Razer's Chroma handheld dock is simple but cleverly designed

As the lines between handheld and home consoles blur, there's a growing need for docks that can bridge the gap between small- and big-screen gaming. For most people, it's an experience that's familiar through the Switch, but these days it's no longer a feature exclusive to Nintendo devices. From powerful hardware like Steam Deck to ASUS ROG Ally to relatively modestly powered emulated handheld devices like Anbernic's various devices, all capable of plugging into larger screens for a more traditional gaming experience.

Well, docks are almost essential these days. In addition to functionality, I also look for the aesthetic benefits a base can provide. I like my devices to be well placed and look good in the room, rather than just hanging near an electrical outlet while charging. With that in mind, my dock of choice has always been from JSAUX, which turns the Steam Deck, Ally, and any other PC handheld device into a device that can actually be used as a computer. In addition to an HDMI output and several USB ports for connecting peripherals, JSAUX dock An Ethernet port is included, making work and gaming with good internet stability more feasible.

Razer Chroma Handheld Base Although it's $80 more expensive, it's not that different from these. However, it does address a few key issues I often encounter when using the dock. The first is that docks are usually not very nice to look at, and the second is that stability is often an issue. Razer sent a dock to test; I've been using it for about a week, and overall, I'm impressed with the overall package. It doesn't do anything unique, but it does offer everything you want and need from a hardware and connectivity perspective, while also being designed in a thoughtful way.

First and foremost, those who wish to use the Chroma Handheld Dock as more than just a charging device with HDMI output will be able to take advantage of the three USB 3.2 and/or USB Type C ports to plug in a keyboard, mouse, controller Or anything else you need to make your handheld computer function as a desktop computer. There's an HDMI port, which supports 4K external screens at 60hz, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. There is also a 100w power pass-through. Again, it's mostly a standard feature and is available in both JSAUX's dock and Valve's official Steam Deck.

Where the Razer base stands out, however, is the mechanism used to hold the device in place. It is a back panel that covers the back of most devices, providing good support and preventing any shaking or tilting. This may sound like a simple thing, and it's really not a big deal, but for me, I've always disliked that the JSAUX and Valve bases I've used don't have backs and rely on the shape of the base to hold the device in place. These features are great for most people who haven't really thought about it, but I always felt like the placement of my device was a little wonky.

The backplate design used by Razer gives me more confidence, and even better, it's adjustable so you can change the angle at which the device is placed. The back panel can be raised and tilted to fit into the base's rubber grooves to provide further stability while also better accommodating various devices. Like other stands, the USB connector that plugs into your device has a gooseneck design, so you're limited in how far you can reach it, but most gaming devices, phones, and tablets should be able to install without a hitch. I've positioned the back panel at its steepest angle and placed my ROG Ally X on top to get a more comfortable viewing angle on the table. Adjusting the position also means there can be multiple perspectives, which is handy if you want people to gather on one device for a multiplayer game (which I wouldn't do).

When not in use, the back panel can be flattened horizontally to serve as a top surface, giving the dock a box-like shape for easier transport. While most bases are lightweight enough to be thrown into a bag and carried around, the flat, rectangular design makes it easier to slip into bag sleeves and pockets without worrying about scratching or getting crushed by something else. It also makes taking it out and putting it in easier. The aluminum chassis makes it feel lightweight and sturdy, and the matte black texture means it blends easily into most setups. Of course, you can also click the button on the bottom of the base to activate and cycle through the RGB lighting options. It's worth noting that only the base is included in the package, so you'll need to provide a power source.

All of this means that the Razer Handheld Base is a base that I feel good about, rather than something that just gets the job done. It's a versatile, stylish and sturdy base that can be used with a variety of devices. It covers the basics, making sure the hardware has what it takes to take full advantage of the device's capabilities, not just games (if you are so inclined), and is easy to get started with. As mentioned earlier, at $80, it's on the high end in terms of pricing—the Steam Deck Dock officially sells for $79—but its quality proves that from the moment you take it out of the box This was obvious from the moment I took it out.

Disclosure: Razer provided GameSpot with a handheld Chroma dock for testing.