For the fourth consecutive year, Asus’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand has been relentlessly pursuing its goal: to deliver the ultimate smartphone gaming experience. And we must admit, they are successfully delivering. This year’s new iteration, the ROG Phone 5, brings a host of changes while retaining what makes it so recognizable. In this detailed review, we’ll delve into all the key aspects of this device, from its design to its performance, to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions: What’s Inside the Box?
The first thing that catches your eye, and likely sparks your curiosity, is the number in the name. It’s not a mistake; there’s no skipped number 4. The reason is simple and not uncommon in Asian cultures – the number four sounds similar to the word for “death,” so it’s often avoided in product naming. While this is an interesting digression, there are far more intriguing aspects to the ROG Phone 5.
What sets this year’s model apart is that it’s not just one device, but an entire family of devices. The standard ROG Phone 5 comes in several variants (A, B, C), which differ in network support and available memory configurations. Starting with the “C” variant, the base configuration offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, with an option for 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The “B” variant adds a third option – 16GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The “A” variant isn’t available in the base 8GB/128GB configuration, only in the more powerful 12GB/256GB and 16GB/256GB combinations. Clearly, some of these variants are intended for different markets, but this already creates a degree of confusion.
But the expansion doesn’t stop there. This year, Asus also introduces the ROG Phone 5 Pro and the ROG Phone 5 Ultimate. The Pro model comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage, while the Ultimate model raises the bar to an astounding 18GB of RAM. The Ultimate edition will be an extremely limited series. The differences from the Pro/Ultimate models aren’t just in the specifications. Both of these models, instead of the RGB ROG logo on the back, feature PMOLED ROG Vision displays and additional touch zones. They come in exclusive colors – Glossy Black for the Pro and Matte White with a satin matte finish for the Ultimate. What’s particularly interesting is that the Pro and Ultimate models include the AeroActive Cooler 5 accessory for active cooling, while the Ultimate edition also includes an exclusive gift bag with ROG “merch…”
Our test unit is the standard ROG Phone 5 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The situation with the device variants can definitely be confusing, but on the positive side, it offers more choices to end-users. Asus is clearly trying to reach a wider audience. However, there are also some decisions that could be considered a step backward, masked as simplification or diversification.
What Did We Find in the Standard ROG Phone 5 Box?
Asus ROG Phone 5 device
USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable
65W HyperCharge charger
SIM tray ejector tool
Protective stickers for USB-C ports (for gaming)
Documentation (user manual, warranty card)
Note: The AeroActive Cooler 5 is not included in the standard package but comes with the Pro and Ultimate models.
Although we expected something different this year, unboxing the ROG Phone 5 leaves a familiar feeling. The standard box is solid, with ample space and good protection for the device. While some might wish for more accessories in the basic package, the essentials are there – a powerful charger that will get you back in action quickly.
Design, Controls, and Connectivity: A Familiar Look with New Details
The ROG Phone 5 continues with its distinctive gaming design but introduces subtle yet significant changes. The dimensions are impressive: 172.8 x 77.3 x 10.3 mm, and it weighs 238 grams. It feels substantial in the hand, which is to be expected given the large battery and cooling components. The body is a combination of metal and glass, with a pronounced “Statement” design that exudes power.
The back of the device is what draws the most attention. On the standard ROG Phone 5, you’ll find the legendary, now illuminated, ROG logo that supports RGB colors. You can customize it in the Armoury Crate app, choosing from various effects and colors. This logo isn’t just an aesthetic addition; it’s part of the ROG identity. The Pro and Ultimate models here introduce the aforementioned PMOLED display, which can show animations, static images, and even important information about the phone’s status or incoming notifications – a true “visual upgrade” for gamers.
The side bezels are crucial for gaming. On the right side are the volume and power buttons, along with two extremely important “AirTrigger” sensors. These capacitive sensors react to pressure and can be mapped as additional virtual buttons in games. This year, they are more precise and come with support for two new interaction modes: “Dual Action” (double tap) and “Slide” (swipe along the button). These innovations further enhance control in competitive gaming scenarios.
