Razer Edge Android handheld revealed: Xbox cloud gaming, specs, price and more
Hot on the heels of the expensive Logitech G Cloud, Razer may have already rendered Logitech’s recent efforts obsolete. First teased at Mobile World Congress in September (opens in new tab)Verizon has a detailed collaboration with Razer, called the Razer Edge 5G, built from the ground up for native Android gaming with streaming gameplay via Xbox Cloud, NVIDIA GeForce Now or Steam Link as an optional extra.
Here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing handheld device.
Razer Edge: What is it?
Razer basically teased this project already when Snapdragon announced its new gaming chipset. This is the first dedicated Android handheld to feature the Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 gaming platform, which is an offshoot of Qualcomm’s gaming-optimized mobile processor. Verizon is also putting its 5G “Ultra Wideband” weight behind the handset, but luckily there are options between the Wi-Fi version and the more expensive, Verizon-exclusive 5G version that you can pop a SIM card into for true wireless mobility.
Whether you’re playing games like League of Legends Wild Rift, Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, the Razer Edge 5G could become the ultimate Android gaming experience in your hand, further supported by services like Xbox Game Pass for scenarios where cloud gaming is viable.
Announcement to follow Logitech’s G Cloud announcement, which is completely designed for cloud gaming. While the G Cloud should be able to run some Android games locally, the chipset probably isn’t powerful enough to offer what Razer has with the Snapdragon G3X. The real comparison ultimately comes down to price. Logitech G Cloud has already caused controversy with its device, which is entirely geared towards niche cloud gaming scenarios, despite being comparable in price to devices such as the Xbox Series S, Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, all of which can run games natively.
The Razer Edge promises to be the first gaming option on Android, with prices starting at $399.99. In a world where mobile games are getting better and better, it could be the right device at the right time. Razer fully announced the product at RazerCon on October 15th, and now we have a full rundown of its capabilities and features.
Razer Edge: technical specifications
Razer has unveiled its latest handheld as a complete mobile gaming companion, delivering specs that power all the latest titles while venturing into a growing list of cloud gaming experiences. Everything is based on the Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 gaming platform, explicitly designed with mobile gaming in mind, uniquely positioning the device as the ultimate Android gaming device.
The Razer Edge has a two-piece design, with a stand-alone tablet that separates from the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con-style controls. Every Razer Edge ships with the Razer Kishi V2 Pro, a revised version of its mobile gamepad designed to work as a native controller for the device. The Kishi V2 Pro builds on the existing Kishi with Razer HyperSense haptics, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack.
While companies like Logitech have announced Android gaming handhelds for cloud gaming, the Razer Edge is closer to a Steam Deck, with hardware to run all games locally. However, that additional 5G capability brings flexibility for game streaming or multiplayer experiences on the go. Here is the full list of technical specifications, provided by Razer.
| Razer Edge | |
|---|---|
| OS | Android 12 |
| CPU | Snapdragon G3X Gen 1 gaming platform |
| 3.0GHz 8-core Qualcomm Kryo CPU | |
| GPU | Qualcomm Adreno GPU |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 128GB |
| Display | 6.8 inches, touch, 2400×1080, AMOLED, 144Hz |
| Audio | Two-way speakers with Verizon Adaptive Sound, 2 digital microphones |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, Sub 6, mmWave Verizon 5G |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Dimensions | 259.7 x 84.5 x 10.83 mm |
| Weight | 263.8g, 400.8g with controller |
| Color | Black |
Razer Edge: Price and Availability
Razer has stated that it plans to launch the Razer Edge in January 2023, with a 5G and separate Wi-Fi model planned at this time. Both the Razer Edge Wi-Fi and 5G will be exclusive to the US, and the Verizon partnership ties the 5G model exclusively to the carrier. The Razer Edge Wi-Fi starts at $399.99, while pricing for the Razer Edge 5G has yet to be confirmed.
While the Razer Edge 5G models will be available through Verizon, its Wi-Fi model will be offered through the Razer website and select Razer stores. The company also has open bookings, (opens in new tab) giving interested buyers the opportunity to lock in a shipment with a $5 refund deposit, with more information on orders to follow.
Razer has stated that it plans to show more of the Edge at CES 2023, which is scheduled for next January, where we expect to learn more about the exact release date and what to expect at launch.
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