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ZTE Android 13 Released Jul 2023

ZTE nubia Red Magic 8S Pro

8.1 / 10
Compass Score
Based on 16 critic reviews
Android 13 Operating system
6.8" Screen size
50MP f/1.9 Main camera
Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 (4 nm) Octa-core Processor
256/512 GB Storage
6,000 mAh Battery

Verdict

A strong choice for gaming enthusiasts, but average daily usage and camera abilities might not satisfy everyone.

+
What's good
+ Strong gaming performance
+ Sturdy battery life
+ Headphone jack included
+ Fast charging with charger included
+ Good value for money
−
What's not
− Poor camera quality
− Clunky software with bugs
− No water resistance
− Uncomfortable design for long use
− No wireless charging
By category

Key specs

What critics say

Critic consensus

Compass Score
16 reviews
weighted by credibility
GSMArena
GSMArena
8

“Nubia has plenty of experience with gaming phones at this point and it shows. The OEM knows how to put together a great gaming phone without much fluff. Despite its flaws like not-so-amazing camera experience, awkwardly translated UI and the lack of HDR support, the new 8S Pro is a solid gaming solution.”

Notebookcheck
Notebookcheck
8.8

“The RedMagic 8S Pro presents itself as a real thoroughbred gamer in the test and can uncompromisingly call up its performance due to its integrated fan. Unfortunately, this also means that the surface can get quite hot. The additional shoulder sensors are a real added value when gaming, and the front-facing camera underneath the display (UDC) means that there is nothing that could interfere with the view of the content.”

Tech Advisor
Tech Advisor
8

“Redmagic delivers another powerhouse gaming phone with the 8S Pro. Excellent performance and battery life make it easy to recommend for gamers, although as an everyday phone it does present a few challenges.”

Tom’s Guide
Tom’s Guide
8

“Gamers are once again in safe hands with the RedMagic 8S Pro, which packs an improved chipset and cooling system for even better gaming, alongside the already attractive price, battery life and big display. Cameras and software support continue to be sore spots, though.”

Video reviews

Watch before you decide

Review
Overclocked Gaming Monster! | Red Magic 8S Pro Review
Tech Spurt
Comparison
Red Magic 8S Pro Vs Red Magic 8 Pro | Red Magic 8S Pro Review
ZeiTech
Comparison
Nubia Red Magic 8 Pro VS 8 Pro+ VS 8s Pro VS 8s Pro+ || Nubia red magic 8 series comparison
AZ Finds

In Depth

Design

The RedMagic 8S Pro stands out with its striking design. A transparent back allows you to see the internals, giving a unique look that appeals to gamers. The design stays sleek and elegant for a gaming phone, with RGB lighting that adds a subtle glow instead of overwhelming flash.

This phone employs an aluminum frame with edges that might not be the most comfortable for extended use, a common concern with gaming-oriented devices. The sharper edges are less forgiving on the hands. Experts caution about the phone’s vents, noting they can draw in dust as there’s no protective mesh, a weakness especially in dusty settings.

Display(s)

This phone shows off a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen that’s perfect for games and media. It boasts slim bezels and no notches, giving you more screen to enjoy.

With a refresh rate of 120Hz, you’ll see smooth and fluid animations, making everything from social media to fast-paced games look fantastic.

Reviewers highlight its under-display camera, which leaves the stunning display uninterrupted. As noted by TechRadar, the screen’s bright 1300 nits peak brightness ensures visibility, even outdoors.

Performance

The RedMagic 8S Pro thrives on gaming prowess with the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, which exceeds the typical performance benchmark. Cooling enhancements meet the demands of intensive gaming, keeping the phone at manageable temperatures.

Genshin Impact and Call of Duty max out settings without breaking a sweat, showcasing its capability to handle demanding games. The responsive screen with a 960Hz touch sampling rate ensures every tap makes an immediate impact, improving your gaming precision.

“The RedMagic 8S Pro performed better than Samsung’s S23 line,” Android Central emphasized, showcasing the phone’s impressive capability.

Software & Storage

The phone runs on RedMagic OS based on Android 13, offering exclusive gaming features like custom performance profiles and a simple Game Space interface.

Reviewers note reduced bloatware, yet bugs remain, such as inconsistent lock-screen notifications, impacting daily usability.

This gaming phone offers features like customizable triggers and superior audio, but “there are still issues” with the system’s stability, as observed in the reviews.

Cameras

The main 50MP camera performs well with vibrant colors in good lighting, though users may notice occasional oversaturation. Low-light conditions pose challenges, with images often appearing grainy as noted by reviewers.

The ultrawide and macro lenses lack detail, with reduced sharpness especially in less-than-ideal lighting scenarios, as outlined by experts. Moreover, all reviews highlight the front-facing selfie camera’s struggle with clarity and sharpness due to its placement under the display.

Battery

The phone’s substantial 6,000 mAh battery sets it apart, allowing you to delve into endless gaming or streaming without the frequent need for charging. You’ll find this especially beneficial if you’ve struggled with phones that die halfway through your day.

Reviewers highlighted this feature, saying they ended their day with 15-20% battery life left even after heavy use, ensuring you won’t be tethered to a charger constantly.

Plus, thanks to the powerful 65W fast charger, reaching a full charge takes just under 40 minutes, granting you freedom from long waits. This quick top-up feature caters to your busy lifestyle, keeping you on the go without interruptions.

Audio

Reviewers highlight the satisfying audio system, including stereo speakers that deliver impressive sound for gaming and media. You’ll appreciate the clear audio whether you’re watching movies or playing games.

The built-in speakers deliver loud and crisp sounds, supported by Dolby DTS:X technology, ensuring an immersive listening experience.

Calling is clear due to effective earpiece performance, making sure your voice is heard without difficulty.

The Bottom Line

This device shines with its potent processing power and cooling technology, making it a pleasure for gaming sessions.

While the fan keeps the phone cool and the battery life is notable, the lack of solid software support and a subpar camera setup can be limiting.

“The RedMagic 8S Pro is not without flaws, but the biggest question is whether you should buy it or not,” Android Central noted.

Common questions

What people actually want to know

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Community

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