Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate Long-Term Review: Unleashing the Powerhouse Best Gaming Phone of 2023
In the ever-evolving world of gaming smartphones, Asus has once again raised the bar with its latest flagship, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the ROG Phone 6 Pro, this new device comes packed with cutting-edge features and performance enhancements to cater to the needs of avid mobile gamers. In this review, we will explore the key specifications, features, and overall user experience of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate.
The smartphone's build quality is exceptional, with Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the back cover and Gorilla Glass Victus safeguarding the display. While it is sturdy and well-made, its weight of 239 grams might not be ideal for everyone. The device features a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2448 x 1080 pixels, delivering impressive frame rates of up to 165 Hz and a highly responsive touch sampling rate of 720 Hz.
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Asus has equipped the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, one of the fastest Android SoCs available in 2023. Alongside 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage, the device ensures smooth multitasking and ample space for gaming files and media.
The smartphone is unique with two USB-C ports: one primarily for charging and the other supporting faster data transfer speeds, Quick Charge 5.0, and DisplayPort 1.4 output. The device supports 24 4G and 20 5G bands, ensuring robust connectivity, and features Wi-Fi 6E.
The AirTrigger ultrasonic sensors, which simulate L and R keys, can be configured for various in-game gestures. The AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan adds four additional input buttons, enhancing the gaming experience. Asus promises two OS upgrades and four years of security updates for the device.
Design and Display:
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate instantly stands out as a dedicated gaming smartphone with its powerful and striking design. It features a rear PMOLED display, which can be customized through the Armory Crate app, offering around 60 animations for various actions. The matte white finish with a two-color design adds to its distinct appearance.The smartphone's build quality is exceptional, with Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the back cover and Gorilla Glass Victus safeguarding the display. While it is sturdy and well-made, its weight of 239 grams might not be ideal for everyone. The device features a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with a resolution of 2448 x 1080 pixels, delivering impressive frame rates of up to 165 Hz and a highly responsive touch sampling rate of 720 Hz.
Performance and Hardware:
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The smartphone is unique with two USB-C ports: one primarily for charging and the other supporting faster data transfer speeds, Quick Charge 5.0, and DisplayPort 1.4 output. The device supports 24 4G and 20 5G bands, ensuring robust connectivity, and features Wi-Fi 6E.
Software and Gaming Features:
Running on Android 13 with Asus' ROG UI user interface, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate offers dedicated gaming features. The X mode, integrated directly into the UI, maximizes performance for gaming sessions. Apps like Game Genie and Armory Crate allow users to customize performance modes, AirTrigger controls, and more.The AirTrigger ultrasonic sensors, which simulate L and R keys, can be configured for various in-game gestures. The AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan adds four additional input buttons, enhancing the gaming experience. Asus promises two OS upgrades and four years of security updates for the device.
Gaming Experience:
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The X mode, which maximizes CPU, GPU, and RAM performance, ensures smooth gameplay even in graphically demanding titles. During testing, the device handled games like PUBG Mobile and Armajet effortlessly, offering high frame rates and exceptional graphics quality. The battery life is also commendable, thanks to the 6000 mAh battery, supporting long gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
Camera Performance:
While the camera may not be the primary focus of a gaming smartphone, Asus hasn't compromised in this area either. The 50 MP main camera, equipped with the Sony IMX766 sensor, delivers impressive results in daylight, with natural colors and sharpness. However, it struggles in low-light conditions, but still outperforms many non-gaming smartphones.The ultra-wide-angle camera and macro camera provide decent results for casual photography, but they don't match the main camera's quality. The front-facing 32 MP camera captures good selfies with natural colors.
Cooling and Heat Dissipation:
Efficient cooling is a critical factor for any gaming smartphone, and the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate certainly lives up to expectations in this regard. The device boasts an upgraded cooling system, complemented by the AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan, which works seamlessly to regulate temperatures even during prolonged gaming sessions. One standout feature is the strategic central placement of the SoC (System on a Chip) within the device, enabling uniform heat dissipation to all corners and sides. This smart design choice not only ensures optimal cooling efficiency but also contributes to a comfortable and secure grip, enhancing the overall gaming experience. With its thoughtful cooling mechanisms, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate reaffirms its position as a top-tier gaming smartphone for serious gamers.Battery:
With a 6000 mAh battery and 65W USB-PD fast charging, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate ensures long runtimes and quick charging capabilities. The efficient cooling system, coupled with the attachable AeroActive Cooler 7 fan, effectively dissipates heat, maintaining consistent performance during extended gaming sessions.Verdict:
The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is undeniably a powerhouse gaming smartphone, offering top-notch performance, innovative cooling solutions, and a host of gaming-centric features. Its design, though tailored for gamers, may not be the most comfortable for everyday use due to its weight and bulkiness. Additionally, the camera performance could be improved further, considering its premium price.For hardcore mobile gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize gaming performance above all else, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is a worthy investment. However, for those seeking a more affordable and mainstream smartphone with flagship features, there are other viable options available. As the gaming smartphone market continues to evolve, Asus' dedication to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional gaming experiences remains commendable.
