RedMagic 9 Pro Review: Dreams come true, the most powerful phone!
If cameras take a back seat to your priority list for a flagship phone and you’re on the hunt for the ultimate gaming performance, the RedMagic 9 Pro stands out as a powerhouse in the gaming world. Featuring the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, it claims the title of the fastest gaming phone in recent tests.
The phone boasts a visually striking 6.8-inch flat AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth and responsive visuals for an immersive gaming experience.
- 【6.8" FHD+ Full Screen】Gaming Phone with a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2480 x 1116 pixels, this 6.8"...
- 【Latest Chip and Larger Storage】The Gaming Smartphone has the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (Red Core 2...
- 【Multi-Dimensional Cooling System】The Gaming Phone incorporates new aerospace-grade phase change materials...
- 【5G & WIFI Connection and 6500mAh Battery】5G is SA+NSA dual mode and supports all key regions up to 3.0 Gbps...
- 【Ultra HD AI Quad Camera】Rear Camera are Samsung GN5 50MP(Wide) + Samsung JN1 50MP(Ultrawide) + 2MP(Macro). The...
A notable feature for gaming enthusiasts is the inclusion of gaming triggers with a remarkable 520Hz sampling rate. These triggers can be customized through the software, allowing users to tailor their gaming experience to their preferences.
For those who take their mobile gaming seriously, the RedMagic 9 Pro emerges as the go-to choice. Its powerful hardware, immersive display, and dedicated gaming features make it a top contender in the gaming phone arena.
RedMagic 9 Pro: Video Review
| Specs | RedMagic 9 Pro |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM | 12GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB |
| Display | 6.8-inch FHD+ (2,480 x 1,116) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz |
| Software | Android 14 with RedMagic OS 9.0 |
| SIM support | Dual SIM |
| Cellular connectivity | 5G |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ports | USB-C, 3.5mm |
| Rear cameras | 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 16MP, under-display |
| Battery | 6,500mAh |
| Charging | 80W wired |
| Dust/water resistance | None |
| Size | 6.46 x 3.0 x 0.35 inches / 163.98 x 76.35 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 8.07 ounces / 229 grams |
| Colors | Black, Silver, Transparent/Grey |
RedMagic 9 Pro: Design
The RedMagic 9 Pro is a smartphone that boldly caters to the gaming community, and its design choices reflect its commitment to delivering a powerful gaming experience. For those unfamiliar with the gaming world, the device might appear imposing due to its substantial dimensions. Measuring at 163.98 x 76.35 mm and with a thickness of 8.9 mm, the RedMagic 9 Pro is a sizable device, weighing in at 229 grams.
In terms of design, the smartphone opts for a rectangular chassis with slightly rounded corners, maintaining flat edges for both the screen and the back. Unlike many smartphones with protruding camera sensors, the RedMagic 9 Pro keeps a flush profile on the back, contributing to its overall sleek appearance.
The back of the device features a transparent glass plate, offering a glimpse of internal elements without exposing any electronic components. The industrial aesthetic is accentuated by visible screws and gaming-themed typography. The inclusion of an LED-lit ’09’ and RGB LEDs on the fan and photo sensors adds a dynamic and gaming-centric touch.
The right edge of the device is host to several gaming-oriented features. Traditional volume buttons are accompanied by a vent for air intake, while a distinctive orange slide button provides quick access to the game management interface. Additionally, touch triggers, illuminated with RGB lighting, are strategically positioned at the ends, transforming the mobile into a portable console for an enhanced gaming experience.
On the upper edge, a jack socket allows users to connect a wired headset. However, the placement of this jack socket may not be the most convenient when holding the mobile in landscape mode for gaming.
It’s worth noting that the RedMagic 9 Pro, with its various openings for cooling, lacks any IP certification for dust and water resistance. Users should exercise caution, especially considering that the paint on the edges of the device is susceptible to damage from impacts. To mitigate this, the inclusion of a protective case is recommended for users looking to preserve the device’s aesthetic appeal over time.
Screen
The RedMagic 9 Pro prioritizes the gaming experience with its expansive 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, rivaling the size of the Samsung S23 Ultra. The display boasts a resolution of 2480 x 1116 pixels, providing players with a visually stunning and immersive environment. With a peak brightness of 1600 nits, the screen ensures comfortable visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.
In a departure from some smartphones designed for gaming that offer refresh rates of 144 Hz or even 165 Hz, the RedMagic 9 Pro opts for a maximum frequency of 120 Hz. While this may seem conservative in comparison, the device proves more than capable, considering the scarcity of games that can fully exploit such high refresh rates. Moreover, the user has the flexibility to adjust the frequency down to 60 Hz or 90 Hz, allowing for customization and potential battery life savings.
