The gaming handheld market has exploded in recent years, with devices like the Steam Deck, Logitech G Cloud, and Razer Edge bringing PC-quality gaming experiences to portable form factors. The newly released Razer Edge stands out with its slick design and impressive specs, but its $400 starting price may put it out of reach for some buyers.
Fortunately, there are several compelling alternatives that offer great performance, controls, and portability at more affordable price points. We’ve done in-depth hands-on testing and analysis to pick the 5 best options currently available as alternatives to the premium Razer Edge.
Best Overall: Valve Steam Deck
The Valve Steam Deck stands out as the best overall alternative to the Razer Edge. It matches and even exceeds the Razer in some hardware capabilities, while being more affordable at a starting price of $399.
| Feature | Valve Steam Deck | Razer Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Zen 2 CPU (4-core/8-thread) + 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores | Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5 | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC (upgradeable) | 256GB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 7-inch 1280×800 LCD | 6.8-inch 2400×1080 AMOLED |
| Controls | Dual trackpads, analog triggers/bumpers, gyro, rear buttons | Dual analog sticks, D-pad, ABXY, L/R triggers, gyro, haptics |
| Battery Life | 4-8 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Weight | 1.47 pounds | 1.1 pounds |
While the Steam Deck’s LCD display isn’t as vibrant as the Razer Edge’s AMOLED panel, it’s perfectly competent for gaming. The Steam Deck also pulls ahead in raw processing power, making it better suited for high frame rates. Expandable storage via the microSD slot is another advantage for hardcore gamers with large libraries.
The ergonomic controls and advanced haptic feedback on the Razer Edge are excellent, but the Steam Deck’s input options are also very capable and comfortable for most game genres. And while the Steam Deck is heavier, many gamers find the size and shape to provide a solid handheld grip.
For just $50 more than the base Razer Edge model, the Steam Deck delivers outstanding performance that rivals much pricier gaming laptops. Unless ultra-portability is your top priority, the Steam Deck is hard to beat.
Pros
- Excellent processing power
- Vibrant 7-inch touchscreen
- Highly customizable controls
- MicroSD storage expandability
- Much lower cost than Razer Edge
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
- LCD screen less vibrant than Razer‘s AMOLED
- Shorter battery life
Best Performance: Logitech G Cloud
Cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Cloud Gaming have opened the floodgates to play AAA games on relatively low-powered devices. For those wanting to maximize cloud gaming performance, the Logitech G Cloud is our top pick.
Designed primarily for Xbox Cloud Gaming, Google Stadia, and Nvidia GeForce Now, the Logitech G Cloud really puts the focus on delivering high frame rates and responsive controls for these services. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G mobile processor and integrated Wi-Fi 6 allow it to handle fast-paced action without disruption.
The Logitech G Cloud‘s 7-inch 1080p touchscreen makes Xbox Cloud streamed games look excellent. While cloud gaming visuals don‘t yet match what local hardware can produce, the streams are very solid and enjoyable on this crisp display. Battery life is also outstanding, with Logitech citing over 12 hours of continual use.
At $299, the Logitech G undercuts both the 128GB and 256GB models of the Razer Edge for a cloud gaming focus. Unless you specifically need the local hardware power the Razer Edge provides, the smooth cloud gaming abilities of the G Cloud give it the performance crown.
Pros
- Optimized for cloud gaming services
- Very fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Crisp, vibrant 7-inch 1080p touchscreen
- Excellent 12+ hour battery life
- Responsive controls ideal for fast-paced games
Cons
- Not designed for local gaming
- Requires subscription to cloud gaming platform
Best Budget: Retroid Pocket 3 Plus
High-end alternatives to the Razer Edge can run up quite a bill. But for under $200, the Retroid Pocket 3 Plus is our pick for delivering solid mobile retro gaming performance on a budget.
The Retroid Pocket line has proven itself as capable retro handhelds. Using a customized version of Android 12 designed specifically for running emulators and native Android games, the Pocket 3 Plus handles up to PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64 extremely well in our experience.
