The Razer Edge hub is the latest technology to enter the rapidly expanding cloud gaming handheld market. Designed during the companys RazerCon event in 2022, George Koroneos is the world''s first 5G mobile gaming handheld, according to a PR manager for Verizon. The Edge 5G has been developed in tandem with Razer.
This handheld is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 gaming platform processor capable of tapping into large 5G mmWave networks as well as Verizon''s C-Band 5G and 4G LTE networks. It has the possibility to intelligently switch between the various networks using the Qualcomm 5G Fixed Wireless Access Platform.
The Razer Edge appears to extract its inspiration from the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x gaming device disclosed last year. It was then used as a developer-only kit in collaboration with Razer to get software engineers working on the Snapdragon gaming platform.
The Razer Edge is equipped with a 6.9-inch (2400 x 1080) AMOLED screen and a 144hz refresh rate. It also includes a 3GHz Kryo CPU with eight cores and an Adreno GPU. It includes a 5000mAh battery and is bundled with the Razer Kishi V2 Pro.
Everything we know about the Razer Edge is covered here.
Razer Edge: Price and availability
The Razer Edge is currently making pre-orders on its official website (opens in a new tab). However, you will need a Razer identification to do so. After that, you''ll be told about the instructions you need to complete your order.
You may currently purchase the Wi-Fi version, which costs $399. There is also a $499 Founder''s Edition, which includes a pair of Razer Hammerhead True wireless headphones (opens in new tab) ears. The company hasn''t disclosed any information about how much the 5G version costs.
The Razer Edge is expected to arrive sometime in January 2023.
Razer Edge: Specs
| Price | $399 (starting) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 |
| Screen | 6.8 FHD+ (2400x1080) AMOLED 144Hz |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | Internal: 128GB (UFS 3.1) | External Memory Support: MicroSD (Up to 2TB) |
| Audio | 2-way speakers with 2 digital microphones THX Spatial Audio |
| Camera | Front-facing: 5MP, 1080p @60fps |
| Battery | 5,000mAh |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Ports | 1 USB Type C, 1 3.5mm Headphone Jack (via controller) |
| Size | 10.2 x 3.3 x 0.4 inches |
| Weight | 0.58 pounds (tablet only) | 0.88 pounds (with controller) |
Razer Edge: Features
As we said in our original coverage of the Razer Edge, this device will likely be able to execute the most demandingAndroid games with ease even if it is marketed as acloud gaming handheld. That means you''ll be able to play titles found on the Xbox Game Pass via the Xbox Cloud Gaming serve. Titles from Nvidia''s GeForce Now should also be played on the Razer Edge.
Since this handheld has 5G connectivity, it appears to be superior to the Logitech G gaming handheld, which lacks the feature. However, you may wonder why you''d even need a 5G handheld if you have one of the best 5G phones and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. However, given that the Razer Edge is purely aimed at gaming, it should be better optimized for that task.
Even for a starting price of $400, a gaming handheld that can only stream games instead of playing them locally might be a difficult sell for some. For this price, you may get the entry-level Steam Deck, which includes a standard Nintendo Switch for $299 or the $349 Nintendo Switch OLED.
Razer Edge: Outlook
When the Razer Edge comes to life in January 2023, I''ll reserve judgment. Right now, I fail to see how it''s a better alternative to my beloved Steam Deck. However, I''ll be happy to be discovered wrong once the Razer Edge arrives.