Technology Elevation
Gaming keyboards, such as the Asus ROG Strix Scope, are available in a wide variety of designs and configurations. These keyboards range from simple designs to extravagant ones packed with a multitude of additional buttons and functions that are designed to give you an advantage over other players when you are playing.
One example of the former is the Asus ROG Strix Scope, which is a gaming keyboard that adheres to the fundamental guidelines. The fact that Asus is focusing on what truly matters is not a negative thing because it allows the company to develop a mechanical gaming keyboard that is reliable, sturdy, and flawless in its execution of the fundamental specifications.
Lighting is only used to make the majority of gaming keyboards seem attractive. You watch as the keys light up with a stunning display of 16.8 million different colors and a choice of effects for you to choose from. Keyboards with optical-mechanical switches indeed perform the same function; however, they are also constructed on the principle that light is the most effective means of registering a keystroke. The illumination that uses RGB is a decorative element; however, the illumination that is utilized via optical switches is fundamental.
| Pros | Cons |
| + Strong construction quality | – There is no relaxation for the wrists |
| + In response to | – It’s not very good software. |
| + Charming layout | |
| + A reasonable cost |
ASUS ROG Strix Scope Keyboard Review
The ROG Strix Scope RX is a full-size keyboard that has a few structural modifications to the regular layout. These modifications are intended to make the keyboard more appealing to gamers. The two most prominent of these alterations are the double-width left Ctrl key, which is designed to make it simpler to locate the “crouch” button in the majority of first-person shooters, and the Stealth key, which is located in the function row (we will discuss the function of this key in better detail in the following section). Except for its appearance, the ROG Strix Scope RX appears to be a typical gaming keyboard.
It is possible to instantly hide all open applications and quiet the noise of the system by using the Stealth key on the ROG Strix Scope RX. This feature does not seem to be very important when working from home, as we mentioned in our review of the Asus ROG Strix Scope TKL Electro Punk. For those who are of the contrary opinion, that keycap, which is adorned with a hoodie, is simply waiting for you to press it.
Per-key RGB backlighting emphasizes the black and gray color scheme that is present in the upper-right corner. Additionally, there is a ROG logo that is rather noticeable. Because of the treatment of the aluminum top plate, the illumination appears to shine uniformly through the keycaps, and the treatment enables the aluminum top plate to reflect those lights without seeming shiny.
Asus did give media controls top importance when it printed the legends for the function row, even though there are no functions that are specifically designated for media controls. It is a wonderful touch that the labels that read “F5” through “F12” are placed on the front of their respective keycaps rather than the top of the keycaps themselves. The secondary functions of other keys, such as changing profiles and adjusting lights, are also labeled using a method that is quite similar to the one employed for the primary functions.
It is possible to pass over USB 2.0 with the ROG Strix Scope RX, which is a feature that some people will find beneficial because it brings a USB Type-A connector closer to you. On the other hand, this does imply that the ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard is tethered to a thick cable, which in this particular ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard is a rubberized cable, and that it terminates with either two distinct USB ports.
Even though this is not an unusual occurrence for ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboards that provide USB passthrough, it is nonetheless disheartening after studying the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 tiny ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard, which features a braided cable that can be removed on its own. In contrast, the ROG Strix Scope RX is a beast in its own right.
Typing Experience on the ASUS ROG Strix Scope Keyboard
The fact that the ROG Strix Scope RX is the first ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard to incorporate Asus’ patented ROG RX Red optical mechanical switches is the achievement that is considered to be the most significant. These linear switches are designed to be able to resist up to one hundred million keystrokes, have an actuation point that is 1.5 millimeters in diameter, take forty grams of force to actuate, and require fifty-five grams of force to bottom out. Additionally, they have a total travel of four millimeters.
These specifications are comparable to those of the linear Cherry MX Red standard mechanical switches; however, they require a lower force to bottom out (55g as opposed to over 60g) and have a shorter actuation point (1.5mm as opposed to 2mm and longer). As opposed to around 30g, they require 45g of initial force for the spring to begin compressing, which is a significant difference. The Asus website contains additional information.
Depending on your point of view, that might be considered either a virtue or a vice. From our perspective, this meant that we were able to take advantage of the benefits that linear switches offer, such as their quickness and relatively silent operation, without having to deal with the drawback of having to delete a large number of inadvertent key presses. On the other hand, it is not hard to imagine that someone who was anticipating that a linear switch would be simpler to press would feel a pinch of frustration.
It is important to note that an ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard is more than the sum of its switches; yet, in this sense, the ROG Strix Scope RX did not live up to expectations. The keycaps have an intriguingly sticky and dirty feel to them. We had the impression that if we wanted to punch at another keycap, we had to move our fingertips away from the keycaps.
After utilizing a board that was only sixty percent full, it was also good to have some of the business keyboards back. One of the advantages of the ROG Strix Scope RX was that it made it simple to access media controls, arrow buttons, and other essential utilities such as Home and End without any difficulty. Do we continue to believe that the number pad is not necessary? Yes, especially considering that we have a relatively large mouse pad. On the other hand, having those extra keys readily available was helpful during day-to-day use.