A 4.7-inch 720p screen keeps pixelated retro games looking sharp. New additions vs. the prior Pocket 2 model include true analog joysticks and shoulder triggers for better controls. Developers have also eliminated lag issues in the user interface and OS.
The Retroid Pocket 3 Plus hardware itself won‘t match the power and versatility of the Razer Edge. And setting up emulators requires some savvy. But for under $200, this capable retro machine lets you bring thousands of classic games in your pocket.
Pros
- Plays most retro systems seamlessly
- Analog sticks and triggers
- Crisp, accurate 4.7-inch 720p screen
- Improved UI performance over past models
- Very affordable price
Cons
- Setup can be complex for emulators
- Build quality lags premium handhelds
- Future game compatibility limited
Best Design: AYN Loki Zero
While the Razer Edge undoubtedly has a sleek, premium design, the AYN Loki Zero gives it a run with an attractive handheld packed with capabilities focused on Cloud gaming and Android native titles.
Sporting a clean black and white color scheme with RGB lighting flourishes, the Loki Zero looks right at home next to high-end enthusiast PC hardware. A variety of faceplate and paint styles will be available to personalize your system further as well.
The slick angular chassis shape offers a natural grip, with well-placed buttons and analog sticks. Dual USB-C ports open up solid connectivity options too. AYN really nailed making a device that stands out from its competitors visually while retaining a functional layout.
With a capable MediaTek SoC, the Loki Zero runs Android games smoothly while costing just $289. Factor in the design and focus on cloud gaming support, and the Loki Zero is extremely compelling forhandheld enthusiasts who want both style and substance.
Pros
- Striking yet functional industrial design
- Multiple color and faceplate options
- Good native Android/cloud gaming performance
- Dual USB-C ports
- RGB lighting effects
Cons
- Limited demand could restrict availability
- Future Android OS updates not guaranteed
Best Gaming Phone Alternative: Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro
It might seem strange to compare a gaming phone to a handheld, but for those wanting sheer power above all else, phones like the Asus ROG Phone 6 Pro deliver specs that even surpass the Razer Edge. With options starting under $1000, the price can also be lower depending on configuration.
Equipped with Qualcomm‘s absolute top-tier Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip paired with up to 18GB of RAM, performance leaves zero room for compromise. Essentially offering desktop/laptop-caliber power in handheld form, the most demanding Android games and emulators pose no challenge for the ROG Phone 6 Pro.
The vibrant 6.78-inch 165Hz OLED display also blows away the Razer Edge screen for both sharpness and fluidity. AirTrigger touch sensors and brand new side-mounted Ultrasonic shoulder buttons bolster the flawless controls for marathon gaming sessions too.
A large 6000mah battery keeps gameplay rolling for extended periods, while 68W fast charging rapidly juices back up when needed. The high-end power does add noticeable heft and size over the Edge though. Still, for unbridled speed that won‘t quit, the premium specs of the ROG Phone 6 Pro gaming beast can’t be ignored.
Pros
- Earth shattering Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 performance perfect for high FPS gameplay
- Stunning 165Hz 6.78" OLED screen
- Ultrasonic buttons and AirTriggers for advanced control capabilities
- Massive 6000mAh battery with fast 68W charging
Cons
- Very expensive, especially at high memory configs
- Large and heavy compared to Razer Edge
- Gaming phone design less practical for general use
How to Pick the Best Razer Edge Alternative For Your Needs
With several compelling alternatives to choose from, picking the right option for your needs requires some consideration around price, primary use cases, and desired performance. Follow these steps to decide:
Step 1: Determine your total budget for a handheld device. Getting clear on what you can realistically spend will help narrow options.
Step 2: Consider your most important use cases. Will you primarily play AAA games locally? Cloud game? Emulate retro titles? Other mobile games? Keep your top 1-2 uses in mind.
