Connecting an Nvidia RTX 5090 to a Handheld Gaming PC—The Results Were Impressive

A few weeks ago, I tested how the Nvidia RTX 5090 Founders Edition, one of the most advanced GPUs, performed inside a compact small form factor (SFF) PC. Surprisingly, it retained much of its power, even in a 12.7-liter desktop with an older processor. That sparked an idea: what if I connected this GPU to a handheld gaming PC?

So, I gave it a shot—and the results were truly remarkable.

This experiment challenges the traditional notion of handheld gaming. If portable devices can leverage such power when docked, they could potentially evolve into high-performance gaming systems at home.

The Setup: Maximizing Power in a Portable Device

For this test, I used the same $1,999 RTX 5090 Founders Edition along with a 1000-watt power supply from my earlier SFF desktop trial. A key component was the $99 Minisforum DEG1, an open-air external GPU (eGPU) dock that connects via Oculink, a high-speed PCIe-based interface now appearing in select handheld gaming systems.

For the handheld, I chose the $1,000 GPD Win Max 2, powered by an AMD Ryzen 8840U mobile CPU. Even though it only supports four lanes of PCIe 4.0 bandwidth, significantly less than the 16 lanes of PCIe 5.0 that the RTX 5090 is designed for, the performance was still impressive.

Performance Insights: Defying Expectations

Despite the limited PCIe bandwidth, the setup achieved over 100 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K Ultra settings, a remarkable achievement for a portable system. The results across eight benchmarked games were eye-opening:

The RTX 5090 in the GPD Win Max 2 ran 7–47% slower than when paired with the most powerful desktop gaming CPU.

Compared to my SFF desktop, performance was reduced by only 4–29%, despite the bandwidth limitations.

It still outperformed an RTX 3080 in the SFF desktop, showcasing that even under constraints, the RTX 5090 delivers exceptional performance.

Most impressively, it was 4–12 times faster than the handheld’s Radeon 780M integrated GPU.

The Future of Handheld Gaming

This experiment is more than just a technical exercise—it highlights the potential for handheld gaming. Here are the key takeaways:

Docked Gaming Will Elevate Handheld Devices – With the growing adoption of Oculink and eGPU technology, portable gaming systems can remain compact while achieving desktop-class performance when docked.

External GPUs May Become a Standard Accessory – If high-speed PCIe interfaces like Oculink continue to gain traction, we could see plug-and-play eGPU docks becoming a common feature for handheld gaming PCs.

Handhelds Could Become More Modular and Upgradable – Optimizing bandwidth and power efficiency could lead to future handhelds that effectively bridge the gap between portability and high-end gaming performance.

While running an RTX 5090 on a handheld device isn’t practical for everyday gaming, this experiment proves an important point: the line between handheld and desktop gaming is becoming increasingly blurred.

If companies like Nvidia, AMD, and handheld PC manufacturers continue to push these boundaries, the future of mobile gaming could be more powerful than we ever imagined.

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Entertainment

How to Prevent and Resolve Roku Overheating Issues

by George Mensah 2025-01-22

It’s important to address any overheating in your electronic devices promptly to prevent potential damage. But how can you tell if your Roku device is overheating? Identifying the signs and taking quick action can help protect your device and extend its lifespan.

How to Recognize Roku Overheating

One of the easiest ways to check for overheating is by touching your device. If your Roku feels unusually warm, even when it’s idle, this could indicate a problem. This is especially true if the device’s indicator lights aren’t functioning correctly, as heat could be interfering with its components.

Even if the device isn’t physically hot, it might still exceed its ideal temperature. That’s where the indicator light comes in handy. Normally, a white light means the device is ready for use, while a flashing red light signals insufficient power. If the light turns solid red, it’s a clear warning from Roku that the device is overheating.

You may also notice an overheating alert on your TV screen. Typically, this message appears in the upper-right corner and serves as an early warning. Some devices are programmed to display this alert before the temperature becomes dangerously high, giving you a chance to act quickly.

What to Do If Your Roku Overheats

If your Roku device shows signs of overheating, follow these steps to resolve the issue:

Disconnect the Device Immediately

Unplug your Roku from the power source to stop it from getting hotter.

Allow It to Cool Down

Let the device rest for at least 10 minutes to cool off. If it’s still warm, wait a bit longer before turning it back on.

Inspect Cables and Adapters

Ensure you’re using the original cables and adapters provided with your Roku device. Third-party accessories may not be fully compatible, which can lead to overheating or internal damage over time. If you need replacements, it’s best to purchase them directly from Roku’s official store.

Restart the Device

After the device has cooled, power it back on. If it doesn’t work properly, repeat the cooling process and reassess its setup.

