Ultimate Gaming Phone Showdown: Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Asus ROG Phone 9 vs RedMagic 9 Pro+

Three flagship phones are vying for dominance in 2025’s gaming and multimedia arena: Sony’s Xperia 1 VI, Asus’s ROG Phone 9, and Nubia’s RedMagic 9 Pro+. Each represents a distinct take on an elite Android handset – from Sony’s multimedia-focused design to Asus’s hardcore gaming machine and Nubia’s value-packed powerhouse. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll break down display tech, performance benchmarks, gaming features, cameras, battery life, software, design, connectivity, price, and more. We’ll also highlight expert review quotes and the latest news or updates (from software patches to launch quirks), plus peek at what’s coming next (Xperia 1 VII, ROG Phone 10, RedMagic 10 series). By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of each phone’s pros and cons and which device emerges on top in this ultimate showdown.

Display Quality and Technology

Sony Xperia 1 VI: Sony made a controversial shift in the Xperia 1 VI’s screen. Gone is the ultra-tall 21:9 4K panel of previous Xperias – the Mark VI uses a 6.5-inch OLED with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio at 1080×2340 resolution (FHD+). While that’s a downgrade in pixel count on paper, it brings major practical benefits: the new display is about 50% brighter than the Xperia 1 V’s screen and can dynamically scale from 1Hz up to 120Hz for smoothness or battery savings phonearena.com. The shift to a wider aspect and lower resolution actually improves real-world viewing – brightness and battery life are much better, and most content doesn’t suffer from the loss of 4K detail phonearena.com. Sony still prioritizes color accuracy and creator-friendly settings: the Xperia 1 VI offers calibrated modes (for BT.2020/DCI-P3), HDR support, and 10-bit color. Reviewers note the uninterrupted, notch-free display (thanks to Sony’s use of a slim top bezel for the selfie camera) as a big plus for media and gaming. Overall, the Xperia’s screen delivers a crisp, cinematic experience with excellent contrast (OLED) and now much-improved outdoor visibility – at the cost of that once-signature 4K spec.

Asus ROG Phone 9: The ROG Phone 9 embraces a 6.78-inch Samsung E6 AMOLED built for extreme fluidity. It runs at Full HD+ (2480×1116) resolution with an adaptive refresh up to 165Hz by default, and even offers an overclock mode to 185Hz via the Game Genie tool. This ultra-high refresh, combined with a 720Hz touch sampling rate, makes for silky-smooth gameplay and instant touch response. The panel supports HDR10+ and gets extremely bright (up to 2500 nits peak), ensuring clear visibility in sunlight. Asus did make a design compromise to achieve an IP68 water resistance rating: unlike older ROGs with front-facing stereo speakers, the ROG 9 uses a bottom-firing main speaker plus top earpiece combo. This means bezels are minimal and the screen dominates the front (though there is a small forehead to house the selfie camera without any notch). Color accuracy is tuned (Delta-E < 1), and the display can switch down to 1Hz for static content to save power. Gamers will love the fluidity – as PhoneArena put it, the ROG’s 185Hz screen delivers “ultra-smooth motion” and makes every swipe feel instantaneous. In short, the ROG 9’s display is all about speed and brightness, sacrificing resolution beyond 1080p in favor of high refresh gameplay.

Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+: The RedMagic 9 Pro+ features a similar-size AMOLED at 6.8 inches and a slightly unorthodox resolution of 1111×2480 (about FHD+). Interestingly, Nubia caps the refresh at 120Hz max – a bit lower than the 144–165Hz offered by competitors. This may be a trade-off to accommodate the under-display front camera, which allows a true full-screen experience with no cutouts or bezels. Indeed, RedMagic champions its “full-screen, bezel-less” design – the 9 Pro+ has virtually no borders and no notch, giving gamers an uninterrupted view. The panel still boasts vibrant colors (100% DCI-P3 coverage) and high brightness (~1300+ nits typical, with 1600+ nits in spots). It supports 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming for flicker-free low brightness usage. While its refresh rate isn’t the highest, in practice 120Hz is still plenty smooth for most and easier on battery. The big differentiator is that hidden selfie camera – you won’t see it during gaming or movies. The trade-off is that selfie image quality is mediocre (common with under-display cams), but if you value an immersive screen, RedMagic delivers. Reviewers have praised the RedMagic display’s “remarkable…experience as a bonus” on a gaming phone. It may not one-up the ROG’s 165Hz spec, but it still offers a stunning, uninterrupted canvas for your games.

Audio & Multimedia: All three phones include stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack – a rarity in modern flagships. Sony’s front-firing stereo pair yields clear left-right separation, though What Hi-Fi found the Xperia’s speakers “lack weight and punch” compared to some rivals. The Xperia makes up for it with excellent wired audio quality (a hi-fi DAC and support for LDAC/360 Reality Audio). The ROG Phone 9’s speaker setup changed (due to waterproofing) to a bottom + top-earpiece config, which isn’t as full-sounding as previous front-facing ROG models. That said, the ROG 9 still produces loud, fairly balanced audio; the new AeroActive Cooler X Pro accessory even adds a subwoofer driver to deepen bass when attached. RedMagic 9 Pro+ also has stereo speakers (one bottom, one top) that are “really decent” per early users, and its DAC supports high-res audio. All three let you plug in headphones for zero-latency sound – a big perk for competitive gaming. And with their HDR OLED screens, these phones double as superb movie-watching devices. Sony’s still the king of color accuracy (for those who want to toggle “Creator Mode” for true-to-source colors), but Asus and Nubia’s vibrant panels and loud speakers make media consumption a pleasure too.

Performance and Benchmarks

Chipsets & Power: Under the hood, all three contenders run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 – one of the most powerful mobile chips to date (branded as the “Snapdragon 8 Elite” by some manufacturers). This octa-core SoC on a 3nm process delivers a huge leap in speed and efficiency over 2022–23 flagships. In Xperia’s case, Sony added a vapor chamber cooling system for the first time, to help sustain performance. The ROG Phone 9 and RedMagic 9 Pro+ both go even further with advanced thermal management: the ROG’s GameCool 9 system uses a graphite sheet, vapor chamber, and optional fan cooling, while the RedMagic has an internal cooling fan (20,000+ rpm) as part of its ICE 13.0 cooling, plus graphene and vapor chambers. In raw specs, these phones are closely matched – but tuned differently.

Benchmark Showdown: Asus’s ROG Phone 9 emerges as a performance champion in synthetic tests. With X Mode enabled (performance boost), it topped charts like AnTuTu and 3DMark in late 2024. PhoneArena’s review noted the ROG 9 Pro “absolutely ate the competition for breakfast” in a stress test, showing no throttling and minimal heat, even automatically kicking into high-power mode during heavy apps. The ROG 9 Pro scored an incredible 10,184 in Geekbench 6 multi-core – going toe-to-toe with Apple’s A18 Pro in single-core and beating it in multi-core. Its GPU performance in 3DMark Wildlife Extreme was ~20% higher than the ROG 8 and Galaxy S24 Ultra. In practical terms, the ROG Phone is tuned to squeeze every drop of power: “Asus truly shines when it comes to optimizing its phones to get the maximum out of the hardware. If you want the most performance – go into X Mode… [Dynamic] mode feels like it has no weaknesses”. Apps fly open and heavy games run at top settings with ease. The phone feels “lightning fast…it may take you a while to get used to just how quick and responsive this phone is”. This is arguably the fastest Android phone of its generation, built to sustain that speed.

The RedMagic 9 Pro+, with the same chip, is no slouch either. It benefits from active cooling – which means it can sustain high clocks longer during gaming. On AnTuTu v10, some RedMagic 9 Pro+ units topped 2 million+ points, a phenomenal score (reports of ~2.1M–2.3M have surfaced). Its internal fan and efficient thermal design (Nubia claims up to “64°F cooler” under load thanks to ICE 13) help keep performance steady. In real usage, that means the RedMagic can push frame rates high without heavy throttling. However, Nubia’s software tuning is a bit more conservative than Asus’s X Mode. Still, the 9 Pro+ easily handles any game on the market at max settings. It also packs up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM (in the highest trim), ensuring smooth multitasking and future-proofing. Storage is UFS 4.0 or 4.1, very fast, aiding load times. In short, RedMagic delivers elite performance on par with other SD8Gen3 phones – and for extended sessions, its active cooling is a unique advantage to avoid hot handsets. As one review put it, “if you want a phone that looks great, takes good photos, offers very high performance, fast charging, and also has a great screen and really decent speakers, then why not [consider the RedMagic]?”. The performance is there; it’s the overall package to weigh.

Sony’s Xperia 1 VI, while using the same Snapdragon 8 Gen3 chip (with 12GB RAM), takes a less aggressive approach. Sony doesn’t offer “monster mode” performance toggles – it tends to let the chip run at standard profiles to balance heat and battery. Even so, the Xperia 1 VI is a snappy phone: the new chip provides roughly 30–40% faster CPU performance and 25% faster GPU vs the previous Xperia 1 V. Daily use is fast and games run very well. The Xperia does fine in benchmarks, but it will throttle sooner under extreme load due to its slim design and lack of a built-in fan. Prolonged gaming might see the Xperia dial back clock speeds more than the dedicated gaming phones (Sony’s added vapor chamber helps somewhat). That said, the Xperia 1 VI’s performance is more than sufficient for any mainstream user or even advanced mobile gamer, just not quite as sustained as ROG or RedMagic during marathon sessions. The phone’s focus is also different – Sony seems content with “fast enough” and cooler operation, rather than topping benchmark charts. One benefit: the Xperia’s thermal management plus lower-res display means it doesn’t heat up too dramatically in normal use. And thanks to Snapdragon’s efficiency, Sony achieved excellent battery life (more on that later) without needing to push the chip to its limits constantly. All told, all three phones feature the same cutting-edge Qualcomm horsepower, but ROG Phone 9 pulls ahead for hardcore performance enthusiasts, with RedMagic 9 Pro+ close behind, and Xperia 1 VI offering a more restrained (but still flagship-caliber) performance profile.

