This paper concerns the optimal design and comparative analysis of resonant and non-resonant high-frequency GaN-based rotating transformers. A multi-physical design approach is employed, in which magnetic, electrical, and thermal models are coupled. The results are verified by experiments. Two different optimization objectives are considered; firstly, the efficiency of two standard core geometries is maximized for a required output power level. Secondly, a geometrical optimization is performed, such that the core inertia is minimized for the desired output power level. The results of both design optimizations have shown large improvements in terms of output power and core inertia as a result of applying series–series resonant compensation.