ASUS ROG Falchion Keyboard Review

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Alright, gaming enthusiasts and keyboard warriors, gather around! Today, we’re diving into the world of compact keyboards with the ASUS ROG Falchion. This isn’t your ordinary keyboard; it’s a 65% mechanical marvel designed to enhance your gaming experience. We’ll be breaking down its features, performance, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash. Spoiler alert: it’s pretty awesome.

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The ASUS ROG Falchion: First Impressions

Let’s start with the basics. The ASUS ROG Falchion is a compact 65% keyboard. For those new to the keyboard lingo, a 65% keyboard is a smaller version of the standard keyboard, keeping all the essential keys while ditching the unnecessary ones. This means you get a sleek, space-saving design without compromising on functionality. At just 306 mm in length, it’s almost the same size as a 60% keyboard but with the added convenience of arrow and navigation keys.

Now, if you’re thinking compact means flimsy, think again. The Falchion is built like a tank. It comes with a polycarbonate keyboard case cover, which is not just a travel accessory but also acts as a protective layer for the keycaps. It’s like giving your keyboard a bulletproof vest.

Performance: Wired or Wireless, It’s Your Choice

One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Falchion is its dual connectivity options. You can use it wired or wirelessly via its USB receiver. The wireless performance is particularly impressive with incredibly low latency, which is crucial for gaming. Whether you’re dodging bullets in a first-person shooter or executing a combo in a fighting game, every millisecond counts. And with the Falchion, you won’t miss a beat.

Switches and Keycaps: Customization at Your Fingertips

Customization is key in the world of gaming peripherals, and the ASUS ROG Falchion doesn’t disappoint. You can choose between Cherry MX RGB Red, Brown, Blue, or Speed Silver switches. Each type of switch offers a unique feel and sound, so you can pick the one that best suits your typing or gaming style. Personally, I’m a fan of the Cherry MX Red switches for their smooth and linear keystrokes, but to each their own.

The keycaps are another highlight. The Falchion features ROG PBT doubleshot keycaps, which provide a premium feel and long-lasting durability. The mid-height keycaps with shorter stems reduce key wobble, making for a more comfortable and precise typing experience. Plus, they look super sleek with their translucent legends.

Innovative Touch Panel: A Game Changer

Let’s talk about the touch panel. Positioned on the left side of the keyboard, this interactive touch panel is a game-changer. You can use it to control the volume, switch between apps, or even set macros. Imagine adjusting your volume mid-game without fumbling around for the volume knob or setting up a macro to execute complex commands with a single swipe. It’s intuitive and incredibly convenient.

Armoury Crate Software: Take Control

The Armoury Crate software is your command center for the ASUS ROG Falchion. This software allows you to set macros to any key, customize the RGB lighting, and tweak other settings to your heart’s content. It’s user-friendly and packed with features. Whether you’re a tech wizard or a casual gamer, you’ll find it easy to navigate and use.

Sound-Dampening and Stabilizers: Smooth and Quiet

No one likes a noisy keyboard, especially if you’re sharing your gaming space. The ASUS ROG Falchion addresses this with sound-dampening foam and specially lubricated switch stabilizers. These features reduce keystroke friction and eliminate spring-bouncing noises, resulting in smooth and quiet keystrokes. Your roommates will thank you.

Battery Life: Long-Lasting Power

When it comes to wireless keyboards, battery life is always a concern. Thankfully, the ASUS ROG Falchion excels in this department. With its efficient power management, you can game for days without worrying about recharging. The keyboard can last up to 450 hours with RGB lighting off. Yes, you read that right—450 hours! Even with the RGB lighting on, it still offers impressive battery life. So, game on without any interruptions.

The Downsides: No Bluetooth Support

Now, no product is perfect, and the ASUS ROG Falchion has its quirks. The most notable downside is the lack of Bluetooth support. This means you can’t pair it with devices that don’t have a USB port. It’s not a deal-breaker for most gamers, but if you were hoping to use it with your tablet or smartphone, you’re out of luck.

The Verdict: Is the ASUS ROG Falchion Worth It?

After spending ample time with the ASUS ROG Falchion, it’s safe to say that this keyboard is a winner. It’s compact, durable, and packed with features that enhance your gaming and typing experience. The dual connectivity options, customizable switches, interactive touch panel, and impressive battery life make it a standout choice.

The lack of Bluetooth support is a bummer, but it’s a minor gripe in the grand scheme of things. If you’re looking for a high-performance keyboard that doesn’t take up much space and offers a premium feel, the ASUS ROG Falchion is definitely worth considering.

