Gaming smartphones have evolved significantly, delivering top-tier performance, high refresh rate displays, and advanced cooling systems. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro and RedMagic 10 Pro are two of the most anticipated gaming phones of 2025, both boasting impressive specifications and gaming-centric features. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s compare their design, performance, display, battery life, software, and gaming features to determine the best gaming phone for 2025.
Design and Build Quality
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
The ROG Phone 9 Pro continues ASUS’s tradition of bold and aggressive gaming aesthetics. With RGB lighting on the back, customizable AeroActive Cooler ports, and an aluminum frame, it offers a premium feel. ASUS has improved the phone’s ergonomics, making it easier to hold during extended gaming sessions.
RedMagic 10 Pro
The RedMagic 10 Pro also features a gaming-centric design, but with a slightly more streamlined approach. It has a transparent back panel that showcases its internal cooling fan and RGB lighting. The device remains lightweight, and the touch-sensitive shoulder triggers add to the immersive gaming experience.
Verdict: Tie
Both phones offer exceptional gaming designs, with ASUS focusing on durability and RedMagic prioritizing an edgy, futuristic aesthetic.
Display
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Size: 6.8 inches
- Resolution: 3200 x 1440 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Touch Sampling Rate: 720Hz
- Technology: AMOLED with HDR10+
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Size: 6.8 inches
- Resolution: 2400 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Touch Sampling Rate: 1000Hz
- Technology: AMOLED with HDR10+
Verdict: RedMagic 10 Pro Wins
While both phones feature the same refresh rate, the RedMagic 10 Pro has a higher touch sampling rate, making it slightly better for ultra-fast touch response times.
Performance and Hardware
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
- RAM: Up to 24GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: Up to 1TB UFS 4.0
- Cooling: Vapor chamber with AeroActive Cooler 7
- GPU: Adreno 750
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
- RAM: Up to 20GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: Up to 1TB UFS 4.0
- Cooling: Active internal cooling fan with vapor chamber
- GPU: Adreno 750
Verdict: ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Wins
The ROG Phone 9 Pro edges out the RedMagic 10 Pro with its superior cooling system and higher RAM capacity, ensuring better sustained performance during long gaming sessions.
Battery Life and Charging
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Battery Capacity: 6000mAh
- Charging Speed: 80W wired, 50W wireless
- Additional Features: Bypass charging to reduce heat
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Battery Capacity: 5500mAh
- Charging Speed: 120W wired, 30W wireless
- Additional Features: AI-powered battery optimization
Verdict: Tie
The ROG Phone 9 Pro offers a bigger battery, but the RedMagic 10 Pro charges faster. It depends on whether you prioritize longer battery life or ultra-fast charging.
Gaming Features
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- AirTriggers 7 with motion controls
- GameCool 8 cooling system
- Dual front-facing stereo speakers with Dirac tuning
- AeroActive Cooler 7 attachment with extra buttons
- Dedicated X Mode for performance tuning
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Shoulder triggers with 520Hz touch response
- Internal cooling fan with RGB lighting
- Dedicated gaming mode with custom performance profiles
- Dual speakers with DTS:X Ultra support
Verdict: ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Wins
ASUS includes a more robust set of gaming-centric features, including better cooling and additional hardware support.
Software and UI
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- OS: ROG UI based on Android 15
- Customization: Extensive gaming tweaks, macro recording, and refresh rate control
- Software Updates: 4 years of updates
RedMagic 10 Pro
- OS: RedMagic OS based on Android 15
- Customization: Performance tuning, game space mode, and fan control
- Software Updates: 3 years of updates
Verdict: ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Wins
With longer software support and a more refined gaming UI, ASUS provides a better long-term experience.
Camera Comparison
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Primary: 64MP Sony IMX890 with OIS
- Ultra-wide: 13MP
- Macro: 8MP
- Front: 32MP
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Primary: 50MP Samsung GN5 with OIS
- Ultra-wide: 8MP
- Macro: 2MP
- Front: 16MP
Verdict: ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Wins
While gaming phones aren’t known for their cameras, ASUS offers better overall camera performance.
Price and Value
ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro
- Starting Price: $1,299
- Variants: 16GB/512GB, 24GB/1TB
RedMagic 10 Pro
- Starting Price: $999
- Variants: 16GB/256GB, 20GB/512GB
Verdict: RedMagic 10 Pro Wins
For gamers on a budget, the RedMagic 10 Pro provides excellent value for money while still delivering top-tier performance.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro if you:
- Want the best overall gaming performance and cooling
- Prefer a higher RAM variant for future-proofing
- Need longer software support and better cameras
- Don’t mind paying a premium price
Choose the RedMagic 10 Pro if you:
- Want a more affordable gaming phone with top-tier features
- Prioritize ultra-fast charging
- Prefer a higher touch sampling rate for competitive gaming
Both phones excel in their own way, making them excellent choices for mobile gamers in 2025. Ultimately, the best phone for you depends on your gaming preferences and budget!
