ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro
Verdict
A robust gaming device with excellent cooling and long battery life, designed for gaming enthusiasts.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“The Nubia RedMagic 8 Pro is a real gaming smartphone, which also underlines this in terms of design and integrated RGB lighting. The fan puts the icing on the cake and proves to be very effective in the test, but unfortunately also quite loud. The additional sensor keys on the long side are also a real added value when gaming. A full-fledged audio jack is also a rarity. This is rounded off with fast and modern communication equipment.”
“Gaming is the bread and butter of the Red Magic line, and the Red Magic 8 Pro excels at it like few others. Not only does it have the raw power to chew through even the heaviest modern titles, but nubia's extra Game Space software layer has gotten better than ever. We found ourselves particularly impressed with how well the Red Magic 8 Pro handles gaming on an external monitor via a display connection or through the excellent Windows game streaming software, both wired and wireless. If excellence in gaming is all you are after, then we have no issue wholeheartedly recommending the Red Magic 8 Pro.”
“The RedMagic 8 Pro gets a lot right with its design, display and specs for gaming, but its performance as a phone is where things start to fall apart. Even though games look and play great on the RedMagic, its confusing customization of Android 13 combined with its short software and security update commitment make the phone hard to recommend.”
“Equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, advanced cooling system, and some dedicated gaming features, the Redmagic 8 Pro offers an excellent platform for gamers thanks to its outstanding performance and very reasonable price.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
Design
The design of this phone captures attention with its flat, squared-off edges and a nearly bezel-less screen that offers an immersive experience without distractions. Many users noted that the under-display camera contributes to an uninterrupted front view.
The matte finish provides excellent grip, and the inclusion of RGB elements adds a subtle gamer touch without being over the top. Experts appreciated the phone’s minimalist style, calling it “tastefully executed.”
While the sharp corners enhance the stylish look, some reviewers found them less comfortable during extended gaming sessions. The lack of a water resistance rating is a trade-off for the design’s open-air cooling vents.
Display(s)
The phone’s display is almost bezelless and has no camera hole interrupting your view, perfect for gaming and watching videos.
With a brightness of 1,300 nits, you’ll use it comfortably outdoors, even on sunny days. The AMOLED screen ensures colors are vibrant and lively, crucial for gaming immersion.
Reviewers describe the under-display camera as “nearly invisible,” ensuring your content remains front and center.
Performance
The RedMagic 8 Pro excels with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, showcasing stellar gaming performance that beats pricier competitors in benchmark tests. A built-in cooling system supports long gaming sessions without throttling.
According to Android Central, “Games run as smoothly as imaginable” on this phone, making it a perfect fit for gaming enthusiasts seeking high-frame-rate experiences.
With its premium internals and tailored gaming features, this phone stands as a top-notch choice for gamers looking to elevate their gameplay without breaking the bank.
Software & Storage
Redmagic OS offers customizable features and gaming tools, like a dedicated Game Space for optimizing gameplay. But it strays far from standard Android, with bugs causing reliability issues. Reviewers at Trusted Reviews observed that the auto brightness often malfunctions.
The interface includes various add-ons like an Entertainment Toolbox, but feedback indicates improper translations and lack of polish in parts of the UI. Critics at Android Central mention poor software updates as a major concern.
This interface promises features that cater to gamers but needs improvement to enhance daily usability.
Cameras
The RedMagic 8 Pro features a serviceable camera setup. The 50MP main camera can deliver decent photos in good lighting but struggles with color accuracy and motion capture. “The phone tends to over-sharpen the images…” noted Android Central.
The 8MP ultrawide lens adds perspective but lacks autofocus, resulting in less detailed images. However, low-light and night photography expose limitations in capturing dynamic range.
The 16MP under-display selfie camera lacks detail, particularly in low-light settings, due to its unique design.
Battery
With its impressive 6,000mAh battery, the phone can handle numerous tasks without leaving you searching for a charger. You can comfortably enjoy your favorite activities, like gaming or streaming, without battery anxiety, as experts highlight its exceptional endurance.
The inclusion of 65W fast charging ensures minimal downtime, getting you back to a full charge quickly. Reviewers appreciate how ‘the 65W charger will restore 51% of charge in only 15 minutes,’ according to trusted sources. This combination makes it a reliable choice for active users.
Audio
The RedMagic 8 Pro offers a superior sound experience with its loud and clear speakers, ideal for intense gaming and media consumption. Audio is often praised for its powerful delivery, making dialogue and effects during games immersive.
Call quality also stands out due to the precise microphone placement, ensuring your voice comes across clearly, even when gaming. According to reviewers, the “super loud speakers” deliver sound that elevates your overall mobile experience, making it a top choice for entertainment at home or on-the-go.
The Bottom Line
This device stands out for its gaming performance, powered by the latest chip for high-speed gaming and reliability. The substantial cooling system ensures the device maintains smooth performance during extended gaming sessions. Although the camera quality is average and the software can feel buggy or unfinished, the phone’s expansive storage and high refresh rate display make it a solid choice for dedicated gamers. If photography or software fluidity is a priority, some may find these aspects lacking. “The device is great for gaming on the go,” experts affirm, adding value for those who prioritize gaming over all else.
What people actually want to know
When was the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro released?
The ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro was released on January 16, 2023.
How long does the battery last on the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro?
The ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro has a 6,000 mAh battery.
Does the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro support wireless charging?
No, the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro does not support wireless charging.
Does the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro have a headphone jack?
Yes, the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Does the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro have NFC?
Yes, the ZTE nubia Red Magic 8 Pro has NFC. You can use Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pair with Bluetooth accessories.
Questions & answers
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