For a summer 2024 gaming-first phone, the ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro is the best all-round choice: it pairs gaming controls and software with a high-refresh display and stronger everyday durability than most dedicated gaming phones. The REDMAGIC 9 Pro is the value pick for long sessions and built-in cooling; the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the best everyday Android phone that also games exceptionally well, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the leading iOS option. This guide reflects phones relevant around June–August 2024, not later releases.
How to judge a gaming phone
A fast processor matters, but it does not tell you whether a phone will stay comfortable and smooth through a long match. The useful questions are whether frame rates remain stable, whether the phone gets uncomfortably warm, whether your games support its highest refresh rates, and whether the controls and software suit the way you play.
- Sustained performance and cooling: Short benchmarks capture peak speed, not performance after an extended session. Passive cooling, an internal fan and a clip-on cooler are different approaches; results also depend on the game, settings, software and ambient temperature.
- Display and touch: Refresh rate is only a panel capability. A 165Hz screen does not make a game run at 165 frames per second; game support, graphics settings and thermal conditions set the practical limit. Brightness, touch response, resolution and a flat or curved panel also affect play.
- Controls and software: Shoulder triggers, per-game remapping, performance profiles, notification blocking and recording tools can matter more to competitive play than a small benchmark gap.
- Battery, charging and audio: Capacity alone does not establish runtime. Brightness, frame rate, network use and charging during play all affect heat and endurance. Stereo speakers, a headphone jack and charging-separation features can make long sessions easier.
- Everyday ownership: Cameras, water resistance, software updates, carrier compatibility, warranty and repair options deserve weight, especially if this will be your only phone.
The recommendations below combine manufacturer specifications with cited independent comparisons; they are not a claim that every phone was tested under identical conditions. For one direct comparison of gaming thermals across the ROG Phone 8 Pro, Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max, see Notebookcheck’s test. Its results, like any test, describe particular conditions rather than every game or play environment.
At a glance
| Phone | Best for | Gaming strengths | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro | Best overall gaming-first phone | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, up-to-165Hz display, AirTriggers, gaming software, optional active cooler | High launch price; cooler is separate on the 16GB/512GB model |
| REDMAGIC 9 Pro | Gaming hardware per dollar and long sessions | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, built-in fan, shoulder triggers, flat display | Camera, software polish, support and regional ownership require more compromises |
| Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Best everyday Android phone that also games | Strong flagship performance, bright display, cameras and broad usability | No triggers or built-in fan; less gaming-specific software |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | Best iOS gaming phone | A17 Pro, strong iOS game support, premium build and accessory compatibility | 60Hz display; no shoulder triggers or active cooling |
| OnePlus 12 | Mainstream Android value alternative | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, high-refresh display, large battery and fast charging | No physical gaming controls or built-in active cooling |
ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro: best overall gaming phone
The ROG Phone 8 Pro is the most balanced dedicated gaming phone in this summer 2024 group. It adds useful gaming hardware—AirTriggers, performance controls and an optional active cooler—without giving up features such as IP68 protection, wireless charging and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is a gaming-first phone that has become a credible flagship, not automatically the best choice for every phone buyer.
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- RICHER COLOR. SHARPER DETAIL: The ultra-vivid display on Galaxy S26+ automatically makes every image sharper for a more immersive experience
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
What it offers
ASUS lists a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a maximum 165Hz refresh rate, 5,500mAh typical battery capacity, 65W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, IP68 protection, stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone output and AirTriggers. The listed weight is 225g. These are device capabilities, not promises that every game will use the maximum refresh rate or that the phone will stay cool at peak settings.
ASUS’s U.S. launch announcement listed the 16GB/512GB ROG Phone 8 Pro at $1,199.99 and the 24GB/1TB Pro Edition at $1,499.99. The Pro Edition included the AeroActive Cooler X; ASUS listed the cooler separately at $99.99 at launch. Treat those figures as U.S. launch prices, not current prices. Check the ASUS launch announcement and official specifications for configuration details.