Gaming Experience and Features

When it comes to pure gaming prowess, the ROG and RedMagic phones are purpose-built weapons, whereas the Xperia 1 VI is more of a talented all-rounder that can game well but lacks specialized gaming add-ons. Let’s break down the gaming-centric features:

• Controls & Triggers: The ROG Phone 9 retains Asus’s signature AirTrigger system – ultrasonic touch sensors on the phone’s shoulders that act as mappable gamepad buttons. You can tap, slide, or squeeze these virtual triggers, and even use motion gestures (like gyroscope aiming) for a console-like experience. The AirTriggers are highly customizable (via the Armoury Crate app) – e.g., you can map a dual-action or swipe input, or have one trigger execute multiple actions (useful in complex games). Additionally, the AeroActive Cooler X Pro snap-on accessory (sold separately, except included with the top-tier Pro Edition) adds two physical trigger buttons on its grip, essentially turning the phone into a controller. Asus also introduced the ROG Tessen handheld controller this generation – slide the ROG 9 into this gamepad shell and you get physical analog sticks and buttons, Switch-style asus.com. Combined, these options make the ROG 9 incredibly versatile for gaming input. Whether you prefer touch controls or actual buttons, this phone has an option. Sony and Nubia don’t offer official controller accessories out of the box. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ counters with its own shoulder trigger solution: it has capacitive touch triggers (typically 520Hz touch sample rate) on the frame that you can map in games. They aren’t physical buttons, but do provide haptic feedback. Many RedMagic users find these extremely useful for shooters (e.g., aim and shoot mapped to shoulders). There’s also a dedicated Game Space slider that launches a gaming mode overlay for quick settings. Out-of-the-box, RedMagic doesn’t bundle an external controller, but it supports third-party controllers and even sells a separate magnetic gaming trigger and dock accessories on its site. The Xperia 1 VI does not have built-in gaming triggers. However, it has a unique two-stage camera shutter button on the right side, which some games or mapping apps can repurpose as an extra control. For example, you could use it to shoot in a game, in theory. It’s not as flexible as ROG’s AirTriggers though. Sony’s angle has been more on the software side: the Game Enhancer app lets you tweak performance modes, notification blocking, display refresh locking, and even livestream or record gameplay easily. Xperia phones also support connecting a PlayStation DualShock/DualSense controller via Bluetooth for a full gamepad experience, which some users utilize.
• Thermal Management: All three phones excel at keeping the hardware as cool as possible under load, but their methods differ. The ROG Phone 9 relies on its robust passive cooling (large vapor chamber, graphite sheets, heatspreaders) and encourages use of the AeroActive external fan for extended play. With the AeroActive Cooler attached (which also adds a small thermoelectric Peltier element in past versions), the ROG 9 can sustain nearly peak performance indefinitely – great for those long Genshin Impact or PUBG sessions. Impressively, in stress tests without any external fan, the ROG 9 Pro didn’t overheat or throttle significantly. Asus claims a ~12% cooling efficiency improvement over the ROG 8 by redesigning the SoC placement and graphite sheets. The phone does get warm, but thanks to software it will automatically ramp into high-performance mode when needed and balance heat. You can even enable a “Bypass Charging” feature in X Mode that powers the phone directly while gaming (not charging the battery) – this drastically reduces heat buildup and preserves battery health during gaming while plugged in, a beloved feature for ROG users. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ has the most aggressive built-in cooling: it’s one of the only phones with a tiny internal fan spinning at up to 22,000 rpm. Visible through a vent or transparent back (with customizable RGB lighting on some models), this fan actively expels heat. The noise is faint but audible; you can control fan speed in Game Space. With the fan and a complex heat sink system, RedMagic can keep chipset temperatures notably lower – Nubia advertised up to 15–18°C lower (≈64°F) during heavy load compared to phones without such cooling. In practice, the RedMagic stays cool to the touch longer, although eventually the aluminum frame will heat soak. It’s fantastic for maintaining frame rates – you’ll notice fewer drops over time. The downside is potential dust ingress and the lack of water resistance due to those cooling vents (no official IP rating here). For most gamers, the trade-off is worth it: the RedMagic 9 Pro+ can run something like Genshin Impact at max settings for an hour and hit around 40–41°C, whereas conventional phones might thermal throttle well before that. Nubia’s Game Space also shows real-time CPU/GPU temps and clocks, and you can enable an “extra cooling” mode which maxes the fan. Overall, RedMagic’s approach is brute force but effective – it’s literally a gaming PC approach shrunken into a phone. The Xperia 1 VI lacks any external or fan-based aids, but Sony did improve internal cooling from the previous model. The phone’s vapor chamber helps it disperse heat more evenly, and the new chipset’s efficiency means less heat generation for the same tasks. Xperia devices are also known for certain throttling to protect the camera during extended use – for example, 4K video recording for very long takes could trigger a heat warning in older models. The Xperia 1 VI reportedly handles these scenarios better, partly thanks to the elimination of the 4K screen (which reduced the strain on the GPU significantly). For gaming, the Xperia has a performance mode in Game Enhancer that can slightly raise thermal limits, but it will still get quite warm under heavy load and may drop frames if pushed for a long time. It’s fine for casual to moderate gaming sessions, but serious gamers who play for hours continuously will appreciate the cooling solutions in the ROG or RedMagic.
• Gaming Software & Special Features: ROG UI (Armoury Crate) is packed with gamer goodies. Armoury Crate is the central hub on the ROG 9 – it lets you organize games, customize performance profiles per game, adjust touch and display settings, and even personalize the rear AniMe Matrix LED display (on the ROG 9 Pro’s back) with custom pixel art or notifications. New “Gaming AI” features can do things like X Capture (auto-record highlights when you get kills or achievements) and X Sense (on-screen notifications for key in-game events). The ROG 9 also introduces an AI Assistant (English only) that can offer tips while you play by recognizing game scenarios – a novel addition, though its usefulness varies. Overall, the ROG’s software gives fine-grained control – from fan speeds and CPU/GPU tuning to setting the RGB lighting and macros. RedMagic’s Game Space offers a slick overlay when you slide the physical game switch. It displays temperature, FPS, and allows quick toggles for things like notification block, screen recording, fan on/off, aiming assist (a crosshair overlay), and even “4D Shock” haptic feedback toggles in supported games. RedMagic also has a feature to increase touch sensitivity and resolution in certain games. While not as deeply customizable as ROG’s Armoury Crate, it covers the essentials nicely. One fun feature: RedMagic has built-in RGB lighting (depending on model) – e.g., a spinning LED ring around the fan or an LED logo – which you can customize in colors/patterns. RGB doesn’t make you game better, but it does add gamer flair. Sony’s approach via Game Enhancer is more minimal but focused. You can choose between performance vs battery oriented profiles, cap frame rates, or even manually adjust the screen refresh rate for specific games. Notably, Sony includes features for streamers and content creators: you can easily record your gameplay or stream to YouTube/Twitch with the front camera overlay and audio mixing, all from the Game Enhancer menu. The Xperia 1 VI’s 120Hz screen and support for PlayStation controllers also make it a great device for streaming console games via Remote Play or using it for cloud gaming services. And since it’s a 21:9-ish display, some games that support wider aspect ratios will show a bit more field-of-view on the Xperia. In summary, the Xperia’s gaming features are more about enhancing user experience and media, while the ROG and RedMagic go all-in on competitive gaming advantages.

In day-to-day gaming, all three phones handle top games at excellent frame rates. The ROG Phone 9 and RedMagic 9 Pro+ are overkill for most titles – they’ll run Fortnite, Call of Duty Mobile, or PUBG Mobile at max graphics and high FPS without breaking a sweat. Both can even run emulator apps for console games very well (their extra RAM helps when emulating). The Xperia 1 VI can do much the same, but you might find it warms up faster and battery drains a bit quicker under intense gaming compared to the beefier gaming phones. Still, Xperia benefits from that 120Hz refresh and its touch input is responsive, so gaming is smooth. One thing to mention is display touch sampling – ROG leads with 720Hz touch polling, RedMagic’s around 960Hz on paper, and Xperia’s roughly 240Hz. In practice, all feel very responsive, but hardcore players might sense a slight edge with ROG/RedMagic in input lag.

Bottom Line (Gaming): The ROG Phone 9 provides the most complete gaming experience – tactile AirTriggers, lots of accessories (fans, controllers, docks), and software optimizations that even include AI-assisted in-game functions. It’s literally built to game at full tilt for years. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ is a close second as a pure gaming device – it has the raw power and cooling to keep up, plus useful shoulder triggers and a full-screen display that many gamers adore. It offers perhaps the best bang for the buck in gaming features, though its software is a bit less polished and accessories ecosystem smaller (mostly limited to what Nubia sells). The Xperia 1 VI is surprisingly good for gaming considering it’s not a “gaming phone”: its 120Hz HDR screen and audio quality make games look and sound great, and it can certainly play anything you throw at it. But it’s missing the frills – no built-in trigger buttons, no fancy RGB lights or cooling fan, and Sony’s thermals are tuned more cautiously. For an enthusiast gamer deciding among these, the Xperia might feel a bit vanilla; for a casual gamer who wants a balanced phone that also games, the Xperia will be perfectly sufficient.

