Unleashing Power And Precision: A Deep Dive Into The ASUS ROG Phone 8, ROG Phone 8 Pro, And ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition

Getting Cozy with the Hardware: Unveiling the Ergonomics and Aesthetics

Crafted with precision, the ROG Phone 8 boasts a sleek glass front and back, an aluminum frame, and a mesmerizing backlit RGB logo on the back. The Pro version takes things up a notch with a programmable matrix of 341 mini-LEDs on the back. It's not just a phone; it's a spectacle. Here are the relevant specs:

The ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro share identical dimensions and weight, measuring 163.8×76.8×8.9 mm and weighing in at 225 g. These dimensions strike a balance, offering a substantial feel in your hands without being overly bulky. Long gaming sessions? No problem. These phones are designed for comfort, ensuring you won't feel like you're lugging around a brick.

Both phones feature a display protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the unsung hero of your gaming escapades. Victus 2 is not just a screen protector; it's a guardian against scratches and accidental drops. The benefit? You can dive headfirst into your gaming world without fretting over potential damages - it's the peace of mind every gamer deserves.

The phones sport a Gorilla Glass back and an aluminum frame, showcasing a marriage of style and durability. The Gorilla Glass back not only adds a touch of sophistication but also provides that extra layer of robustness. The aluminum frame, on the other hand, ensures structural integrity without compromising on weight. Together, they create a device that's as tough as it is elegant.

The ROG Phone 8 series comes with two color options, allowing you to choose your gaming persona.

For those who prefer a sleek, mysterious vibe, Phantom Black is the go-to choice. It exudes a sense of sophistication, making a statement that your phone is not just a gaming device; it's a fashion accessory for the tech-savvy elite.

On the flip side, Rebel Gray adds a touch of rebellion to your gaming persona. It's the color for those who like to stand out, subtly declaring, "I'm here to break the mold." If you're all about making a statement, Rebel Gray might just be your color soulmate.

In short, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro are not just about raw power and high refresh rates; they've nailed the art of ergonomic design and aesthetics. Whether you're gaming for hours or casually strolling with your device in your pocket, these phones promise a comfortable grip and an aesthetic appeal that aligns with your unique style. So, whether you're a Phantom Black sophisticate or a Rebel Gray maverick, rest assured - ASUS has crafted a phone that feels as good as it looks. Game on in style!

If we compare the vanilla ROG Phone 8 with its predecessor ROG Phone 7, it's gotten smaller, slimmer, and lighter; the ROG Phone 7 was 173×77×10.3 mm and 239 g. Build-wise, it sported a Gorilla Glass Victus front, a Gorilla Glass 3 back, and an aluminum frame. Like the newer model, it also featured a backlit RGB logo on the back.

ASUS ROG Phone 8. Image credit: ASUS

IP Rating

(Related: IP ratings explained.)

Both the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro proudly flaunt an IP68 rating, making them dust-proof and water-resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. This rating is your ticket to peace of mind in a world filled with spills, splashes, and unexpected adventures.

For those new to it, the first digit of the IP rating, which is 6 in this case, tells us about the device's resistance to solids like dust. A 6 means it's practically dust-tight. No need to worry about tiny particles sneaking in and causing mischief.

And the second digit, which is 8, is the real star of the show. It signifies the device's resistance to liquids. An 8 means it can withstand being submerged in water. But, hold your horses, there's more to it. The number 8 in this case indicates that it can handle being submerged up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. So, it's not just a light drizzle protector; it can take a proper dunking.

General Tip: It is a good idea to use a protective case and a screen protector to give your phone that extra layer of security.

For comparison, the predecessor ROG Phone 7 had an IP54 dust and splash resistance rating.

Display

(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)

The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display, with a 165 Hz refresh rate, 1080×2400 pixel resolution, and HDR10 support, takes gaming visuals to a whole new level.

