When it comes to mobile gaming, ASUS’ ROG Phone series has always pushed the limits of performance, but with high performance comes high heat. That’s where the AeroActive Cooler X Pro comes in—designed to keep the ROG Phone 9 cool while adding extra features that enhance gameplay.
But how much of an improvement is this new version? Does it actually help with cooling, or is it just a minor upgrade? Let’s dive into a detailed review to see if the AeroActive Cooler X Pro is worth it.
What’s New in the AeroActive Cooler X Pro?
At first glance, the AeroActive Cooler X Pro looks similar to its predecessor, the AeroActive Cooler X from the ROG Phone 8. However, ASUS has made some key changes:
Larger Peltier Cooler (36x38mm for improved cooling) 12.5% Bigger Fan Blades for better airflow Built-in Subwoofer (returns from the AeroActive Cooler 7) Cross-compatibility with ROG Phone 8 Two extra buttons for gaming enhancements USB-C port and 3.5mm audio jack for wired accessories
But do these changes actually make a difference in real-world gaming? Let’s find out.
Cooling Performance: Does It Lower the Temperature?
Cooling is the main reason to buy the AeroActive Cooler X Pro, so we ran several stress tests to measure how much it helps.
Testing Conditions:
- Device: ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition
- Game: Genshin Impact (Max Settings, 60 FPS)
- Testing Modes:
No Cooler (X Mode On)- With AeroActive Cooler X Pro (X Mode Plus)
| Test Mode | Max Temperature | Gaming Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Without Cooler (X Mode) | 57°C | Noticeable throttling after 15-20 minutes |
| With AeroActive Cooler X Pro | 49°C | More stable performance, but phone still warm |
Key Takeaways: The AeroActive Cooler X Pro reduces temperatures by about 8°C, helping delay thermal throttling. Smart Cooling Mode automatically adjusts fan speeds based on heat levels. The phone is still warm to the touch, but performance remains stable for a longer period.
However, the cooler does not prevent the phone from reaching its thermal limit entirely—it only slows the heat buildup.
X Mode vs. X Mode Plus: What’s the Difference?
The ROG Phone 9 has three power profiles:
- Standard Mode (Thermal limit: 41°C) → Best for daily use, not gaming.
- X Mode (Thermal limit: 57°C) → Boosts performance but generates a lot of heat.
- X Mode Plus (Activated with Cooler) → Same performance as X Mode, but better sustained stability.
While X Mode Plus doesn’t increase performance, it helps the phone maintain high performance longer before throttling kicks in.
Gaming Features: Extra Buttons & Ergonomics
One major reason to get the AeroActive Cooler X Pro is the two additional buttons on the cooler’s shoulder grips.
Are the Extra Buttons Useful?
Customizable Controls: You can map the buttons for in-game actions like jumping, reloading, or activating skills. Comfortable Grip: Adds a controller-like feel for certain games. Positioning Issue: The buttons are closer to the phone’s center, making them awkward to press without a specific grip. Flexible Pressing Mechanism: Buttons can be actuated from the side or back, giving more ways to trigger them.
While the extra buttons are a great addition, their placement might take some getting used to for gamers who are accustomed to traditional gamepads.
Built-in Subwoofer: A Welcome Return
One surprising addition is the return of a built-in subwoofer, a feature last seen on the AeroActive Cooler 7.
Does the Subwoofer Improve Audio?
Adds deeper bass, improving immersion in games and movies. Works with the phone’s front-facing speakers, creating a more balanced stereo effect. Pairs well with the ROG Phone 9’s new audio redirection feature, making it sound like it has front-facing stereo speakers even though the bottom speaker is redirected.
Audio Comparison (Cooler On vs. Off):
- Without Cooler: Clear but lacks depth
- With Cooler: Richer bass, fuller sound
For mobile gamers who play without headphones, this makes a big difference.
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Ports & Connectivity: More Convenience for Gamers
Unlike some gaming accessories that block your phone’s charging port, the AeroActive Cooler X Pro includes:
USB-C Port (for charging & bypass charging) 3.5mm Audio Jack (for wired headphones)
Why is this important?
- Charging While Gaming: You don’t need to unplug the cooler to charge the phone.
- Low Latency Audio: Many gamers prefer wired headphones over Bluetooth due to latency issues, and ASUS kept the headphone jack—a rare feature in 2024.
This makes the cooler extremely convenient for long gaming sessions.
Cross-Compatibility: Can You Use It With Other ROG Phones?
One great decision by ASUS is making the coolers cross-compatible between ROG Phone 8 and 9.
