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Getting Started with the GPD Pocket 4

10 min read

Getting Started with the GPD Pocket 4

The GPD Pocket 4 is a cutting-edge ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) that combines the power of a desktop computer with the portability of a pocket-sized device. Featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and AMD Radeon 890M, this compact device packs impressive performance into a tiny form factor.

The Pocket 4 is designed for professionals and enthusiasts who need a fully-functional Windows PC in an ultra-portable package, offering a 8.8-inch touchscreen display and a clamshell design with a full keyboard. With its powerful hardware and versatile form factor, the GPD Pocket 4 is aimed at users who require high performance and flexibility in a truly pocket-sized computer.

This guide covers everything from initial hardware testing and software updates to optimizing your productivity experience and troubleshooting common issues.

Inspect the GPD Pocket 4

When you first receive your GPD Pocket 4, perform an inspection to ensure everything is in working order:

  • Check the device case/shell: Carefully examine the outer case for any cracks, dents, or other damage that may have occurred during shipping. Pay special attention to the clamshell design and hinge mechanism.
  • Test all keyboard keys: Use https://keyboard-test.space/ to ensure all keyboard keys are registering correctly.
  • Touchscreen functionality: Test every part of the touchscreen to ensure it responds correctly. Make sure you can interact with all corners and areas of the screen without any unresponsive zones.
  • Verify clamshell mechanism: Test the clamshell design to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Check that the screen holds its position at various angles.
  • Test USB ports: Plug in common USB devices to ensure all ports are functioning properly.
  • Check modular port(s): Connect appropriate cables and devices to the modular port. For example check USB output is working, RS-232, KVM modules.
  • Verify audio output: Test the speakers and 3.5mm audio port to ensure clear audio output.
  • Test Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Ensure the Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth connections are working correctly.

If you have any issues, DROIX offers full support via the Contact Us page.

Update GPD Pocket 4 Windows & Drivers

Updating Windows 11

Keeping your GPD Pocket 4 up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and security.

  1. Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon or pressing the Windows Key.
  2. Select the Settings icon (gear symbol) or type “Settings” in the search bar and press RETURN (Enter).
  3. In the Settings window, click on “Windows Update” in the left sidebar.
  4. To check for available updates, click the “Check for updates” button.
  5. If updates are available, Windows will begin downloading them automatically.
  6. Once downloaded, you may need to restart your GPD Pocket 4 to complete the installation process.

Note: Your GPD Pocket 4 is set to automatically check for updates, but it’s a good practice to manually check periodically. You can customize update settings by clicking “Advanced options” in the Windows Update menu.

How to Update Drivers on the GPD Pocket 4

Windows Update

Windows Update is the simplest and most reliable method for updating most drivers:

  1. Open the Start menu and click on Settings (gear icon).
  2. Select “Windows Update” from the left sidebar.
  3. Click “Check for updates.”

Windows will automatically download and install available driver updates along with other system updates.

Device Manager

For more specific driver updates:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
  2. Expand the category for the device you want to update.
  3. Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”
  4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers.”

AMD Drivers Updates

Since the GPD Pocket 4 uses AMD processors, the AMD Auto-Detect driver updates will update the GPU and chipset related drivers.

  1. Download and install the AMD Auto-Detect and Install Driver Updates from the official AMD website.
  2. Run the software and follow the prompts to choose what to update or install.

Note: Always download drivers from official sources to ensure system stability and security. While Windows Update covers most essential drivers, using the AMD tool can help keep AMD-specific components optimized for your GPD Pocket 4. By regularly updating your drivers, you’ll ensure your mini laptop maintains peak performance and compatibility with the latest software and hardware.

How to Change the GPD Pocket 4 Modules

The modules on the GPD Pocket 4 can be very easily changed in a minute or two. Simply remove the two screws holding the module in place, remove the module, insert the replacement module and then screw the two screws back in place. A more detailed guide is available in the dedicated module-change KB article.

Must-Have Software for the GPD Pocket 4

Performance Optimization

GPD MotionAssist: Essential for configuring TDP settings, gyro controls, and other device-specific features.

Gaming

  • Steam: The primary platform for PC gaming, offering a vast library of titles compatible with the Pocket 4.
  • RetroArch: For emulating classic games from various consoles.

Productivity

Entertainment

  • VLC Media Player: A versatile media player for various video and audio formats.

Utilities

  • 7-Zip: For file compression and extraction.
  • ShareX: A powerful screenshot and screen recording tool.

Development

Security

  • Malwarebytes: Additional protection against malware and viruses.

Customization

  • AutoHotkey: For creating custom keyboard shortcuts and macros, which can be particularly useful on the compact keyboard of the Pocket 4.

