The ASUS ROG Phone 8 has captured the attention of mobile gamers worldwide, thanks to its high-performance specs and gaming-centric features. As a part of the Republic of Gamers series, ASUS continues to push the boundaries with this device, aiming to provide the best mobile gaming experience. In this review, we’ll break down the ROG Phone 8’s design, performance, features, and whether it’s worth the investment for both gamers and everyday users.
Overview of ASUS ROG Phone 8
The ASUS ROG Phone 8 is the latest release in ASUS’s renowned gaming smartphone line, offering impressive hardware and features that set it apart from standard flagship phones. Geared specifically toward gaming enthusiasts, this phone is built to deliver top-notch performance while maintaining comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Main Features
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 165Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay.
- Processor: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, one of the fastest mobile processors available.
- RAM: Options for up to 16GB of RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking and gaming performance.
- Storage: Up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, allowing ample space for large game files and media.
- Battery: A massive 6000mAh battery supports up to 65W fast charging, making sure the phone can handle long gaming sessions.
- Camera: A 50MP triple camera setup that performs decently but clearly takes a backseat to the phone’s gaming capabilities.
These specifications clearly show the ASUS ROG Phone 8 is designed to dominate the mobile gaming space, offering superior power, a high refresh rate, and additional gaming-focused features.
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pros and Cons
While the ROG Phone 8 is a powerhouse, it comes with both advantages and drawbacks that you should consider before purchasing. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning 165Hz AMOLED display | Bulky design for everyday use |
| Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for top-tier performance | High price point, especially for non-gamers |
| Advanced cooling system for extended play | Overkill for casual users |
| Powerful 6000mAh battery | Camera quality is average |
| AirTrigger gaming controls and customizable modes | Heavy and not ideal for portability |
This balance of pros and cons showcases that while the ASUS ROG Phone 8 excels in gaming, some aspects like design and price may not appeal to everyone.
In-Depth Analysis of ASUS ROG Phone 8
Design
The ROG Phone 8 stays true to the signature design language of the ROG series—bold, aggressive, and unmistakably gaming-focused. With sharp edges, RGB lighting on the back, and customizable gaming accents, the design screams “gamer.” The phone is certainly not subtle and may feel overly flashy for those who prefer a more minimalist style.
While the materials and build quality are top-notch, the phone’s large size and weight (238g) make it less practical for everyday use compared to slimmer smartphones. For those who value a sleek, lightweight phone, the ROG Phone 8’s bulk could be a downside. However, gamers will appreciate the tactile AirTrigger shoulder buttons, which provide an extra layer of control during gaming.
A unique feature is the side-mounted USB-C port, designed for charging the phone while gaming in landscape mode without interference. This small detail highlights how ASUS has thought about every aspect of the mobile gaming experience.
Display
The ROG Phone 8’s 6.78-inch AMOLED screen is a marvel. With a refresh rate of 165Hz, the display ensures ultra-smooth animations and gameplay, while the AMOLED technology delivers vivid colors and deep blacks. This makes the ROG Phone 8 not just excellent for gaming, but also a fantastic device for media consumption. Whether you’re watching movies, playing the latest AAA mobile games, or scrolling through apps, the display offers an unparalleled visual experience.
Furthermore, the 720Hz touch sampling rate is a standout feature, providing instantaneous touch response that’s critical for competitive gaming. This makes sure that every swipe and tap is registered without delay, giving players a slight but crucial edge in fast-paced games.
Performance
Under the hood, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 is a powerhouse. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, combined with up to 16GB of RAM, handles any game or app you throw at it with ease. Even graphically demanding games like “Genshin Impact” or “PUBG Mobile” run smoothly at max settings without stutter or lag. This high level of performance makes the ROG Phone 8 one of the most powerful smartphones on the market.
Gaming for extended periods can often lead to overheating in many smartphones, but the ROG Phone 8’s GameCool 6 cooling system effectively manages heat. The combination of a vapor chamber, graphite sheets, and vents keeps the phone cool even during marathon gaming sessions, ensuring that performance remains consistent throughout.
