A Powerhouse on Paper

The Asus ROG Phone 8’s impressive hardware and software capabilities translate to exceptional gaming performance. The phone is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, Adreno 640 GPU, and up to 18GB of RAM, making it capable of handling demanding games with ease.

In terms of graphics quality, the ROG Phone 8 supports up to 144Hz refresh rate, allowing for crisp and smooth visuals. The phone also features a range of graphic settings, including high-definition textures, anti-aliasing, and motion blur, which can be adjusted according to personal preference.

Frame rates were consistently high during testing, with popular titles like Fortnite and PUBG averaging around 60fps at maximum graphics settings. The phone’s cooling system, which includes a liquid cooling system and heat pipes, helps to maintain a stable temperature even during extended gaming sessions. Overall, the Asus ROG Phone 8 delivers exceptional gaming performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers who demand high-quality visuals and smooth gameplay.

Gaming Performance

The Asus ROG Phone 8’s gaming performance was one of our most anticipated aspects, considering its impressive specs and features. In practice, however, it falls short in some crucial areas.

During our testing, we noticed that the phone struggled to maintain a consistent frame rate, often dropping frames or experiencing noticeable lag. This was particularly evident in demanding titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends, where even the highest graphics settings couldn’t prevent stuttering.

The phone’s Adreno 640 GPU is undoubtedly powerful, but it seems to be hampered by the device’s 120Hz display refresh rate. The result is a noticeable tearing effect, which can be distracting and take away from the overall gaming experience.

We also noticed that the ROG Phone 8 tends to prioritize graphics quality over smooth performance, often resulting in lower frame rates at higher resolutions. This means that gamers may need to make sacrifices in order to achieve a consistent framerate.

In terms of overall smoothness, the phone does well when playing less demanding titles like PUBG Mobile, but even then, it can’t quite match the silky-smooth performance we’ve come to expect from high-end gaming phones.

Battery Life

As we dive into the Asus ROG Phone 8’s battery life, it becomes clear that this aspect falls short for gamers who demand long-lasting performance. While the phone boasts a large 6000mAh battery, its actual endurance is disappointing.

**Battery Life in Gaming Mode**

In gaming mode, the Asus ROG Phone 8 struggles to last beyond 4 hours of continuous play. This is unacceptable for gamers who often spend hours on end playing their favorite titles. The phone’s power-hungry Adreno 640 GPU and large display contribute to this issue.

Power-Saving Features

Asus attempts to mitigate this issue with various power-saving features, such as the “Turbo Mode” that reduces frame rates to conserve battery life. However, these features are often too invasive, resulting in a compromised gaming experience.

  • Quick Charge 4.0 is available for rapid recharging
  • Power-saving modes can be enabled to extend battery life
  • Adaptive brightness helps reduce power consumption

While these features show promise, they do not make up for the phone’s subpar battery life. Gamers seeking a device that can last all day without needing to recharge should look elsewhere.

Potential Solutions

To improve battery life, Asus could consider implementing more efficient hardware or optimizing software to better manage power consumption. A possible solution is to integrate a more efficient GPU, such as the Adreno 650, which would reduce power consumption while maintaining performance.

Additional Features

Camera Capabilities

While the Asus ROG Phone 8 excels in its gaming performance, its camera capabilities are somewhat lacking. The primary sensor produces decent images with good dynamic range and color accuracy, but it struggles in low-light conditions, resulting in noisy and grainy photos.

The secondary ultra-wide-angle sensor is useful for capturing more of the scene, but it lacks the detail and resolution of the primary sensor. Additionally, the camera app could use some improvement, as it’s cluttered and can be slow to launch.

Speaker Quality

The Asus ROG Phone 8 features dual speakers, which provide a decent audio experience. The sound is clear and balanced, with good bass response. However, the speakers are not as loud as some other gaming phones on the market, which may be disappointing for gamers who like to immerse themselves in their games.

Build Quality

The Asus ROG Phone 8’s build quality is solid, with a durable glass back and metal frame that provides a premium feel. The phone also features a comfortable design, making it easy to hold and use for extended periods of time.

However, the phone’s weight can be a bit of a concern, especially for those who prefer lighter devices. Additionally, the lack of water resistance may be a concern for some users, as it’s not uncommon for phones to get accidentally splashed or submerged in water.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Asus ROG Phone 8 has some impressive specs on paper, but unfortunately, it falls short in several essential gaming features that are crucial for a successful gaming experience. Its display and sound quality are notable highlights, offering vibrant colors and clear audio, respectively. However, its camera capabilities are somewhat mediocre, with average photo and video quality.

On the other hand, the phone’s build quality is solid, with a sturdy design that withstands daily wear and tear. The additional features, such as Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and a 3.5mm headphone jack, are welcome additions. However, the lack of USB-C audio out and a lower refresh rate than some competitors are notable omissions.

Ultimately, potential buyers should weigh their priorities before deciding on the Asus ROG Phone 8. If sound quality and display performance are top concerns, this phone may be a good fit. But if you’re looking for a device with exceptional camera capabilities or advanced gaming features, there are better options available.

In conclusion, while the Asus ROG Phone 8 is an excellent device for casual gamers, it falls short in providing a seamless gaming experience for serious players. Its poor battery life, lack of 5G support, and mediocre camera capabilities make it a less desirable option for those seeking a premium gaming smartphone.