Here are the relevant specs:

The ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro boast LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) AMOLED displays, raising the bar for visual excellence in the gaming arena. LTPO is the secret sauce of the power-efficient wizard at the heart of these displays. It manages power consumption dynamically, ensuring the screen sips energy when it can and chugs it when you need that dazzling brightness. This translates to not just eye-popping visuals but also efficiency in battery usage.

And AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode) is the canvas for your visual masterpiece. It means each pixel emits its own light, allowing for true blacks, vibrant colors, and energy efficiency. Say goodbye to dull and hello to dynamic.

Prepare to have your senses heightened with a staggering 165 Hz refresh rate. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the fluidity of transitions, ensuring every swipe, every animation, and every gaming move happens seamlessly. Your eyes will thank you for the smooth visual feast.

The 1080×2400 pixels resolution is the canvas where every detail comes to life. Whether you're exploring the depths of a game or watching high-res content, the pixel perfection ensures clarity that's nothing short of breathtaking.

With a High Brightness Mode (HBM) that peaks at 1600 nits and an astonishing 2500 nits in peak brightness, these displays are your ticket to clear visibility, no matter the lighting conditions. Your gaming experience remains top-notch, whether you're chasing victory under the bright sun or navigating the shadows.

The support for 1 billion colors and HDR10 brings your content to life. Whether you're gaming, streaming, or just scrolling through social media, the vivid colors and high dynamic range elevate your visual experience to a whole new level.

The Always-On display feature ensures you're always in the loop, even when your phone is at rest. Glance at the time, notifications, or any customized information without unlocking your device - it's the epitome of convenience and style.

In essence, the LTPO AMOLED displays on the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro redefine what's possible in mobile gaming. From the unparalleled refresh rate to the vibrant color spectrum and the innovative gaming triggers, these displays don't just showcase visuals; they immerse you in a world where every detail matters. Get ready to see, feel, and conquer - ASUS has set the stage for an unparalleled gaming spectacle. Game on!

For comparison, the predecessor ROG Phone 7 featured a 6.78-inch, 1080×2448 px AMOLED display, with 165 Hz refresh rate, 1000 nits HBM, and 1500 nits peak brightness. It supported 1 billion colors and HDR10+.

Networks

(Related: Cellular networks explained.)

Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital realm! Both the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro, with their support for the GSM, CDMA, HSPA, LTE, and 5G technologies, are like well-connected socialites in the world of networks.

GSM, the reliable workhorse, lays the foundation for 2G connectivity, ensuring seamless voice calls and text messages. CDMA is a parallel powerhouse, offering a different approach to network communication with distinct coding techniques. Then, HSPA steps up to the plate, championing 3G connectivity, providing faster data transfer rates and improved multimedia capabilities.

LTE, the bedrock of 4G networks, elevates the user experience with swift internet speeds and enhanced call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. This powerhouse not only promises lightning-fast download and upload speeds but also significantly reduces latency, opening up a realm of possibilities for innovative applications and technologies that will shape the future.

SIM

The ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro support dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by). This capability adds a layer of convenience for those juggling work and personal life on a single device.

Chipset: Performance and Power

Fueled by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, these beasts of phones pack an octa-core CPU that won't break a sweat, even during the most intense gaming sessions. Here are the relevant specs:

At the core of the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro beats the heart of gaming prowess - the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, built on the 4 nm process. This latest chipset from Qualcomm is not just a brain; it's a powerhouse designed to meet the demands of intense gaming and seamless multitasking.

The octa-core CPU within the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is a symphony of different core types, each with a unique role to play.

The Cortex-X4 (3.3 GHz) core is the performance juggernaut. It is the muscle, handling the heavy lifting - think high-demand tasks, like gaming or resource-intensive applications. When you need that burst of power, the Cortex-X4 steps up to the plate.

The five Cortex-A720 (3.2 GHz) cores are the versatile workhorses. These are the backbone, managing everyday tasks with efficiency. From running apps to keeping your phone responsive, the Cortex-A720 cores ensure smooth sailing through your daily mobile endeavors.

