If I were in the market for a high-end Android phone without any budget constraints, my first choice would be the Asus ROG Phone 9, priced at $1,000 and set to be released in January. This phone offers a unique combination of top-notch performance, a multi-textured glass back with embedded LEDs, and touch-sensitive “Air Triggers.” While the phone may seem excessive in its features, it is tailored perfectly for mobile gamers looking for the ultimate gaming experience. However, I cannot wholeheartedly recommend this phone to everyone due to its poor audio quality, which is subpar compared to other phones in the same price range. Despite this drawback, the phone still retains a headphone jack for users who prefer better audio quality.
In terms of performance, the Asus ROG Phone 9 excels with its overclocking X Mode on the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, providing excellent gaming performance and impressive battery life. The phone also comes with the AeroActive Cooler X accessory, which helps manage heat during intense gaming sessions without draining the battery excessively.
On the downside, the phone falls short in sound quality and display resolution compared to other $1,000 phones like the iPhone 16 Pro or the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Additionally, the limited software updates provided by Asus (two years of software updates and five years of security updates) may deter some users who prioritize long-term software support.
Despite these drawbacks, the Asus ROG Phone 9 offers a unique and powerful gaming experience for enthusiasts who are willing to overlook its shortcomings. With its innovative features like the AeroActive Cooler X Pro and AirTriggers, this phone caters to gamers looking for a device that can handle demanding gaming tasks with ease.