Remember to adjust in-game settings for optimal performance, as the Pocket 4 performs best when you balance visuals with frame rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the GPD Pocket 4 launch? No date has been announced for the GPD Pocket 4 launch. It is expected to launch in early 2025, around January/February. *(Note: this FAQ dates from September 2024.)*
What warranty do you get when buying the GPD Pocket 4? You get a two year warranty when buying from DROIX (GPD Store). Other sellers may only provide one year.
What are the GPD Pocket 4 speakers like? The GPD Pocket 4 comes with dual built-in 2W ultra-linear speakers, delivering twice the sound power of the previous generation. Both the speakers and headphones support DTS Ultra audio technology, creating a simulated 7.1-channel surround sound experience for immersive, cinema-quality audio.
What is the GPD Pocket 4's body made from? The Pocket 4 features a 6061 series full aluminum body crafted with Apple's Unibody design through CNC precision machining. The chamfering process is meticulously milled to remove burrs, and polishing and sanding give the surface a smooth, glass-like texture. A capillary effect distributes dye evenly into the material, while anodizing adds an ultra-protective layer. The body is further refined with magnetized iron powder polishing, achieving a jade-like smoothness. With 36 layered treatments, the Pocket 4 combines a lightweight build with remarkable durability.
What is the battery capacity of the GPD Pocket 4? The GPD Pocket 4 has a 45Wh battery. Battery life will vary depending on usage but you can expect around 9 hours video playback.
What is the GPD Pocket 4's size and weight? Is it portable? The GPD Pocket 4 measures 8.14 x 5.68 x 0.87 inches (20.6 x 14.4 x 2.22 cm) and weighs 770g (1.69 lbs). It is extremely portable, fitting into a small bag.
What communications features does the GPD Pocket 4 support? There is a 2.5Gbps RJ45 ethernet port for wired connection, and for wireless there is WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 built-in as standard. 4G LTE is also available as a separately purchased 4G LTE module.
What processor does the GPD Pocket 4 have? There is a choice of two processors: AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 with AMD Radeon 890M for the highest performance, and AMD Ryzen 7 8840U with AMD Radeon 780M for lower demanding software.
How much faster is the Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 than the Ryzen 7 8840U? Performance will vary depending on the software used but overall the HX 370 vastly outperforms the 8840U. For example in Geekbench 6 there is a 133% and 24% improvement on single and multi-core performance respectively.
What is the GPD Pocket 4's AI performance? The GPD Pocket 4 has a combined CPU/GPU/NPU of 80 TOPS. And with the [[gpd-g1|GPD G1]] it has a total of 108 TOPS.
What is the GPD Pocket 4 power adapter specification and wattage? The GPD Pocket 4 comes with a 100W PD fast charger at 20V/5A. It can recharge your GPD Pocket 4 to 50% in around 30 minutes. It also supports 100W PD Power Banks.
How does the GPD Pocket 4 handle thermal management under load? The GPD Pocket 4's cooling system is designed with a pure copper vacuum condensation heat pipe, highly efficient full-copper heat sink fins, and ultra-quiet, smart hydraulic bearing fans. This new design boosts airflow by 23% over the previous generation, while an intelligent temperature control system dynamically adjusts cooling to minimize fan noise, keeping the device cool and quiet. For night time use, a "Silent" mode can be activated via the keyboard to reduce noise and avoid disturbing others.
How does the GPD Pocket 4 handle multiple display setups? You can connect to three external monitors such as the DROIX PM14 via the HDMI 2.1 and two USB-C ports. With the [[gpd-g1|GPD G1]] eGPU docking station you can connect to five external displays: one via the built-in HDMI, and three via the GPD G1 single HDMI and dual DisplayPort.
What is the GPD Pocket 4's maximum display resolution? The GPD Pocket 4's 8.8" 144Hz display supports up to 2560x1600 resolution.
What is the modular port on the GPD Pocket 4 used for? The modular port allows for additional functionality through optional modules, such as RS-232 or KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) capabilities.
Can the RAM and Storage be upgraded for the GPD Pocket 4? It is not possible for the RAM to be upgraded as it is soldered to the board. It is possible to upgrade the storage to 4TB and theoretically higher capacities once available. The storage is single sided M.2 2280 SSD format.
Does the GPD Pocket 4 support Windows Hello? The GPD Pocket 4 supports Windows Hello via the fingerprint scanner found on the power button.
What are the GPD Pocket 4's camera specifications? The GPD Pocket 4's built-in camera has a 2.5K high definition camera.
What modules are available for the GPD Pocket 4? It has modular functionality with optional modules like EIA RS-232, Single-port KVM, microSD card reader, and 4G LTE expansion.
How fast is the GPD Pocket 4's SD card module? The GPD Pocket 4 Micro SD card module has a 160MB/s read speed and 120MB/s write speed.
Does the GPD Pocket 4 support external GPUs? Yes, the USB4 port supports connecting external GPUs like the [[gpd-g1|GPD G1 eGPU docking station]]. Note: The GPD Pocket 4 does not have an OCuLink port.
Does the GPD Pocket 4 support tablet mode? Yes, the GPD Pocket 4 has a rotating display that allows it to transform between laptop and tablet modes.
Does the GPD Pocket 4 support stylus? The GPD Pocket 4 supports a capacitive stylus. An Active stylus such as the GPD Stylus will not work on the Pocket 4.
What operating system does the GPD Pocket 4 run? The GPD Pocket 4 comes with a licensed Windows 11 Home pre-installed.

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