ASUS ROG Claymore II Keyboard Review: A Comprehensive Review

by

Introduction: The Quest for the Perfect Gaming Keyboard

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect keyboard that balances functionality, customization, and comfort. The ASUS ROG Claymore II, a wireless full-size gaming keyboard with a modular numpad, recently caught my eye. This keyboard promises to deliver a versatile gaming experience, so I decided to give it a whirl and see if it lives up to the hype.

See Price On Amazon

Unboxing the ASUS ROG Claymore II: First Impressions

The unboxing experience of the ASUS ROG Claymore II was quite the event. The sleek packaging set the tone for what was to come. Inside the box, I found the keyboard, the detachable numpad, a plushy magnetic wrist rest, and an array of cables and adapters, including a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, a USB wireless dongle, and more. Each item seemed thoughtfully included, catering to a variety of setups.

Design and Build Quality: Robust and Stylish

The first thing I noticed about the ASUS ROG Claymore II was its robust build quality. The keyboard feels sturdy, and the materials used give it a premium touch. The modular numpad can be attached to either side of the keyboard, or removed entirely for a TKL (TenKeyLess) setup. This flexibility is a game-changer, allowing me to customize my keyboard layout based on my gaming needs or desk space constraints.

The keyboard also comes with a detachable wrist rest, which is a lifesaver during long gaming sessions. It’s plushy and comfortable, making typing and gaming more ergonomic. The RGB lighting is another highlight, with vibrant, customizable backlighting that adds a cool aesthetic to my gaming setup.

Connectivity: Wired and Wireless Flexibility

One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Claymore II is its dual connectivity options. It can be used both wired and wirelessly via its 2.4 GHz RF mode. The wireless performance is impressive, with a 1 millisecond response time that ensures lag-free gaming. I didn’t notice any delay or connectivity issues during my usage, making it reliable for competitive gaming.

The USB-C fast charging is another plus, allowing the keyboard to operate for up to 18 hours on a 30-minute charge with the lighting off. This means less downtime and more playtime, which is always a win in my book.

Key Switches: The Heart of the Experience

The ASUS ROG Claymore II comes with ROG RX Optical Mechanical Switches, available in both Blue and Red variants. My unit had the ROG RX Blue switches, known for their tactile feedback and satisfying clicky sound. These switches require a bit of force to actuate, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found them quite enjoyable for both gaming and typing.

For those who prefer a quieter and lighter switch, the ROG RX Red switches are also available. These linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without the audible click, making them suitable for office environments or quieter gaming setups.

Gaming Performance: A Gamer’s Delight

When it comes to gaming, the ASUS ROG Claymore II truly shines. The low latency and fast response time are crucial for fast-paced games, and this keyboard delivers on both fronts. The customizable macro keys are a boon for complex in-game commands, and the detachable numpad can be programmed as a macro keypad, adding another layer of functionality.

The keyboard’s overall responsiveness and the tactile feedback from the ROG RX Blue switches made my gaming sessions more immersive. Whether I was diving into an intense FPS match or exploring a sprawling RPG, the ASUS ROG Claymore II enhanced my gaming experience.

Typing Experience: Comfortable and Efficient

Beyond gaming, the ASUS ROG Claymore II also performs well for general typing tasks. The tactile feedback from the Blue switches made typing feel precise and enjoyable, though the audible clicks might not be ideal for shared office spaces. The included wrist rest and the keyboard’s ergonomic design ensured that even extended typing sessions were comfortable.

Customization: Make It Your Own

The Armoury Crate software is where the ASUS ROG Claymore II’s customization options come to life. This software allows you to remap keys, set up macros, and customize the RGB lighting to your heart’s content. The interface is user-friendly, making it easy to tweak settings and create profiles for different games or tasks.

One of my favorite features is the ability to sync the keyboard’s lighting with other Aura Sync compatible devices. This creates a cohesive and visually stunning setup that enhances the overall gaming atmosphere.

Office Use: A Decent Contender

While the ASUS ROG Claymore II is primarily designed for gaming, it also performs admirably in an office setting. The sturdy build and comfortable typing experience make it suitable for long work hours. However, the clicky ROG RX Blue switches might be too loud for some office environments. If noise is a concern, the ROG RX Red switches would be a better choice.