Camera Systems and Real-World Photography

Gaming phones have historically skimped on cameras, while Sony’s Xperia line is camera-centric. Does that hold true here? Let’s compare:

Sony Xperia 1 VI: The Xperia’s triple camera setup is derived from Sony’s Alpha DNA and is very capable, especially in skilled hands. It features: a 48MP main sensor (1/1.35” Exmor T stacked) with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide (16mm, 1/2.5”), and a 12MP periscope telephoto with a unique continuous zoom mechanism ranging 85mm to 170mm (approx 3.5× to 7.1× optical zoom). The telephoto can also focus extremely close for “tele-macro” shots. In use, the Xperia 1 VI’s camera offers tremendous versatility: you can shoot from ultrawide landscapes to a 7× zoom of a distant subject, seamlessly. This variable tele lens is a standout feature rivals lack, and TechRadar praised it as “a blast to use… the sheer shooting flexibility it puts at your fingers is creatively freeing. The Xperia 1 VI is some of the most fun I’ve had with a camera all year.”. The color science leans natural (Sony avoids over-saturation), and with the new AI processing in the Xperia 1 VI, things like white balance and exposure have improved over the last gen. However, the Xperia still requires a bit of effort to get the best results. In full auto mode, it doesn’t apply heavy HDR or night mode trickery like Samsung/Google do, so in challenging lighting its output can look darker or less detailed in shadows. In fact, in low-light auto shooting, TechRadar found the Xperia to be “the worst contender at the price… photos don’t have the level of detail in shadows as seen elsewhere”, noting that rivals yield brighter, cleaner night shots more easily. This is somewhat by design – Sony expects enthusiasts to use the powerful manual controls in its unified Camera Pro app (which merges what used to be separate Photo Pro, Cinema Pro apps). For someone willing to tweak settings or shoot RAW, the Xperia can produce stunning images true to a photographer’s vision. It’s also the only phone here capable of recording 4K video at 120fps on all rear lenses (it forgoes 8K video, which Sony deems unnecessary). The front camera is a basic 12MP (f/2.0) that’s serviceable but not competitive with the best selfies out there; Sony kept it modest perhaps to maintain that bezel design. Overall, the Xperia 1 VI is ideal for photo enthusiasts – it provides consistent color across lenses, pro-grade apps, a physical shutter button, and even microSD support to offload large photos. Casual point-and-shoot users might be underwhelmed by its output in auto mode compared to an iPhone, but in capable hands it can shine. PhoneArena’s testing gave it a favorable camera score but noted some lingering issues with HDR and low-light, calling it “promising, but with some issues”. Still, many enthusiasts consider it “the first choice for photo enthusiasts” in this class.

Asus ROG Phone 9 (Pro): The ROG 9 series made a notable leap in camera quality this generation, to the point that it’s no longer a clear weakness. It sports a 50MP main camera (with a Sony Lytia 700 sensor and OIS – even a 6-axis gimbal stabilization mechanism carried over from the ROG 8), a 13MP ultrawide, and a 32MP telephoto 3× zoom with OIS androidcentral.com. This setup is actually better than many general flagship phones on paper, and in practice it yields decent shots. However, ROG still prioritizes gaming, so the camera tuning isn’t class-leading. As PhoneArena humorously introduced their ROG 9 Pro camera section: “Look… it’s a gaming phone. Not bad, though.”. In daylight, the main cam can capture detailed images, but Asus tends to oversharpen photos, and dynamic range is limited – highlights can blow out and colors appear a bit flat or “pale” sometimes. Low-light shots improved versus the previous ROG; Asus worked on the night mode, and the gimbal OIS helps reduce blur. Even so, noise creeps in and bright light sources may bloom. The 32MP telephoto is a welcome addition (ROG Phone 7 lacked any tele lens) – at up to 10× digital it still produced “shareable” photos in tests, though beyond that it degrades. The ultrawide is just okay and struggles at night (no surprise for a smaller sensor). Selfies on the ROG (a 32MP front camera) are actually quite good in good light, though lacking autofocus; at night they get soft as expected. The video capabilities include 8K recording (which the Xperia lacks) and up to 4K60 with decent EIS. Overall, ROG 9’s cameras are acceptable for everyday snaps – they won’t beat an iPhone or Pixel, but as PhoneArena concluded, “pictures are fine… They can’t really compare to a Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max. That said, they do perfectly fine if you’re just trying to capture some memorabilia in between your gaming sessions.”. In other words, the ROG Phone 9 can finally be your only phone without feeling like the camera is a huge compromise, but photography isn’t its selling point either. Gamers will appreciate that it at least has a capable camera now (even with fun touches like using the AirTrigger as a shutter button in landscape mode).

Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+: Historically, RedMagic cameras were mediocre, but the 9 Pro+ surprised many by stepping up its camera hardware. It carries a 50MP main camera (likely the Samsung GN5 1/1.57” sensor, with f/1.9 aperture) and notably a 50MP ultrawide (which is unusual – most phones use 8MP or 12MP ultrawides) alongside a token 2MP macro/depth. The main camera lacks OIS, and as Notebookcheck/OI Spice noted, there’s no gyro-EIS in video either – that’s a drawback for stability. Despite that, the RedMagic 9 Pro+ can take impressive shots in good lighting. The large main sensor and high-res ultrawide mean detail capture is strong. Colors tend to be punchy (a bit more saturated than Sony, more in line with typical Chinese OEM tuning). Reviewers actually praised its camera: “elegant design; nice cameras; beautiful display; powerful hardware; very quick charging” one Polish review summarized. Another source stated you’re “getting impressive camera quality [and] long-lasting battery life… as a bonus” on this gaming phone. That said, without OIS, low-light images are hit-or-miss – the phone relies on AI stacking and high ISO, which can result in noise and occasional blur if your hands aren’t steady. The 50MP ultrawide is great for daytime, capturing wide scenes with less drop in quality than usual. Macro duties fall to the tiny 2MP lens, which is more or less a filler feature. The front camera is a 16MP under-display camera (UDC) – while having no notch is cool, the image quality from this UDC is quite soft and inferior to standard selfie cams. It’s fine for video calls or unlocking your phone, but for detailed selfies it’s not great. This is a trade-off Nubia made for that seamless screen. Video recording on the RedMagic goes up to 8K (though without stabilization 8K is mostly for bragging rights). 4K30 videos look decent in static scenes but will show some jitters due to lack of EIS/OIS.

In summary, Sony’s Xperia 1 VI is the photography champ among these: it offers a true flagship camera experience (especially for zoom and pro controls), though it demands more skill to overcome its conservative processing. RedMagic 9 Pro+ actually comes in second – its camera is surprisingly competent (daylight photos can rival mid-range camera phones), but low-light and video are its weak points, plus the selfie cam sacrifice. ROG Phone 9 has the most well-rounded triple-lens setup among gaming phones, but it’s still a step behind the Sony in imaging and about on par or slightly below the RedMagic for casual shooting. All three will serve for basic needs (social media, scanning documents, etc.), but if camera is a priority, the Xperia 1 VI clearly stands out as “the high-end smartphone with an outstanding battery life [that] is the first choice for photo enthusiasts”. Meanwhile, Asus and Nubia have closed the gap enough that using a gaming phone no longer means you can’t take decent photos – just don’t expect Pixel/iPhone-level computational magic.

Battery Life and Charging Speeds

Each of these phones takes a different approach to battery capacity and charging, with some dramatic differences:

