Razer Edge is a new Android gaming console with high-end specs and attractive price tag

In September, Logitech announced the G Cloud, an Android console dedicated to streaming games from services such as GeForce Now, Xbox Game Streaming and Stadia (RIP). Razer, one of Logitech’s main competitors in the gaming accessories market, unveiled a competing product shortly thereafter, which it has only now officially unveiled. Razer’s Android-powered console is called the Edge and comes with significantly more powerful hardware, with a slightly more appealing price/performance ratio.

Razer Edge offers competitive hardware at not-so-high price

The Razer Edge is also an Android “console” that’s mainly built to stream games from the cloud on the same types of services. The Edge’s advantage, however, is that it’s based on hardware that’s much better suited for local gaming, but also for gaming in general, regardless of the source of the games.

The company introduced the Razer Edge as a tablet-style device that comes bundled with a pair of Kishi V2 Pro controller-e. These are detachable, just like on the Nintendo Switch, so you can swap them out if they deteriorate over time, or use the tablet independently of them.

On a hardware level, we see a big difference in performance from the G Cloud. Razer chose a 6.8″ OLED display with FullHD+ resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, compared to the 60Hz LCD on the Logitech model. The processor, however, is in a completely different category, being the Snapdragon G3X Gen 1, a processor made specifically for gaming consoles of this kind. With 8 GB RAM, 128 GB internal storage and a 5,000 mAh battery, this might even be the most powerful small Android tablet on the market.

There’s also a 5-megapixel front-facing camera, presumably for streaming on Twitch, Bluetooth 5.2 for accessories like controller-e or headphones, support for Wi-Fi 6E, and a 3.5mm jack on one of the controller-e.

Launch to be delayed until early next year

All of these are priced at $399 in the US, which is only $50 more than the Logitech G Cloud and the same price as the Steam Deck in its base version. For an extra $100, the Razer Edge also adds a pair of Hammerhead true wireless headsets to the Founder’s Edition bundle. There will also be a 5G variant, made in partnership with Verizon in the US, but that one doesn’t have an official price yet.

The first units will ship in the first quarter of 2023, so there’s still a few months to wait for fans. Those planning to buy G Cloud, however, have now been given a more appealing alternative. To have a chance in the market, Logitech might be forced to lower the price of its console, positioning it more as an “entry” device, compared to Razer’s high-end model.