The ASUS ROG Phone 8 has set its sights on redefining the gaming smartphone experience in 2024. Boasting top-tier performance, advanced gaming features, and a host of improvements over its predecessor, the ROG Phone 8 series aims to capture the hearts of mobile gamers. This review delves into the key aspects of the device, covering design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and more.
Design and Display (A New Era of Aesthetics)
One of the noticeable changes with the ROG Phone 8 is its departure from the gaudy gamer aesthetic of the past. ASUS has opted for a sleeker, more mainstream design reminiscent of the Zenfone 10. The slimmer body, reduced bezels, and refined aesthetics make it less conspicuous in public settings. The inclusion of the 3.5mm headphone jack and dual USB-C ports retains the series’ gaming-centric features. The Pro model introduces customizable “AniMe Vision” backlighting for a personalized touch. Notably, both variants feature an IP68 rating and Qi 1.3 wireless charging, aligning the ROG Phone 8 with flagship standards.
Camera Capabilities (Evolving Beyond Gaming)
A significant evolution in the ROG Phone 8 is its camera setup, signaling ASUS’s intent to position it as more than just a gaming phone. The 50MP IMX890 sensor with gimbal stabilization, a new free-form lens on the ultrawide camera, and a 32MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom offer a more versatile photography experience. While color saturation, white balance, and exposure excel, there are some caveats such as lens flare in the ultrawide shots and hit-and-miss results at high zoom levels. The gimbal stabilization shines in video recording, providing stable footage even in demanding scenarios.
Performance (Gaming Prowess and Optimized Efficiency)
Packed with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the ROG Phone 8 delivers top-tier gaming performance. ASUS has optimized the device further, with a default mode that prioritizes efficiency, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. The inclusion of X-Mode unleashes the full potential of the processor, although stress test results show slight inconsistencies compared to its predecessor. The phone’s 65W charging capability ensures quick replenishment, with a 5,500mAh battery providing commendable endurance, catering to both gaming and daily tasks.
Software and Updates (Balancing Gaming and Everyday Use)
ASUS’s Armoury Crate continues to be a comprehensive hub for gamers, offering a range of performance configurations, game profiles, and features to enhance the gaming experience. However, the four years of security updates and a commitment to at least two major OS updates might seem below-par for the premium price. The industry trend of more extended OS update promises from competitors may leave users wanting more in terms of long-term software support.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch Dynamic AMOLED, FHD+ resolution (2400 x 1080), 165Hz refresh rate (1-120Hz LTPO) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM | 12GB/16GB/24GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS4.0, No microSD card support |
| Battery | 5,500mAh, 65W wired charging, 15W wireless charging |
| Cameras | Rear: – 50MP wide main sensor (f/1.9, 1/1,56-inch sensor, PDAF, 6-axis hybrid gimbal stabilization) – 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2) – 32MP 3x telephoto (f/2.4, 0.7-micron pixel size) Front: – 32MP wide |
| Software | ROG UI / Zen UI, Android 14, 2 Android updates, 4 years of security updates |
| IP rating | IP68 certified |
| Biometrics | In-display fingerprint scanner |
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 225g |
| Colors | Black, Dark Grey (standard variant only) |
Verdict: The Ultimate Gaming Phone that Strikes a Balance In summary, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and 8 Pro emerge as the most well-rounded iterations of ASUS’s gaming formula. The sleek design, improved cameras, and wireless charging bring a touch of mainstream appeal without compromising on gaming features. While its performance may not outshine some competitors, the ROG Phone 8 excels in catering to avid gamers who seek a premium gaming experience. The series continues to bridge the gap between gaming and mainstream phones, making it a compelling choice for gaming enthusiasts willing to invest in the ASUS ecosystem.
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