- Razer’s Core X V2 eGPU boosts handheld gaming PC performance by enabling desktop-class GPU power.
- It supports both Nvidia RTX and AMD Radeon cards, including the latest high-end models.
- The dock costs 349 dollars and requires a separate power supply, adding to the expense.
- Gamers with spare GPUs benefit most, while newcomers face higher costs.
External GPU docks are making a comeback for gamers who want more power without replacing their devices. Razer’s new Core X V2 eGPU dock has caught the attention of handheld PC users, especially those looking to extend the life of their portable hardware.
Gamers who own handheld PCs like the Lenovo Legion Go S or the Asus ROG Ally often face a performance ceiling. While these devices come with capable processors such as the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, demanding modern games can still push them to their limits. The new Razer dock aims to change that by letting players plug in a full-size desktop graphics card for a serious performance upgrade.
Handheld Gaming Needs a Power Boost
Handheld gaming PCs have grown in popularity in the past two years. Devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S and the MSI Claw A8 offer great portability and respectable gaming performance. However, they cannot match the raw power of full desktop setups.
The Legion Go S, for example, impressed many with its large 8-inch display and the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip. Paired with 32GB of RAM, it can handle many popular titles smoothly. Still, there are limits. High-end games at higher resolutions often demand more power than the built-in GPU can deliver.
This is where an external GPU, or eGPU, steps in. By attaching a desktop-class graphics card to a handheld, gamers can unlock new levels of performance without buying a new gaming laptop or PC.
Razer Core X V2 Shows Impressive Results
The Razer Core X V2 was revealed in July 2025 and supports both Nvidia GeForce RTX and AMD Radeon cards, including the latest RTX 5000 and Radeon RX 9000 series. The dock is designed to house a desktop GPU securely and connect to a handheld device through a high-speed port.
A recent video by popular tech reviewer ETA Prime showcased the Razer Core X V2 paired with an MSI Claw A8 handheld running an Nvidia RTX 5090. The test involved playing the demanding game Cyberpunk 2077 at ultra settings and 1440p resolution without DLSS. Despite bandwidth limits caused by the Claw A8’s USB 4 connection instead of Thunderbolt 5, the setup achieved frame rates above 70fps.
This performance is notable because the handheld’s processor and connection speed both restricted the RTX 5090’s potential. Even with these limitations, the results showed that the eGPU dock can bring high-end gaming performance to compact devices.
Old GPUs Can Find a New Purpose
For many gamers, the idea of an eGPU dock is appealing because it allows them to reuse older hardware. For example, someone with a retired Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti could bring it back to life with the Razer Core X V2. Instead of letting that expensive card gather dust, it can help power a handheld gaming PC for demanding titles.
The convenience of the Razer dock is another draw. It is essentially a plug-and-play solution. Gamers can connect their handheld using a single cable, much like plugging in a charger, and instantly benefit from the external GPU’s performance. This makes it especially practical for those who typically game while plugged into a power outlet.
Cost and Compatibility May Be Barriers
The Razer Core X V2 has some drawbacks that could limit its appeal. First, the dock does not come with its own power supply. Users must provide their own, which can add to the cost if they do not already have one.
Razer’s dock is priced at 349 dollars in the US, 329 pounds in the UK, and 599 Australian dollars. Adding the cost of a compatible GPU and a power supply can make the total investment steep, especially for players who also need to buy a handheld PC.
Other eGPU solutions, like the Aoostar AG02, include a built-in 800W power supply and often come at a lower cost. However, the Aoostar option lacks an enclosed design, leaving the GPU exposed. Many gamers prefer the safer, fully enclosed design of the Razer dock even if it means paying more.
A Niche Solution for Dedicated Gamers
For enthusiasts who already have spare components, such as an unused GPU or power supply, the Razer Core X V2 offers an affordable way to enhance handheld gaming. But for newcomers starting from scratch, the combined cost of the dock, GPU, and handheld device can be hard to justify.
Even so, the Razer Core X V2 represents a promising step forward in bridging the gap between handheld portability and desktop-class gaming power. It allows players to get more out of their devices without replacing their entire setup.
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