, streamlining the login process and adding a layer of convenience. These design elements make the MicroPC 2 a practical and reliable choice for professionals who are frequently on the move.
Performance Powered by Upgraded Hardware
At the heart of the GPD MicroPC 2 lies the Intel N250 processor, a quad-core CPU capable of reaching a maximum clock speed of 3.8 GHz. This processor delivers notable improvements in both single-core and multi-core performance compared to its predecessor, making it well-suited for tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and video playback. The device is equipped with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 4800 MHz, making sure smooth multitasking even when handling demanding applications.
Storage is managed by a user-replaceable PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD, with a default capacity of 512GB. This configuration provides fast read and write speeds, reducing load times and improving overall system responsiveness. While the integrated GPU is not designed for gaming, it is capable of running older or less demanding titles at low to medium settings, making the MicroPC 2 a versatile option for casual users who occasionally engage in light gaming.
GPD MicroPC 2 Hands-On Review
Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in ultra-portable laptop.
- New Series71 Ultra Portable Mini Pocket Laptop 2025
- X Plus Ultra-Portable Laptop Review: Power in Your Pocket
- LG 2024 gram SuperSlim 15.6-inch Full HD OLED laptop
- How an 8-Inch 2-in-1 Laptop Balances Portability and Power
- Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 ultra-portable wireless keyboard
- Window 11 Mini Laptop Specs, Features and Why It Stands Out
- MSI WS60 Ultra Thin Core i7 Windows Laptop With Nvidia Quadro
- M4 MacBook Air. The Near-Perfect Ultraportable
- Mantiz aluminum folding laptop stand
- JBL Go 4 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker White (Open Box
Extensive Connectivity Options
One of the standout features of the GPD MicroPC 2 is its comprehensive connectivity options, which are rare for a device of its size. These include:
- Two USB-C 10Gbps ports for fast data transfer and charging
- Two full-size USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for connecting peripherals
- An HDMI 2.1 output for external displays
- A 2.5Gb Ethernet port for high-speed wired networking
- A microSD card slot supporting up to 2TB of additional storage
- A 3.5mm audio jack and dual stereo speakers for multimedia use
These connectivity options make the MicroPC 2 a versatile tool for professionals who need to connect multiple devices, transfer data quickly, or expand storage. Whether you are preparing a presentation, streaming content, or managing files, the device’s I/O capabilities ensure seamless functionality and adaptability in various scenarios.
Usability Features for Everyday Tasks
The GPD MicroPC 2 is designed with adaptability and practicality in mind. Its swivel screen allows users to adjust the device for different use cases, whether typing, presenting, or watching videos. The right-hand trackpad, paired with physical mouse buttons, offers precise navigation, even in confined spaces, making it ideal for users who frequently work in tight environments such as airplanes or small desks.
This device excels in light computing tasks such as web browsing, email management, and media consumption. While it is not intended for resource-intensive applications like video editing or 3D rendering, its compact form factor and practical features make it an excellent secondary device or portable workstation for users who are constantly on the move.
Battery Life and Charging Efficiency
The GPD MicroPC 2 is powered by a 27.5Wh battery, which provides approximately four hours of video playback or 1.5 hours of light gaming. It supports 45W USB-C fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge the device when needed. Additionally, the bypass charging mode helps preserve battery health by powering the device directly from an external source without cycling the battery.
While the battery life may not match that of larger laptops, it is sufficient for short work sessions, travel, or quick tasks. The fast-charging capability minimizes downtime, making sure that users can remain productive throughout the day without significant interruptions.
Performance Benchmarks and Gaming Potential
Although the GPD MicroPC 2 is not marketed as a gaming device, it is capable of handling older or indie games at reduced settings. Benchmark results provide a clear picture of its performance:
- Geekbench 6 scores: 1,267 (single-core) and 3,397 (multi-core)
- 3DMark Night Raid score: 7,385
These benchmarks confirm that the MicroPC 2 is best suited for productivity and casual use rather than demanding gaming or content creation tasks. Its performance is adequate for users who prioritize portability and convenience over raw computing power.
Market Position and Comparisons
The GPD MicroPC 2 positions itself as a smaller, more affordable alternative to premium models like the GPD Pocket 4 and GPD Win Mini. While it lacks the processing power and gaming capabilities of its larger counterparts, it excels in portability, practicality, and cost-effectiveness. This makes it an attractive option for users who need a compact device for everyday tasks without the premium price tag associated with more powerful models.
The MicroPC 2 is particularly well-suited for professionals, students, and enthusiasts who value a lightweight and versatile device for light computing tasks. Its combination of upgraded hardware, extensive connectivity, and thoughtful usability features ensures that it remains a competitive choice in the niche market of ultra-portable laptops.
Media Credit: ETA PRIME
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