Who should buy it—and who should not
Choose the ROG if you play competitive shooters and will use shoulder controls, want gaming-focused software and accessories, or value wired headphones alongside gaming features. The AeroActive Cooler X is relevant for long, demanding sessions, but it adds bulk, fan noise and cost; its usefulness depends on how and where you play.
Rank #2
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- Dual sim (NO MICRO SD) 5G: 5G SA: n1/2/3/5/7/8/20/26/28/38/40/41/66*(70M)/71/77/78/485G NSA: n1/3/5/7/8/20/28/38/40/41/66*(70M)/71/77/784G LTE TDD: B38/40/41/42/484G LTE FDD: B1/2/3/4/5/7/8/18/19/20/26/28/66*(70M)/713G WCDMA: 1/2/4/5/6/8/192G GSM: 2/3/5/8Supports 4x4 MIMO*5G SA/NSA N66(70M) and 4G B66(70M): UL 1710MHz～1780MHz, DL 2110MHz～2180MHz*5G connectivity may vary based on region availability and local operator support.
- 6.59" 1.5K 120Hz ultra-bright AMOLED displayResolution: 2756*1268Contrast ratio: 8,000,000:1Refresh rate: Up to 120Hz*Refresh rate can be adjusted to up to 120Hz for supported apps.Peak brightness: 3500 nits covering 25% display areaHBM brightness: 2000 nitsTypical brightness: 800 nitsTouch sampling rate: Up to 480HzInstant touch sampling rate: 2560Hz*2560Hz instant touch sampling rate is activated under Game Turbo Mode.12-bit color depth, 68 billion colorsDCI-P3 wide color gamut3840Hz PWM dimmingOriginal color PROPro HDR displayWet Touch display 2.0HDR10+TCertifiedTÜV Rheinland Flicker Free CertifiedTÜV Rheinland Circadian Friendly CertifiedDolby VisionCorning Gorilla Glass 7i
- Dimensity 8500-Ultra4nm manufacturing processOcta-core CPU, up to 3.4GHzMali-G720 MC8 GPU / 6500mAh (typ)100W HyperChargeUSB Type-C charging portUp to 27W reverse chargingSupports PD3.0/PD2.0Smart charging
- Wi-Fi Protocol: Wi-Fi 6/ Wi-Fi 5/ Wi-Fi 4 and 802.11a/b/g*Wi-Fi 6 capability may vary based on regional availability and local network support. Wi-Fi connectivity (including Wi-Fi frequency bands, Wi-Fi ratified in IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications) may vary based on regional availability and local network support. The function may be added via OTA when and where applicable.WLAN frequency: 2.4G Wi-Fi | 5G Wi-FiSupports 2x2 MIMO, 8x8 Sounding for MU-MIMO, Wi-Fi Direct, MiracastBluetooth 6.0Supports SBC / AAC / LDAC / LHDC 5.0 / LC3 / ASHA / AuracastNFC -
Skip it if you mainly play casual games, put camera quality or long-term support ahead of controls, or do not want to pay for accessories. The ROG’s camera system broadens its appeal, but the available evidence does not establish that it matches the Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max for photography. TechRadar’s review and Android Central’s review provide further device context.
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The REDMAGIC 9 Pro takes a more uncompromising route: a built-in active fan, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, shoulder triggers, large battery and flat screen make it particularly appealing for immersive play and long sessions. Its under-display selfie camera also leaves the front screen uninterrupted. Those design choices are gaming advantages, not proof that it is universally faster than the ROG or a conventional flagship.
What you give up
Its camera quality is generally a weaker proposition than Samsung’s or Apple’s, and software polish and update support are less compelling than those mainstream brands. The fan can make noise and consume power. The phone may also be less comfortable as an everyday flagship. Exact specifications, price, charger, cellular bands, warranty and software can vary by region, so do not treat a global listing as a U.S. configuration. Check the REDMAGIC 9 Pro product page and seller terms for the exact model.