• Xperia 1 VI: Sony stuck with a 5,000 mAh battery (same size as the previous model) but the switch to FHD+ resolution and LTPO display vastly improved endurance. Sony actually markets the Xperia 1 VI as a “two-day smartphone” now. Many reviewers agree the battery life is excellent: Android Authority lists “exceptional battery life” as a highlight. With moderate use (web, messaging, some video, some camera), it can last well into a second day on a charge – a feat its 4K-screen predecessors struggled with. In PhoneArena’s tests, the Xperia 1 VI achieved 13+ hours web browsing and over 20 hours voice calls, significantly outperforming the Xperia 1 V phonearena.com phonearena.com. The lower pixel load (about 2.5 million pixels now vs 6.3 million before) clearly pays dividends. Sony also implements smart charging features (Battery Care) to slow charge overnight and reduce battery wear. On the flip side, Sony hasn’t joined the fast-charge race: the Xperia 1 VI supports 30W wired charging (USB-PD) – unchanged from before – and Qi wireless charging up to ~15W. In an era of 65W+ charging, 30W is conservative; a full charge takes roughly 1 hour 20 minutes in real-world use (Sony claims 50% in 30 min). The Xperia’s battery longevity is more about lasting long per charge than refilling quickly. It’s a trade-off some are fine with, but heavy users might wish for faster top-ups. Still, most users will find the endurance so good that midday charging isn’t needed – and overnight charging can be managed intelligently by the phone. Notably, the Xperia’s battery health is touted to stay >80% capacity after 3 years thanks to careful charging control. So Sony is prioritizing lifespan over speed.
• ROG Phone 9: Asus slightly reduced capacity from previous gens (ROG phones used to have 6000 mAh) to 5,800 mAh in the ROG 9, likely to accommodate wireless charging coils and maintain weight balance rog.asus.com. Despite 200 mAh less than ROG 8, battery life remains stellar. In fact, in PhoneArena’s battery benchmark the ROG 9 Pro logged 13h 41m of continuous 3D gaming at 60Hz and 18h 25m web browsing – that’s among the top results for any smartphone. It beats most flagships by a healthy margin (for context, Galaxy S24 Ultra did ~13h53m in gaming, iPhone 16 Pro Max ~12h4m). In mixed use, you can easily get 1.5 to 2 days unless you’re gaming nonstop. One tester noted “we felt zero battery anxiety… even at 24% remaining, we thought ‘yeah, it’ll last’”. The credit goes to the large battery and efficient 3nm chip, plus software modes like Dynamic mode which optimize power use. The ROG 9 supports 65W HyperCharge wired charging (Asus includes a 65W charger in-box). It’s not the fastest on the market, but it’s quick – ~55 minutes for 0–100%. You get ~74% in 30 minutes, which is extremely handy for quick top-ups. Asus did not try to push charging beyond 65W, possibly to avoid heat and battery strain. They also added 15W wireless charging support for the first time in the ROG series. It’s standard Qi (not the newer Qi2), and in testing it “feels slower” than 15W spec – likely taking around 2 hours for a full wireless charge. Still, it’s a nice convenience to have wireless now. One unique aspect: the ROG’s software lets you cap charging at e.g. 80% or use “bypass charging” when gaming plugged in, to preserve the battery. Such features mean even power users can optimize for longevity. All told, the ROG Phone 9 is an endurance beast – ranking in the top 10 of PhoneArena’s last two years of battery tests. Gamers can game for hours (4–5+ hours of heavy 3D gaming on a single charge easily), and regular users can expect well over a day. And thanks to 65W fast charge, any time you do hit empty, you’re back in the game relatively quickly – ~50% in 15 minutes is possible. Asus found a great balance here between capacity and charge speed.
• RedMagic 9 Pro+: The RedMagic actually splits into two variants which affects battery: the Pro has a gigantic 6,500 mAh battery, while the Pro+ (our focus) has 5,500 mAh. Nubia made the Pro+ smaller to accommodate its insane charging – the 9 Pro+ supports up to 165W wired charging (!!). In China, the 165W GaN charger is included, advertising a full 0–100% charge in just 16 minutes. This is industry-leading and almost unbelievable – and indeed, in real-world testing it can refill in ~18 minutes (the last few % sometimes take a couple extra minutes). The trade-off: that 16-minute fill is for 5500 mAh; the larger 6500 mAh battery in the regular Pro charges at 80W and takes ~35 minutes for 100%. Interestingly, the 6500mAh Pro model, despite slower charging, offers longer runtime (Nubia claims up to “2 days use”, vs ~1.5 days on the Pro+ which has 1000 mAh less). Both RedMagic versions can easily last a full heavy day – the 9 Pro (6500 mAh) was dubbed a “Battery Beast” by Pocketnow, and even the 9 Pro+ with 5500 mAh is comparable to ROG’s longevity thanks to only a 120Hz display (lower refresh means power savings). Real users report around 8-9 hours screen-on time on the Pro+, which is excellent. The defining aspect is the 165W charging on the Pro+, which is truly transformative if you’re often in a hurry. You can literally watch the percentage tick up: ~30% in 5 minutes, ~65% in 10 minutes. By the time you grab a cup of coffee, the phone is practically full. Nubia’s aggressive charging uses a dual-cell battery design and some serious heat dissipation (the charger and battery communicate to handle the high current safely). Long-term battery health might be a concern with such fast charging, but RedMagic does have some protections and you can disable fast charging if you prefer. There is no wireless charging on RedMagic 9 series – that’s one feature Nubia omitted, likely due to space and focus on wired speed (OI Spice specifically called the lack of wireless a disappointment). Also, keep in mind the 165W charger is usually the Chinese model; global models might be limited to 80–90W (the RedMagic 8 Pro global had lower charging than Chinese model in the past). But even 80W on 6500 mAh is impressive. With RedMagic, you’re essentially choosing between enormous capacity (Pro) and ultra-fast charging (Pro+). Either way, battery life in normal use is excellent. A heavy gamer might prefer the larger battery of the 9 Pro (if they can find the global version), but the 9 Pro+ ensures that even if you do drain it, a few minutes on the charger gets you hours of use back.

In everyday terms: the ROG Phone 9 and RedMagic 9 Pro/Pro+ are both marathon runners, easily among the longest-lasting phones on the market. Sony’s Xperia 1 VI also finally reached full-day-plus battery life thanks to its optimizations. All three can go through a long day of heavy use. The Xperia has the slowest charging by far, which is a notable con – competitors literally charge 3–5 times faster. If you’re the type who forgets to charge overnight, the ROG or RedMagic will bail you out with a quick top-up; the Xperia might leave you waiting. On the other hand, Xperia’s battery health focus means less degradation – something fast-charge phones have to mitigate with software or spare capacity. As for any known battery-related issues, none of these had major controversies (like swelling or such). One small note: RedMagic’s fast charging works best with its official charger; using a generic USB-PD charger will default to a lower wattage. ROG is fine with any USB-PD PPS charger up to 65W. Sony likewise is standard PD compliant.

Software and Update Support

Here’s where these phones differ quite a bit in philosophy:

• Sony Xperia 1 VI: Runs a very clean Android 14 (at launch) with Sony’s lightweight Xperia UI. Sony’s interface is close to stock Android – app drawer, UI elements, etc., are mostly unaltered, with a few Sony additions: the Cinema Pro/Video Pro apps (now integrated into Camera app), Music Pro, and the Game Enhancer tool. There’s also Sony’s custom equalizer and audio settings, but no heavy theming or duplicate apps. It’s a bloat-free experience; even third-party pre-installs are minimal (just Netflix and Facebook stub, which can be removed). Sony’s approach intentionally “avoids the current AI obsession,” focusing instead on giving users manual control and a clean interface. One new software development with the Mark VI: Sony finally improved its update policy. Xperia 1 VI owners will get 3 major Android OS updates and 4 years of security patches. This is a step up from Sony’s previous 2 OS updates promise, but it still trails behind the likes of Samsung and Google (which now go to 5+ years). As Android Authority quipped, lackluster update support and no US availability are what hold the Xperia back from being a truly great global flagship. Indeed, Sony’s update speed isn’t the fastest either – though Android 15 did roll out to Xperia 1 VI within ~8 months of launch. For day-to-day, the Xperia software is smooth and stable. It doesn’t have fancy customization or AI features trying to predict your behavior, which some users actually prefer. It still offers multitasking tricks like side sense (a little sidebar for shortcuts) and excellent support for external displays (you can run a “desktop mode” if you plug Xperia into a monitor via HDMI adapter). Sony also uniquely supports features like PS Remote Play natively for PlayStation owners. In summary, Sony’s software is clean, efficient, and professional, if a bit conservative on updates. They did introduce at least one new AI feature: Photo Pro’s new AI depth and auto-framing, which helps track subjects and automatically crop/zoom in video – a welcome addition for creators. But overall, Sony is not about gimmicks; it’s Android as you know it, with a Sony twist.
• Asus ROG Phone 9: The ROG 9 ships with Android 15 out of the box (one of the first phones to do so in late 2024). Asus provides a ROG UI skin which is relatively light in terms of UI changes, but heavy on additional features for customization. You actually have a choice at setup to pick between the ROG UI theme (with edgy gamer aesthetics, particle wallpapers, etc.) or a Classic theme that’s closer to stock Android. The backbone of ROG software is Armoury Crate and the myriad options it opens up for gamers (discussed earlier). Outside of gaming, the phone is loaded with convenience features: e.g., twin apps (run two instances of social apps), a screen recorder shortcut, advanced Always-On Display customizations, and the AniMe Matrix settings for that rear dot-matrix display (on the Pro model). Asus’s firmware has been generally smooth, though not as minimalist as Sony’s. A critical downside for ROG is the official update commitment: 2 years of Android updates and 4 years of security patches. This is worse than Sony’s policy and far behind Google/Samsung’s 5+ years. Considering the ROG 9’s price, this short support window is disappointing – something even mainstream reviews called out: “Here comes the bad news… Asus still promises 2 years of Android updates… an important point to consider when these flagship phones cost over $1000.”. ROG owners have historically seen maybe two major updates (e.g., Android 15 and 16 for this device) and then sporadic security updates. On the bright side, Asus did deliver those few updates relatively timely for previous ROG models, and critical bug-fix updates come as needed. But if long-term software support is your priority, ROG might let you down. As for current software news, as of mid-2025, there haven’t been reports of serious bugs on the ROG 9 – the software is quite polished. The phone even includes interesting AI features like call translation on the fly, voice transcription, and an AI wallpaper generator. Many of these are novelties, but they show Asus trying new things. Overall, ROG UI is fun and feature-rich, if not as elegant as Sony’s stock-ish approach. Just keep in mind you’ll likely only see it officially updated through Android 17 based on Asus’s track record.
• Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+: The RedMagic runs a custom skin called RedMagic OS 9 (on Android 14 at launch). It’s probably the quirkiest of the three, being a Chinese OEM software. RedMagic’s UI has improved over the years but still has some translation oddities and bloat (especially if you import a Chinese unit). The global units have Google services and most Chinese bloat removed, but you might still find a few pre-installed games or store links. The interface itself is fairly flashy – with red/black gaming motifs – though you can apply themes. RedMagic OS includes that Game Space and also “RedMagic Studio” which allows casting your screen at 120Hz to a PC or TV for gaming, which is neat. One issue is update support: historically Nubia has been slow and limited with updates. Many RedMagic phones only get 1 major Android version upgrade (two if you’re lucky) and security patches are infrequent. As one tech site pointed out, the RedMagic 9 Pro is an amazing value technically, but comes with “unclear update future” and some software polish issues. On the RedMagic 9 series, Nubia hasn’t clearly promised a set update policy publicly. Likely it will get Android 15 and some bug fixes, but don’t count on extended support. Enthusiast communities do exist for these phones, but it’s a niche device so custom ROM development is limited. In day-to-day use, RedMagic OS is generally fine – you can always use a custom launcher if you dislike the stock look. Multitasking, notifications, etc., work like standard Android. One complaint from some users is aggressive background app management (to save battery, the OS might close apps in the background unless whitelisted). This can affect notification reliability, but you can tweak the settings. In terms of current updates/news, Nubia did release a few firmware updates since launch to fix known issues (like a bug where the global model could revert to Chinese ROM after a factory reset – which was an odd case reported by some). They’ve also updated the camera app algorithm to improve image processing. But major new features aren’t typically added post-launch. So, RedMagic’s software is functional and packed with gaming extras, but it’s the least refined and least supported long-term of the trio.

