GPD is moving beyond handheld gaming PCs with the launch of its first mini PC, the GPD Box. The new system has gone live through Indiegogo, with pricing starting at $1,491 for a model with 32GB of memory and 1TB of storage.
The GPD Box is aimed at buyers who want a compact desktop with strong integrated graphics, local AI performance, and room for external GPU expansion. That makes it different from many small PCs that focus mainly on office work or basic home use.
GPD is offering two versions of the system. One uses Intel’s Core Ultra X7 356H, while the higher model uses the Core Ultra X7 358H. Both chips are part of Intel’s Panther Lake family and are listed with 16 cores and 16 threads. The stronger configuration also includes more powerful Arc B390 integrated graphics, which GPD is positioning as capable enough for modern games without requiring a separate desktop GPU.
GPD is using the Box to enter a more demanding mini PC market
The main feature GPD is highlighting is the MCIO 8i interface. The company claims the GPD Box is the world’s first mini PC with this connection running through PCIe 5.0 x8. That matters because it gives the system a much wider external GPU path than many compact PCs.
Another mini PC maker, TOPC, has already shown a system with MCIO 8i, but that model was reportedly limited to PCIe 4.0 x8. GPD’s claim is focused on having a fully unlocked MCIO 8i setup using PCIe 5.0 x8.
The GPD Box also includes dual USB4 v2.0 connectivity. Together, these ports and the MCIO 8i interface give the machine more flexibility for external graphics, storage, and professional accessories.
| Model | Processor | Memory | Storage | Indiegogo price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPD Box 356H | Intel Core Ultra X7 356H | 32GB | 1TB | $1,491 |
| GPD Box 358H | Intel Core Ultra X7 358H | 32GB | 1TB | $1,575 |
The system also leans into AI performance. GPD says the Panther Lake chips can deliver up to 180 TOPS of AI power, which is meant for local AI workloads. That could make the GPD Box useful for creators, developers, and professionals who want a small machine that can handle newer AI assisted software without always depending on cloud processing.
Pricing is not low, but the GPD Box is not being sold as a basic mini PC. Its value depends on how much you need the newer Intel platform, faster external GPU connection, and compact design. At $1,491 for the Core Ultra X7 356H version and $1,575 for the Core Ultra X7 358H version, it enters a premium category.
The system has also appeared on Amazon Japan, although it is not available to buy there yet. PC Watch reports that the Core Ultra X7 356H version is listed at 293,000 yen, or about $1,802, while the Core Ultra X7 358H version is listed at 308,000 yen, or about $1,894. Availability in Japan is expected after the embargo lifts next month.
For GPD, the Box is an important step. The company is best known for compact gaming handhelds, but this launch shows it wants to compete in the mini desktop space as well. Its success will depend on real world performance, thermal control, and how well the external GPU interface works once buyers begin testing it.
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