Asus ROG Phone 9
Verdict
An ultimate gaming phone with unique features enhancing gameplay but lacking in camera and audio quality.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“If you want nothing short of the best mobile gaming experience, we believe that the ROG Phone line is still the way to go. The ROG Phone 9 family has the most in-depth and comprehensive set of gaming features on top of excellent and, in many ways, specifically crafted hardware.”
“The ROG Phone 9 Pro and the ROG Phone 9 are not joking around. They are packed to the brim with high tech, the optimization is flawless, and they are performance and endurance champs. It has the distinct, aggressive look, but reigned in a bit so you can rock it as a daily phone without looking like you are holding a gaming console up to your ear.”
“Asus' ROG Phone 9 is a robust gaming-first smartphone with innovating hardware and software perks made to play mobile games, including AirTriggers and AI-driven features.”
“If you love mobile gaming, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 is for you, hands down. This is an incredible piece of hardware—one optimized specifically for gaming in a way no other flagship phone is. The ROG Phone 9 goes far beyond just gaming, too, and even if you're browsing social media or watching videos, you'll be impressed by its performance. It may not change your mind about mobile gaming in the first place, but if you play your games mostly on your smartphone, you won't be disappointed by the ROG Phone 9.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
Design
The ASUS ROG Phone 9 offers a modern design with matte and textured back panels, which help avoid fingerprints. Its sleek style is complemented by the AniMe Vision LED lights on the back panel, providing customizable alerts and notifications, a feature experts find cool and unique.
Reviewers at Pokde.net appreciate the phone’s “toned down look” that appeals to young adults, while still catering to gamers without the exaggerated ‘gamer aesthetic’. This balance ensures the phone looks stylish without appearing out of place in professional settings.
The design includes Air Triggers and a side USB-C port for convenient charging while gaming, addressing common pain points of using the phone while plugged in. Experts acknowledge these elements as thoughtful design choices that elevate the gaming experience.
Display(s)
The phone’s 6.78-inch AMOLED display delivers vivid colors and clear images, perfect for gaming and video watching. The 185Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth and responsive, especially when playing fast-paced games.
The brightness of up to 2500 nits ensures you can see the screen clearly, even in bright sunlight. This is great for outdoor use and makes colors pop.
“The display looks outstanding,” reviewers commented, highlighting how media and games shine on this device.
Performance
The ASUS ROG Phone 9 integrates a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, delivering unparalleled speed and performance. Reviewers highlight its capability to run even the most demanding games without lag.
The phone features an innovative cooling system to maintain performance during long gaming sessions. This ensures you enjoy a seamless experience without overheating issues. The adaptive refresh rate further enhances gaming visuals, making every action smooth and fluid.
In ‘X-Mode,’ the device pushes performance limits, achieving high scores on benchmark tests. Experts describe this as “a near-300,000 point difference” over standard performance in tests. This makes it ideal for those seeking ultimate gaming power in a mobile device.
Software & Storage
The phone’s software balances high customization with practical features while keeping its gaming roots clear. You have a choice between ASUS’s custom UI and a more familiar Android experience. This flexibility matters for both gamers and everyday use.
X Mode ensures gaming performance, while Game Genie offers quick in-game access to key features. Reviewers appreciate its customizable controls and streamlined notifications.
Overall, the ROG Phone 9 software is designed to cater to gamers while still being versatile enough for casual tasks.
Cameras
Asus didn’t forget about photography in this gaming powerhouse. The main 50MP camera snaps vibrant and clear daytime photos. Reviewers note that the gimbal stabilization and AI features enhance the quality, “making the images look better than the ones I took on my Pixel 7a,” according to one expert.
The ultrawide angle ensures broader shots without losing detail, though it may soften some surfaces. Macro shots offer baseline performance, so those seeking close-up photography might prefer a different flagship.
Low-light performance shines, showcasing the phone’s ability to maintain vibrant colors and clarity even at night. While not the device’s primary focus, the cameras make a strong case for those who love both gaming and casual photography.
Battery
Enjoy lengthy gaming sessions without frequent power anxiety thanks to the robust 5,800 mAh battery. It offers impressive stamina, with reports showing up to 21 hours of battery life during regular use. This capacity ensures you stay powered up throughout your busy day or gaming marathons, making it a reliable companion for all your mobile needs.
Fast charging enhances this experience further. The phone supports 65W fast charging, allowing you to go from nearly empty to full in under an hour, ensuring minimal downtime. Experts rave about its efficiency, noting, “15 minutes with it brings the battery up to 47%, and a full charge completes in just 48 minutes.” These features make the phone a standout choice for those who prioritize battery performance and fast charging solutions.
Audio
This phone features multi-magnet dual stereo speakers that deliver clear, loud sound. The sound profile may focus more on auditory clarity in games over bass richness, providing an immersive experience during gaming or entertainment.
While using headphones, you’ll benefit from the Dirac Virtuo spatial sound technology, designed to enhance audio quality further.
“Audio is somewhere between tinny and shallow,” experts shared, highlighting how vital headphones can be with this model.
The Bottom Line
This phone excels with its unmatched gaming performance and unique gaming-specific features, ensuring smooth gameplay even with high-demand titles. Reviewers note, “Asus’ ROG Phone 9 excels at gaming, but its design doesn’t stand out as a smartphone for non-gamers.”
A long-lasting battery and fast charging create convenience for extended use, though some users may find its camera and audio to be underwhelming compared to other flagship phones.
What people actually want to know
How much does the Asus ROG Phone 9 cost?
The Asus ROG Phone 9 launched at $999 USD. Street prices change, so see current deals.
When was the Asus ROG Phone 9 released?
The Asus ROG Phone 9 was released on November 20, 2024.
How long does the battery last on the Asus ROG Phone 9?
The Asus ROG Phone 9 has a 5,800 mAh battery.
Is the Asus ROG Phone 9 water resistant?
The Asus ROG Phone 9 carries an IP68 rating.
Note: water resistance degrades over time and manufacturer warranties typically don't cover liquid damage.
Does the Asus ROG Phone 9 support wireless charging?
Yes, the Asus ROG Phone 9 supports wireless charging. It supports up to 15W wireless charging.
Does the Asus ROG Phone 9 have a headphone jack?
Yes, the Asus ROG Phone 9 has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Does the Asus ROG Phone 9 support 5G?
Yes, the Asus ROG Phone 9 supports 5G connectivity.
Does the Asus ROG Phone 9 have NFC?
Yes, the Asus ROG Phone 9 has NFC. You can use Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pair with Bluetooth accessories.
Where can I download the Asus ROG Phone 9 manual?
You can view and download the Asus ROG Phone 9 manual on our dedicated manual page.
Questions & answers
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