Redmagic 9 Pro Review

The Redmagic 9 Pro is the latest gaming phone from Nubia. Inside are the latest and greatest components, while outside is an impressive design and a seamless, notch-free screen. This combination screams premium quality, but the price is impressively competitive. After multiple weeks of putting the phone through its paces, here is my Redmagic 9 Pro review.

Spec-heavy

Let’s start with the specs, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 earning the spotlight. The substantial increase in CPU and GPU performance, coupled with LPDDR5X 12/16 GB RAM and UFS 4.0 256/512 GB storage, ensures lightning-fast operations, making it an ideal companion for intense gaming sessions. Its dedicated gaming chip, Red Core 2, further enhances the experience by reducing power draw, thereby extending battery life.

Go long

Speaking of battery life, the 6,500 mAh battery and 80 W fast charging are game-changing features, offering over a day and a half of longevity for my normal usage and capable of fully recharging in just over 30 minutes.

The ability to bypass charging comes in clutch during marathon gaming sessions. This keeps the device running smoothly without generating any unnecessary heat from charging the battery.

Keep your cool

The upgraded ICE 13 cooling system also helps beat the heat with its included 22,000 rpm fan and customizable RGB lighting. It seems quieter than previous versions, which will please those who game without headphones. What’s more, those gaming or consuming media without headphones will enjoy the incredible sound that is pumped out of the speakers.

Speedy seamless screen

The Redmagic 9 Pro features a 6.8-inch FHD+ flat screen, delivering bright and clear visuals with a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. The touch response is exceptionally smooth, thanks to the 2,000 Hz instant touch and 960 Hz average touch sampling rates. Protected by Gorilla Glass 5, the device combines durability with a sleek design, available in three color variations: Sleet, Cyclone, and Snowfall.

Getting the job done

While the camera system, including a 50 MP main and ultra-wide-angle camera, shows improvement, it’s still the phone’s weakest link. The under-display selfie camera is particularly lackluster, though it is certainly the best version yet. Overall, the camera system gets the job done and passionate gamers will likely appreciate the flat back and uninterrupted screen more than crispier selfies.

OS enhancements

Redmagic OS 9.0, with its focus on gaming, offers a customized and user-friendly interface. The gaming enhancements, including the 520 Hz shoulder triggers, add a level of control and immersion that is rare in mobile gaming. There are a ton of gaming-oriented features buried within the settings for those looking for heavier customization possibilities.

The price is right

At $649, the Redmagic Pro 9 is very well-priced for the specs on offer. The inclusion of the fast charger, screen protector, and case in the box helps add to the value proposition.

Disclosure: Redmagic 9 Pro review sample provided by Nubia.