GPD debuts mini PC with a 25W Core Ultra X7 358H CPU with an iGPU that's almost as fast as the 3050M but shame about the GPIO snub

Date:
Sun, 21 Jun 2026 01:05:00 +0000

Description:
GPDs Panther Lake Mini PC combines powerful Arc B390 graphics with high-speed connectivity, though the X7 model loses MCIO expansion.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter GPD launches Panther Lake Mini PC with powerful integrated graphics Core Ultra X7 358H delivers near RTX 3050M graphics performance MCIO 8i connection brings high-bandwidth external GPU expansion support GPD has introduced its new Panther Lake Mini PC with Intel s Core Ultra processors, combining compact dimensions with desktop-focused connectivity options.

The base configuration uses the Core Ultra 7 356H processor, while the
step-up variant deploys the Core Ultra X7 358H CPU with a superior Arc B390 integrated graphics. This graphics card delivers within 2% of the mobile RTX 3050M across several gaming benchmarks with a thermal envelope of just 25 watts, making it remarkably efficient for a compact chassis. Latest Videos From Watch full video here: MCIO port promises desktop-grade expansion The
GPD Box distinguishes itself through an MCIO 8i connection that supplies 512 Gbps of bidirectional bandwidth across its interface.

GPD claims this "effectively matches a native PCIe 5.0 x8 cable connection," which would theoretically eliminate the bandwidth bottlenecks common to USB4 and Thunderbolt implementations. You may like GMKTec's NucBox K17 Mini PC delivers compact AI performance Bosgame P4 Ultra mini PC review Minisforum reveals an entry-level M2 Mini PC device

The companion G2 eGPU dock ships with an 800 W ATX 3.1 PSU and two separate power cables for graphics cards, though buyers must still procure their own GPU separately.

This docking station provides some flexibility for existing graphics card owners seeking external expansion. Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed! Contact me with news
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The Core Ultra X7 358H version inexplicably lacks this MCIO port entirely, leaving its owners dependent solely upon USB4 for any external GPU connectivity.

This decision effectively forces a compromise between the superior integrated graphics of the X7 and the expansion potential of the base model's MCIO connection.

The cheaper Ultra 7 356H configuration retains the MCIO port while offering a weaker iGPU, creating an awkward trade-off that performance-focused buyers will not like. What to read next Chuwi AuBox X 256V mini PC review Geekom A9 Max mini PC (2026) review Minisforum AI X1 Pro-470 mini PC review
Connectivity specs remain generous despite the puzzling GPIO exclusion
Despite measuring only 175 134 39.5 mm, the system incorporates a substantial range of connectivity options across its compact chassis.

The rear panel provides a DisplayPort 2.1 UHBR20 output and one HDMI 2.1 FRL port alongside dual 2.5 GbE RJ45 sockets with link aggregation capability.

Two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports complement the front panel's offering of two USB4 V2 Type-C connections and another pair of USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A sockets.

Wireless connectivity includes both Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, which should satisfy most modern networking and peripheral requirements without
significant difficulty.

The X7 358H variant ships with 32 GB of LPDDR5-8533 memory and a 1 TB M.2
2280 NVMe SSD as standard equipment across both configurations.

The omission of dedicated GPIO pins seems particularly shortsighted, given
the industrial applications where this mini PC might otherwise find a natural home.

The absence of this interface restricts the device's utility for embedded systems, automation tasks, and custom hardware integration projects that rely upon such connections.

GPD appears to have created a product that excels in raw graphical
performance on the 358H while simultaneously alienating the professional audience that might have valued the 356H's expandability.

The GPD Box is available on Indiegogo , and it starts at HK$11,377 (~$1,452) for the base configuration featuring the Core Ultra 7 356H processor.

The standalone Core Ultra X7 358H model with the higher-performance Arc B390 integrated graphics solution costs HK$12,020 (~$1,534).

The Core Ultra 7 356H bundle with the G2 eGPU Dock costs HK$14,394 (~$1,837), including the external graphics expansion hardware.

While the Core Ultra X7 358H bundle with the G2 eGPU Dock reaches HK$15,036 (~$1,919), the dock sells separately for $385. Follow TechRadar on Google
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