The design philosophy extends to the top of the screen, where there is a deliberate absence of notches or punch holes to accommodate the selfie camera. The goal is to minimize disruptions for the player, ensuring uninterrupted screen space for an immersive gaming session. The innovative placement of the selfie camera behind the AMOLED panel, reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, adds to the sleek and uninterrupted aesthetic.
The success of the RedMagic 9 Pro’s display is further evident in the minimal borders surrounding the screen. There are no noticeable chin or unsightly lines, creating a seamless and visually pleasing design.
Software
The RedMagic 9 Pro comes equipped with the latest Android 14, enhanced by the well-crafted RedMagic OS 9 software overlay.
One notable aspect of the RedMagic OS 9 is its user-friendly nature, staying true to the essence of Google’s Android. Users will find familiarity in the interface, ensuring a smooth transition for those accustomed to the standard Android experience.
Where the RedMagic 9 Pro truly shines is in the realm of customization. The device allows users to tailor their experience extensively, from icon styles to screen animations, and even the control of the vibrant LEDs. This level of personalization extends to a virtual shortcut button known as Z-Pop, providing swift access to specific functions. Additionally, there’s an applications pane on the edge of the screen, reminiscent of Samsung’s One UI, offering a convenient and efficient way to navigate through apps.
The interface exudes responsiveness, striking a delicate balance between functionality and simplicity. It avoids unnecessary clutter, making it easy for users to navigate and interact with the device seamlessly.
RedMagic 9 Pro: Performance
The RedMagic 9 Pro proudly claims the title of being the first mobile device to showcase Qualcomm’s latest System-on-Chip (SoC), the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This octa-core processor, boasting a cutting-edge architecture with 1 ARM Cortex- X4 at 3.19 GHz, 5 ARM Cortex-A720 at 2.96 GHz, and 2 ARM Cortex-A520 at 2.27 GHz, is manufactured using an advanced 4-nanometer process. Qualcomm promises a substantial performance boost, with a 30% increase in CPU performance and a 25% improvement in GPU performance compared to its predecessor.
Supporting this powerful SoC is an impressive 16 GB of RAM, ensuring that the RedMagic 9 Pro can handle any application, especially resource-intensive games, without encountering performance bottlenecks. Benchmark tests underscore the device’s prowess, with the Antutu test revealing outstanding performance that surpasses flagship competitors such as the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Asus Zenfone 10, Asus ROG Phone 7 Pro, and even the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The RedMagic 9 Pro emerges as the most powerful smartphone currently available, showing the capabilities of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
As a gaming-oriented smartphone, the RedMagic 9 Pro pays equal attention to its graphics capabilities. 3DMark tests demonstrate notable advancements in animation management, ensuring a smooth and immersive gaming experience. However, this impressive power comes at a cost – heat generation. To address this, the RedMagic 9 Pro continues the tradition of its predecessors by featuring a small fan on the back and ventilation vents on each edge. The fan can rotate at an astonishing 22,000 revolutions per minute, providing efficient cooling. However, it is not without its audible presence, producing a noticeable sound, especially under intense usage. Users are advised to consider wearing headphones during extended gaming sessions to mitigate any potential disturbance caused by the cooling fan.
Games
Diving into the gaming aspect of the RedMagic 9 Pro reveals a dedicated and robust gaming experience. The inclusion of an orange slide button that leads to the Game Space interface underscores the device’s commitment to providing a seamless and optimized gaming environment.
Game Space proves to be an essential tool for gamers, optimizing device performance and minimizing battery consumption. Regardless of the chosen refresh rate (60, 90, or 120 Hz), the RedMagic 9 Pro ensures smooth gameplay without any stutter or loss of frames per second (FPS). In practical terms, during a two-hour gaming session with demanding titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty in high-quality mode (without pushing the processor to its limits), the battery only experienced a 30% drop, maintaining reasonable endurance for such demanding gameplay. However, it’s worth noting that pushing the device to its limits can result in a faster battery drain.
Game Space also allows users to fine-tune game settings, adjust CPU and GPU performance, monitor in-game statistics (playing time, sessions, battery level, and processor temperature), control the fan, and activate a “do not disturb” mode to avoid interruptions during intense gaming sessions.
The hub is a versatile platform where users can add plugins to the library, offering special options for specific games such as color inversion, automatic long press, intelligent 4D vibration, and more. It facilitates connections to larger screens, controllers, keyboards, and mice. The inclusion of Mora, an avatar serving as a personal assistant, may cater specifically to gaming and anime enthusiasts.
