When the Asus ROG Phone II launched in 2019, it wasn’t just another flagship—it was a statement. Designed from the ground up for gamers, this device promised desktop-level performance, a buttery-smooth display, and a suite of accessories that blurred the line between mobile and console gaming. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore what made the ROG Phone II a standout in its era, how it handles today’s demanding titles, and whether it still holds up as a primary device for serious mobile enthusiasts.
Specifications and Design
At first glance, the Asus ROG Phone II exudes a premium, almost industrial feel. Its aluminum frame, accented with Gorilla Glass 6 on the back, gives it a sturdy yet sleek appearance. The aggressive lines, customizable RGB lighting on the rear logo, and side-mounted port for accessories immediately signal that this isn’t your average smartphone—it’s built for performance and style.
Dimensions and Ergonomics
- Dimensions: 171.0 x 77.6 x 9.5 mm
- Weight: 240 grams
- Materials: Aluminum chassis with glass insert
Weighing in at 240 grams, the ROG Phone II has a substantial heft that feels secure in the hand, though some users might notice fatigue during extended gaming sessions. However, the ergonomically contoured edges and responsive AirTrigger touch sensors help distribute the weight, offering a comfortable grip even during marathon play.
Display with Lightning-Fast Response
The screen is arguably the centerpiece of any gaming phone, and the Asus ROG Phone II delivers without compromise:
- 6.59-inch AMOLED panel
- 120 Hz refresh rate, 1 ms response time
- Resolution: 1080 x 2340 pixels (19.5:9 aspect ratio)
- DCI-P3 108% color gamut, HDR10 support
- 240 Hz touch sampling rate
The high refresh rate represents a 20% improvement over its predecessor, while the 240 Hz touch sampling enhances precision in fast-paced shooters like “Call of Duty Mobile.” The result is an exceptionally smooth experience where every in-game movement feels more natural and instantaneous.
Performance and Gaming Experience
Powering the Asus ROG Phone II is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Plus, an overclocked version of the standard Snapdragon 855. This chipset offers a 15% boost in GPU performance and a 4% increase in CPU power compared to the base model, translating to higher frame rates and better thermal management.
Benchmark Results
“In our AnTuTu testing, the ROG Phone II scored over 470,000 points, while in the 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme Vulkan test, it dominated the competition at over 7,200 points.”
These numbers hold up in real-world scenarios: “PUBG Mobile” runs steadily at 40-45 FPS on Ultra settings, and “Asphalt 9” maintains a buttery 60 FPS without stuttering.
Cooling and Sustained Performance
A high-capacity battery and demanding chip can generate heat, but Asus implemented a dual cooling system:
- Internal vapor chamber pipes that distribute heat evenly.
- An included snap-on external AeroActive Cooler 2 fan.
During a 30-minute “Fortnite” session with the cooler attached, surface temperatures dropped by 8°C, and the GPU maintained frequencies above 600 MHz without thermal throttling.
Software and Battery Life
The Asus ROG Phone II runs Android 9.0 Pie with a custom ROG UI overlay, tailored for gaming and performance optimization. The software includes an in-game Dashboard, customizable AirTrigger settings, and the Game Genie interface for screen recording, notification blocking, and on-the-fly overclocking.
Game Genie and Customization
Game Genie allows you to:
- Adjust graphical profiles on the fly.
- Customize AirTrigger functions (pressure and swipe gestures).
- Switch performance modes instantly (X Mode, Performance Mode, Standard Mode).
For example, switching to X Mode boosts TDP and clock speeds, while Standard Mode conserves battery during web browsing or video playback.
Battery Capacity and Charging
The 6,000 mAh battery was a record-breaker in the 2019 flagship segment—offering 50% more capacity than many competitors. Even with intensive gaming, it’s possible to get through a full day, and a three-hour Netflix marathon only drains about 20% of the battery.
- HyperCharge 30 W fast charging
- Supports QC4.0+ and USB-PD
From empty, you can reach 60% charge in just 30 minutes—perfect for quick top-ups between sessions.
Accessories and Ecosystem
One of the biggest strengths of the Asus ROG Phone II is its expandability with a range of peripherals. The package includes the AeroActive Cooler 2, and separately available accessories include:
- ROG Kunai Gamepad
- TwinView Dock II (adds a second screen for multitasking)
- Mobile Desktop Dock (HDMI, Ethernet, USB hub)
AeroActive Cooler 2
This external cooler attaches via the side port and reduces surface temperature by an additional 5°C. With four precisely positioned vents, it accelerates heat dissipation, enabling longer sustained performance without throttling.
Gamepad and Dual-Screen Dock
The ROG Kunai Gamepad offers a traditional controller layout with interchangeable grips and detachable controllers (similar to Joy-Cons), while the TwinView Dock II adds a second screen for immersive multitasking or streaming.
Conclusion
The Asus ROG Phone II remains a compelling device for mobile gamers even years after its release. Its combination of top-tier performance, a high-refresh-rate display, and extensive accessory support creates an experience that few phones have matched. While newer models have since emerged, the ROG Phone II’s thoughtful design and robust feature set ensure it still holds value for enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Asus ROG Phone II still worth buying in 2023?
Yes, if you prioritize gaming performance and can find it at a discounted price. It handles most modern games well, though it may not support the very latest graphical features.
How does the 120Hz display compare to newer phones?
It remains smooth and responsive, though some 2023 flagships offer 144Hz or adaptive refresh rates. For most users, the difference is negligible.
Can the ROG Phone II be used as a daily driver?
Absolutely. Its large battery, capable cameras, and software features make it suitable for everyday use beyond just gaming.
What accessories are essential for the best experience?
The AeroActive Cooler is great for extended sessions, while the Kunai Gamepad enhances control for action games.
Does it receive software updates?
Asus provided updates for several years, but support may have ended. Check for the latest available firmware before purchasing.
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