FollowRazer Edge is exactly what you’ve been waiting for, if you are a hardcore PC gamer looking for that level of gaming in the handheld genre. Well, Razer Edge is a versatile tablet that runs the entire Windows 8 on an Intel processer and NVDIA GeForce GPU. In other words, it is a desktop PC in the form of a tablet! What’s really impressive is that the diminutive device can be snapped into four different forms – a standalone tablet, keyboard form, mobile console and home console. The base Core i5 model is priced at $999, while the Core i7 model with 256 GB SSD will cost you $1599.
Display
The 10.1-inch display is awesome for gaming. And, the resolution of 1366 x 768 matches with the graphic card. The screen is bright and vivid, and the viewing angles are remarkable.
Positives
- Versatility to function in four modes
- Runs full Windows 8
- Powerful processor
Not so positives
- Battery lasts for only 2 hours
Design
Talking of gaming consoles, you may feel that Razer Edge is relatively bigger than portable gaming consoles. But, think of its power and miniature size! Nearly twice as thick as Apple’s iPad, Razer Edge weighs a little over two pounds. The weight gives a sturdy feel and it is comfortable to hold as well. It is accompanied by a group of accessories, which may be purchased separately or in a package.
Performance
It is predictably heavy and it is not that easy to play on the touch screen as well. And, that is where its versatility comes to play. The versatile gaming tablet offers a straightforward interface, meaning that you will be comfortable using it even if you are not much into gaming. If you are a gaming enthusiast, you will be happy to use it as a mobile console as well as home console.
The controller accessories create an Xbox layout – D-pad, 2 analogue sticks, 4 bumpers for the bases, 4 face buttons and 2 triggers. There is a USB3 input to attach a mouse or keyboard. But, you get three more USB2 inputs and an HDMI video output once you connect it to the docking station. Now, you just have to output to a monitor or TV screen to covert the tablet into a gaming PC. You may also connect with wireless peripherals via Bluetooth integrated with the device.
The keyboard accessory can be docked with the tablet to create a hybrid laptop. This feature is especially useful for meetings or in the classroom environment.
Imagine the amount of heat generated by the processor and graphics card of this gaming device. You will be pleased to know that the cooling ability is appropriate and the fan isn’t noisy as well.
Battery life
Razer Edge will run untethered for two hours. That is truly a big drawback, especially when you want to play on the go. The battery is much like a laptop battery and is removable. It is expected to come with an extended battery.
Software/hardware
Razer Edge runs the full version of Windows 8 OS, which lets you install a broad range of games. Powered by Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB RAM, 64 GB SSD and NVIDIA GeForce GT640M GPU, this diminutive device is comparable to a gaming laptop rather than a tablet.
GeForce GT 640M has been effectively used in laptops, but this the first time it has been incorporated in a tablet.
Wrap up
Though Razer has a long-established reputation as a gaming peripheral manufacturer, it made its debut in the system integrator market only a couple of years ago. But, it has been remarkably successful with its Razer Blade launched in 2011 and Project Fiona launched in 2012. And, now Razer Edge – you may call it a combination of a tablet and Ultrabook. The fact that Razer has packed such powerful hardware into the miniature form is indeed impressive and something that hardcore PC gamers can’t resist.