- Brand: ASUS
- Compatible Devices: Gaming Console
- Connectivity Technology: wired, wireless
- Keyboard Description: Gaming, Mechanical, Wireless
- Recommended Uses For Product: Gaming
- Special Feature: Backlit, Hot-Swappable
- Color: Black
- Number of Keys: 96
- Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB
- Style: Snow Switch-Refined linear
Features and Bottom Line
The ROG Strix Scope RX makes use of the same Armoury Create software as other Asus peripheral computers to manage key settings, fundamental RGB lighting control, and firmware upgrades. It is also compatible with Asus Aura Sync, which enables the company’s goods to shine their gorgeous lights in tandem. However, individuals who have not yet invested in that ecosystem can simply remain with Armoury Crate.
A significant portion of the ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard’s additional functionality may also be managed directly on the keyboard, which is a feature that is very much appreciated. The arrow cluster may be used to alter the brightness and effects of the lighting; a quick-toggle button can rapidly switch the function row to media playback settings; and “locking” the Windows key by holding down the Fn key while pressing it can prevent inadvertent presses of the key.
The on-the-fly macro recording feature of the ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard makes it simple to record and assign macros without ever having to run Armory Crate as well. When it comes to fundamental functions, such as managing various lighting modes or switching between profiles that have been saved to onboard storage, it is a pleasant experience to not be completely dependent on the software. Armoury Crate is designed to be a bonus rather than a must, as it should be.
It came as a surprise to see the ROG Strix Scope RX. We anticipated that the linear optical switches would react when a feather landed on top of them; nevertheless, when I attempted to use them, we encountered resistance that was comparable to that of a traditional tactile key.
Because it has been quite some time since we last reviewed an ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard, we had anticipated that Armoury Crate would be used for everything. However, we were reminded that the majority of features can be managed on the keyboard itself. As a result, we anticipated that it would have the appearance of a conventional gaming keyboard ASUS ROG Strix Scope.
There are also some drawbacks to consider. We have a sneaking suspicion that the ROG Strix Scope RX would have a grimy keycap if there was even a single drop of additional moisture in my home. Nobody loves having a keycap that is dirty. Even after only a little more than a week of use, the rubber cable that it has is enormous and appears to be bent. It is just not possible to transport this ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard anywhere because it is so large that it does not even feel like a viable option for travel.
Therefore, the ROG Strix Scope RX ought to be a suitable option for individuals who are looking for a robust full-size ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard that features optical linear switches that are not as sensitive as the character called Bubble Boy in the film “Bubble Boy.” There is something more that should be considered by anyone who is seeking something a little more responsive or portable.
Gaming Experience on the ASUS ROG Strix Scope Keyboard
Specifically, the ROG Strix Scope RX is designed to stand out when it comes to gaming. Not only are optical switches designed to be more robust than their strictly mechanical equivalents, but they also function differently. Rather than actuating through metallic contact, optical switches are activated when the stem is passed through light bars. Additionally, it is stated that they are more responsive. Doesn’t the speed of light surpass that of everything else? Nevertheless, that is an illusion, and the fact of the matter is that we were unable to detect the fact that we were playing on optical switches rather than the conventional mechanical ones.
The initial resistance of the ROG RX Red Optical Mechanical Switches, on the other hand, prevents that from occurring with this ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard. When it comes to gaming, this indicates that the switch will probably be even more controversial than it already is. Because a baby’s breath can activate many linear switches from halfway across the room, they are very common. However, it worked for me.
In addition, the sticky quality of the keycaps turned out to be a benefit rather than a disadvantage when it comes to gaming. When I play video games, I have to hold my hands on the same keys for extended periods, whereas when I type, I have to find a variety of different keys in rapid succession. It is much simpler, if not more pleasurable, to do that when the keys have a slightly sticky surface.
An important piece of advice: if you are going to use a full-size ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard like this one, you need to purchase a mouse pad that is either tiny enough to sit next to it or large enough for it to sit on. When I moved from writing to gaming, my Razer Gigantus V2 in Big was stuck in a no-man’s land, and I had to rearrange everything to get it out of the way. These seemingly insignificant annoyances add up. If you are looking for additional suggestions, check out our list of the best RGB mouse pads.
Conclusion
The ASUS ROG Strix Scope Keyboard series is a demonstration of the company’s dedication to providing high-performance gaming peripherals that are adapted to meet the varied requirements of gamers. Each model of the Strix Scope, from the original Strix Scope to the portable Strix Scope RX, the luxury Strix Scope TKL Deluxe, and the long-lasting Strix Scope PBT, comes with its distinct collection of features that are designed to improve the overall gaming experience.
If you are looking for a full-sized ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboard that has all the bells and whistles, a compact and portable alternative for gaming on the move, a premium model that provides additional comfort, or a rugged option that is built to survive heavy use, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope series has you covered? Gamers can fine-tune their ASUS ROG Strix Scope keyboards to match their preferences and play styles thanks to the availability of Cherry MX switches, RGB lighting that can be customized, and dedicated media controls.
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