Bottom line (Software): If you want a clean, near-stock Android experience, the Xperia 1 VI is the winner here. It’s bloat-free and elegant, albeit with a slightly behind-the-curve update policy. The ROG Phone 9 offers the most feature-rich and Android-advanced experience (Android 15, lots of AI and customization), but comes with the shortest official support timeline. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ has the most unorthodox Android skin which may require a bit of patience to configure to your liking, and its long-term support is uncertain – it’s the price to pay for the phone’s aggressive pricing and focus on hardware. For many gamers, these trade-offs are acceptable, but it’s worth considering if you keep your phone for 3-4 years or more.

One extra note: all three phones support standard Google Play services and apps out of the box (global versions), so you’ll have access to all apps and games as usual. Sony and Asus are wide-release brands (though Sony’s US absence means those in North America have to import). Nubia’s RedMagic, while niche, does sell direct to many regions (US, EU, etc.) via their website, and their global ROM includes Google apps. Just be prepared for possibly less polished translations in the UI on the RedMagic.

Design and Ergonomics

These phones each have a distinct design language: sleek utilitarian (Sony), futuristic gamer (Asus), and bold and transparent (Nubia). Let’s compare build, comfort, and aesthetics:

• Sony Xperia 1 VI Design: If you’ve seen an Xperia in the past few years, the Mark VI looks familiar – a rectangular slab with flat edges and a no-nonsense professional vibe. This generation, Sony shortened and widened the phone slightly (due to dropping 21:9 aspect). It measures 162 × 74 × 8.2 mm and weighs 192g. That makes it significantly lighter and slimmer than the ROG and RedMagic. Many find the Xperia’s weight “just on the right side of being comfortable to wield for long periods”. The frame is aluminum with a ridged texture for grip, and the back is matte Gorilla Glass (Victus on back, Victus 2 on front). The ridged metal and flat sides give excellent grip – Android Authority said it “offers probably the best grip of any smartphone without a case”. However, those flat, squared-off edges can feel a touch sharp in the palm compared to curved-edge phones. Sony kept practical touches: a capacitive fingerprint sensor in the power button on the right (fast and reliable, if a bit old-school vs in-display sensors), a dual-detent shutter button (textured and satisfying for camera use), and even a tool-less SIM/microSD tray (you can eject it with a fingernail). Impressively, the phone is still IP65/IP68 water and dust resistant – it can survive 1.5m submersion for 30 minutes. And yes, it retains the 3.5mm headphone jack on the top edge, an increasingly rare port in 2025 flagships. The overall look is understated: aside from a small “Xperia” logo on the back and the Zeiss T✻ lens markings by the camera, it’s very minimalistic. It comes in sober colors like Black, Platinum Silver, Khaki Green, and a limited Red edition (no flashy neon or RGB here). The Xperia doesn’t scream “gaming phone” – it looks more like a stylish media/content creation device, which for many is a plus. It slips into a pocket easier due to its thinner profile and lighter weight. If you value sleek, professional design and comfort, the Xperia 1 VI excels. Just note the aesthetic is “love it or meh” – some adore Sony’s boxy symmetry, others find it a bit dated compared to curvy glass rivals.
• Asus ROG Phone 9 Design: True to its Republic of Gamers branding, the ROG 9 has a bold, sci-fi aesthetic. Physically, it’s a big phone: about 173 × 77 × 10.3 mm (estimate, as official dims aren’t listed above, but ROG 8 was 173×77×8.9 and ROG 9 is slightly thicker due to cooling and battery) and around 240g. It has a heft and solidity to it – you feel it in the hand. The back is where things get interesting: the ROG Phone 9 Pro features the AniMe Matrix LED dot display – a grid of 648 mini LEDs that can show custom animations, notifications, or system info in retro pixel-art style. When not active, it blends into the back’s design (now invisible when off). The rest of the rear has geometric accents, a Republic of Gamers logo, and a camera module with sharp angles. The phone now comes in colors like Phantom Black or Storm White, with the white being particularly striking (Asus did special editions in past like a matte white). Asus also refined the materials: a matte finish with a “crystallized” nano-texture that feels silky and resists fingerprints. RGB lovers will be happy: even the standard ROG 9 (non-Pro) has an illuminated ROG logo on the back. Build quality is top-notch; Gorilla Glass Victus 2 covers the screen, Victus (or DX) on the back, and the frame is metal. The front face of the ROG has relatively small top/bottom bezels (symmetrical), housing dual stereo speakers and the selfie cam. No notch or hole – gamers prefer the intact screen and Asus delivered that (the bezels are slightly bigger than Xperia’s, but still slim). On the right side, you’ll find the AirTrigger sensors (marked subtly), and on the left, Asus’s signature side-mounted USB-C port (USB 3.2 Gen2) along with connector pins for accessories. This side port lets you charge while gaming in landscape (so the cable doesn’t poke your hand) and attach the AeroActive cooler or desktop dock. It’s a brilliant feature for ergonomics during play. The phone also has a bottom USB-C port (USB 2.0) and the 3.5mm jack on the bottom – yes, Asus kept it, much to gamers’ delight. The ROG’s ergonomics are focused on landscape use: the weight distribution is centered to feel balanced when held sideways, and the rounded edges and relatively thicker body give a secure hold. It is a chunky device, no doubt – one-handed use is difficult and it will bulge a bit in pockets. But Asus intentionally didn’t chase slimness, to pack cooling and battery. The design “exudes a futuristic and sophisticated vibe” with its angular lines and dot-matrix, according to Asus. Some gamers absolutely love the ROG’s look as it stands out as a “gamer’s lifestyle statement”. Others who prefer stealthier phones might find it too gaudy (though the black model with LEDs off can look fairly discreet until it lights up). Durability-wise, the ROG is solid and now water-resistant to an extent – interestingly, ROG Phone 8/9 achieved IP68 rating, a first for ROG series. Asus managed to seal it despite the extra ports (they likely use rubber gaskets internally). So you don’t have to baby it around water. In short, the ROG Phone 9 design screams “hardcore gamer”, with loads of thoughtful touches for gaming comfort, at the expense of being large and heavy.
• Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+ Design: RedMagic phones have a distinct identity as well: they often feature transparent backs, built-in LED fans, and bold color schemes. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ comes in variants like Transparent Silver, Transparent Black, and standard Black (and even a limited Bumblebee yellow edition). The transparent models let you peek at stylized internals – for example, you can see the spinning fan, which is lit by RGB lights. It’s a conversation starter for sure. The design is flatter and more streamlined than previous RedMagics – the 9 Pro series went with a sleek, flat design, no camera bump (the cameras sit flush under the back glass). This means the phone doesn’t wobble on a table and feels smooth in hand. The back has an etched pattern, with an X-shaped logo motif and some cyberpunk-like decals (on the transparent version, some text and graphics label the components). It’s cool without being as flashy as the ROG’s dot matrix. The frame is aluminum and flat on the sides, similar to Sony’s approach, but the corners and edges are slightly chamfered for comfort. In terms of dimensions, the RedMagic 9 Pro+ is roughly 168.5 × 77.1 × 8.9 mm and about 229g (as per specs for the device). So, size-wise, it sits between the Xperia and ROG – closer to ROG’s footprint, but a tad lighter. It also has some notable physical features: a dedicated Game Mode slider switch (painted red) on the side, which instantly launches the gaming hub – a nice tactile touch. The shoulder trigger areas are marked subtly. The phone has the usual dual SIM tray, but no microSD support (only Sony offers that). One downside: to allow that high airflow fan, the RedMagic 9 Pro+ is not IP-rated – water can get in those vents easily. So it’s riskier near pools or dust. Ergonomically, the presence of an internal fan means the weight distribution can be slightly top-heavy (toward the fan location), but overall it’s fairly balanced. The flush back and slightly thinner profile than ROG make it a bit more pocket-friendly. However, it’s still a wide device (77mm) so those with smaller hands might struggle one-handed. The front of the RedMagic is all-screen – thanks to the under-display selfie camera, there’s no notch or punch hole at all. It has a very high screen-to-body ratio (~95% as Nubia advertises) with only a tiny chin at the bottom. This looks gorgeous, like a futuristic slab of glass. The trade-off, again, is the under-display camera’s image quality. Build quality is solid, though perhaps not as tank-like as the ROG (the RedMagic is a bit thinner and has moving parts). RedMagic also keeps the 3.5mm jack (usually at the top on their phones) – indeed, the phonearena article cheered that “all models come with – get this – a 3.5mm earphone jack!”. In summary, the RedMagic 9 Pro+’s design can be described as bold and futuristic but also surprisingly refined for a gaming phone. It’s flashy in a techy way (glimpse of fan, RGB, etc.) but also slim enough to be used as a daily phone without feeling like a brick. If you love showing off internals and don’t mind the gamer aesthetic, it’s a winner. If you prefer a muted look, the fully black variant tones it down (though you’ll still have a window for the fan).

