Gaming smartphones have evolved significantly, with the ROG Phone 9 Pro showcasing a sophisticated design and impressive features. Its 6.78-inch AMOLED display offers exceptional visuals with a high refresh rate, while the customizable “Anime Matrix” on the back adds a unique flair. Despite some limitations in software updates, the phone caters to dedicated mobile gamers with its robust performance and gamer-centric interface, solidifying its position in the competitive gaming smartphone market.
Introduction to Gaming Smartphones
When the first gaming smartphones hit the market, they were met with skepticism from many critics. Some viewed gaming as a simple pastime, often limited to matching colored gems on a screen. However, the popularity of these specialized devices has steadily grown. Brands like Redmagic and Blackshark continue to thrive, while the ROG Phone series has now reached its impressive ninth installment, which we are excited to review today.
Is it time for dedicated mobile gamers to elevate their gaming experience with the ROG Phone 9 Pro? Our in-depth test will provide the answers.
Design: A Sophisticated Gamer Aesthetic
The ROG Phone 9 Pro unmistakably belongs to the ROG family. Over the years, the aesthetic of ASUS’s gaming line has matured, mirroring trends found in gaming laptops. The phone features a standard 6.8-inch flat screen with rounded edges, giving it a classic look that won’t immediately draw attention.
However, it’s the back of the device where the magic happens. The textured glass back is stunning, although it can be quite slippery. A notable feature is the “Anime Matrix,” a signature element of the series, boasting 648 LEDs that can be customized by users. This vibrant area can display everything from notifications to animated designs, making it a standout feature in a sea of similar-looking smartphones.
While the overall design is sleek, it comes with a hefty camera module on the upper left corner. The device includes essential buttons like volume and lock, a dual SIM tray, and two USB-C ports for added convenience during gaming sessions. The “Air triggers,” touch-sensitive areas on the sides, allow gamers to simulate triggers, enhancing gameplay. However, the phone’s thickness (8.9 mm) and weight (227 grams) may be noticeable, especially considering its slippery surface.
Display: A High-Performance Visual Experience
The ROG Phone 9 Pro is equipped with a vibrant 6.78-inch AMOLED display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. One of its standout features is the LTPO technology, allowing for an impressive refresh rate range from 1 Hz to a record-breaking 185 Hz, accessible through Asus’s Game Genie software. Even the native refresh rate of 165 Hz is more than sufficient for an immersive gaming experience.
When it comes to display quality, this phone does not disappoint. With a calibrated average DeltaE of just 1.51 and a color temperature closely aligned with the standard 6500 K, it delivers stunning visuals. Brightness levels peak at an impressive 2400 nits in HDR mode, ensuring an incredible viewing experience across diverse conditions. Despite the impressive capabilities, the high refresh rate is currently underutilized in mobile gaming, limiting its practical application.
Software: Room for Improvement on Updates
Running on Android 15 with a September 2024 security patch, the ROG Phone 9 Pro promises two years of major updates and five years of security patches. While this is decent, it falls short compared to competitors offering up to seven years of updates. Asus has shown potential for extending support in the past, particularly with the ROG Phone 3, so there’s hope for future improvements.
The user interface retains a distinctly gamer-centric aesthetic that may feel dated to some. Although the customizable icon pack offers flexibility, the overall experience remains similar to traditional Android. Essential gaming features are accessible through the Armoury Crate interface, which is tailored for gamers, providing a familiar touch for those accustomed to PC gaming.
Conclusion
The ROG Phone 9 Pro embodies a well-crafted blend of design, display quality, and gaming features, making it a strong contender in the gaming smartphone market. While it has its drawbacks, particularly in terms of software updates, its unique features and performance make it a worthy choice for serious mobile gamers.