Asus ROG Phone 5

The Asus ROG Phone 5 is a flagship gaming smartphone from Asus, designed specifically for hardcore mobile gamers and enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth review of the Asus ROG Phone 5:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Asus ROG Phone 5 is the successor to the ROG Phone 3, skipping the number 4 due to its association with bad luck in some cultures. The phone is packed with top-tier specifications, gaming-centric features, and design elements that make it stand out in the crowded smartphone market.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with ROG UI on top.
2. Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2448 pixels, boasting a 144Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support.
3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G.
4. Memory: Options ranging from 8/12/16 GB RAM with 128/256/512 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 24 MP shooter.
6. Battery: A massive 6000 mAh non-removable battery with 65W fast charging.
7. Other Features: AirTrigger 5, RGB lighting, stereo speakers with Dirac HD sound, under-display fingerprint scanner, and a host of gaming accessories available separately.

Pros:

1. Gaming Performance: With the Snapdragon 888 and up to 16GB RAM, the device offers unparalleled performance, especially for gaming.
2. Display: The 144Hz AMOLED display ensures ultra-smooth visuals, crucial for gaming.
3. Battery Life: The 6000 mAh battery ensures extended gaming sessions without needing a recharge.
4. Gaming-Centric Features: AirTrigger 5, customizable RGB lighting, and a range of gaming accessories enhance the gaming experience.
5. Audio: The stereo speakers are among the best in the industry, providing an immersive audio experience.

Cons:

1. Size and Weight: The device is bulky and heavy, which might not be comfortable for everyone.
2. Camera Performance: While decent, the camera isn’t on par with other non-gaming flagships in the same price range.
3. No IP Rating: The device lacks any official water or dust resistance rating.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket and category, the Asus ROG Phone 5 faced competition from:

• Lenovo Legion Phone Duel: Another gaming-centric phone with side-mounted pop-up camera, Snapdragon 865+, and 144Hz display.
• Xiaomi Black Shark 4 Pro: Featuring a 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and magnetic pop-up shoulder buttons.
• Nubia Red Magic 6: With its 165Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888, and built-in shoulder triggers.

Launch Date:

The Asus ROG Phone 5 was announced in March 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Glitches: Some users reported occasional software bugs or inconsistencies within the ROG UI, especially with third-party apps.
2. Thermal Management: While the device generally managed heat well, extended gaming or high-performance tasks could lead to noticeable warmth.
3. Durability Concerns: Some early durability tests highlighted potential structural weaknesses, especially when subjected to bending.

Conclusion:

The Asus ROG Phone 5 is a dream device for mobile gamers, offering a suite of features and performance metrics tailored for gaming. From its high-refresh-rate screen to its customizable AirTriggers, it’s evident that a lot of thought went into crafting a device that caters to the needs of gamers. While it might not be the best all-rounder, especially in areas like camera performance, it excels in its niche. For those who prioritize gaming above all else, the ROG Phone 5 is hard to beat.