Ergonomics & Daily Handling: The Xperia 1 VI is the easiest to handle – being lighter, narrower, and with grippy texture, it’s comfortable for prolonged use and one-handed tasks (to an extent – it’s still a tall phone, just less so now). The ROG Phone 9 is the bulkiest – two-handed use is almost a must, but it’s purposely made for horizontal orientation gaming, where it excels in comfort (no sharp bits, thoughtful port placement). The RedMagic 9 Pro+ sits in between; its flat sides provide a secure hold and the lack of camera bump is nice in hand. But its weight is closer to ROG’s, so you feel it over time. All three have cooling considerations: under load, the ROG and RedMagic will get warm but diffuse heat well (ROG through its middle, RedMagic exhausts through fan vents). The Xperia, with less aggressive cooling, can get hot at the top near the camera during intensive use. Materials-wise, they’re all premium: metal and glass. Cases are recommended if you want to preserve the look (especially for ROG/RedMagic, which might scratch their fancy backs). But many gamers prefer using ROG/RedMagic caseless to avoid blocking vents or triggers – and their robust build can handle it.

Design is subjective, but broadly: choose the Xperia 1 VI if you want an understated, slim flagship that won’t draw unwanted attention and is engineered for practicality (waterproof, SD slot, etc.). Choose the ROG Phone 9 if you want a statement piece for gamers, don’t mind the extra bulk, and appreciate the functional design elements geared to gaming (it really feels like a gaming device). Choose the RedMagic 9 Pro+ if you want something eye-catching and unique (transparent RGB fan!) but still relatively svelte – it’s a conversation starter and a genuine fusion of gaming flair with everyday usability.

Connectivity (5G, Wi-Fi, Ports, Audio)

All three phones pack top-of-the-line connectivity for their time, but there are some differences in supported features and bands:

• Networks: Each phone supports 5G with a wide range of bands, typically including sub-6 GHz 5G for global networks. The Xperia 1 VI (global model) has broad band support for Europe/Asia; since it’s not officially sold in the US, some US 5G bands may not be fully supported if imported. The ROG Phone 9 has both sub-6 and (in some regions) mmWave 5G support, and Asus launched it in North America (early 2025) so there are variants for US carriers. RedMagic 9 Pro+ global also supports sub-6 5G (no mmWave, as is common for most Chinese phones). For LTE, all are broadly compatible (but again, Xperia might lack certain carrier aggregation combos for the US – it’s mainly targeted at EU/UK/JP).
• Wi-Fi: Being Snapdragon 8 Gen3 devices, Wi-Fi 7 capability is present in all three at the hardware level. The ROG 9 and RedMagic 9 Pro+ launched with Wi-Fi 7 ready out-of-the-box (they advertise Wi-Fi 7 / 802.11be support). The Xperia 1 VI initially launched with Wi-Fi 6E (up to 6 GHz band) enabled; Sony later issued a software update that unlocked Wi-Fi 7 on the Xperia 1 VI as well. So as of now, all three can utilize Wi-Fi 7 routers for multi-gig wireless speeds, lower latency, and better multi-connection reliability. In practical use, that means faster downloads and more stable online gaming if you have a Wi-Fi 7 access point. They are backward compatible with Wi-Fi 6/5 etc., of course.
• Bluetooth: All three have Bluetooth 5.3 (with LE Audio support). They handle high-quality audio codecs like LDAC and aptX HD/Adaptive (Sony excels here with LDAC and 360 Reality Audio, Asus and Nubia also support aptX etc.). Bluetooth connectivity like controllers or earbuds works flawlessly on each – ROG even has low-latency modes in Game Genie for certain BT earbuds.
• USB and Expansion: The Xperia 1 VI has a single USB-C port (USB 3.2 Gen2) that supports video output (DisplayPort alt-mode) for connecting to monitors. It also uniquely offers a microSD card slot (up to 1TB cards) – huge for those with big media collections or who shoot a lot of 4K video. Neither the ROG nor RedMagic have microSD support (they rely on large internal storage options up to 512GB or 1TB). The ROG Phone 9 actually has two USB-C ports: the side port is USB 3.2 Gen2 and supports HDMI output and accessories, while the bottom port is USB 2.0 for charging/data. This side port flexibility is great for using the phone like a mini console or desktop. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ has a single USB-C (USB 3.x) – it supports video output as well and even PC-like modes via their casting software. RedMagic also sells a dock that plugs into the phone’s USB-C to give you HDMI, Ethernet, etc., effectively enabling a desktop mode.
• Audio: We’ve covered headphone jacks and speakers earlier, but to reiterate: all three have 3.5mm jacks, which is fantastic. They all also have stereo loudspeakers. ROG’s are tuned by Dirac and fairly loud; RedMagic’s stereo speakers are also loud and improved in the 9 series (some older RedMagic had an imbalance, but 9 Pro’s are well-balanced). Xperia’s front speakers are a bit quieter but very clear. Each phone has multiple mics for noise cancellation and stereo audio recording. For mobile gamers and audiophiles, having the jack means easy use of wired headsets and external mics. It’s worth noting the ROG Phone 9’s AeroActive Cooler X Pro has a built-in subwoofer and a 3.5mm jack pass-through, which can enhance sound when the fan accessory is attached.
• GPS & Others: All support the usual satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, etc.) for navigation. They have NFC for payments (in global models; Nubia’s Chinese models have it disabled sometimes, but global RedMagic does include NFC). Sensors like accelerometer, gyro, compass, proximity are all there. The ROG and RedMagic also have advanced haptic motors for better vibration feedback (Asus has a nice X-axis linear motor; RedMagic touts 4D Shock which uses the vibration motor to simulate recoil in games).
• Special Connections: The ROG’s side port connects to proprietary Asus accessories (cooler, desktop dock, etc.). RedMagic has pins on the back for a magnetic cooler attachment in some models (9 Pro series might support the Nubia “Turbo Cooler” without needing to occupy the USB port, but not 100% on the 9 – the 8 Pro had such pins). Xperia doesn’t have any proprietary connector – but it does support USB-C external monitors and even external microphone or DAC accessories (Sony has some, like the Xperia Pro’s HDMI input for camera monitor use – the 1 VI could potentially be used as a field monitor via USB-C HDMI input using an adapter). The Xperia’s focus on creators means connectivity with Sony cameras or a PC is robust (they provide software to use Xperia as a high-quality webcam, etc.).

In terms of network performance and known issues: None of these phones has significant reported connectivity problems. Xperia users did have to get that update for Wi-Fi 7, which is now resolved. ROG Phone 9 being a device used by many streamers, they often praise its stable Wi-Fi and 5G performance (the multiple antennas and gaming mode network optimization help avoid ping spikes). RedMagic’s connectivity is solid but one must ensure buying the right global version to have proper band support (especially in the Americas). The PhoneArena piece on RedMagic launch did mention a U.S. version was introduced a month later for compatibility, so Nubia is actively catering to global bands now.

Summary (Connectivity): All three are well-equipped with the latest standards – you get Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, dual 5G, etc. The Xperia stands out with expandable storage and is the only one fully waterproof. The ROG stands out with multiple ports and accessory support plus IP68 ruggedness. The RedMagic stands out by offering all that raw connectivity (minus water-resistance) at a lower price point, and an uninterrupted screen for content consumption. For wired or wireless gamers, any of these will support gamepad connections (Bluetooth controllers or wired via USB), low-latency audio (via jack), and high-speed internet for online play. It’s safe to say none of these phones will leave you wanting in the connectivity department – just pick the one that matches your use (e.g., if you need a memory card or IP rating, lean Xperia; if you want HDMI-out while charging and LAN via dock, ROG; if you’re fine without those, RedMagic does everything else well).

Price and Availability by Region

The cost and availability of these devices vary quite a bit, and each targets a slightly different market segment:

• Sony Xperia 1 VI: Sony’s flagships have always been expensive and somewhat niche in distribution. The Xperia 1 VI launched at $1,399 (USD) / £1,299 / €1,399 for the base 12GB RAM, 256GB storage model. That pricing is on par with or higher than an iPhone 15 Pro Max or Galaxy S24 Ultra, so it’s firmly an ultra-premium device. There’s also a 512GB model (and even a 16GB RAM variant in some regions like Japan) that goes for more – in Japan it was around ¥218,900 (~$1,360) for the top variant, interestingly a bit cheaper after conversion. However, Sony notably did not release the Xperia 1 VI in the United States through carriers or its official channels. It’s available in Europe (UK, Germany, etc.), East Asia (Japan, Taiwan), and select markets. In the UK and EU, it’s sold through Sony’s online store and a few retailers. In the US, enthusiasts have to import it (often from Sony’s Europe site or Amazon Japan). This means in the US there’s no carrier subsidy or warranty support easily. As What Hi-Fi put it, “it won’t be launching in the US or Australia (where it would cost roughly $1700/AU$2500 if you were interested)”. So, availability is limited. Interestingly, Sony did report some success in Asia: pre-orders in Taiwan were up 50% over the previous model, indicating some growing interest. For those regions where it’s sold, color options usually include Black, Silver, Green (and occasionally limited edition colors like Red). Sony’s pricing strategy kept the Mark VI the same as Mark V in Europe, but since it removed some expensive features (4K screen), some felt it should have been cheaper. Indeed, the Xperia 1 VII (the successor in 2025) saw a price bump to €1499 in Europe, which suggests the 1 VI was somewhat “cheaper” by comparison. If you’re in a region that sells it, expect to pay top dollar – Sony doesn’t really do discounts or carrier deals often, though occasionally they bundle headphones or offer a preorder gift.
• Asus ROG Phone 9: Asus went for a pricing that undercuts mainstream flagships a bit considering the hardware. The base ROG Phone 9 (12GB/256GB) starts at $999.99 in the US. The ROG Phone 9 Pro (16GB/512GB) is $1,199.99. And there’s a ROG Phone 9 Pro “Edition” (24GB/1TB) with the AeroActive Cooler included, at $1,499. In Europe, prices are similar in Euros (e.g., €999 and €1299) though availability may vary by country. These prices are high but considering the maxed specs (1TB storage, 24GB RAM – unheard of in mainstream flagships), it positions the ROG as a specialty premium device that can justify the cost to the right buyer. Importantly, Asus made a big push to release the ROG Phone 9 series globally faster than before. It globally debuted on Nov 19, 2024 and Asus even had a US launch announcement with sales starting Q1 2025 asus.com. That’s an improvement, as previous ROG phones sometimes came late or not at all to North America. In the US, you can buy it unlocked from Asus’s store, Amazon, etc., but not through carriers (no contract deals; it’s BYOD). In Europe and Asia, Asus sells through its site and select retailers; in India and some markets, availability might be limited or via import only (ROG phones have a niche but dedicated audience). By mid-2025, the ROG Phone 9 should be readily available online in many regions. Asus often includes the AeroActive Cooler either in the Pro Edition bundle or as a pre-order bonus for early buyers of other trims. They also sell accessories like the Kunai Gamepad, docks, etc., separately. Compared to its rivals, the ROG’s $999 starting price is actually reasonable – it’s in line with a base model Galaxy or iPhone but offers some superior specs (though lacking the camera prowess or long updates of those). The key is, the target customer values the gaming features enough. Sales volume for ROG phones is relatively low (they’re niche), but Asus continues to iterate, implying it’s profitable enough.
• Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+: RedMagic phones are known for aggressive pricing given their specs. In China, the RedMagic 9 Pro+ started at ¥5,499 for 16GB/256GB (around $775). Even the top 24GB/1TB was ¥6,999 (~$985) – under $1000 for the absolute maxed configuration, which is a steal compared to others. For global pricing, there’s usually a markup but it’s still cheaper than mainstream. The RedMagic 9 Pro (base model 8/256GB) was around $649 globally, and the 9 Pro+ likely came in around $799–$899 depending on config. PhoneArena’s coverage implied a US version announcement in Dec 2023 with sales in Jan 2024. Indeed, RedMagic’s official global site often lists these devices a month or two after China launch. Availability-wise, RedMagic sells direct to consumers via its website internationally (North America, Europe, parts of Asia). They are not sold via carriers or big retail stores, so you’d typically purchase online and get it shipped. They often run early-bird deals (e.g., free accessories or slight discounts) during launch. In the US, they support T-Mobile and AT&T networks well, but not Verizon. In Europe, they ship to most countries with appropriate band support. One must be a bit cautious about warranty and support – Nubia has improved, offering local repair centers in some regions, but it’s not as easy as walking into a carrier store. That said, the value proposition is enormous: you’re getting a Snapdragon 8 Gen3, 6.8” AMOLED, 165W charging, etc., for hundreds less than a Samsung or even the ROG. As one Reddit user succinctly put it: “if you are thinking of buying a RedMagic 9 Pro+, do it… it has great performance and barely gets hot” – many are drawn in by that price-to-spec ratio. Nubia also occasionally releases slightly upgraded models like the RedMagic 9S Pro+ (with Snapdragon 8+ Gen3 or improved cooling) a few months later, which can complicate purchasing decisions. But overall, RedMagic is the most affordable route into elite gaming phone territory. The downside might be resale value (not as known a brand) and shorter support, but for upfront cost, it’s hard to beat.

Regional Variations: The Xperia is mostly a Europe/Asia play, ROG is global including USA, and RedMagic is global via direct sales. In India, Sony phones are rare nowadays (import only), ROG has had limited releases (ROG 6 was last widely launched; ROG 9 might be scarce officially), and RedMagic also usually doesn’t have official presence (one might import via global site). European and UK buyers can get all three (Sony through its store, ROG via Asus or third-party, RedMagic via their site with EU warehouses). Australian and Canadian consumers similarly would import Sony, can get ROG via Asus, and RedMagic via global site shipping.

Price Drops: Sony phones tend to hold price for a while due to limited stock; eventually they might get a small cut or bundle. Asus ROG phones sometimes see discounts after 6-12 months, especially when a successor is near. RedMagic phones often are priced so low initially that they don’t drop much, but by the time next model comes, you might see $50 off on the older one.

For completeness, here’s a quick summary of base prices (approximate global): Xperia 1 VI – $1399 (if it were sold in US; £1299 UK); ROG Phone 9 – $999; ROG Phone 9 Pro – $1199; RedMagic 9 Pro+ – ~$799 (not official but based on conversion; actual global could be around £709/€749 for a mid trim). The RedMagic 9 Pro (non-plus) launched at ~$650 (8+256), making it one of the best performance-per-dollar phones of 2023/24.

In essence, if budget is no issue and you want the most polished premium product, you might lean Xperia or ROG. If value-for-money is key, the RedMagic wins. But factor in that buying a RedMagic is a direct transaction with the manufacturer in another country – some are fine with that, others prefer the peace of mind of local support (where Asus/Sony might have an edge).

Expert Commentary and Reviews

Let’s hear what experts and reviewers have to say about these phones, in their own words:

• On the Xperia 1 VI, Android Authority called it “Sony’s best flagship in years”, praising that “signature Sony traits — great user and gaming experiences, an uninterrupted display, and top-of-the-line silicon — persist, but the overall experience has been elevated by the enhanced camera versatility and increased battery longevity”. They note, however, its high price and lack of US release as drawbacks. TechRadar’s reviewer was enamored with the zoom lens: “The Sony Xperia 1 VI is some of the most fun I’ve had with a camera all year”, though they also pointed out it’s behind rivals in low-light auto mode. Generally, experts laud Sony for sticking to useful features like the SD slot, jack, and notching improvements (battery, brightness) that fans wanted phonearena.com. The consensus: it’s a phone for enthusiasts – those who appreciate its nuances will love it, but mainstream users might balk at the cost and slight quirks.
• For the ROG Phone 9, many reviewers were impressed with its sheer performance. PhoneArena proclaimed, “Welcome to the Elite!” noting the ROG 9 Pro’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip “absolutely ate the competition for breakfast” in benchmarks without throttling. They even suggest we “have a contender to beat Apple’s A18 Pro” in some tests. HotHardware and others highlighted the smoothness: day-to-day use is “lightning quick” and the 165Hz display is a joy. Reviewers also liked the refined design (more subdued than prior ROGs) and the fact it finally has wireless charging and an IP rating – making it more well-rounded. The biggest critique from multiple outlets (e.g., Android Police, Android Central) was the update policy – two years of updates is just not enough at this level. Nevertheless, as a gaming device, experts unanimously say the ROG 9 is best-in-class. Android Central emphasized the new AI features and cooler accessory, saying Asus “pushes its next-gen gaming phone up a notch with even more AI for gaming and daily help”. And when you use the ROG for its intended purpose, the experience is unmatched: attach the cooler, map the AirTriggers, and you’ve got a mobile gaming rig that reviewers compare to a portable console.
• The RedMagic 9 Pro+ tends to surprise reviewers – since it’s less mainstream, expectations might be lower, but it often delivers beyond its price. Notebookcheck (via OI Spice Tech) summarized that apart from lacking OIS and wireless charging, the RedMagic 9 Pro series offers “impressive camera quality, long-lasting battery life, an interesting user interface, and a remarkable display experience”, calling it a “good deal as a gaming-centric phone.” Many have called RedMagic devices the “bang-for-buck champions” of gaming phones. Pocketnow dubbed the RedMagic 9 Pro “The Battery Beast” and noted its solid build and performance. A common expert observation is that RedMagic’s software isn’t as polished – e.g., Android Authority in past versions mentioned some untranslated bits or quirky UI decisions – but those have been getting better. For the 9 Pro+, the inclusion of an under-display camera and a flat design with no camera bump got positive nods for innovation and ergonomics. Reviewers like that Nubia is pushing boundaries (165W charging blew everyone’s mind – PhoneArena highlighted that “the RedMagic 9 Pro+ can be fully charged in only 16 minutes”). Overall, experts say RedMagic is for gamers who want maximum specs at minimum price and are willing to live without the polish or extensive support of bigger brands. Many YouTube reviews conclude that if you mostly care about gaming and performance, you can save a lot with RedMagic and not be disappointed in the core experience.

In terms of known issues or commentary: No device is perfect. The Xperia draws minor flak for heat management in 4K filming (still not completely solved) and its tendency to overexpose highlights without manual tweaking. The ROG’s speakers, as mentioned by PhoneArena, aren’t as amazing as before due to design changes (they still said ROG 7 had the best sound), but the new cooler’s subwoofer helps. Some ROG reviewers also note it’s a large phone that’s not for everyone – a Pocket-lint review called it “the gaming powerhouse” but not something you’d buy for photography or pocketability. RedMagic’s common criticisms from experts: average customer support, unknown update roadmap, and the under-display selfie being subpar (so not ideal for vloggers or frequent video callers who want quality).