And the remaining two Cortex-A520 (2.3 GHz) cores are the efficiency experts. These are designed to handle less demanding tasks while sipping power conservatively. When you're idling, enjoying some light browsing or casual app usage, the Cortex-A520 cores take the lead, optimizing energy consumption.

Complementing the CPU, the Adreno 750 GPU is the visual powerhouse responsible for rendering stunning graphics. Whether you're navigating complex gaming environments or indulging in high-definition content, the Adreno 750 ensures a visual feast, where every frame is a work of art.

In essence, the trio of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the octa-core CPU, and the Adreno 750 GPU creates a symbiotic relationship that caters to every aspect of your smartphone experience. From raw power for gaming marathons to efficient multitasking and breathtaking visuals, these components work together harmoniously. It's not just a phone; it's a technological orchestra playing your favorite tune. Get ready to be immersed in a world where every interaction is seamless, every visual is breathtaking, and every task is a breeze. Game on, powered by the heart of innovation!

The ROG Phone 8 sees a significant upgrade over the predecessor ROG Phone 7 in this department. The ROG Phone 7 sported the Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) chipset, housing an octa-core CPU (1×3.2 GHz Cortex-X3 + 2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 + 2×2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 + 3×2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) and the Adreno 740 GPU.

Memory and Storage

Here are the relevant specs:

With options for 12 GB to 24 GB RAM, paired with UFS 4.0 internal storage from 256 GB to a whopping 1 TB, the ROG Phone 8 series is a powerhouse ready for any challenge.

For comparison, the predecessor ROG Phone 7 came in two variants of RAM / UFS 4.0 internal storage, namely, 12 GB / 256 GB and 16 GB / 512 GB. It also had external NTFS storage support.

Camera Capabilities

The triple-camera setup, led by a 50 MP main shooter, delivers stunning visuals. Whether you're capturing the vast landscapes with the ultrawide lens or going for cinematic shots in 8K, the ROG Phone 8 series ensures your content stands out. The 32 MP selfie camera guarantees your social media game remains strong.

ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro. Image credit: ASUS

Rear Camera: Capturing Brilliance

Both the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro are armed with versatile camera systems, offering a range of lenses tailored to cater to different photographic scenarios. The vanilla ROG Phone 8 comes in two variants having distinct cameras, though all the phones share the main 50 MP lens. Here are the relevant specs:

The mainstay of the setup, the wide lens with a massive 50 MP (f/1.9) sensor captures detailed and vibrant shots. Whether you're in the midst of a bustling cityscape or capturing the minutiae of nature, the wide lens is your go-to for stunning, high-resolution photography.

With a 13 MP ultrawide lens featuring a 120° field of view, you can squeeze more into the frame. Ideal for capturing expansive landscapes or fitting all your friends into a single shot, the ultrawide lens adds a touch of versatility to your photography.

The 5 MP macro lens (in the India / South-East Asia model of the vanilla ROG Phone 8) lets you get up close and personal with your subject, capturing intricate details that might go unnoticed. Whether it's the delicate veins of a leaf or the texture of a surface, the macro lens brings a new perspective to your photography.

Taking it a step further, the ROG Phone 8 Pro and the international model of the vanilla ROG Phone 8 boast a 32 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Perfect for capturing distant subjects with clarity, the telephoto lens opens up a world of possibilities for creative photography.

Swift and accurate PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) ensures your subjects are crisp and clear, even in dynamic or fast-paced scenarios.

OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) counters hand tremors and shakes, ensuring that your images and videos remain steady and blur-free, especially in low-light conditions or when using higher zoom levels.

Exclusive to the 50 MP wide lens, Gimbal OIS takes stabilization to the next level. It provides advanced stabilization across multiple axes, delivering smooth and cinematic footage even in challenging shooting conditions.

The LED flash serves as your trusty companion in low-light conditions. When natural light is scarce, the flash brightens up the scene, allowing you to capture clear and vibrant photos, even in dimly lit environments.

