Asus sought to provide a solution by putting as much customization as possible into the new ROG Chakram X, including hot-swappable switches, joysticks of three different lengths, and support for Bluetooth, USB-C, and 2.4 GHz wireless connections. Each of the 11 buttons and the analog joystick are programmable in Armoury Crate software, so you can set them to do exactly what you want. Added to this is a 36,000 DPI optical sensor and a polling rate of as much as 8,000 Hz.
Asus has gone to great lengths to put the most advanced technology into this mouse, and it is very impressive. However, not all of these features are the most practical. For example, most gamers typically do not use anything above 1,600 DPI, and it is hard to imagine anyone’s DPI approaching the upper range of those supported by the mouse. Also, not all games will benefit from the 8,000 Hz polling frequency. The higher polling frequency also requires more CPU effort, and there have been reports of stuttering in some games.
If you’re lucky, some games like Valorant have already added support for it, so you should check the specific game you’re playing. That said, tracking was otherwise flawless as expected, with no noticeable acceleration or jitter. A switch on the bottom lets you switch between Bluetooth, wired and 2.4GHz wireless, putting versatility at your fingertips. However, we wouldn’t recommend the Bluetooth mode for gaming, and it’s best to stick with the wired and 2.4GHz modes.
Design
For the most part, the Asus ROG Chakram X is a joy to hold. The slim profile and wide design make it a dream for those with larger hands like us, with a wider thumb rest for added comfort. While the slim profile is suitable for smaller hands, a palm rest is suitable for most hands, especially for extended use. Complete with three PTFE feet, the ROG Chakram X glides with ease, considering its hefty weight of 127 grams, which is much heavier compared to similar mice on the market such as the SteelSeries Aerox 9, which weighs only 89 grams.
This is not necessarily a negative aspect, as the weight is due to the build quality and design, with the main switches and scroll wheel supporting the weight of our fingers and grip. The ROG Chakram X also has a programmable multidirectional joystick located on the side of the mouse, as well as 4 additional buttons on the side.
The buttons are in a cross-shaped pattern, with the up and down buttons initially programmed for volume control, which we found a nice touch, as we had never thought of using these buttons in such a way. The thumb joystick, however, is slightly less convenient, but not because of its functionality, but more because of its placement. we have never comfortably move my thumb to the stick, or in such a way that it felt natural or seamless. In addition, the overall design is still firmly in the win column.
Comfort
Although the ROG Chakram X is not comfortable for larger hands and the side buttons are difficult for any hand size to handle, at least the mouse is solidly built. The scroll wheel is clickable and has rubberized finish that provides good grip. The Chakram X has the four thumb buttons and a thumbstick, which can be used as four additional buttons or as an analog control. Unfortunately, all the thumb buttons are somewhat useless.
The thumbstick buttons are small, difficult to feel and reach without having to adjust the hand position in a way that compromises grip. In addition, the thumbstick is positioned far forward, so you have to move your hand one more time to reach it. The thumbstick is adjustable and can be replaced with a long or short grip. The mouse is solidly constructed, but it is not very comfortable if you have large hands (and the side buttons seem to be a problem for any hand size).
Connectivity
The ROG Chakram X supports wired and wireless connectivity via a 2.4 GHz receiver or Bluetooth. In addition, Chakram X can be recharged in two ways: wired and via Qi. The mouse can run up to 114 hours with a 2.4GHz connection and up to 150 hours with Bluetooth on a full charge.
The ROG Chakram X includes two joysticks of different lengths. The mouse design allows for customization of the buttons and top panel. Switches can be replaced with 3- or 5-pin optical switches thanks to Push-Fit Socket II slots. The mouse features ROG Micro Switch branded switches that can withstand up to 70 million clicks.
Performance
The Chakram X features a sensor with an impressive maximum sensitivity of 36,000 CPI. The mouse has optional 8,000 Hz polling (wired) and tolerates speeds up to 650 IPS and accelerations up to 50G. The switches under the four thumb buttons, scroll wheel and main mouse click buttons are also responsive. The thumb buttons, in particular, do not have the mushiness often found in mouse thumb buttons.
Unfortunately, poor positioning, size, and spacing make it difficult to use all the side buttons. The thumbstick is about 3.25 inches from the back of the mouse, while the back thumb button is only 1.75 inches away. That may not sound like much, but the 1.5-inch distance makes it difficult to switch from one button to the other. When we slide our hand up to center our thumb on the analog stick, my fingers move far forward and have difficulty reaching the scroll wheel.
Although the Chakram X performs basic functions well, it fails to provide the additional controls expected for its premium price. The wireless performance of the mouse is generally pretty good, but, in all the years we’ve been using wireless mice, we’ve never seen some of the strange behaviors we spotted with the Chakram X. For example, we saw my mouse cursor wobble around after we stopped moving the mouse.
In fairness, we tested the Chakram X in an environment full of other wireless signals, so this could be the result of interference, but we didn’t notice any similar problems with other wireless devices. On the other hand, the battery life of Chakram X is phenomenal, lasting through numerous long gaming sessions and workdays without the need for a top-up. It can be charged via USB-C, but also supports Qi wireless charging.
Battery Life
The mouse can be charged quickly via a USB 3.2 port or a suitable charging plug. Battery life is increased to up to 114 hours, and a 15-minute quick charge via cable would restore up to 25 hours. Wireless charging is also possible with the Qi charging pad.
Conclusion
With the “Chakram X,” manufacturer ASUS launches under the Republic of Gamers (ROG) gaming label the first mouse with the new “ROG-Aim Point” optical sensor. The Asus ROG Chakram X wireless gaming mouse does everything perfectly. The high level of individualism allows unlimited creativity. We really like the click behavior.
Numerous accessories are included. The numerous buttons, including the joystick, are the cherry on top of this model. Once you master the controls, you have much more freedom to perform various actions even better. Be it gaming, working or image editing, the sensor ensures that the mouse is controlled accurately. Asus has re-established itself as a luxury brand.
