Absolute 3D1 First Look – Glasses‑Free 3D Handheld Gaming PC Review

Introduction

The Absolute 3D1 marks a bold step for handheld gaming PCs, being the first device to integrate glasses‑free 3D technology into a portable form factor. Unveiled in early 2025, this 10.95‑inch handheld combines a powerful Intel Core Ultra processor, a detachable controller system, and a suite of accessories that aim to blur the line between console, laptop, and tablet. This first‑look examines the design, hardware, software, and real‑world performance of the 3D1, providing a clear picture of whether the novelty of stereoscopic gaming translates into a practical advantage.

Design and Build Quality

The Absolute 3D1 feels substantial without being unwieldy. Rounded edges and a balanced weight distribution keep the device comfortable during extended play sessions. Key design highlights include:

• Detachable controllers that lock into place with a mechanism similar to the Legion Go series.
• Integrated trackpads on each side, offering precise cursor control for Windows applications.
• Magnetic keyboard/folio that transforms the handheld into a 3‑in‑1 laptop/tablet configuration, complete with a built‑in kickstand.
• Linear triggers on the rear, featuring subtle haptic feedback for a more immersive experience.

Overall ergonomics are well thought out; despite the large screen, button placement remains intuitive and reachable.

Display and Glasses‑Free 3D Technology

At the heart of the 3D1 is a 10.95‑inch LTPS panel with a 120 Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2560 × 600. The screen delivers 480 nits of brightness and 100 % sRGB coverage, ensuring vivid colors for both 2D and 3D content.

The glasses‑free 3D mode relies on a front‑facing camera and depth sensor that track the user’s face and eye position. An on‑screen indicator turns green when the viewer is correctly aligned and yellow when out of range. While the exact algorithm remains proprietary, the system appears to use facial depth data rather than per‑eye tracking, providing a reasonably stable 3D effect without the need for additional hardware.

Note: The 3D effect is only visible on the built‑in display; external captures (e.g., game streaming) will display a standard 2D image.

Hardware Specifications

Component	Specification
CPU	Intel Core Ultra 7258V (8 cores, 8 threads, up to 4.8 GHz)
GPU	Intel ARC 140V iGPU, 8 Xe‑cores, up to 1.95 GHz
Memory	32 GB LPDDR5 on‑chip, 8 533 MT/s
Storage	1 TB M.2 NVMe SSD (expandable via micro‑SD)
Display	10.95‑inch, 120 Hz, 2560 × 600, 480 nits, 100 % sRGB, glasses‑free 3D
Battery	Not disclosed in the video (expected to support high‑performance mode)
OS	Windows 11 Home

The device shares its CPU with the MSI Claw 8 AI, indicating strong performance potential for a handheld.

Connectivity and Accessories

The 3D1 offers a comprehensive I/O set:

• Two Thunderbolt 4 ports for high‑speed peripherals and external GPUs.
• Full‑size USB 3.2 Type‑A port.
• Micro‑SD card slot for additional storage.
• 3.5 mm audio jack.
• USB‑C Power Delivery with a 100 W charger included.
• Dedicated 3D toggle switch and volume rocker.

Accessories bundled with the unit include a carrying strap, detachable keyboard/folio, and a controller mounting system.

Software Interface and 3D Management

Absolute provides a custom launcher that integrates system settings, a quick‑access menu, and a 3D Game Mod Manager. The manager lists games verified to work in stereoscopic mode, such as Hogwarts Legacy, Skyrim Special Edition, Sniper Elite 4, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. While the library is still growing, the interface is responsive and allows users to toggle performance profiles:

• Quiet mode – minimal fan noise, lower power draw.
• Balanced mode – default setting for everyday use.
• High‑performance mode – up to ~30 W boost, similar to the MSI Claw 8i.

System updates can be applied directly through the launcher, and a quick‑menu overlay provides instant access to Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, display settings, and fan control.

Performance Benchmarks

Synthetic testing places the 3D1 in line with other Core Ultra 7258V devices:

• Geekbench 6 – Single‑core 2,675, Multi‑core 10,355.
• 3DMark Time Spy – Overall score 4,459, a strong result for an integrated GPU.

These numbers confirm that the Intel ARC iGPU can handle modern titles at modest resolutions without external GPU assistance.

Real‑World Gaming Experience

Cyberpunk 2077

• Resolution: 1200p, Medium settings.
• Performance: ~45 FPS without frame generation; enabling Intel XESS frame gen pushes the average into the mid‑90 FPS range, delivering smooth gameplay.

Forza Horizon 5

• Resolution: 1200p, Medium settings, 20 W TDP.
• Performance: Mid‑80 FPS, providing a fluid racing experience.

GTA 5 (Enhanced Edition)

• Resolution: 1200p, High settings (FSR enabled).
• Performance: Consistently above 90 FPS, confirming the platform’s capability for classic titles.

Overall, the device handles 1080p‑class gaming comfortably at medium graphics settings, especially when leveraging Intel’s frame‑generation technologies.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• First handheld with glasses‑free 3D display.
• Powerful Intel Core Ultra 7258V and ARC iGPU.
• Versatile detachable controller/keyboard system.
• Rich I/O suite, including Thunderbolt 4.
• Robust software suite with 3D game mod manager.

Cons

• 3D mode may feel gimmicky for users not specifically seeking stereoscopic experiences.
• Software quirks such as identical PL1/PL2 power profiles need refinement.
• No dedicated D‑pad; reliance on trackpad for directional input.
• Limited native 3D support; many games require community mods.

Conclusion

The Absolute 3D1 is a compelling proof of concept that brings glasses‑free 3D to the handheld gaming market. Its solid build, detachable accessories, and respectable performance make it a viable Windows gaming device for enthusiasts. While the 3D feature may not appeal to everyone, it demonstrates a forward‑thinking approach that could inspire future handheld designs. With a few software refinements and an expanding library of 3D‑compatible titles, the 3D1 has the potential to carve out a niche among power‑hungry gamers who value both portability and immersive visual experiences.