Review of Latest Phones With Gaming Triggers & Features
As a gaming enthusiast, nothing beats the thrill of immersive mobile gaming on a device that's built for it. With smartphones evolving into pocket-sized powerhouses, 2025 has seen a surge in models packed with dedicated gaming triggers, shoulder buttons, and features like advanced cooling systems and high-refresh-rate displays. In this review, I'll dive into the latest contenders: the ASUS ROG Phone 9, RedMagic 10 Pro, and Nubia Z70 Ultra. These phones aren't just for show—they're engineered to handle demanding titles like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile without breaking a sweat. Let's break down their gaming prowess, design, and value.
ASUS ROG Phone 9: The Flagship Gaming Beast
The ASUS ROG Phone 9, launched in early 2025, continues the ROG lineage with unapologetic gaming focus. At its core is the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, delivering buttery-smooth performance with up to 24GB of RAM options. What sets it apart are the AirTrigger ultrasonic shoulder buttons—two sets of capacitive triggers on the top and sides that feel like a proper game controller. They're customizable via the Armoury Crate app, supporting macros and haptic feedback tuning.
Gaming-wise, the 6.78-inch AMOLED display boasts a 185Hz refresh rate and 1080Hz touch sampling, making every swipe and aim precise. The AeroActive Cooler X Pro accessory (sold separately) attaches magnetically, dropping temps by up to 30°C during marathon sessions. Battery life is stellar at 6,000mAh with 65W fast charging, lasting over 8 hours of heavy gaming.
Pros:
- Best-in-class triggers with zero lag
- Expandable storage and RGB lighting for that gamer aesthetic
- Excellent software optimization for esports
Cons:
- Bulky design might not appeal to non-gamers
- Premium price tag around $1,200
If you're serious about competitive play, the ROG Phone 9 is your go-to—it's like having a Switch in your pocket, but with Android flexibility.
RedMagic 10 Pro: Affordable Powerhouse with Built-in Triggers
ZTE's RedMagic 10 Pro hits the sweet spot for budget-conscious gamers, retailing at about $800. Powered by the same Snapdragon 8 Elite, it punches above its weight with a 6.8-inch 144Hz OLED screen and under-display selfie cam for uninterrupted views. The standout feature? Integrated capacitive shoulder triggers that double as volume buttons in normal use—smart and seamless.
The phone's ICE 13.5 cooling system, with a massive vapor chamber and fan, keeps throttling at bay even in 4K gaming modes. It supports up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and the 7,000mAh battery with 80W charging refuels in under 40 minutes. The RedMagic OS includes a game booster that overclocks the CPU/GPU on the fly.
Pros:
- Built-in fan for superior thermal management
- Vibrant display with 1,000 nits brightness
- Great value for high-end specs
Cons:
- Triggers lack the depth of haptic feedback compared to ROG
- Software updates can be hit-or-miss
For mid-range warriors, the RedMagic 10 Pro delivers pro-level gaming without the extravagance—perfect if you're dipping your toes into dedicated gaming phones.
Nubia Z70 Ultra: Versatile Shooter with Gaming Flair
Nubia's Z70 Ultra blends camera excellence with gaming chops, launching mid-2025 for around $900. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite setup is augmented by a 6.86-inch 144Hz LTPO AMOLED display that's color-accurate for both gaming and photography. The RedMagic-style shoulder triggers are pressure-sensitive, offering analog-like control for racing sims or flight games.
Thermal performance shines with a graphene cooling layer, maintaining frame rates in titles like Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile. The 5,800mAh battery supports 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, and dual stereo speakers with DTS:X Ultra audio immerse you fully. Camera perks (a 50MP triple setup) make it a daily driver beyond gaming.
Pros:
- Balanced for gaming and everyday use
- Exceptional low-light photography
- Customizable RGB trigger lighting
Cons:
- Slightly heavier at 235g
- No official accessory ecosystem like ASUS
The Z70 Ultra is ideal for hybrid users who want gaming triggers without sacrificing versatility—think of it as the all-rounder in this trio.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Feature | ASUS ROG Phone 9 | RedMagic 10 Pro | Nubia Z70 Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| Display | 6.78" AMOLED, 185Hz | 6.8" OLED, 144Hz | 6.86" LTPO AMOLED, 144Hz |
| Triggers | AirTrigger Ultrasonic | Capacitive Shoulders | Pressure-Sensitive Shoulders |
| Battery | 6,000mAh, 65W | 7,000mAh, 80W | 5,800mAh, 80W Wireless |
| Cooling | AeroActive Cooler (Accessory) | Built-in Fan + Vapor Chamber | Graphene Layer |
| Price (USD) | ~$1,200 | ~$800 | ~$900 |
| Best For | Esports Pros | Budget Gamers | Hybrid Users |
Which One Should You Pick?
In 2025, gaming phones with triggers are no longer niche—they're essential for mobile gamers seeking console-like control. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 leads for pure performance, the RedMagic 10 Pro wins on value, and the Nubia Z70 Ultra offers the best balance. Whichever you choose, expect fewer dropped frames and more victories. What's your next gaming rig? Drop a comment below!
Reviewed on September 15, 2025. Prices and availability may vary by region.
