Unveiling the Asus ROG Phone II Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The Asus ROG Phone II ZS660KL stands out with its robust design, combining glass and aluminum for a sturdy feel. The device measures 171 x 77.6 x 9.5 mm, making it substantial in hand, with a weight of 240 g. The Gorilla Glass front and back add to its durability, with the aluminum frame providing additional strength against drops and bumps. The phone is available in two color options: Matte Black and Glossy Black, both giving it an aggressive gaming look that fits well within the ROG lineage.

Display

The display on the ROG Phone II is one of its standout features: a 6.59-inch AMOLED panel capable of rendering over one billion colors. It boasts a full HD resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, delivering sharp and vivid visuals with a pixel density of approximately 391 ppi. The screen supports HDR10 and has a refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring ultra-smooth scrolling and an immersive gaming experience. Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protects the screen from scratches and minor impacts.

Performance

At the heart of the Asus ROG Phone II is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855+ chipset, a high-performance processor designed to handle heavy gaming sessions and multitasking with ease. The Octa-core CPU configuration includes a 2.96 GHz Kryo 485 core for intensive tasks, three 2.42 GHz Kryo 485 cores for balancing performance and power, and four 1.78 GHz Kryo 485 cores for efficiency. The Adreno 640 GPU, clocked at 700 MHz, handles graphics duties, ensuring smooth gameplay and high frame rates even in demanding titles.

Memory and Storage

The device offers a variety of RAM and storage configurations to cater to different needs. With options ranging from 8GB to 12GB of RAM, and storage variants of 128GB, 256GB, and up to a massive 1TB, the ROG Phone II eliminates concerns about running out of space or memory. However, it should be noted that the phone does not support external memory cards, so users should choose their storage option wisely based on their usage patterns.

Camera

The ROG Phone II comes equipped with a dual rear camera setup, featuring a primary 48 MP sensor with an f/1.8 aperture for wide shots, and a secondary 13 MP ultrawide sensor with an f/2.4 aperture. The camera is well-equipped for various photography scenarios with phase detection and laser autofocus, and it can capture videos in 4K at 30/60fps. The front-facing camera does not disappoint either, with a 24 MP sensor capable of HDR and panorama shots, along with video recording at 1080p@30fps.

Battery and Charging

A key strength of the ROG Phone II is its massive 6000 mAh battery, designed to provide extended usage times, essential for gamers. The battery supports fast charging at 30W, ensuring quick power-ups when needed. Additionally, the phone supports 10W reverse charging, allowing it to charge other devices, which can be a handy feature on-the-go.

Software and UI

Running on Android 9.0 (Pie) with ROG UI, the phone offers a custom-tailored interface optimized for gaming. The ROG UI brings additional features such as the Armoury Crate, where users can manage game settings, optimize system performance, and customize Aura lighting to enhance the gaming atmosphere. Despite heavy customization, the UI maintains smooth operation without significant slowdowns.

Network and Connectivity

The ROG Phone II supports a wide array of connectivity options, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks. The dual SIM slots allow flexibility in managing work and personal communications. For high-speed internet, it offers Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ad, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, as well as a Bluetooth 5.0 connection with aptX HD for high-quality audio streaming. Additional features like NFC, GPS, and FM radio enhance the phone's versatility in daily use.

Sound and Audio

As a gaming phone, sound quality is a crucial aspect, and the ROG Phone II excels here with DTS:X stereo speakers and two dedicated amplifiers that deliver a robust audio experience. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensures that traditional wired headphones can still be used, providing flexibility and convenience for all audio preferences.

Miscellaneous Features

The phone is equipped with various sensors including an in-display optical fingerprint scanner, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass. Its design supports bi-directional USB Type-C 3.1 for fast data transfer and charging, and it can be used with a range of accessories through the accessory connector.

Performance Tests

The ROG Phone II has been rigorously tested and showcases remarkable performance metrics. In the AnTuTu benchmark, it scores a notable 483239 (v8), and on GeekBench, it achieves a multicore score of 10923, underlining its prowess in handling intensive tasks. The device's endurance rating is also exemplary, with 114 hours of usage before needing a recharge, supported by its large battery.

Conclusion

Asus ROG Phone II ZS660KL is a formidable device aimed squarely at gaming enthusiasts. Its combination of powerful hardware, a long-lasting battery, and an emphasis on immersive audiovisual experiences makes it a standout in the gaming phone market. While it may not support external SD cards, its vast storage options and high-performance capabilities make it an ideal choice for serious gamers looking for a device that can handle both work and play.