Expanding the variety of portable gaming devices allows for greater flexibility in playing games anytime, anywhere, as desired. However, having a quality docking station significantly increases the versatility of your handheld device.
Razer, not having its own handheld device, is now venturing into accessory production, starting with the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma. As suggested by its name, this dock allows you to elevate your handheld, maintain optimal charge, connect it to an external monitor, and attach preferred accessories and peripherals – all through a single link.
The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma performs as effectively as top-tier options, and it does so with a stylish, RGB-illuminated design that only Razer can offer. As expected, this product comes at a higher price than similar docking stations. There are certain aspects I’d alter to improve the dock’s value in line with its price. However, if you’re seeking a dependable handheld dock, Razer might be your best bet.
Razer Handheld Dock: Pricing and specifications
- The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma retails for $79.99.
- This is more expensive than many other options, but not outlandishly so.
Currently, there are numerous high-quality portable docking stations available for under $50, offering an array of additional ports and useful features.
Over the past few years, Razer has made substantial progress in providing top-tier products. However, when venturing into new markets, the company often aims for premium options, as seen with the Handheld Dock Chroma. Although its features are comparable to those of the highest-end items most people purchase, its stylish, practical design featuring RGB lighting results in a higher price tag.
The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is priced at $79.99 on Amazon, which is approximately $30 more than other similarly functional options available in the market. However, the Handheld Dock Chroma has been crafted to be compatible with a wide range of devices, making it suitable for most USB Type-C-enabled gadgets. This includes popular handhelds such as the ASUS ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, Steam Deck, and Nintendo Switch, in addition to various smartphones and tablets.
Within the enclosed package, you’ll discover the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma, equipped with a non-removable USB Type-C cable for connection. Please note that a charger is not included in this package. Rest assured, this product comes with Razer’s standard 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Razer Handheld Dock: The good
- This handheld dock boasts a folding, compact design that’s well-built.
- It’s compatible with most handhelds and devices, too.
- There’s a good selection of ports to handle all your connectivity needs.
The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is designed to offer a compromise, as it can both sit on your desk and be easily carried in a bag due to its foldable construction.
When it’s closed, this USB hub appears similar to many others, allowing you to connect any device using the USB Type-C port. But what sets it apart is its top aluminum cover, which opens on a double hinge, transforming into an adjustable stand. This allows your handheld device, smartphone, or tablet to be securely positioned in the now accessible cradle.
In summary, this product boasts an impressive level of care in its design. The aluminum plate and cradle are both covered with soft-feel materials to shield your gadgets from harm. Moreover, the USB Type-C cable sports an “L” shaped plug for a smoother linkup. All essential ports are thoughtfully lined up at the back, while a Razer Chroma RGB light strip embellishes the front side. A single button on one edge lets you switch between RGB settings.
The Handheld Dock boasts a thoughtful design and robust build quality, as expected. Impressively, its RGB illumination is visually appealing and offers a multitude of personalization choices, with even more options available through the Razer Synapse software download.
This docking station provides six connection points, but only five are useful for direct device connections. The sixth is a USB Type-C port with 100W Power Delivery, primarily used to power the other ports and charge your devices. You’ll also discover an HDMI 2.0 port to link an external monitor, a gigabit Ethernet port to boost network speeds, and three USB Type-A ports for connecting external storage, accessories, or peripherals.
Everything functions seamlessly via a versatile USB Type-C cable, compatible with any device that can handle power, video, and data transmission. Interestingly, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma isn’t limited to handhelds alone; you can also use it with smartphones or tablets. Since this dock is designed keeping in mind all popular handheld devices, there’s no need to worry about compatibility issues for your Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, ASUS ROG Ally, or any other device.
Regarding performance, there are no issues to be addressed. Having a 100W Power Delivery is beneficial as it allows for up to 85W to be sent to your device for optimal performance, while the remaining 15W powers the USB ports. It’s worth noting that most gaming handhelds for PCs typically include a 65W charger in their packaging. To make full use of this feature, you may need to purchase a more potent USB Type-C charger separately, as one is not provided with this product.
Razer Handheld Dock: The bad
- There are still some changes I’d make to this design.
- It’d also be nice to have HDMI 2.1 and at least on USB Type-C port.
- This handheld dock costs more than others with similar capabilities.
While Razer’s handheld dock may surpass many others in terms of design, there are areas I’d suggest improvements. For instance, the USB Type-C cable is not detachable, raising questions about its long-term durability and repairability should it get damaged. Additionally, even though the dock has a foldable design, there seems to be no convenient method for tucking away the cable when not in use.
I’d propose making the cradle inside the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma a bit more spacious to accommodate your handheld devices comfortably. While it works well with most handhelds without cases, my ASUS ROG Ally X doesn’t fit snugly due to its protective casing. Additionally, the folding and unfolding mechanism of the dock can be quite tricky, as it may require some practice to operate smoothly.
The device only supports HDMI 2.0, which is acceptable for many gaming handhelds, but I’d prefer to have HDMI 2.1 compatibility at this price range, as it allows for 4K/120Hz and 1080p/240Hz on external monitors. Additionally, I would have gladly sacrificed one USB Type-A port in exchange for a USB Type-C port. However, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma retails at $80, while similar docks with these features can be found for around $50, making such criticisms justified.
Razer Handheld Dock: Final thoughts
You should buy this if …
✅You want a stylish handheld dock with RGB lighting
With its sleek, black design, RGB lighting, and foldable feature for saving space, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma stands out as one of the more appealing docking stations available on the market. This attribute is particularly significant for those who are already part of the Razer community.
✅You need a handheld dock that works with lots of devices
In simpler terms, most portable docks can be used with various devices, but Razer’s foldable design and promise of compatibility with multiple devices can alleviate any doubts you might have. It functions both as a USB hub and a docking station/stand for your gadgets.
You should not buy this if …
❌You need HDMI 2.1 or USB Type-C
Individuals who require advanced port functionalities such as playing games in high-resolution 4K at 120Hz or connecting USB Type-C devices might find the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma less satisfactory due to its limited offerings. While three USB Type-A ports are beneficial and HDMI 2.0 should suffice for most users, it may not cater to those with more demanding needs.
When choosing a handheld dock, such as a docking station or USB hub, it’s important to consider factors like ease of use, reliability, durability, necessary features, and reasonable pricing. The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma excels in these areas and is often our recommendation compared to top-tier docks from brands like JSAUX.
This design boasts a sleek and fashionable look, offering a convenient folding stand for device docking that enhances versatility and simplifies storage. The construction of the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma has shown notable improvements, giving it a solid feel throughout. It comes equipped with an assortment of ports catering to power, video, internet, and data connections. Although the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma carries a higher price tag compared to other docking stations with similar features, its captivating RGB lighting design is intended to warrant the additional cost.
If cost-effectiveness and money-saving chances appeal to you more than aesthetics, then this product might not be for you. However, if you’re after a dependable, multifunctional docking station with an attractive design, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma, priced at $79.99 on Amazon, is worth considering and has my endorsement.
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2025-02-22 20:10