Tips to Prevent Roku Overheating

Taking preventive measures can help keep your Roku operating safely. Here’s what you can do:

Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight

Placing your Roku in direct sunlight can cause it to overheat. Always position it in a shaded or cool area.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Avoid putting your Roku in enclosed spaces like cabinets, drawers, or entertainment units with limited airflow. Proper ventilation is crucial to dissipate heat effectively.

Avoid Heat-Generating Devices

Don’t place your Roku on top of or near other electronics, such as gaming consoles or computers, which generate heat and can contribute to overheating.

Use an HDMI Extender

If space is an issue, consider using a free HDMI extender offered by Roku. This allows you to position your device in a better-ventilated area. You can request one on Roku’s official website.

When Overheating Persists

If your device continues to overheat despite taking these precautions, there may be an underlying issue.

Contact Roku Support

Reach out to Roku’s customer support team for help. If your device is still under warranty, you might qualify for a replacement.

Check Warranty and Return Policies

Roku typically allows returns within 30 days for products bought directly from their website. Warranty coverage can extend up to a year, but it’s essential to confirm the details for your specific device, especially if purchased through a third party.

Consider an Upgrade

Older Roku devices may naturally degrade over time due to wear and tear. If your device frequently overheats, upgrading to a newer model might be a more practical solution.

Explore Other Streaming Options

If it’s time to replace your Roku, there are plenty of alternatives available. Devices like Apple TV, Google TV, and Amazon Fire TV provide excellent streaming experiences with advanced features and exclusive content.

Overheating can be a hassle, but it’s manageable with the right approach. By understanding the signs, taking immediate action, and maintaining a suitable environment for your Roku, you can safeguard its performance. Preventive care ensures your device stays in top condition, allowing you to enjoy seamless streaming for years to come.

Entertainment

Nintendo Switch 2: Everything We Know About Nintendo’s Next Console

by George Mensah 2025-01-19

Nintendo has officially ended the speculation, giving fans their first glimpse of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. A teaser video for the second-generation console was unveiled today, building excitement for the upcoming Nintendo Direct event scheduled for April 2, 2025. While the exact market launch date remains undisclosed, more details are expected during the event.

In addition, Nintendo has announced hands-on experience events across North America, Europe, and Asia. In the United States, these events will be held in Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas, starting in the first week of April. Fans will have the chance to explore the new console’s features firsthand.

Updated Design and Features

The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the iconic design of its predecessor but introduces several refinements. The Joy-Con controllers have a slightly more rounded shape, enhancing comfort during extended play sessions. The kickstand has been redesigned for a more polished appearance, and the USB-C port has been repositioned to the top edge for added convenience.

A notable new feature is the addition of a physical button on the right-side Joy-Con, located just below the Home button. Although Nintendo has not yet revealed its function, this button hints at new gameplay possibilities. Additionally, the shoulder buttons have been enlarged, improving usability and tactile feedback.

Backward Compatibility and Exclusive Games

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will support backward compatibility, allowing gamers to enjoy their existing game libraries. At the same time, the console will launch with a collection of exclusive titles. Exclusive games were a cornerstone of the original Switch’s success, and Nintendo seems determined to replicate this strategy by delivering a strong lineup of new titles.

Speculation on Hardware Upgrades

Although Nintendo has not disclosed the technical specifications, leaks and reports provide a glimpse into the console’s potential. According to ZachyCatGames, a data miner on Famiboards (via Beebom), the Switch 2’s CPU may feature Arm’s Cortex-A78 cores in an octa-core configuration, running at 998.4 MHz.

In docked mode, the CPU is expected to exceed 1GHz, while the GPU is rumored to deliver over 3 TFLOPS of performance. The graphics processor, reportedly Nvidia’s T239 GPU based on the Ampere architecture, may include 1,534 CUDA cores, six texture processing clusters, 48 Tensor cores, and two ray-tracing cores. This marks a substantial improvement in graphical capabilities.

The console is also rumored to include 12GB of LPDDR5 memory, ensuring faster performance and smoother gameplay. DigitalFoundry’s analysis (via GameSpot) supports these claims, suggesting that the Switch 2 could set a new standard for handheld gaming.

What to Expect

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a revolutionary console, offering significant improvements in both design and performance. Unlike the OLED model, which primarily focused on display enhancements, the Switch 2 is expected to deliver a comprehensive upgrade that appeals to both casual and dedicated gamers.

As the Nintendo Direct event approaches, anticipation continues to build for more information about pricing, release dates, and additional features. For now, the teaser and leaked details provide plenty of reasons to look forward to Nintendo’s next big innovation. Stay tuned for further updates on the Nintendo Switch 2, as it promises to redefine the handheld gaming experience.

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