Tech and computer enthusiasts can spend a lot of money on their peripherals. This is all the more true when it comes to keyboards, a market in which manufacturers offer tailor-made solutions billed for several hundred euros. And this is exactly the audience to which Asus has decided to address its ROG Azoth, a compact mechanical keyboard in 75% format that is reminiscent of these famous keyboards. custom.
If we first notice the presence of a 2-inch OLED screen with various functions (display of the status of the keyboard, caps lock, connection mode, battery level, CPU load , etc.), it is the care taken in the manufacture and the quality of striking that intends to justify the 300 € including tax displayed by its price tag.
The quest for the perfect keystroke also involves working on noise
Equipped with ROG NX mechanical switches and pre-lubricated stabilizers, which eliminate friction noise and provide a softer keystroke, this keyboard claims to be as pleasant as possible to use and to do so also uses silicone seals and to a multi-layered cushioning foam, not to mention a 3.5 mm thick silicone pad. This ends up giving it one of the most sober acoustics, thanks to the absorption of vibrations and the cancellation of echo. In the same vein, the choice of keycaps (the outer cap of the keys) of a medium height and with a short stem reduces the play of said keys by offering a clean keystroke.
As Asus indicates, despite such a level of finish, some may need to upgrade the keyboard over time. This is why the brand presents its ROG Azoth as an excellent customizable keyboard base, and provides additional switches in the box, enough to easily remove the keycaps and switches, but also to open and lubricate them. A rack specially designed to carry out this lubrication step is even provided.
This keyboard works both on PC and Mac (a key mapping profile is provided for macOS), wired and wireless, either Bluetooth or with proprietary ROG SpeedNova technology in 2.4 GHz. The only indication provided concerning the autonomy is 2000 hours, a maximum which can be reached by deactivating the backlight and the Oled screen. It will be necessary to wait for the tests to know what is the autonomy of its battery in more conventional scenarios of use. Tests that will also reveal whether it is really reasonable to spend so much money on a keyboard that promises nothing less than a divine feel.
The Asus ROG Azoth will be released in the coming days.