Razer Handheld Dock Chroma Review
Summary: The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is well built, easy to use and transport. It allows a seamless transition from handheld PC to desktop PC (with a colourful RGB touch), whilst unlocking the ability to add extra peripherals or use on an external monitor. It would have been great if an extra USB-C was included or HDMI 2.1 to really future proof the unit.
4.5
Built to play!
Handheld gaming has certainly had a sharp rise over the past few years. It’s no wonder that busy parents and those who want to game on the couch (while the main TV is being used) or on public transport have turned to devices like the Steam Deck.
The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma packs a big punch, in a compact foldable package, as an essential accessory that can transform your handheld PC into a desktop and continue your portable gaming sessions seamlessly on a bigger screen.
| Dock Tech Specs | |
| Handheld Connection Type | USB-C |
| Input and Output | 1x USB-C (up to 100W passthrough and 85W PD) 3x USB-A (5Gbps) 1x Gigabit ethernet port (up to 1000 Mbps) |
| Video Output | 1x HDMI 2.0 |
| Build materials | Aluminium and plastic, nonslip base
Customisable RGB LED backlight |
| Adjustable dock angle | 0/45/75 degrees |
| Handheld compatibility | Steam Deck LCD/ OLED
ASUS Rog Ally/ X Lenovo Legion Go Android Phone Support (some phones) Nintendo Switch (upside down!) |
| Razer Manufacturer’s Warranty | 2 year with support |
| Dimensions (folded) | 136 x 86 x 29 mm |
| Weight | 290 g |
| Controller Support | Controllers wirelessly (via handheld)
Mouse and Keyboard via USB-A dongle |
| Compatible with External Monitors | Yes via HDMI 2.0 (4k@60Hz or 800p@144Hz) |
Unboxing
The docks build quality is great, given how light it is. Its sturdy, adjustable hinge allows compatibility with most PC handhelds and even the Nintendo Switch- if you turn it upside down! I really like how long the USB-C cable is, as other docks can bend and put tension on the USB-C port if the cable is too short. It is super easy to transport and fold down. But I like to keep the dock in my office, where I can quickly and easily connect it to my 144Hz monitor, mouse and keyboard- instantly turning it into a very capable little desktop PC. There is no perceptible input delay playing games or navigating menus using external devices, and you can even wake up a steam deck by turning on an already paired PlayStation or Xbox controller while docked.
The RGB light is a nice touch, customisable at the touch of a button located on the side. But it was a shame that the lights only come on when the Steam Deck is turned on. Those with a handheld running Windows (eg. Lenovo Legion Go) can further customise the RGB light settings and brightness. I’m happy to settle with the “rainbow wave” effect for mine.
The HDMI 2.0 port was plenty for the Steam Deck- but HDMI 2.1 would have been a nice way to future proof the dock for future higher performing handheld PCs.
Quality of life and practical Use
Testing older/ lower spec games like Portal 1 and 2, Spelunky 2 and Titanfall 2- they can seamlessly output 144Hz when connected to the external monitor (if you keep the resolution at 800p). This high frame rate makes a big difference in clarity in fast paced platformers and FPS games. This is a surprise I didn’t expect would further improve from the 90Hz capable display on my Steam Deck OLED. Playing FTL (Faster Than Light) and Into The Breach with a mouse and keyboard is a welcome change that the dock allowed, rather than using touch controls or trackpads on the Steam Deck.
Playing a game in handheld mode and then plugging into the dock seamlessly flashes a black screen to handshake with the monitor, then resumes where you left off. Other docks I have tested don’t work as consistently, a nice touch.
I like to leave my Steam Deck plugged into the dock when not in use, as a way to display it and keep it charged, ready for my next handheld gaming session.
Final Thoughts
The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is well built, easy to use and transport. It allows a seamless transition from handheld PC to desktop PC (with a colourful RGB touch), whilst unlocking the ability to add extra peripherals or use on an external monitor. It would have been great if an extra USB-C was included or HDMI 2.1 to really future proof the unit.
Overall, it is a great seamlessly compatible dock that can be used with almost all PC handhelds and is easy to recommend to other Steam Deck owners.
(Reviewed with Steam Deck OLED)
About the Author
Brent Thomas Brent loves the competitive aspect aspect of video games whether its first person shooters, esports games or improving runs in roguelikes and soulslikes. Outside of tech he can be found training for running events and watching Formula 1.
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