ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition
The ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition is the latest version in ASUS’s lineup of gaming smartphones, and it certainly lives up to its reputation as the “king” in the gaming smartphone category. With its impressive specs, including 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, this device is designed to handle even the most demanding tasks with ease – including PC Emulation and improved camera performance.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Build and Design
The ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition packs subtle yet significant design changes compared to its predecessor, the ROG Phone 8 Pro. One of the most notable upgrades is the AniMe Vision auxiliary display, which now allows users to play arcade games on its 648 programmable mini-LEDs. This feature not only enhances the phone’s aesthetic appeal but also provides an interactive experience that sets it apart from other smartphones.
While the design improvements are welcome, one area where the ROG Phone 9 Pro could see some refinement is in its weight. The phone is noticeably heavier than many other flagship devices, which might be a drawback for users who prefer lighter options. However, for those deeply invested in the gaming ecosystem, the weight might be a small price to pay for the performance and features offered.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Display
The display on the ROG Phone 9 Pro is undoubtedly one of its best features. ASUS has pushed the boundaries by increasing the refresh rate to an impressive 185Hz (from 165Hz on ROG Phone 8 Pro). While this might seem excessive for most users, it’s a testament to ASUS’s commitment to providing the best possible gaming experience. The high refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, making it ideal for fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
In practical terms, the display’s performance is exceptional, offering vibrant colors and excellent brightness levels. Whether you’re gaming, watching videos, or simply browsing through your apps, the screen delivers a top-notch visual experience that’s hard to match.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Hardware
The ROG Phone 9 Pro is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which ASUS has managed to optimize to deliver performance that is truly impressive. The phone’s benchmarks are a testament to its capabilities: it scores 2,796,282 on Antutu, 3,080 on Geekbench 6 Single Core, 9,760 on Geekbench 6 Multi Core, and 26,320 on PC Mark 3.0. These numbers make it the fastest gaming smartphone reviewed to date.
In real-world usage, the phone handles native mobile games with ease, but where it truly shines is in emulating PC or console games. Using emulators like Winlator, the difference in performance compared to other high-end smartphones becomes apparent. This makes the ROG Phone 9 Pro an excellent choice for those who want to experience more complex gaming on their mobile device.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Benchmark
As mentioned earlier, the ROG Phone 9 Pro’s benchmark scores are impressive:
- Antutu: 2,796,282
- Geekbench 6 Single Core: 3,080
- Geekbench 6 Multi Core: 9,760
- PC Mark 3.0: 26,320
These scores reflect the phone’s ability to handle demanding tasks without breaking a sweat. Here’s how it compares to other flagship smartphones we have reviewed.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Software and Other Software Features
The software experience on the ROG Phone 9 Pro is tailored to enhance gaming performance. ASUS has optimized the operating system to ensure that games run smoothly and efficiently. While AI improvements are minor compared to the ROG Phone 8 Pro, users upgrading from older models like the ROG Phone 6 or 7 will notice significant enhancements.
One of the standout features is the ability to customize the AniMe Vision display, which adds a personal touch to the phone’s design. Additionally, the phone supports advanced gaming features that allow for better control and customization, making it a favorite among gamers.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Camera
The camera on the ROG Phone 9 Pro has seen significant improvements, making it a capable option for photography. While it may not match the likes of the iPhone 16 Pro Max or the HONOR Magic7 Pro, it holds its own against other flagship devices. The camera performs well in various lighting conditions, capturing detailed images with good color accuracy.
For video recording, the ROG Phone 9 Pro supports up to 4K60 and 8K30, and it also works seamlessly with the Blackmagic Camera app for more professional-grade video capture. However, compared to other top-tier smartphones, it lacks some advanced video features, which might be a consideration for those who prioritize video capabilities.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review Sample Photos
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Audio
The audio performance of the ROG Phone 9 Pro is exceptional, continuing the tradition of the ROG series as having one of the best sound systems in the Android space. The speakers deliver clear, powerful sound that enhances the gaming and multimedia experience. Whether you’re immersed in a game or watching a movie, the audio quality is top-notch.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Battery
Battery life is another strong point of the ROG Phone 9 Pro, offering up to 18 hours of usage, which easily covers two days of moderate use. This is impressive considering the phone’s powerful hardware and high refresh rate display. The battery performance ensures that you can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about running out of power.
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review – Verdict
The ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition is a powerhouse designed specifically for gamers and those who demand the best performance from their smartphone. With its impressive specs, enhanced AniMe Vision display, and exceptional audio quality, it sets a new standard for gaming smartphones. While it may not excel in every aspect, such as camera capabilities compared to some other flagships, it more than makes up for it with its raw power and gaming-centric features.
For those deeply invested in mobile gaming or looking for a device that can handle demanding tasks with ease, the ROG Phone 9 Pro is an excellent choice. However, for users who prioritize lightweight designs or advanced camera features, other options might be more suitable.
Overall, the ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition is a testament to ASUS’s commitment to innovation and performance, making it a must-have for serious gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
