The Nintendo Switch and Razer Edge are two of the most popular handheld gaming consoles on the market. Both offer unique advantages, with the Switch providing access to Nintendo‘s iconic first-party games and the Razer Edge capable of playing games from multiple platforms through cloud streaming. This article will compare the two consoles across several categories to help determine which is the better overall option.
Hardware and Design
The Nintendo Switch has a simple but practical design, consisting of a tablet-like screen with two Joy-Con controllers on either side that can slide on and off. When docked to a TV, the Switch outputs video at up to 1080p resolution. The original Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen, while the newer OLED model has a 7-inch OLED panel for enhanced image quality. Both models have 32GB of onboard storage and a microSD card slot for expansion.
The Razer Edge has a larger 6.8-inch AMOLED touchscreen with thin bezels all around. It outputs up to 1080p when casting content to a external display. The Edge comes with 128GB of onboard storage and also supports microSD cards. It uses removeable controllers similar to the Joy-Cons which attach onto the sides of the screen. An upcoming docking station accessory will allow the Razer Edge to connect to TVs.
Both consoles support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and can charge via USB-C when on the go. The Edge will also have a 5G-enabled model available exclusively on Verizon to allow cloud gaming on mobile data. Overall, the Razer Edge achieves a more modern and sleeker aesthetic thanks to its narrow bezels and glass-backed design.
Performance and Battery Life
The Nintendo Switch uses a custom Nvidia Tegra X1 chip which is several generations behind the latest smartphone processors. This allows it to adequately run Nintendo’s first-party software and less intensive third-party games, but can struggle with recent multiplatform titles. Both the original Switch and OLED model deliver around 4 to 9 hours of gameplay depending on the game.
By comparison, the Razer Edge utilizes Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon G3x processor built specifically for Android gaming devices. This special chip provides substantially better graphics performance versus the Switch‘s Tegra X1, allowing the Edge to comfortably run AAA game streaming services. Razer says users can expect up to 6 hours of continuous gameplay which is decent but less than the high end offered by the Switch.
Game Libraries and Ecosystems
The foremost reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch is access to Nintendo’s exclusive franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, Metroid and Pokémon. These acclaimed series are available only on Nintendo platforms. Apart from first-party games, most other titles run better on Xbox and PlayStation consoles due to the Switch’s hardware limitations. Physical Switch games come in proprietary cartridges that slot into the bottom of the console.
Meanwhile the Razer Edge taps into the Google Play Store and cloud streaming services to deliver games. Owners can access certain Android, PC and console libraries on the Edge without needing to own the platforms they originated from. Xbox Cloud Gaming support even allows Xbox Game Pass members to play hundreds of Xbox favorites right on the Edge. Just a Wi-Fi connection is required for cloud gaming.
The openness of the Razer Edge provides substantially more flexibility for accessing games from multiple catalogs compared to the Switch’s closed Nintendo ecosystem. However the Edge lacks platform exclusives that Nintendo consoles are known for.
Features and Accessories
The Nintendo Switch comes packed with all the critical accessories needed including the console, dock, HDMI cable, Joy-Con controllers and grip. Extra features such as its kickstand, IR motion camera and vibration provide developers with options for integrating unique gameplay mechanics. Common accessories include the Pro controller for standard gaming controls, steering wheels and arcade sticks catered to racing/fighting titles.
Razer is still filling out details regarding Edge accessories, but we know it will have its own special carrying case and an upcoming docking station with display output. Owners can sync up Xbox wireless controllers for a more conventional input method similar to the Switch Pro controller. Verizon‘s exclusive 5G model also hugely expands gaming coverage for on-the-go use. Both handhelds support microSD storage expansion.
Pricing and Cost Considerations
The base Nintendo Switch retails at $299 while the Switch OLED version is $349. Physical games typically cost $40 to $60 each unless there is a sale. While demanding better performance and more accessories could make the Switch experience more expensive, its hybrid console functionality provides good value. Nintendo‘s games also rarely drop in price so the value is long term.
The Razer Edge starts at $399 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB storage. An official price for the 5G unit hasn’t been revealed yet but it will likely cost more with a Verizon data plan. Cloud gaming offers players instant access to hundreds of titles as long as they have decent internet. But otherwise costs can add up quicker compared to Switch cartridges.
Verdict
When picking between the Nintendo Switch and Razer Edge, go with the Switch if you:
- Want to exclusively play popular Nintendo games
- Like the hybrid docked/handheld design
- Appreciate long-lasting value from Nintendo exclusives
Choose the Razer Edge if you:
- Desire access to PC, console and cloud streaming games
- Prefer more advanced mobile gaming performance
- Need maximum handheld-only portability
- Are a frequent mobile online gamer
While the Nintendo Switch still holds an advantage when it comes to quality exclusives and the hybrid console experience, the Razer Edge serves as a more traditional handheld with more flexible gaming. Its support for Xbox Cloud Gaming and Steam Link give it an edge in overall ecosystem availability letting you conveniently access heavier PC and console libraries on mobile internet. Both devices have their pros and cons that cater to certain audiences, so pick based on your gaming preferences.
