Typical Asus Keyboard
ASUS ROG (Republic of Gamers) has long been synonymous with high-performance gaming hardware, catering to enthusiasts and professional gamers. In the past, ROG made its mark with robust and feature-rich motherboards, graphics cards, and laptops, establishing a reputation for cutting-edge technology and reliable overclocking capabilities. Their products often pushed the boundaries of performance, introducing innovations like the Crosshair and Strix series, which offered gamers superior control, customization, and thermal management. In recent years, ASUS ROG has expanded its portfolio to include a wider array of gaming peripherals and accessories, such as gaming monitors, keyboards, mice, and even smartphones, like the ROG Phone series, enhancing the ecosystem for gamers. The brand’s commitment to high-quality and innovative design resonates with the gaming community.
The market value of ASUS ROG products reflects their premium positioning, often commanding higher prices due to their advanced features and strong brand reputation. However, this premium pricing can be a concern for budget-conscious consumers, as ROG products are generally more expensive compared to other brands offering similar specifications. Additionally, some users have reported issues with customer support and warranty services, which can be crucial when dealing with high-end, expensive hardware. Despite these concerns, the overall performance, durability, and cutting-edge features of ASUS ROG products maintain their strong market presence and loyalty among gamers who prioritize quality and innovation.
The ASUS ROG Azoth Extreme is a high-end gaming keyboard designed for enthusiasts who demand the best in build quality, performance, and features. Released in early 2024, this keyboard showcases ASUS ROG’s commitment to premium craftsmanship and innovation. It features a robust aluminum frame, providing a sturdy and durable construction that feels substantial and premium. The keyboard is equipped with customizable mechanical switches, offering precise and responsive keystrokes tailored to the user’s preference. It also includes per-key RGB lighting, allowing for extensive customization and synchronization with other ROG devices through ASUS’s Aura Sync software. The Azoth Extreme comes with advanced features such as a customizable OLED display, dedicated media controls, and a detachable wrist rest for enhanced comfort during extended gaming sessions. Overall, the ASUS ROG Azoth Extreme is a showcase of top-tier build quality and cutting-edge features, catering to gamers and professionals seeking a luxurious and highly functional keyboard experience.
Key Specifications
- Switch Type: ROG NX Mechanical Switches (Red, Brown, Blue options)
- Keycap Material: PBT Double-shot
- Backlighting: RGB per-key lighting with Aura Sync
- Connectivity: Wired USB-C, Wireless 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.1
- Battery Life: Up to 100 hours (wireless, with RGB lighting off)
- Additional Features: OLED Display, Media Controls, Detachable wrist rest, Hot-swappable switches
- Build Quality: Aluminum top plate, plastic bottom case
- Dimensions: Full-size (104 keys)
- Weight: Approximately 1.2 kg
Design and Build Quality
The Asus ROG Azoth Extreme boasts a premium design with an aluminum top plate that provides rigidity and a sleek look. The keyboard features a full-size layout with 104 keys, including dedicated media controls and a customizable OLED display. The double-shot PBT keycaps offer durability and a pleasant typing experience, resisting shine and wear over time. The detachable wrist rest adds ergonomic comfort, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions.
Switches and Typing Experience
The Azoth Extreme is equipped with ROG NX Mechanical Switches, available in Red (linear), Brown (tactile), and Blue (clicky) variants. These switches are designed to offer a responsive and satisfying typing experience, with a smooth keystroke and a distinct actuation point. The keyboard also supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily replace or customize switches without soldering. This feature provides flexibility for those who wish to experiment with different switch types.
RGB Lighting and Customization
Asus has integrated RGB per-key backlighting with Aura Sync support into the Azoth Extreme, allowing for extensive customization. Users can personalize the lighting effects, colors, and patterns using the Armoury Crate software, synchronizing them with other Aura Sync-compatible devices. The OLED display adds another layer of customization, allowing users to display animations, system stats, or custom text.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The ROG Azoth Extreme offers versatile connectivity options, including wired USB-C, wireless 2.4GHz, and Bluetooth 5.1. The wireless modes provide flexibility for different setups and scenarios, while the wired mode ensures low latency for competitive gaming. The keyboard boasts impressive battery life, with up to 100 hours of usage in wireless mode with RGB lighting off. Fast charging via USB-C ensures minimal downtime.
Additional Features
The Asus ROG Azoth Extreme comes with a range of additional features aimed at enhancing the user experience. The customizable OLED display can show system information, media controls, or custom graphics, adding a touch of personalization. The dedicated media controls offer quick access to volume adjustment and playback functions. The keyboard also includes a detachable wrist rest for added comfort.
Build Quality and Durability
The Azoth Extreme is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. The aluminum top plate provides a sturdy feel, while the PBT keycaps ensure longevity and resistance to wear. The keyboard’s overall weight and build quality convey a premium feel, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.
The ASUS ROG Azoth Extreme is undoubtedly a premium offering in the gaming keyboard market, characterized by its exceptional build quality, customizable features, and cutting-edge technology. However, whether it represents the best price deal is subjective and depends largely on individual needs and budget constraints. The Azoth Extreme commands a higher price point due to its robust aluminum construction, customizable mechanical switches, OLED display, and extensive RGB lighting options, which cater to gamers and enthusiasts seeking a high-end, feature-rich keyboard. While these features justify the premium price for some, other consumers might find more cost-effective alternatives that offer similar performance without the additional luxury features. Competitors in the market, such as Corsair, Razer, and SteelSeries, provide high-quality keyboards at varying price points, some with comparable performance but at a lower cost. Thus, while the ASUS ROG Azoth Extreme is an excellent choice for those willing to invest in top-tier features and aesthetics, it may not be the best price deal for everyone, especially for those on a tighter budget or who prioritize functionality over premium extras.