The bottom houses the USB Type-C port, which is convenient for charging or using accessories while gaming in landscape mode. On the left side, you’ll find another USB Type-C port, designed specifically for accessories like the AeroActive Cooler 5. This thoughtful placement ensures that your charging cable or external cooler doesn’t interfere with your grip during intense gaming sessions.
Connectivity is top-notch. The ROG Phone 5 supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, ensuring lightning-fast wireless internet speeds, crucial for online multiplayer games. Bluetooth 5.2 provides stable connections for wireless peripherals like headphones and controllers. NFC is present for contactless payments and quick pairing. For those who prefer wired connections, the 3.5mm headphone jack makes a welcome return, a feature that audiophile gamers and those who dislike wireless latency will deeply appreciate.
The Screen: A Visual Feast for Gamers
The display is one of the most critical components of any gaming smartphone, and the ROG Phone 5 doesn’t disappoint. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a resolution of 1080 x 2448 pixels (FHD+). The aspect ratio is 20.4:9, providing an immersive viewing experience.
What truly stands out is the 144Hz refresh rate. This is a significant upgrade from the typical 120Hz found on many flagship phones, leading to incredibly smooth visuals. Whether you’re navigating menus, scrolling through web pages, or in the heat of a fast-paced game, the fluidity is remarkable. The touch sampling rate is also exceptionally high at 300Hz, meaning the display registers your touch inputs with minimal delay, which is paramount for responsive gameplay.
Color accuracy is excellent, with support for HDR10+. The AMOLED technology ensures deep blacks and vibrant colors, making games and media come alive. Brightness is also more than sufficient, even for outdoor use, though direct sunlight can still be a challenge for any screen. Asus claims a peak brightness of 800 nits, which is competitive.
The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, offering robust protection against scratches and drops. While Asus has opted for a slight curve on the edges, it’s subtle enough not to cause accidental touches or significant glare, a common issue with more pronounced curves. The in-display fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, adding to the seamless user experience.
Performance: Unleashing the Beast Within
At the heart of the ROG Phone 5 lies a true powerhouse, designed to handle the most demanding mobile games with ease. The processor is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G, a flagship chipset that was at the top of its game at the time of the phone’s release. This chipset is built on a 5nm process, offering a significant boost in performance and power efficiency compared to previous generations.
The CPU configuration includes one Kryo 680 Prime core (based on Cortex-X1) clocked at up to 2.84 GHz, three Kryo 680 Gold cores (based on Cortex-A78) at up to 2.42 GHz, and four Kryo 680 Silver cores (based on Cortex-A55) at up to 1.80 GHz. This architecture ensures a balance between raw power for gaming and efficient background task management.
Complementing the processor is the Adreno 660 GPU, which is responsible for rendering all the graphical elements in your games. It’s capable of handling complex shaders, high-resolution textures, and demanding frame rates without breaking a sweat.
As mentioned earlier, the ROG Phone 5 offers a generous amount of RAM, with configurations going up to 16GB or even 18GB in the Ultimate edition. This LPDDR5 RAM ensures that apps and games remain loaded in memory, allowing for quick switching and preventing stuttering. Storage options are also ample, with UFS 3.1 technology providing blazing-fast read and write speeds for app installations and game loading times.
The Cooling System: Keeping the Heat at Bay
A common issue with high-performance smartphones is thermal throttling, where the device reduces performance to prevent overheating. Asus has always placed a strong emphasis on cooling for its ROG phones, and the ROG Phone 5 is no exception. It features a sophisticated “GameCool 5” cooling system, which includes a larger vapor chamber and graphite sheets to dissipate heat more effectively.
For sustained performance during long gaming sessions, the optional AeroActive Cooler 5 is a game-changer. This external fan attaches to the back of the phone, directly over the CPU area, actively drawing heat away. When using the cooler, you’ll notice a significant improvement in sustained frame rates and a cooler device overall. The cooler also adds extra physical buttons, further enhancing gaming controls.
