Philautus aurantium is a small frog (< 30 mm). It is sand in color with some dark markings. Round black spots scattered along flanks and on posterior part of dorsum and pats of legs. Pale orange groin and ventral side of thighs. The tympanum is indistinct.

This species inhabits primary montane and submontane forests (750-1000 m asl) of Sarawak and western Sabah. Groups of dispersed males call from saplings and shrubs. The reproductive mode is unknown.