Razer Edge: A Hands-On Look at the New Handheld Gaming Device

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that struck me about the Razer Edge was its build quality. It feels substantial in the hand, crafted from solid aluminum. The device feels premium and durable, surpassing similar offerings in terms of build quality. It’s clear Razer has put a lot of effort into crafting a device that feels good to hold and use, something that is often overlooked in the gaming world.

Gaming Experience

After spending some time with the device, I was impressed with its gaming performance. The Razer Edge provided a smooth and responsive experience, particularly when using Xbox Game Pass. The 6.8-inch HD Plus display is immersive and delivers stunning visuals. Considering the device was being demoed at a crowded convention center, the performance was remarkably smooth, even with the challenges of navigating a bustling wireless environment.

The Razer Edge also utilizes 5G connectivity, promising seamless online gaming sessions. Despite a somewhat low battery level, the gameplay remained enjoyable, highlighting the device’s ability to handle demanding games with ease. I found the cloud gaming experience on the Razer Edge to be exceptional, offering a genuine console-like feel.

Storage and Expandability

The Razer Edge comes with 120 GB of internal storage, providing ample space for downloaded games and apps. However, if you need more storage, the device also offers expandable storage options, allowing you to increase the capacity up to 2 TB.

Razer Kishi V2 Pro Controllers

The Razer Edge features detachable controllers, a key attraction for many. These controllers are essentially a customized version of the Razer Kishi V2 Pro, meticulously designed for the Razer Edge. While the controllers can connect to other USB-C devices, the Razer Edge-specific version is currently only available as part of the bundled package. I found the controllers to be incredibly comfortable and responsive, providing a satisfyingly precise gaming experience.

Software and Features

Razer has developed custom software for the Edge, tailoring the experience to enhance the gaming feel. It seamlessly integrates popular cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, and Steam Link. The software creates a polished and immersive experience, making the Razer Edge feel like a true dedicated gaming device rather than just a phone with a gaming skin.

Early Impressions and Future Expectations

My initial impressions of the Razer Edge are extremely positive. It’s designed well, performs exceptionally, and boasts a sleek and intuitive software experience. I am eager to get my hands on the final version to further explore its capabilities and truly assess its performance in a variety of gaming scenarios. The Razer Edge promises to be a formidable contender in the evolving landscape of handheld gaming devices. I am hopeful that this device will spark innovation and inspire other manufacturers to create compelling and immersive gaming experiences for the future.

Razer’s ambition to revolutionize the handheld gaming space is notable. We’re starting to see a surge in interest from other manufacturers, who are exploring new and exciting ways to deliver portable gaming experiences. The Razer Edge seems poised to set the bar for future handheld devices, both in terms of its hardware and software design. This is a device worth keeping an eye on as it promises to bring a new era of handheld gaming to the forefront.