Performance Showdown Between iQOO 15 and ASUS ROG Phone 8 Excites UAE Buyers

Tech enthusiasts across the United Arab Emirates are closely watching the performance battle between the iQOO 15 and ASUS ROG Phone 8. As both smartphones target high-end users and mobile gamers, their benchmark results have become a major talking point in local tech communities. Early figures suggest that the iQOO 15 may have an edge in raw performance, setting new expectations for Android flagships in the region.

The iQOO 15, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, has impressed reviewers with its benchmark numbers. Reports indicate that the device achieves around 4 million points on AnTuTu 10, making it one of the highest-performing Android smartphones tested so far. Combined with a 6.85-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED display, up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a large 7,000mAh battery, the iQOO 15 offers the kind of hardware that appeals to power users and gamers in the UAE’s fast-growing premium market.

In contrast, the ASUS ROG Phone 8, which uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, remains a strong performer but scores notably lower in benchmark tests. Its AnTuTu 10 scores average around 2.1 million, highlighting a considerable difference in raw numbers. Still, the ROG Phone 8 continues to attract a loyal base among UAE gamers for its gaming-focused features, such as AirTriggers, superior cooling systems, and advanced audio-visual experience.

Local smartphone reviewers have pointed out that while benchmark scores are an important indicator, real-world performance often depends on software optimization and thermal control. The ROG Phone 8’s cooling system gives it a practical edge for sustained gaming sessions, particularly important in the UAE’s warm climate. Meanwhile, the iQOO 15 is said to incorporate an upgraded vapor chamber cooling solution, ensuring that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 maintains performance without overheating.

Several UAE-based tech influencers have shared side-by-side performance comparisons on social platforms, showcasing how the iQOO 15 handles gaming titles like Genshin Impact and PUBG Mobile at ultra settings. Early impressions show smoother frame rates and better multitasking performance on the iQOO 15, though the ROG Phone 8 still delivers more refined software and accessory integration tailored for dedicated gamers.

Retailers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are already receiving inquiries about both models. While the ROG Phone 8 is currently available through official channels in the UAE, the iQOO 15’s local release is expected soon, likely with firmware optimized for global markets. The anticipated starting price of around AED 2,125 makes it a competitive alternative to the ROG Phone 8, which sits closer to the AED 3,000 range depending on configuration.

Experts believe that once the iQOO 15 launches officially in the UAE, it could shift the balance in the premium smartphone segment. Its combination of higher benchmark scores, next-generation hardware, and relatively lower pricing may attract a new wave of buyers seeking flagship performance without the ultra-premium price tag. However, the ASUS ROG Phone 8’s established gaming ecosystem and brand trust will continue to secure its position among hardcore gaming enthusiasts.

For now, UAE tech communities remain divided between raw performance and gaming-focused refinement. Benchmark data favors the iQOO 15, but the ROG Phone 8’s proven software stability and gaming identity keep it highly relevant. As both phones compete for attention, the upcoming months could see one of the most exciting rivalries in the UAE’s premium Android market.