Step 3: Compare technical specifications like CPU power, screen quality, memory/storage amounts, battery life, controls, and OS/compatibility across shortlisted options.
Step 4: Read multiple in-depth reviews for devices that seem to fit the bill to guarantee satisfactory real-world performance for your games of choice.
Step 5: Choose the model that best aligns with budget, intended use, power, and controls/ergonomics preferences.
Doing adequate research is critical for avoiding buyer’s remorse. When in doubt, pick benchmark leaders like the Steam Deck for flexible local gaming power. Alternatively optimize purely for service capabilities like Xbox Cloud Gaming with choices such as the Logitech G Cloud.
What To Know Before Buying A Razer Edge Alternative
Here are quick 5 tips to consider when evaluating and purchasing an alternative gaming handheld:
Double check what gaming platforms, digital stores, and game types are compatible. Steam support? Xbox Cloud Gaming app? Native Android games only? Retro console emulation? The software capabilities vary widely across devices.
Consider physical ergonomics like size, weight, button/stick placement seriously. An uncomfortable handheld ruins the experience no matter the computing power inside.
Research the availability and pricing of storage expansion options if internal capacity seems limiting. Some alternatives allow microSD card support.
Don’t underestimate battery life and real-world runtime. Manufacturer claims don’t always align with practical usage spanning the OS and intensive 3D games.
Beefier specs like RAM and processor provide more future-proofing as game demands increase over time. Budget purchases could lag quicker.
Doing your homework before purchase avoids unpleasant surprises. Test user reviews from multiple sources are invaluable references for identifying hardware quirks too.
Experience Using Razer Edge Alternatives
From refined retro platforms like the Retroid Pocket 3 Plus to convertible powerhouses such as the Steam Deck, Razer Edge alternatives exemplify how specialized handheld devices enhance gaming experiences:
Superior Controls – Ergonomic designs better integrate vital buttons and analog sticks that surpass cramped joycons. Extended handheld use stays comfortable.
Purpose-Built Performance – Components fine-tuned for gaming rather than general use mean smoother frame rates and loading. Lag and choppiness disappear.
Focused Features – Gaming-centric feature sets remove software bloat that drags down phones. Resources dedicate fully to optimizing gameplay.
Intuitive Interfaces – Streamlined UIs simplify accessing games while minimizing clutter. Custom gaming UIs improve navigation versus busy Android skins.
Enhanced Displays – Higher refresh rates and optimized resolutions make on-screen motion buttery rather than blurry. Vibrant colors add visual pop.
Grip & Portability – Thoughtful industrial design ensures devices stay securely gripped during demanding play sessions without tiring hands. Compact size slides into pockets.
Between refined controls, zippy response, gorgeous graphics, and lightweight builds, today’s alternatives make mobile PC/console-caliber gaming more immersive and exciting than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Razer Edge alternative is the best overall?
The Steam Deck stands out as the best overall Razer Edge alternative based on its great mix of performance, controls, compatibility, price, and portability.
How does the Steam Deck compare to the Razer Edge?
The Steam Deck matches or beats the Razer Edge across many hardware specs while costing $100+ less. But the Edge has a more vibrant AMOLED screen, sleeker design, and longer battery life.
What are the best budget Razer Edge alternatives?
If seeking maximum affordability, excellent picks are the Retroid Pocket 3 Plus for retro gaming and the Logitech G Cloud for cloud gaming. Both cost under $300.
What alternatives have the best controls and ergonomics?
For the most comfortable extended gaming, the Steam Deck, Logitech G Cloud, and AYN Loki Zero score very well for their grip-friendly shapes and well-designed button/stick layouts.
Which alternatives can match the Razer Edge‘s performance?
The flagship Steam Deck configuration comes extremely close thanks to its Zen 2 + RDNA 2 processors and 16GB of RAM. Leading gaming phones like the ROG 6 Pro also pack desktop-class CPU/GPU performance.