Gaming Features
Where the ROG Phone 8 truly shines is in its gaming features. The AirTrigger 6 technology allows for customizable shoulder buttons, which can be mapped to in-game actions, giving gamers a console-like experience. This is especially beneficial in FPS and racing games where quick reflexes are essential.
Additionally, ASUS’s Armoury Crate software allows users to tweak performance settings on a per-game basis. From adjusting CPU and GPU performance to customizing RGB lighting, Armoury Crate lets you tailor your gaming experience in a way that few other devices allow.
The ROG Phone 8 also includes an immersive audio experience with its GameFX dual front-facing speakers, delivering loud and clear sound that enhances gameplay immersion. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack, which many flagships have ditched, is another nod to ASUS’s focus on gaming convenience.
Everyday Usability
While the ROG Phone 8 excels in gaming, it holds up well in everyday tasks, though it’s clearly overpowered for casual users. The 6000mAh battery can easily last a full day of moderate use, even with the display set to its highest refresh rate. Fast charging is also a plus, with 65W support getting the phone back to full capacity in just under an hour.
However, the phone’s camera, while adequate, falls short of flagship standards. The 50MP primary sensor is capable of taking decent shots, but it lacks the versatility and advanced features of other premium smartphones in the same price range. If photography is a priority, the ROG Phone 8 may not be the best option.
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Comparison
To provide a broader perspective, let’s compare the ROG Phone 8 with two other popular gaming smartphones: the Nubia RedMagic 8 Pro and the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2. Each phone offers unique advantages, but the ROG Phone 8 stands out in certain areas.
| Feature | ROG Phone 8 | RedMagic 8 Pro | Legion Duel 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 165Hz AMOLED | 120Hz AMOLED | 144Hz AMOLED |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Snapdragon 888 |
| RAM | Up to 16GB | Up to 18GB | Up to 12GB |
| Battery | 6000mAh | 5000mAh | 5500mAh |
| Cooling System | GameCool 6 | ICE 10.0 | Twin Turbo-Fan |
The ROG Phone 8 excels in display refresh rate and cooling efficiency, making it the ideal choice for gamers who prioritize peak performance. However, the RedMagic 8 Pro offers a more affordable alternative with similar specs, while the Legion Duel 2 is designed for streaming and content creation with its unique twin-fan cooling system.
Conclusion
The ROG Phone 8 is undoubtedly one of the best gaming phones available today. Its top-tier performance, stunning display, and gaming features like AirTriggers and Armoury Crate set it apart from its competition. However, its bulky design and high price may not appeal to everyone, especially casual users who may not need all the gaming features it offers.
For gamers, though, the ROG Phone 8 is an excellent investment. It’s tailor-made for extended gaming sessions, offering smooth, consistent performance and a wide range of customization options. If mobile gaming is your top priority, this phone should be at the top of your list.
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Rating
Considering its design, performance, and gaming features, the ROG Phone 8 scores a solid 4.5 out of 5. The only drawbacks are its bulk and average camera, which may not meet the needs of users who are looking for a more well-rounded smartphone experience.
FAQ
What makes the ASUS ROG Phone 8 better for gaming than other smartphones?
The ASUS ROG Phone 8 offers superior gaming features, including a 165Hz display, customizable AirTrigger buttons, and advanced cooling technology, making it ideal for competitive gaming.
Is the ASUS ROG Phone 8 worth it for non-gamers?
For non-gamers, the ROG Phone 8’s performance is impressive, but its bulky design and gaming-focused features may be overkill. A more traditional flagship might be a better fit.
How does the ASUS ROG Phone 8 compare to other gaming phones?
The ROG Phone 8 stands out with its higher refresh rate display and efficient cooling system, though phones like the RedMagic 8 Pro offer similar performance at a lower price.
Resources
- YouTube. ASUS ROG Phone 8 Review (video)
- X (formerly Twitter). Zion’s review of ASUS ROG Phone 8 (post)
- TechRadar. ASUS ROG Phone 8 Review (article)
- Forbes. ASUS ROG Phone 8 Review (article)
- ASUS ROG. Official ASUS ROG Phone 8 Product Page (website)
Brijesh Gohil is the founder of Tech Brij, A popular Tech Blog which is focused on Tech tips & Buying Guides. You can follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Google + & LinkedIn.