User Experience: The Good, The Great, and The Awesome

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what it’s like to use the ASUS ROG Falchion on a daily basis. This section is all about user experience, because, at the end of the day, that’s what really matters.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Type All Day, Game All Night

One of the first things you’ll notice about the ASUS ROG Falchion is how comfortable it is to use. The mid-height keycaps and shorter stems significantly reduce key wobble, making typing and gaming more precise and comfortable. Whether you’re pounding out a long essay or in the middle of an intense gaming session, your fingers will thank you.

The compact size is also a major plus. It frees up valuable desk space, which is especially handy if you have a cluttered setup or a small workspace. Plus, it’s light enough to toss in your bag if you’re gaming on the go.

Touch Panel: More Than Just a Gimmick

Initially, I was skeptical about the touch panel. It seemed like one of those features that sound cool in theory but end up being more trouble than they’re worth. Boy, was I wrong. The touch panel on the ASUS ROG Falchion is incredibly useful. Adjusting the volume with a simple swipe is much more convenient than reaching for a dial or using the mouse.

And the customization options are endless. Want to switch apps with a swipe? Done. Need a macro to perform a complex in-game action? Easy. The touch panel adds a level of functionality that you didn’t know you needed but won’t want to live without once you’ve tried it.

RGB Lighting: Because Why Not?

Let’s be honest: RGB lighting doesn’t make you a better gamer, but it sure looks cool. The ASUS ROG Falchion comes with fully customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your setup to match your style. Whether you prefer a subtle glow or a full-on light show, the Armoury Crate software makes it easy to set up.

Plus, the translucent legends on the keycaps let the light shine through beautifully, adding an extra touch of flair to your gaming station.

Durability: Built to Last

The ASUS ROG Falchion is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The PBT doubleshot keycaps are durable and resistant to wear, meaning your key legends won’t fade over time. The polycarbonate keyboard case cover provides an extra layer of protection, making it ideal for travel.

And let’s not forget the sound-dampening foam and lubricated switch stabilizers. These features not only make the keyboard quieter but also contribute to its overall durability by reducing friction and wear on the switches.

Connectivity: Plug and Play

Setting up the ASUS ROG Falchion is a breeze. Whether you’re using it wired or wirelessly, it’s essentially plug and play. The wireless USB receiver provides a stable connection with low latency, making it suitable for competitive gaming. And if you prefer a wired connection, simply plug in the USB cable and you’re good to go.

Gaming Performance: A Dream Come True

Ultimately, the ASUS ROG Falchion is designed for gaming, and it delivers in spades. The fast-actuating ROG NX mechanical switches provide a responsive and satisfying keystroke, crucial for fast-paced games. The compact layout means your mouse has more room to move, which is a significant advantage in shooters and other precision-based games.

The customizable macros and touch panel add another layer of control, allowing you to execute complex commands with ease. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive pro, the Falchion has something to offer.

A Few Minor Quirks

As much as I love the ASUS ROG Falchion, it’s not without its quirks. The lack of Bluetooth support is a missed opportunity, especially for those who want a versatile keyboard that can connect to multiple devices. Additionally, while the compact design is great for saving space, it does take some getting used to if you’re coming from a full-sized keyboard.

Another minor issue is the touch panel sensitivity. While it’s generally accurate, there were a few instances where it didn’t register my swipes correctly. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In the crowded world of gaming keyboards, the ASUS ROG Falchion

stands out as a unique and compelling option. Its compact size, dual connectivity options, and innovative features make it a great choice for gamers and typists alike. The build quality is top-notch, and the customization options are plentiful.

If you’re in the market for a new keyboard and want something that’s both functional and stylish, the ASUS ROG Falchion is definitely worth considering. It’s not perfect, but its strengths far outweigh its minor quirks. So, give it a try—you might just find it’s the gaming companion you didn’t know you needed.

Recommendation: Should You Buy It?

So, should you buy the ASUS ROG Falchion? If you’re looking for a compact, high-performance keyboard with a ton of customization options, the answer is a resounding yes. Its innovative features, such as the touch panel and sound-dampening foam, set it apart from the competition. The lack of Bluetooth support is a bit of a letdown, but it’s a small price to pay for everything else this keyboard offers.

Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a casual player, or someone who spends a lot of time typing, the ASUS ROG Falchion is a fantastic choice. It’s durable, stylish, and packed with features that enhance your user experience. Give it a shot—you won’t be disappointed.

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