Software Experience: Tailored for Gamers
The ROG Phone 5 runs on Android with Asus’s ROG UI on top, heavily customized to cater to gamers. The standout feature is Armoury Crate, a central hub for all your gaming needs. Here, you can:
Monitor System Performance: Check CPU and GPU usage, temperatures, and battery status.
Manage Game Library: Organize your installed games, launch them directly, and set specific profiles for each.
Customize Performance Profiles: Adjust CPU performance levels, screen refresh rate, and touch sensitivity for individual games.
Configure AirTriggers: Map physical buttons, gestures, and touch actions to in-game commands.
Control RGB Lighting: Personalize the ROG logo on the back of the phone.
Manage Accessories: Configure settings for the AeroActive Cooler and other ROG peripherals.
The software is generally smooth and responsive, but the heavy customization can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming for users accustomed to a cleaner Android experience. However, for the target audience, it’s an invaluable tool. Asus also promises timely software updates, which is crucial for security and performance.
Camera Capabilities: More Than Just Gaming
While the ROG Phone 5 is primarily a gaming device, Asus has made significant strides in improving its camera system over the years. It features a triple-camera setup on the rear, consisting of:
64MP Main Camera: Utilizes the Sony IMX686 sensor, offering excellent detail and dynamic range in good lighting conditions.
13MP Ultrawide Camera: Provides a wider field of view, perfect for landscapes and group shots.
5MP Macro Camera: Allows for close-up shots of small subjects.
In daylight, the main camera captures sharp, vibrant photos with accurate colors. The ultrawide camera is also competent, though some distortion can be noticeable at the edges. The macro camera is a bit of a niche addition, and its performance is decent for its resolution.
The front-facing camera is a 24MP sensor, capable of taking sharp selfies.
Low-Light Photography and Video Recording
As is common with many smartphone cameras, low-light performance can be a mixed bag. While the main sensor can capture usable images in dimly lit environments, details can become noisy, and colors might appear less vibrant. Asus’s Night Mode can help in some situations, but it doesn’t quite compete with the dedicated low-light champions in the market.
Video recording capabilities are robust, with the main camera supporting up to 8K resolution at 30fps, and 4K at up to 120fps. Stabilization is generally good, making for smooth footage.
For a gaming-centric phone, the camera system is more than adequate for casual photography and social media sharing. However, if your priority is photography, there are dedicated camera phones that offer superior performance, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Battery Life and Charging: Powering Through Marathons
One of the most impressive aspects of the ROG Phone 5 is its battery life. It houses a massive dual-cell battery with a combined capacity of 6000mAh. This is one of the largest batteries you’ll find in a flagship smartphone.
In real-world usage, this translates to excellent endurance. Even with heavy gaming sessions, streaming, and general smartphone use, the ROG Phone 5 can easily last a full day, and often into a second day for moderate users. The large battery capacity, combined with the power-efficient AMOLED display and Snapdragon 888, makes it a true marathon runner.
When it comes to charging, the phone supports 65W HyperCharge technology. This means you can recharge the massive 6000mAh battery relatively quickly. A full charge from empty takes approximately an hour, and you can get a significant portion of battery life back in just 30 minutes. The inclusion of a 65W charger in the box is a welcome bonus, as many manufacturers now omit chargers or provide slower ones.
Asus also offers power-saving features within its software, allowing you to further optimize battery consumption. You can schedule charging to preserve battery health over the long term, which is a smart addition for a device likely to be used for extended periods.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Decision
Here’s a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the Asus ROG Phone 5 to help you make an informed decision:
Pros:
Unrivaled Gaming Performance: Top-tier Snapdragon 888, ample RAM, and advanced cooling system deliver exceptional gaming power.
Stunning 144Hz AMOLED Display: Incredibly smooth visuals with excellent color reproduction and touch responsiveness.
Massive 6000mAh Battery: Outstanding battery life that easily lasts a full day or more, even with heavy use.
Innovative AirTrigger Controls: Provides extra physical buttons for a competitive edge in games.