Panorama mode enables you to embrace the wide-angle glory. Capture sweeping landscapes or group shots with ease, as the camera stitches together multiple images seamlessly to create a panoramic masterpiece. It's your ticket to fitting more into a single frame.

And HDR (High Dynamic Range) ensures balanced exposure, preserving details in both shadows and highlights.

The main camera setup of the ROG Phone 8 series doesn't just excel in photography; it's a cinematic maestro as well. Gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) is your ally in video recording, minimizing shakes and jitters for smoother footage. It's particularly handy when you're on the move, capturing dynamic scenes without compromising on quality.

HDR10+ in video recording ensures a wider dynamic range, enhancing the overall visual experience by preserving details in varying lighting conditions.

High frame rates like 240 and 480 fps in video recording allow for stunning slow-motion footage. Whether you're capturing the intricacies of a fast-paced action scene or adding a dramatic touch to your storytelling, these high frame rates open up creative possibilities.

Overall, these features of the versatile camera setup have a number of practical applications. Let's explore some possibilities. The Gimbal OIS, Gyro-EIS, and HDR10+ collectively contribute to creating cinematic videos with enhanced stability, dynamic range, and detail. The varied lenses, including macro and telephoto, empower you to explore different photographic genres, from intricate close-ups to distant panoramas. And high frame rates enable you to capture and relive fast-paced moments in slow motion, adding drama and impact to your videos.

In essence, the camera systems in the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro are not just tools for capturing moments; they're gateways to unleashing your creativity. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a videography aficionado, these phones cater to your every imaging need, ensuring that every shot is a masterpiece and every video is a visual journey. Get ready to document your world in breathtaking detail!

For comparison, the older ROG Phone 7 featured a triple camera setup, consisting of a 50 MP (24 mm, f/1.9) wide lens supporting PDAF; a 13 MP (13 mm, f/2.2) ultrawide lens with a 120° field of view; and a 5 MP (f/2.0) macro lens. Its video recording capabilities and feature set matched those of the ROG Phone 8.

Front Camera

The selfie camera in both the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:

For comparison, the older ROG Phone 7 featured a 32 MP (29 mm, f/2.5) wide selfie shooter, with similar video recording capabilities and feature set. It was housed inside the top bezel of the phone, with no cut-out or notch in the display.

Battery and Charging

(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)

Here are the relevant specs:

A massive 5500 mAh battery ensures you don't run out of juice mid-game. In the India / South-East Asia models, 30 W wired charging, 15 W wireless charging, and 10 W reverse wired charging mean downtime is minimal. In the international models, the 65 W wired charging along with QC 5 support is a game-changer. Going to 100% in just 39 minutes means more gaming and less waiting.

For comparison, the older ROG Phone 7, with its larger size, featured a massive 6000 mAh Li-Po battery, with support for 65 W wired charging over PD 3.0 and QC 5. It also sported 10 W reverse wired charging.

Sound

Here are the relevant specs:

Hi-Res Audio (High-Resolution Audio) is an audio technology that goes beyond the limitations of standard audio formats, delivering a richer, more immersive listening experience. Its higher bit depth can capture more detail in the sound, and its higher sampling rate (standard CD-quality audio often has a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz) allows the audio system to capture more nuances in the music. In essence, Hi-Res Audio transforms your listening experience from ordinary to extraordinary. It's about hearing your favorite tunes and audio content in a way that's truer to the artist's vision. With both phones in the ROG Phone 8 lineup supporting Hi-Res Audio, you're not just listening; you're diving deep into a sonic universe, where every note, every beat, and every whisper comes alive in exquisite detail.

The Hi-Res wireless audio signifies that the device supports audio playback at a high resolution through wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth. When you use wireless audio devices, such as Bluetooth headphones or speakers, you can experience audio playback with enhanced clarity and detail. This is particularly appealing for users who prioritize a high-quality audio experience, whether they are listening to music, watching videos, or engaging in other multimedia activities. It's a nod to audiophiles and those who appreciate the finer nuances of sound, even in a wireless audio setup.

