The world’s smallest external GPU gets a welcome upgrade for creative professionals: higher TDP, better Thunderbolt connection but still runs RX 7600M XT
The GPD G1, also known as the ‘GPU box’, allows users to significantly upgrade their laptop’s graphics card without having to invest in a new machine or manually replace the GPU. It can also double as a docking station, making it ideal for use with today’s best business laptops.
We first wrote about the GPD G1 in October 2023, and now it’s about to get a major upgrade, making it even more attractive to creative professionals.
The GPD G1 still runs on the same Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU, but has been upgraded in three other areas. First, a physical switch has been added next to the existing power button. This allows users to switch between silent and balanced modes. In silent mode, total graphics power is limited to 60W, allowing the G1 to operate with minimal noise. When you switch to balanced mode, the TGP increases to 100W, delivering a more consistent experience.
Enhanced Thunderbolt 4 controller
Next, the HDMI interface now supports high refresh rates. The original G1 model included 2 DP ports and 1 HDMI port. Although the HDMI interface theoretically supported 4K/120Hz output, signal interference limited it to 4K/60Hz. The interference issue has been resolved with this upgrade, allowing 4K/120Hz output via HDMI.
Finally, the USB4 port now supports a 65W power supply. The USB4 port on the original G1 model (which uses a Thunderbolt 4 controller) supported a 60W PSU. However, some users found that it could not power certain thin and light notebook models from Surface and Lenovo. This has been addressed in the revised G1 model, which now provides a stable 65W power supply, thanks to both the upgraded Thunderbolt 4 controller and firmware fixes.
GPD says the upgraded G1 is in the final stages of preparation for mass production, with a planned release towards the end of this month.