GPD Micro PC [256GB M.2 SSD Version] Review

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for portable computing has escalated, leading to the emergence of unique devices tailored to specific industries and usage scenarios. The GPD Micro PC stands as a formidable contender in the realm of mini laptops, offering unrivaled versatility and performance in a compact form. Designed by GPD and marketed under the LANRUO brand, this device is not just another mini laptop. It is an industry-targeted powerhouse that combines the functionality of a laptop with the portability of a smartphone. Weighing a mere 440 grams and fitting snugly into a pocket, the GPD Micro PC is engineered for professionals on the go, with a design that particularly appeals to IT specialists, field workers, and those in rugged work environments. Whether you’re in network communication, exploration, or manufacturing, this device promises to deliver with its robust Celeron N4120 processor and extensive connectivity options.

• Powerful Performance: At its core is the Celeron N4120 processor featuring four cores and four threads. This ensures reliable performance with an ultra-low power consumption of just 10W, making it optimal for prolonged use in field conditions.
• Graphics Capability: Equipped with HD Graphics 200, users can expect graphics speeds of up to 700MHz, suitable for basic media consumption and visualization tasks.
• Memory and Storage: With 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD, the GPD Micro PC offers swift read and write speeds (576MB/s and 465MB/s respectively) enabling quick data access and processing.
• Connectivity: The device boasts three USB 3.0 ports, a full-featured Type C port, RJ45 interface for wired networking, and dual-band Wi-Fi with Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring robust connectivity in diverse environments.
• Industrial Suitability: Its build includes an RS-232 serial interface, widely used in industrial applications, making it suitable for use in automation, control systems, and other technical fields.
• Durable Design: A 6-inch Gorilla Glass 4 screen ensures durability, while the non-touch display minimizes unintentional inputs, perfect for fieldwork.
• OS Flexibility: Users can choose between Windows 10 Pro or Ubuntu MATE 18.10, catering to different software needs and preferences.

The GPD Micro PC is tailored for specific industries that require robust computing power in a compact package. IT professionals can benefit from its connectivity options and portable design, allowing for on-the-go network diagnostics and troubleshooting. Field engineers and technicians working in power, mining, and exploration sectors will appreciate its rugged design and RS-232 interface, which is essential for interfacing with legacy industrial equipment.

Moreover, educators and trainers can utilize this device in environments where space is limited but computing power is necessary, such as in workshops or during field training sessions. The GPD Micro PC’s dual-operating system capability also makes it a versatile tool for software developers and system administrators who require both Windows and Linux environments for testing and development purposes.

When placed beside similar products like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano or the ASUS ZenBook 13, the GPD Micro PC sets itself apart with its rugged industrial design and unique feature set. While the ThinkPad and ZenBook offer more traditional laptop experiences with larger screens and more powerful processors, they lack the specialized ports and rugged build that make the GPD Micro PC so versatile for industrial and field applications. Moreover, the GPD Micro PC’s RS-232 serial interface gives it an edge in certain technical fields where such connectivity is still crucial. Although it might not match the processing power of high-end ultrabooks, its portability and specialized features make it a niche product that excels in specific environments.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for portability.
• Robust connectivity options including RS-232, essential for industrial applications.
• Rugged exterior, suitable for demanding environments.
• Flexible OS options with Windows 10 Pro and Ubuntu MATE 18.10.
• Low power consumption, extended battery life with dual 3100mAh cells.

Cons:

• Non-touchscreen display may limit usability for some users.
• Limited to tasks suitable for a Celeron processor; not ideal for heavy-duty applications.
• Screen size may not be suitable for extended productivity tasks.

The GPD Micro PC is not just another mini laptop; it is a specialized tool tailored for professionals who need a compact and reliable computing solution in challenging environments. Its lightweight and durable design make it an excellent choice for fieldwork, where portability and resilience are key. The extensive connectivity options, particularly the inclusion of the RS-232 interface, ensure that it meets the demands of technicians and engineers working with industrial equipment.

It offers a unique blend of performance, portability, and connectivity that makes it suitable for a wide range of professional applications. While it may not boast the processing power of high-end laptops, its specialized features ensure that it performs admirably within its intended use cases, particularly in IT, industrial control, and field operations.

While some may find its non-touchscreen display and smaller size less than ideal for prolonged productivity work, these are minor setbacks when considering its primary purpose and intended audience. For those in need of a rugged, versatile, and highly portable computing solution, the GPD Micro PC is an excellent choice, providing exceptional value and functionality tailored to specific professional needs.