The inclusion of a 3.5 mm jack is a nod to those who still appreciate the traditional wired audio experience.

For comparison, the older ROG Phone 7 came with stereo loudspeakers consisting of two amplifiers. It supported 32-bit, 384 kHz audio and Snapdragon Sound, but no Hi-Res wireless. It also supported the headphone jack.

Connectivity

The connectivity options of the ASUS ROG Phone 8 series are like a vast array of bridges and tunnels, ensuring your phone is never far away from the wonders of the digital world. With support for Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, it covers all the bases, ensuring you can connect to any Wi-Fi network, old or new. But it doesn't stop there - it's tri-band, meaning it operates on three different frequency bands, reducing congestion and ensuring a smoother internet experience. And then there's Wi-Fi Direct, a feature that allows direct device-to-device connections without the need for a router. It's perfect for fast file transfers and seamless collaboration.

The phones boast Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a seamless and high-quality connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming, LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, aptX HD for superior audio quality, aptX Adaptive for dynamically and efficiently adjusting the audio bit-rate based on the complexity of audio and the quality of connection, and aptX Lossless for delivering uncompromised audio fidelity without any loss in quality during transmission (as if you were listening through a wired connection), your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.

These phones are true global travelers, supporting various positioning systems, including GPS (L1+L5), BDS (B1I+B1c+B2a), GALILEO (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1+L5), NavIC (L5), and GLONASS.

The ROG Phone 8 series features NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your phone interactions effortless.

The ASUS ROG Phone 8 series features dual USB-C ports (at the bottom and on the side), as a testament to its versatility, especially when it comes to catering to gaming enthusiasts and power users.

The USB-C port at the bottom ensures a reliable connection, whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.

The USB-C connector on the side is a gateway to enhanced connectivity, whose primary function is to charge the display output. Here's where it gets interesting. This USB Type-C port supports DisplayPort 1.4, turning your smartphone into a potential powerhouse for external displays. With the right cable, you can connect your Phone to external monitors or TVs, creating a larger-than-life gaming experience. This is fantastic for gamers who want the flexibility to play on a bigger screen without compromising on performance. Connect your phone to a large display, pair it with gaming peripherals, and you've essentially transformed your smartphone into a gaming console. The USB Type-C port, with its DisplayPort support, ensures that you get the visual fidelity and responsiveness needed for an immersive gaming setup.

Sensors

The ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro come equipped with the following sensors:

• Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
• Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is the in-display, optical type in both the phones.
• Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
• Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
• Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.

The addition of pressure-sensitive zones enhances gameplay by providing extra control options, much like traditional gaming controllers. Imagine having an extra set of buttons that respond to the slightest touch - that's the magic of pressure-sensitive zones or gaming triggers. Strategically placed on the device, these zones turn your phone into a gaming controller, adding a tactile layer to your gaming strategy. It's not just gaming; it's gaming with precision.

Beyond gaming, pressure-sensitive zones can enhance general navigation. A lighter touch might scroll through a list, while a firmer press could open an app or activate a specific function. For creative souls, pressure-sensitive zones can be a boon. Imagine using them while sketching or editing photos. The pressure sensitivity adds a layer of control, letting you vary the thickness of lines or the intensity of edits with a touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro release date?

  The ASUS ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 8 Pro (including the ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition) have been announced on the 8th January, 2024. They are expected to release on the 31st January, 2024.

• What is ASUS ROG Phone 8 price?

  The ASUS ROG Phone 8 is priced starting from EUR 1099 (about USD 1206) for the 12 GB / 256 GB variant.

• What is ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro price?

  The ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro (16 GB / 512 GB) is priced EUR 1199 (about USD 1316).

• What is ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition price?

  The ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition (24 GB / 1 TB) is priced EUR 1499 (about USD 1646).