
The ASUS ROG Chakram stands out as a unique customizable gaming mouse, featuring a programmable thumb joystick. It's compatible with wireless connections and offers various joystick options and swappable primary click switches, allowing users to switch between mechanical and optical types. Additionally, the mouse includes a blank badge for users who wish to swap out the ROG logo.
While these customization features are impressive, they come at the cost of added weight, with the mouse weighing 121 g. Its larger size may also post challenges for users with smaller hands, particularly when using the side joystick. The mouse delivers multiple connectivity options, DPI settings, and low latency, making it suitable for gamers seeking something different.
Launched at CES 2020, the average price of $179.90 USD places it on the higher end of the gaming mouse market. The Chakram lineup includes the Chakram Core (wired only) and Chakram X (enhanced DPI range and polling rate) variants.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
THE GOOD
- Customizable
The ROG Chakram is highly customizable, offering features like hot-swappable primary switches and a unique thumb joystick with adjustable lengths. It also integrates with ASUS Armoury Crate software for easy customization.
- Latency
The mouse has low latency, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming.
THE BAD
- Joystick
Although innovative, the joystick can be stiff and tends to snap back to the center position, which may cause discomfort during extended use. It’s a fun addition but doesn’t quite replace a traditional controller.
THE REST
- Overall
The ASUS ROG Chakram provides a unique customization experience. The thumb joystick is a fun feature but isn’t the most practical option. Additionally, the mouse is on the heavier and larger side, which may not suit everyone.
The ASUS ROG Chakram comes with more accessories than a standard gaming mouse. In the Box, users will find the mouse, a receiver dongle, wireless extender, USB Type-C to Type-A cable, accessories box, two Omron switches, long joystick, joystick socket cover, switch tweezers, stickers, a travel pouch, a customizable badge, and user documentation.
The 1.8 m braided cable is flexible, even when used in wired mode. The ROG Chakram supports Qi Wireless charging with compatible charging mouse pads, and the wireless dongle can be conveniently stored under the magnetic, removable palm rest shroud for portability. This shroud is easily removable for quick access to the customizable badge and onboard receiver storage.
Customization extends to the thumb joystick, which has three options: a socket cover, a short joystick, and a long joystick. The joystick can operate in analog mode for flight simulators or racing games, and digital mode for FPS or strategy games. However, testing showed that the joystick can be stiff and tiring for prolonged use, making it less effective as a controller replacement.
The primary switches are hot-swappable, offering flexibility between mechanical and optical options. While the customization features are comprehensive, they remain user-friendly, with all necessary tools included.
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Front of the box.
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Bottom of the mouse.
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Birds eye view of the mouse.
The ROG Chakram integrates with ASUS Armoury Crate software, allowing users to adjust various settings, including RGB lighting, polling rate, debounce time, DPI, and lift-off distance. With its programmable joystick, the mouse isn't just plug-and-play; users will likely want to create customized profiles for different applications.
The ROG Chakram's performance is powered by the Optical PixArt PAW3335 sensor, supporting a DPI range from 100 to 16,000. It features 13 buttons, 11 of which are programmable, while the primary left and right clicks use durable Omron switches.
Testing confirmed the mouse's low latency in both wired and wireless modes, supporting a polling rate of up to 1000 Hz. It achieved low latency measurements of 5.2 wired mode and 6.6 ms in wireless mode, making it suitable for competitive gaming.
Designed for right-handed users, the ROG Chakram's programmable buttons are positioned on the left side. It features a slight thumb rest for the joystick but lacks a pinky rest, making it best suited for users with larger hands. Smaller-handed users may struggle to comfortably reach the joystick and other controls.
The mouse's feet are smooth, though their non-standard placement and sizing could lead to a slightly scratchy feel on some surfaces.
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Left side of the mouse with navigation buttons and thumb joystick.