Rank #3
- GSM Unlocked: Use your preferred GSM carrier with ease. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, and others. Sim card not included. For availability on select networks, please consult your service provider. Note: This device is not compatible with AT&T/Cricket or CDMA networks like Verizon and Sprint.
- Two Screens, More Control: Large 6.78” curved main display for streaming, gaming, and browsing, plus a smaller, rear screen for quick selfies, messages, and music controls.
- Smooth Performance: Handles your favorite apps, games, and multitasking without slowing down, with plenty of space for all your photos and videos.
- Capture Your Best Moments: Triple rear camera and high-quality selfie camera for bright, detailed photos and 4K videos.
- All-Day Battery: Stay powered all day with our 5,000mAh battery, and recharge in a flash with our 66W quick charge technology that tops you up from 0 to 100% in just 20 minutes.
Who should buy it—and who should not
Choose REDMAGIC if sustained gaming hardware and value matter more to you than camera quality, polished software or a clearly documented support runway. Avoid an imported model unless its carrier-band compatibility, warranty coverage and regional software meet your needs. Summer 2024 comparison coverage also singled out the REDMAGIC 9 Pro for performance and the ROG as the more everyday-friendly option; see Gizchina’s summer comparison and Tech Advisor’s gaming-phone guide.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: best everyday Android phone for gaming
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is the straightforward pick for someone who wants one premium Android phone for games, photography, work and everyday use. U.S. models use Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy; configurations can differ by market. Its high-quality display, speakers, cameras and broader flagship feature set are compelling even though it lacks a gaming phone’s shoulder triggers and built-in fan.
Gaming trade-offs
There is no dedicated trigger hardware, and 45W wired charging is slower than many gaming-focused rivals. Its 5,000mAh battery and display help make it a capable gaming device, but neither capacity nor specification alone establishes play time or sustained frame rate. For U.S. product details, consult Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra page; promotional and trade-in prices changed during 2024, so a launch or advertised offer should not be mistaken for a stable price.
Rank #4
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- ✨【Slim 8.5mm Design & Premium Comfortable Grip】Unlike bulky phones, the FOSSiBOT S7 smartphone combines a lightweight 215g body with an ultra-slim 8.5mm profile. The rounded four-corner frame provides a modern appearance and comfortable grip, making it easy to carry in your pocket, backpack, or hand throughout the day.
- 🎁【Fingerprint Unlock, Face ID & Reliable After-Sales Support】This unlocked smartphone supports fingerprint unlocking, face recognition, GPS navigation, and essential daily functions. ❌❌NFC is not supported. Enjoy professional customer support within 24 hours, 30-day hassle-free returns, and a 2-year warranty with replacement service. For details, please refer to the Brand Story section.
Who should buy it—and who should not
Choose Samsung if camera quality, mainstream usability and an all-round flagship matter more than physical controls. Choose ROG or REDMAGIC instead if you expect to use shoulder triggers or want gaming-specific cooling and controls. Samsung’s long support runway is a meaningful ownership advantage over many dedicated gaming phones, but verify the applicable regional support terms rather than assuming all models share identical policies.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.iPhone 15 Pro Max: best iPhone for gaming
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the strongest iOS recommendation here, particularly for players already invested in Apple’s ecosystem or interested in game releases and ports available on iOS. The A17 Pro, premium display and build, speakers and broad accessory compatibility make it a capable gaming phone. Game availability, settings and frame-rate limits remain title-specific.
The iOS trade-off
Its display is 60Hz, rather than the 120Hz or higher panels offered by several Android rivals. It has no physical shoulder triggers, built-in active cooling or 3.5mm headphone jack. Those omissions matter to competitive players seeking gaming-specific hardware, though they do not make it a poor gaming phone. Heat can still build during demanding play, especially while charging.
