The gaming peripheral market has seen significant innovation in recent years, and among the frontrunners is the Asus ROG Azoth X keyboard, which builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, the original ROG Azoth. While the original was already highly regarded for its enthusiast features such as hot-swappable switches and a full lubing kit, the Azoth X introduces several key upgrades that enhance its appeal to gamers and keyboard enthusiasts alike. Priced at $299.99, it showcases improvements in functionality and aesthetics, marking a critical step forward in the quest for the ultimate gaming keyboard.
Design and Build Quality
The Asus ROG Azoth X features a unique design that sets it apart from its predecessors. With a white plastic chassis topped by an aluminum plate, it weighs about 2.17 pounds (985.5g), making it lighter than the original. The compact 75% layout measures 12.81 inches (325.42 mm) in width and 5.36 inches (136.16 mm) in depth, which is consistent with the dimensions of the original Azoth. The new model incorporates double-shot PBT keycaps with three translucent sides, improving backlighting for a more vibrant display.
What really distinguishes the Azoth X, however, is its aesthetic appeal. The keyboard adopts Asus’ “Stellar” theme, featuring keycaps adorned with a striking blue-red gradient that evokes a retro-futuristic vibe. While the design may not cater to everyone’s tastes, it certainly stands out in a market filled with traditional gaming aesthetics.
Enhanced Features and Connectivity
On the technical side, the keyboard boasts significant upgrades. The ROG Azoth X supports 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C connectivity, making it versatile for any gaming setup. Asus claims a staggering battery life of up to 1,600 hours with the backlighting and OLED display turned off. This is an improvement over many competitors, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions without worrying about frequent recharges.
Additionally, the keyboard features a small, grayscale OLED screen in the upper right corner, which allows for quick adjustments to settings such as media control and backlighting. Users can also enjoy customizing their keyboard experience through Asus’ Armoury Crate software, which is undergoing a transition to a web-based model, providing a more streamlined user experience. This removes the need for installing heavy software on your device, a welcome improvement for many.
Typing and Gaming Performance
When it comes to performance, the Azoth X doesn’t disappoint. It features Asus’ ROG NX Snow V2 and Storm V2 switches, which have been modified to enhance typing responsiveness and feel. The Snow V2 switches offer a refined linear feel, boasting smooth presses without tactile bumps or clicks. For gaming, this can translate to faster reaction times, crucial for competitive scenarios.
One standout aspect is the hot-swappable PCB, allowing users to easily replace the switches without soldering. This feature is particularly appealing for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience further, as they can experiment with different switch types that suit their preferred gaming or typing style.
Community Response and Market Impact
The release of the ROG Azoth X has generated buzz within the gaming community, primarily for its blend of aesthetics and functionality. Reviews have noted that while the keyboard excels in many areas, the typing experience, while pleasant, still falls short of what dedicated enthusiasts might expect from a premium keyboard. Some critiques have noted inconsistencies in sound, especially with the space bar, which has led to some users opting for third-party alternatives to achieve a more uniform acoustics experience.
Industry peers have taken notice of Asus’ commitment to continually innovate in the gaming keyboard space. As noted by TechRadar, Asus is positioning itself as a serious contender against established brands in the mechanical keyboard arena, such as Corsair and Razer, both of which have also launched premium mechanical keyboards targeting the gaming demographic.
Comparing to Competitors
At its price point, the ROG Azoth X competes with other high-end gaming keyboards like the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% and the Meletrix Boog75, which have also received positive reviews. The competition highlights the necessity for Asus to innovate continuously and improve its offerings to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 75% |
| Key Switches | ROG NX Snow V2 (linear), ROG NX Storm V2 (clicky) |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Battery Life | Up to 1,600 hours (no backlighting) |
| Price | $299.99 |
| Release Date | June 21, 2025 |
The Bottom Line
The Asus ROG Azoth X represents a thoughtful evolution of the original Azoth, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality to cater to serious gamers and keyboard enthusiasts. While it delivers an impressive typing experience and features, the price tag and minor acoustic inconsistencies may deter some potential buyers. For those looking for a high-quality, customizable keyboard that merges performance with eye-catching design, the Azoth X is both a formidable and appealing choice in today’s gaming peripherals landscape.