Programming: Versatility and Functionality

For programming, the ASUS ROG Claymore II offers a solid experience. The ability to remap keys and set up macros is particularly useful for coding tasks. The modular numpad can also be customized for programming shortcuts, streamlining the workflow. The only downside is the lack of Bluetooth support, which limits connectivity to a single device at a time.

The Modular Numpad: A Unique Feature

The detachable numpad is one of the ASUS ROG Claymore II’s most unique features. I loved the flexibility it offers. On days when I needed more desk space or wanted a more compact setup, I could simply remove the numpad. For tasks that required extensive use of the numpad, attaching it to either side of the keyboard was a breeze.

This modular approach is a game-changer, catering to different use cases and preferences. It’s like having two keyboards in one, and I found myself appreciating this flexibility more than I initially expected.

Battery Life: Keeping the Game Going

Battery life is a crucial factor for any wireless device, and the ASUS ROG Claymore II doesn’t disappoint. The fast charging capability is a standout feature. With just 30 minutes of charging, I could get up to 18 hours of use with the lighting off. This meant less time tethered to a cable and more time enjoying the wireless freedom.

USB Passthrough: Added Convenience

The inclusion of a USB passthrough is another thoughtful addition. This allows for easy connection of other peripherals, reducing the clutter on my desk. Whether it was plugging in a mouse or a USB drive, the passthrough made it convenient to manage my setup without having to reach for my PC’s USB ports.

RGB Lighting: Light Up Your World

No gaming keyboard review would be complete without mentioning RGB lighting, and the ASUS ROG Claymore II excels in this department. The per-key RGB lighting is vibrant and fully customizable. Through the Armoury Crate software, I could create dynamic lighting effects and sync them with my other Aura Sync devices.

Whether I wanted a subtle glow or a pulsating light show, the customization options were extensive. This not only added a personal touch to my setup but also enhanced the overall gaming ambiance.

Armoury Crate Software: Control at Your Fingertips

The Armoury Crate software is the command center for the ASUS ROG Claymore II. It’s where you can unleash the full potential of this keyboard. The interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate through different customization options. From remapping keys and setting macros to tweaking the RGB lighting, the software offers a comprehensive suite of controls.

One of the highlights for me was the ability to create and switch between different profiles. This is particularly useful if you use the keyboard for both gaming and work, as you can tailor the settings to suit each use case.

What Could Be Improved: Room for Growth

While the ASUS ROG Claymore II has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where it could improve. The lack of Bluetooth support is a notable omission. In an era where many devices rely on Bluetooth connectivity, being limited to the USB receiver feels a bit restrictive.

The ROG RX Blue switches, while great for gaming, might not be everyone’s preference for typing due to the required actuation force and noise. Offering more switch options or even hot-swappable switches could make this keyboard appeal to a broader audience.

Conclusion: A Versatile and Powerful Keyboard

The ASUS ROG Claymore II is a remarkable keyboard that offers a blend of versatility, performance, and customization. Its robust build quality, modular design, and dual connectivity options make it a standout choice for gamers. The tactile feedback from the ROG RX Blue switches adds to the immersive gaming experience, while the customizable RGB lighting enhances the overall aesthetic.

For office use and programming, the keyboard still holds its ground, though the clicky switches might not be ideal for all environments. The Armoury Crate software provides extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor the keyboard to your specific needs.

Recommendation: Should You Buy It?

If you’re a gamer looking for a versatile, high-performance keyboard, the ASUS ROG Claymore II is definitely worth considering. Its modular design, fast charging, and responsive switches make it a powerful tool for gaming. However, if you need a quieter keyboard for an office setting or require Bluetooth connectivity, you might want to explore other options.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Claymore II delivers a premium experience that justifies its price tag. Whether you’re diving into intense gaming sessions or tackling everyday tasks, this keyboard is designed to adapt to your needs and elevate your experience.

In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Claymore II is more than just a keyboard; it’s a testament to innovation and design in the gaming world. So, if you’re ready to level up your gaming setup, give the ASUS ROG Claymore II a try. You might just find it to be the perfect companion for your gaming adventures.

See Price On Amazon