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Best Value
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- ⚙ FOSSIBOT F114 First with Android 15, redefining your mobile experience. Enjoy smoother, more intuitive navigation—work emails, streaming shows, or graphics-intensive gaming all feel seamless and responsive. Advanced optimization adapts to your needs: smarter battery management extends your day, enhanced privacy safeguards your data, and fluid animations make multitasking effortless. Store high-res photos, 4K videos, and essential apps with confidence. Whether you're a busy professional, a content creator editing on the fly, or a gamer chasing immersion, FOSSIBOT with Android 15 keeps pace with your fast-moving lifestyle, delivering reliable innovation every time.
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Choose the iPhone if iOS, game support for the titles you play, ecosystem integration and everyday camera quality are your priorities. Choose an Android gaming phone if higher refresh rates and physical controls are central to your setup. Apple’s listed page is for the iPhone 15 Pro family: Apple iPhone 15 Pro.
OnePlus 12: a mainstream Android alternative
The OnePlus 12 is worth considering if you want flagship-class gaming performance without gaming-phone styling. It uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and offers a high-refresh display, large battery and fast charging. It does not bring physical gaming controls, a built-in fan or the accessory depth of ROG and REDMAGIC, so it is a general-purpose performance phone rather than a dedicated gaming device.
It makes sense for players who value mainstream design and charging convenience more than remappable shoulder controls or active cooling. Verify the target-market storage configuration, charger bundle and price before buying; those details can vary. See OnePlus’s U.S. product page.
Dedicated gaming phone or conventional flagship?
| Your priority | Best fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive controls | ROG Phone 8 Pro or REDMAGIC 9 Pro | Both offer physical shoulder controls and gaming-focused features. |
| Long, demanding sessions | REDMAGIC 9 Pro or ROG Phone 8 Pro with cooler | Both offer active cooling; the ROG cooler is an additional accessory except in the listed Pro Edition bundle. |
| Cameras and broad everyday use | Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max | They are premium mainstream phones whose strengths extend well beyond gaming. |
| iOS games and Apple ecosystem | iPhone 15 Pro Max | It is the iOS choice here, though its display is 60Hz and it lacks triggers. |
| Everyday Android first | Galaxy S24 Ultra or OnePlus 12 | Both avoid the dedicated gaming-phone look and controls. |
| Headphone jack and gaming accessories | ROG Phone 8 Pro | It combines 3.5mm audio with AirTriggers and an optional cooler. |
| Water resistance in a gaming-first phone | ROG Phone 8 Pro | ASUS lists IP68 protection for the device. |
A mainstream flagship plus a compatible controller can be a better buy if you mostly play controller-friendly adventure games or emulators. A tablet may suit players who value screen size; a separate handheld may be more comfortable for long sessions. A gaming phone is least compelling when its controls and cooling accessories would go unused.
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What to verify before buying
- Check the exact regional model: Confirm cellular bands and 5G compatibility with your carrier, particularly for imported REDMAGIC or ASUS devices.
- Confirm what is in the box: Check whether the charger and cooler are included, and whether the advertised configuration is the one you intend to buy.
- Read warranty and support terms: Verify regional warranty coverage, seller service arrangements and the manufacturer’s update policy for that model.
- Check your games’ frame-rate options: Look at the settings for the specific titles you play. A high-refresh display cannot override a game’s own frame-rate limit.
- Check accessory fit: Confirm whether your case, controller, cooler and screen protector work together; a cooler may require removing a case.
- Compare the full setup cost: Include any cooler, controller, charger or other accessory you actually need, and compare dated prices for the same region and storage configuration.
Verdict
For the broadest range of gaming-first buyers in summer 2024, choose the ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro: its controls, software, display, audio, water resistance and accessory support make it the most complete package. Choose the REDMAGIC 9 Pro if built-in cooling and gaming hardware per dollar outweigh cameras, software polish and support concerns. If gaming is one part of a wider phone purchase, the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max are stronger everyday compromises; the OnePlus 12 is a sensible performance-focused alternative without dedicated gaming controls.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