Finally, let’s mention upcoming models and rumors to complete the picture:

• Sony has already launched the Xperia 1 VII in mid-2025. It brings the Snapdragon “8 Elite” chipset (essentially the next-gen, likely still Gen3 but maybe a higher-binned version) and upgrades like a new 48MP ultrawide camera (up from 12MP) and a promise of 4 OS updates/6 years security – Sony listened and improved support. The Xperia 1 VII also bumped price to ~€1499. For Xperia fans, this shows Sony doubling down on its strengths (cameras, long-term use) and addressing weaknesses (updates). The Mark VII maintains the design language and even adds some AI camera tricks like “Auto Framing” for video. Those considering the 1 VI now might weigh if waiting for the 1 VII is worthwhile (depending on region, since 1 VI stock might be scarce with 1 VII out).
• Asus typically would follow with a ROG Phone 10 when the next Snapdragon flagship SoC (likely Snapdragon 8 Gen4) is available (expected late 2025). Qualcomm’s next chip (sometimes referred to as “Snapdragon 8 Elite 2” in rumors) is expected to bring a new CPU architecture (Oryon cores) and even bigger leaps. If so, ROG Phone 10 could be a beast that once again redefines Android performance. We can anticipate Asus continuing the trend: maybe integrating their AI features more, possibly even experimenting with an under-display camera (just speculation, as ROG is one of the last with a bezel cam). No concrete leaks yet, but if history repeats, a ROG Phone 10 or ROG Phone X might launch in late 2025. In the meantime, Asus did release a ROG Phone 9 “FE” (Fan Edition) in some markets – a slightly trimmed variant at lower cost. So they are expanding the lineup for different budgets.
• Nubia has already moved to the RedMagic 10 series. In fact, a RedMagic 10 Pro launched with the same Snapdragon 8 Gen3 (branded 8 “Elite”) but with further enhancements: a 7050 mAh battery (!) and a 1.5K 144Hz full-screen display. It shows RedMagic’s commitment to extreme specs – 7050 mAh is one of the largest phone batteries ever. They also introduced a dedicated Red Core R3 chip for AI and graphics to boost frame rates and stability. So the RedMagic 9 Pro+ will likely be succeeded by a RedMagic 10S Pro+ or RedMagic 11 with the next Snapdragon (Gen4). Nubia tends to do two cycles a year: one with the new chip, one mid-cycle refresh (the “S”). We saw mention of RedMagic 9S Pro+ in mid-2024 with record Antutu scores. So expect a RedMagic 10S/11 around late 2024 or early 2025 with Snapdragon’s next chip. Rumors also hint Nubia might experiment with things like an under-display fingerprint (they already have that), improved UD camera tech, and maybe even higher charging (who knows, 200W?). They’ve also expanded to other devices (gaming tablet, laptop).

In conclusion, each of these devices is somewhat a trailblazer in its own domain. The Xperia 1 VI appeals to photography and media enthusiasts who still want gaming-capable hardware. The ROG Phone 9 is the no-compromise gaming and performance champion that now doubles as a solid all-round phone. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ is the price-to-performance disruptor, giving you 90% of the experience at a fraction of the price, with just a few sacrifices. With new models on the horizon (Xperia 1 VII already out, ROG and RedMagic likely to refresh within the next year), consumers have exciting choices if they want cutting-edge tech.

As we’ve seen, there’s no one-size-fits-all winner – it truly depends on your priorities. To wrap up, let’s distill the pros and cons of each device:

Sony Xperia 1 VI – Pros & Cons

Pros: Gorgeous 6.5″ 120Hz 4K→FHD+ OLED with 50% higher brightness phonearena.com; Exceptional camera versatility (variable tele zoom, pro-grade apps); Strong battery life (up to two days); Lightweight (192g) and premium design with excellent grip; MicroSD slot and 3.5mm jack present; IP65/68 water resistant; Minimal bloat, near-stock Android experience.

Cons: Very expensive and limited availability (no official US release); Only 30W charging – much slower than rivals; Automatic camera mode can lag behind competitors in HDR and low-light quality; Software update commitment (3 OS updates) is behind market leaders (though improved from before); Niche appeal – some features (e.g., manual camera controls) have a learning curve; No mmWave 5G support (if that matters to some US users).

Asus ROG Phone 9 – Pros & Cons

Pros: Unrivaled performance – Snapdragon 8 Gen3 “Elite” with top benchmark scores, sustained speeds; 6.78″ AMOLED up to 165/185Hz is ultra-smooth and very bright; AirTrigger ultrasonic buttons + extensive accessory ecosystem (cooler, gamepad) for a true gaming edge; Monster battery life (5800mAh lasts well beyond a day); Fast 65W charging (0–100% ~55 min) + new 15W wireless charging; Premium stereo speakers and still includes 3.5mm jack; Improved design (IP68 water resistant, refined style) merging gamer flair and practicality; Android 15 out-of-box with lots of customization and even AI features.

Cons: Large and heavy – not very pocket-friendly or one-hand friendly; Gamer aesthetic (while toned down) might not appeal to all for everyday use; Camera quality is just decent, not flagship-level (fine for casual use, but can’t match top flagships in all scenarios); Only 2 years of major software updates promised – far behind industry leaders; Price is high (especially the Pro/Edition models) – can reach $1499 for max spec; Availability usually limited to online/unlocked (no carrier deals); Lacks expandable storage (ensure you buy enough internal storage upfront).

Nubia RedMagic 9 Pro+ – Pros & Cons

Pros: Incredible value – flagship specs at a lower price (often hundreds less than competitors); 6.8″ full-screen AMOLED with no notch, 120Hz and high brightness provides immersive visuals; Built-in active cooling (internal fan) allows sustained performance and cooler device under load; Long battery life, plus industry-leading 165W charging for insanely fast top-ups (0–100% ~16 min); Handy shoulder trigger buttons and robust Game Space features for gamers; Retains 3.5mm jack and stereo speakers; Bold design (transparent options, RGB fan) that stands out; Typically includes high RAM and storage in even base models (e.g., 16GB+256GB at reasonable price).

Cons: No official IP water resistance (open vents mean keep it dry); Camera lacks some flagship features (no OIS/EIS, reliance on AI – low-light can suffer); Under-display selfie camera yields sub-par selfies compared to traditional ones; Software (RedMagic OS) can be rough around edges with less polish and potentially shorter update support (usually 1–2 Android versions); Limited after-sales support – warranty service may not be as robust or accessible; Minor quirks like aggressive RAM management and some bloat (though much improved globally); Availability mostly through direct purchase – you need to be comfortable buying online and possibly dealing with customs/shipping times for support.

Final Thoughts: Whether you’re a mobile gamer chasing the highest frame rates, a creator wanting pro-grade photography, or just someone who wants a phone that’s different from the mainstream crowd, these three devices have a lot to offer. The Xperia 1 VI is a refined multimedia beast – perfect for those who want a bit of everything (gaming, cinema, photography) and don’t mind paying a premium for Sony’s unique approach. The ROG Phone 9 is the ultimate choice for gamers who won’t settle for anything less than the best performance and gaming features – it’s a phone that can truly replace a portable console and then some. The RedMagic 9 Pro+ democratizes the gaming phone concept by bringing top-tier specs to a more affordable level, making it a fantastic pick for budget-conscious enthusiasts who still want to experience high-end gaming on the go.

Each phone also gives a glimpse into the near future: Sony’s focusing on wider appeal and better battery (and succeeding), Asus is blending AI and extreme hardware for the next-gen gaming experience, and Nubia is pushing fast-charge and full-screen tech to new heights. It’s an exciting time for smartphone innovation, and these devices show there’s more than one way to build a no-compromise phone.

In the end, your ideal choice will depend on what you value most. If you live for the next camera shot or 4K HDR movie on the go – the Xperia’s for you. If you rank trigger response time and FPS above all – the ROG will feel like it was made for you. And if you want maximum bang for your buck, ripping through games without ripping your wallet – the RedMagic is extremely hard to ignore. No matter which you choose, one thing’s clear: 2025’s flagship phone arena has never been more diverse or more exciting, and these three titans are leading the charge in their own ways. Happy gaming (and shooting, and browsing)!

Sources:

• TechRadar – “Sony Xperia 1 VI review: an old-school flagship that demands some compromise”
• PhoneArena – “Sony Xperia 1 VI release date, price and features” phonearena.com
• What Hi-Fi – “Sony Xperia 1 VI review”
• Android Authority – “The Sony Xperia 1 VI is the best Sony flagship in years (if you can buy it)”
• PhoneArena – “Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro review: power overwhelming”
• Android Central – “ASUS ROG Phone 9 is a speedster with AI gaming features” androidcentral.com
• ASUS News Release – “ROG Phone 9 Series Launch” asus.com
• PhoneArena – “Highly-spec’d RedMagic 9 Pro series unveiled in China”
• Notebookcheck (OI Spice) – “RedMagic 9 Pro and Pro Plus Review”
• PhoneArena – “RedMagic 9 Pro+ external reviews”
• Android Authority – “RedMagic 10 Pro review: Beating ASUS at its own game” (trending) – highlights RedMagic’s battery and cooling.
• PhoneArena – “Sony Xperia VII release date, price and features” (for Xperia 1 VII info).
• PhoneArena – “Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Xperia 1 V: The Times They Are a-Changin’” (for changes summary) phonearena.com.