The Asus ROG Phone 5, launched in early 2021, is designed specifically for mobile gamers seeking top-tier performance and features. With its advanced Snapdragon 888 processor and impressive 144Hz AMOLED display, it aims to enhance the gaming experience on-the-go. However, its hefty design may deter casual users.
This review pulls information from multiple trusted sources including detailed specs on TechAdvisor and benchmark results from UL Solutions, providing a comprehensive overview of the device's performance, design, and features.
Overall, the Asus ROG Phone 5 excels in processing power and gaming features, making it an excellent choice for dedicated gamers. However, its weight and heat generation during intense gaming sessions may not appeal to all users.
How Does the Asus ROG Phone 5 Perform Under Pressure?
The Asus ROG Phone 5, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 processor, delivers industry-leading performance with benchmark scores consistently placing it at the top among smartphones. It is paired with up to 16GB of RAM, enabling seamless multitasking and high-quality gaming.
Users may experience impressive gaming sessions thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate and 300Hz touch sampling rate, making touchscreen response extremely fluid. However, extensive gaming sessions can lead to the device overheating.
Is the Display Worth the Hype?
The ROG Phone 5 features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, boasting a resolution of 2448 x 1080 pixels. This ensures vibrant colors and sharp images, contributing positively to the gaming experience.
While the display quality is excellent, the device's large size can be cumbersome for one-handed use, making it less practical for casual tasks.
How Long Can You Game on a Single Charge?
Equipped with a 6,000mAh battery, the ROG Phone 5 offers substantial endurance. Users can expect full-day battery life even during intensive gaming sessions.
However, the rapid power consumption while gaming at high settings may require frequent recharging during extended play.
What About the Build Quality and Usability?
The device has a robust design characteristic of gaming smartphones, featuring RGB lighting with a customizable dot-matrix display. At 238 grams, it is significantly heavier than many competitors, which may hinder one-handed operation.
Despite its weight, the build quality feels premium, and the ports and buttons are well-placed for gaming enthusiasts.
Are the Gaming-Centric Features Inevitably Worth It?
Dedicated features such as Air Triggers, a gaming-focused UI, and multiple accessory options (like additional cooling systems) set this phone apart for gamers.
These features may, however, feel excessive for users who do not specifically seek heavy gaming capabilities.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Industry-leading performance with Snapdragon 888 and up to 16GB RAM.
- ✅ 144Hz AMOLED display provides an immersive gaming experience with fast response times.
- ✅ 6,000mAh battery offers excellent longevity for gaming.
- ✅ Robust build quality with customizable RGB lighting for a gamer aesthetic.
- ❌ Weight at 238 grams may be cumbersome for prolonged one-handed use.
- ❌ Device can get hot during intensive gaming, potentially affecting performance.
- ❌ The design's dot-matrix lighting is not customizable for personal preferences.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra — Offers similar performance but in a more compact and versatile design.
- Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max — Provides excellent performance and an ecosystem that may appeal to non-Android users.
- Xiaomi Black Shark 4 — Poses strong competition with gaming features but at a lighter weight.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: The Asus ROG Phone 5 is ideal for dedicated mobile gamers looking for cutting-edge performance and features tailored for gaming. Those who want to take advantage of a device designed for gaming will find it enjoyable.
Skip it if: Casual users or those seeking a lightweight smartphone for everyday use may be better served by standard devices, as the ROG Phone 5's size and gaming-centric features may be more than they require.
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