Excellent Cooling System: Keeps performance high during extended gaming sessions, especially with the optional AeroActive Cooler 5.
Versatile Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, 5G, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC ensure you’re always connected at high speeds.
3.5mm Headphone Jack: A welcome return for wired audio enthusiasts.
Fast 65W Charging: Quickly recharges the large battery.
High-Quality Build and Design: Premium materials and a distinctive gaming aesthetic.
Cons:
Bulky and Heavy: The phone is large and weighty, which might not suit everyone’s preference.
Confusing Variant Lineup: The numerous model variations can be difficult to navigate.
Camera System is Good, Not Great: While competent, it doesn’t match the photographic prowess of dedicated camera phones, especially in low light.
ROG UI Can Be Overwhelming: The gamer-centric interface might be too much for users seeking a simpler Android experience.
Limited Availability of Ultimate/Pro Models: The most feature-rich variants are often scarce.
No Wireless Charging: A notable omission for a flagship device.
Conclusion: Is the Asus ROG Phone 5 the Ultimate Gaming Smartphone?
After extensive testing and use, it’s clear that the Asus ROG Phone 5 is a formidable contender for the title of the ultimate gaming smartphone. Asus has meticulously refined its formula, delivering a device that excels in every aspect critical for mobile gaming. The sheer power, the buttery-smooth display, the exceptional battery life, and the innovative AirTrigger controls combine to create an unparalleled gaming experience.
While it may not be the best choice for photography enthusiasts or those who prefer a more compact device, its strengths in its intended domain are undeniable. The ROG Phone 5 isn’t just a smartphone that can play games; it’s a purpose-built gaming machine that happens to be a smartphone. The attention to detail, from the cooling system to the software optimizations, demonstrates a deep understanding of what gamers need and want.
If you’re a serious mobile gamer who prioritizes performance, display quality, battery endurance, and specialized gaming features above all else, the Asus ROG Phone 5 is an incredibly compelling option. It represents a significant investment, but for those seeking the pinnacle of mobile gaming, the return on that investment is immense. The “ultimate” label is indeed well-deserved for this gaming powerhouse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Asus ROG Phone 5 good for everyday use, or is it only for gaming?
A: While its primary focus is gaming, the ROG Phone 5 is perfectly capable for everyday tasks. It has a great AMOLED display, excellent battery life, and a powerful processor that handles multitasking and general app usage with ease. The user interface can be customized to be less gaming-centric if desired.
Q2: Does the ROG Phone 5 have 5G connectivity?
A: Yes, the Snapdragon 888 chipset integrated into the ROG Phone 5 fully supports 5G connectivity across various bands, ensuring fast mobile data speeds where available.
Q3: Is the AeroActive Cooler 5 necessary for playing games?
A: The AeroActive Cooler 5 is not strictly necessary for playing most games, as the ROG Phone 5 has a robust internal cooling system. However, for very demanding games played at high settings for extended periods, it significantly helps maintain peak performance by preventing thermal throttling and keeping the device cooler to the touch.
Q4: Can I use the ROG Phone 5 for professional photography?
A: The ROG Phone 5’s camera system is good for casual use and social media, capturing detailed shots in good lighting. However, if professional photography is your priority, you might find its low-light performance and overall camera versatility lacking compared to dedicated camera smartphones like the Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy S series.
Q5: What is the difference between the ROG Phone 5, ROG Phone 5 Pro, and ROG Phone 5 Ultimate?
A: The main differences lie in RAM, storage, and specific design features. The ROG Phone 5 Pro typically offers 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and features a PMOLED ROG Vision display on the back. The ROG Phone 5 Ultimate pushes it further with 18GB RAM and also features the ROG Vision display, often in a unique color and finish. The standard ROG Phone 5 comes in various RAM/storage configurations and features the RGB ROG logo on the back.
Q6: Does the ROG Phone 5 have wireless charging?
A: No, the Asus ROG Phone 5 does not support wireless charging. It relies on its fast 65W wired charging for power replenishment.
Leave a Comment