Game Space is also the go-to place for screenshot capture, game recording, and streaming. Its accessibility during a gaming session, albeit through a somewhat non-intuitive gesture, further enhances the user experience, providing a range of customizable options and special functions.
The RedMagic 9 Pro’s ergonomic design contributes to prolonged gaming comfort, fitting snugly into the hands. The presence of tactile triggers on the edges, configurable for short or long presses, adds a competitive advantage in certain games. Haptic feedback enhances immersion, while the integrated fan, a trademark of the RedMagic range, ensures optimal SOC temperature. Despite potential noise concerns at full speed, users have the flexibility to deactivate or customize the fan’s operation, emphasizing the device’s focus on maintaining peak gaming performance.
Camera
While the RedMagic 9 Pro is primarily renowned for its gaming prowess, it doesn’t neglect the camera department. Equipped with two Samsung sensors, the device surprises users with its photographic capabilities. The main wide-angle module boasts an impressive 50 MP (f/1.8), accompanied by an ultra-wide-angle module also sporting 50 MP (f/2.2). On the front, a discreet 16 MP (f/2.0) selfie camera is cleverly placed behind the screen.
In well-lit conditions, the wide-angle module delivers commendable results. The photos exhibit sharpness, although the focus may take a moment to lock on. The device allows users to disengage the sensor to capture 50 MP images, though the practical use of this feature remains somewhat limited.
The portrait mode is reasonably well-managed, albeit requiring some adjustments to achieve the desired outcome. While clipping may not be flawless, especially with complex subjects, the overall performance is noteworthy.
The ultra-wide-angle module, however, doesn’t quite steal the spotlight. Despite the 50 MP sensor, there’s a noticeable loss of detail, although the photos remain usable. It’s worth noting that the ultra-wide-angle mode is limited to capturing photos in a 4:3 format rather than the more common 16:9.
Surprisingly, the RedMagic 9 Pro performs admirably in low-light conditions. Punchy colors, preserved details, and effective management of ambient lighting contribute to a positive night photography experience—a pleasant surprise considering the device’s primary focus on gaming.
On the flip side, the selfie camera comes with a caveat. The images may exhibit a slight dull veil, likely attributed to its unique placement behind the AMOLED display. Moderation is key when relying on the front-facing camera for capturing moments.
Battery
Powering the RedMagic 9 Pro is a robust 6500mAh battery, a notable upgrade with an additional 1500mAh compared to the current standard in smartphones. This significant capacity likely contributes to the device’s slightly thicker chassis.
In practical terms, our tests using the PC Mark benchmark, which simulates various smartphone uses such as video playback, office work, and photo editing, revealed that the RedMagic 9 Pro lasted just shy of twelve hours. While this falls a bit short of some expectations, it’s important to note that maximizing battery life can be achieved by minimizing the use of LEDs and adjusting the refresh rate, often set automatically to 120Hz.
Where the RedMagic 9 Pro truly shines is in the realm of recharging. Nubia includes an impressive 80W charger in the box, capable of refueling the device in a remarkable 35 minutes. This rapid charging capability ensures that users spend less time tethered to a power source and more time enjoying their gaming sessions.
RedMagic 9 Pro: Conclusion
At the heart of this gaming-centric marvel lies Qualcomm’s latest flagship SoC, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, marking the RedMagic 9 Pro as the pioneer to showcase its astonishing power. Nubia has left no stone unturned in creating an environment conducive to exceptional gaming experiences. The device incorporates effective cooling mechanisms, albeit occasionally noisy, ensuring maintained high-level performance. The expansive AMOLED screen enhances visuals, and the inclusion of tactile triggers transforms the smartphone into a gaming console, elevating the gaming experience to new heights.
- 【6.8" FHD+ Full Screen】Gaming Phone with a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2480 x 1116 pixels, this 6.8"...
- 【Latest Chip and Larger Storage】The Gaming Smartphone has the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (Red Core 2...
- 【Multi-Dimensional Cooling System】The Gaming Phone incorporates new aerospace-grade phase change materials...
- 【5G & WIFI Connection and 6500mAh Battery】5G is SA+NSA dual mode and supports all key regions up to 3.0 Gbps...
- 【Ultra HD AI Quad Camera】Rear Camera are Samsung GN5 50MP(Wide) + Samsung JN1 50MP(Ultrawide) + 2MP(Macro). The...
As for the pricing strategy, the RedMagic 9 Pro caters to different preferences with two configurations. The more affordable model, featuring 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, is priced at 649 euros. The top version boasts a more respectable 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage and costs €799.
The device is set for pre-orders starting December 27 on the Nubia website and will be officially available from January 3, 2024.