FAQs:
Q: What are the key features of the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with up to 165 Hz refresh rate, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB storage, along with an improved cooling system and an external AeroActive Cooler 7 fan.
Q: Does the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate support 5G connectivity?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate supports 5G connectivity with extensive mobile frequency coverage.
Q: Can I customize the rear PMOLED display on the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
Yes, the mini display on the back can be customized via the Armory Crate app, offering around 60 animations for various actions.
Q: How is the camera performance of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate features a 50 MP main camera with the Sony IMX766 sensor, delivering good-quality pictures in daylight, but showing limitations in low-light conditions.
Q: Does the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate have a long battery life?
Yes, the device houses a 6000 mAh battery, offering a commendable battery life of around 17.5 hours of web surfing and almost 26 hours of video playback.
Q: Is the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate suitable for non-gaming tasks?
Yes, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and ample RAM make the device highly capable for everyday tasks and multitasking.
Q: Can I use external controllers with the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate for gaming?
Yes, the Game Genie app supports key mapping and allows you to use external controllers like ROG Kunai Gamepad 3, PS4, XBOX One, XBOX Series X, or Stadia.
Q: Is the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate water-resistant?
The device is IP54 certified, offering protection against dust and splashing water, but it is not fully waterproof.
Q: How does the cooling system perform in the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The device's efficient cooling system, combined with the AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan, keeps temperatures in check even during extended gaming sessions.
Q: Is the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate worth the price for serious mobile gamers?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate's powerful hardware, innovative gaming features, and exceptional cooling capabilities make it an excellent choice for dedicated mobile gamers.
The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with up to 165 Hz refresh rate, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB storage, along with an improved cooling system and an external AeroActive Cooler 7 fan.
Q: Does the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate support 5G connectivity?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate supports 5G connectivity with extensive mobile frequency coverage.
Q: Can I customize the rear PMOLED display on the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
Yes, the mini display on the back can be customized via the Armory Crate app, offering around 60 animations for various actions.
Q: How is the camera performance of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate features a 50 MP main camera with the Sony IMX766 sensor, delivering good-quality pictures in daylight, but showing limitations in low-light conditions.
Q: Does the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate have a long battery life?
Yes, the device houses a 6000 mAh battery, offering a commendable battery life of around 17.5 hours of web surfing and almost 26 hours of video playback.
Q: Is the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate suitable for non-gaming tasks?
Yes, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and ample RAM make the device highly capable for everyday tasks and multitasking.
Q: Can I use external controllers with the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate for gaming?
Yes, the Game Genie app supports key mapping and allows you to use external controllers like ROG Kunai Gamepad 3, PS4, XBOX One, XBOX Series X, or Stadia.
Q: Is the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate water-resistant?
The device is IP54 certified, offering protection against dust and splashing water, but it is not fully waterproof.
Q: How does the cooling system perform in the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The device's efficient cooling system, combined with the AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan, keeps temperatures in check even during extended gaming sessions.
Q: Is the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate worth the price for serious mobile gamers?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate's powerful hardware, innovative gaming features, and exceptional cooling capabilities make it an excellent choice for dedicated mobile gamers.
Q: What is the screen size and resolution of the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2448 x 1080 pixels.
Q: What are the frame rates supported by the display?
The display offers impressive frame rates of up to 165 Hz, providing smooth visuals during gaming.
Q: What is the touch sampling rate of the device?
The touch sampling rate of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is 720 Hz, ensuring highly responsive touch controls.
Q: Does the phone come with an external cooling fan?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate comes with the AeroActive Cooler 7 external fan to enhance cooling during gaming.
Q: How is the heat dissipation managed in the device?
The central placement of the SoC allows for uniform heat dissipation to all corners and sides, maintaining a comfortable grip.
Q: What is the RAM and storage configuration of the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The device comes with a generous 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.
The device comes with a generous 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.
Q: Which processor powers the Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate?
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, one of the fastest Android SoCs.
Q: How long does it take to charge the phone fully?
With the 65W USB-PD fast charging support, the phone can be fully charged in approximately 43 minutes.
Q: Can the phone handle graphically demanding games?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate performs exceptionally well in graphically demanding games, thanks to the X mode and powerful hardware.
Q: Does the device support Wi-Fi 7 connectivity?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate supports Wi-Fi 7, providing fast and stable internet connectivity.
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, one of the fastest Android SoCs.
Q: How long does it take to charge the phone fully?
With the 65W USB-PD fast charging support, the phone can be fully charged in approximately 43 minutes.
Q: Can the phone handle graphically demanding games?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate performs exceptionally well in graphically demanding games, thanks to the X mode and powerful hardware.
Q: Does the device support Wi-Fi 7 connectivity?
Yes, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate supports Wi-Fi 7, providing fast and stable internet connectivity.