Compatibility Chart:
| Cooler Model | Compatible with ROG Phone 8? | Compatible with ROG Phone 9? |
|---|---|---|
| AeroActive Cooler X | Yes |
Yes |
| AeroActive Cooler X Pro | Yes |
Yes |
This means that if you already own an AeroActive Cooler X from the ROG Phone 8, it will work on the ROG Phone 9—and vice versa.
Final Verdict: Is the AeroActive Cooler X Pro Worth It?
Pros:
Better Cooling: Reduces peak temperatures by 8°C, improving stability. Gaming Enhancements: Two extra buttons add more control options. Built-in Subwoofer: Restores deeper bass for immersive gaming. USB-C & 3.5mm Jack: Supports charging and wired headphones. Cross-Compatible: Works with both ROG Phone 8 & 9.
Cons:
Doesn’t Eliminate Throttling: Only delays heat buildup, doesn’t fully prevent it. Awkward Button Placement: Might take time to adjust to. Not a Huge Upgrade: Improvements over the previous model are minor.
Who Should Buy It?
Competitive mobile gamers who need extra cooling and customizable controls. ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition owners (since the cooler is included in the box). Users who want improved audio with the built-in subwoofer. Get it HERE>>.
Who Should Skip It?
Casual gamers who don’t experience overheating issues. Users who already own the AeroActive Cooler X, since the upgrades are minor.
Final Rating: 
☆ (4/5)
The AeroActive Cooler X Pro is a solid gaming accessory, offering better cooling, extra controls, and improved audio. While not a massive upgrade, it’s still one of the best cooling solutions for mobile gaming.
If you’re serious about gaming on the ROG Phone 9, this cooler is worth considering—but if you already own last year’s version, you might not need to upgrade.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the ROG Phone 9 AeroActive Cooler X Pro
1. Does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro actually cool the ROG Phone 9?
- Yes, the AeroActive Cooler X Pro reduces peak temperatures by about 8°C during gaming and stress tests. However, while it slows down heat buildup, it does not completely prevent thermal throttling. The phone can still reach high temperatures during long gaming sessions.
2. What is the difference between the AeroActive Cooler X and AeroActive Cooler X Pro?
The AeroActive Cooler X Pro has:
- A larger Peltier cooler (36x38mm) for improved cooling
- Bigger fan blades (12.5% increase for better airflow)
- A built-in subwoofer for deeper bass and improved audio
- Same core features (RGB lighting, extra buttons, and cooling modes) as the AeroActive Cooler X
- If you already own the AeroActive Cooler X, the upgrade is minor unless you want better audio and slightly improved cooling.
3. Can I use the AeroActive Cooler X Pro with the ROG Phone 8?
- Yes! The AeroActive Cooler X Pro is cross-compatible with both the ROG Phone 8 and ROG Phone 9. Similarly, if you own the AeroActive Cooler X from the ROG Phone 8, it will work on the ROG Phone 9.
4. Does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro improve gaming performance?
- While the cooler doesn’t increase FPS, it helps maintain stable performance for a longer period by delaying thermal throttling. If you game for extended periods, it helps reduce lag caused by overheating.
5. Does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro come with extra buttons?
- Yes! The cooler has two additional shoulder buttons, which can be custom-mapped for in-game actions like jumping, reloading, or switching weapons. However, the button placement is slightly awkward, so it may take time to adjust.
6. Does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro have a built-in subwoofer?
- Yes! ASUS brought back the built-in subwoofer, which was missing from the ROG Phone 8’s cooler. This improves bass response and makes the audio sound fuller when combined with the phone’s stereo speakers.
7. Can I charge my phone while using the AeroActive Cooler X Pro?
- Yes! The cooler has a USB-C port, allowing you to charge the phone while gaming. It also supports bypass charging, which helps reduce battery wear by directly powering the phone instead of charging the battery.
8. Does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro have a headphone jack?
- Yes! The cooler includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you can use wired headphones while gaming. This is useful because Bluetooth headphones have higher latency, which can affect gaming performance.
9. How much does the AeroActive Cooler X Pro cost?
- The cooler is included for free if you buy the ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition. If purchased separately, it is expected to cost around $100–$150, depending on the region and retailer.
10. Is the AeroActive Cooler X Pro. worth buying?
- It depends. If you game for long hours, the cooler helps with heat management and stability. The extra buttons and subwoofer also add value. However, if you already own last year’s cooler (AeroActive Cooler X), the upgrades are minor, and you may not need to upgrade.
BUY AeroActive Cooler X Pro
