In this review we will analyze the new Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless mechanical keyboard
The panorama of gaming keyboards is truly rich and full of models to choose from. Precisely for this reason, it is difficult to propose an innovative product capable of being worth purchasing instead of existing ones. Among the best features that a keyboard of this type can offer is first of all the immediacy in providing feedback when playing, for example, competitive titles, but also the convenience in the arrangement of the individual keys, so as to never make mistakes .
This Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless it is proposed as a model with 96% layout. Which means that it will be able to save you some space on your desk by also being able to fit the navigation keys, but on the top section.
Let’s find out together whether this from Asus could be an interesting choice for gamers, with its pros and cons.
Unboxing – Review Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
Characterized by classic colors ranging from red to black, the package is truly rich and complete. Inside, in addition to the keyboard, we find a leatherette palm rest, a fabric cable, the key/switch puller, an additional space bar and a USB extender. There is also no shortage of stickers and various instruction booklets.
Let’s analyze the keyboard – Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Review
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless looks like the natural heir to the Scope II, a keyboard that has enjoyed considerable success among gamers. The goal of this new version is to further refine the user experience, offering a series of improvements aimed at raising the bar in terms of performance, reliability and customization.
One of the aspects on which Asus has focused most is the sturdiness of the frame. The criticisms leveled at the previous model, which complained of a certain flexion during transport, have been taken into consideration and have led to a stiffening of the structure. The motherboard is now securely attached to the chassis, improving the solid feel when typing, especially on the upper keys.
The aesthetics have also taken a slight hit restyling. The height of the rotary controller has been reduced, giving the keyboard a sleeker, more compact profile. The matte finish of the body makes it really easy to keep clean and also resistant to scratches.
Despite the compact form factor, the keyboard boasts a weight of 978 grams, testifying to the solidity of its structure. The lower body in matte plastic is thick and sturdy, while the PCB is embedded in a frame that guarantees its stability.
The PCB is protected by a thick layer of silicone that dampens vibrations and provides a more robust feel. The 1.5mm polycarbonate plate is semi-transparent, allowing the RGB lighting to spread evenly and creating a truly successful visual effect.
This keyboard is also equipped with hot swap technology, which allows you to replace switches without having to desolder them. Clearly, it can be used in wirelessly via Bluetooth o 2.4 GHz (via the magnetically included dongle on the back), or in wired mode via USB-C. Battery life is excellent, with a estimated duration of approximately 40 hours with RGB lighting turned off.
Speaking, then, of lighting, there is nothing to say. Asus reconfirms itself as the queen with a varied plethora of effects that can be selected both from Aura Sync (and therefore synchronized with peripherals that support this technology) and with the key combination.
Switch & Keycaps – Review Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
The model we tested features ROG NX Snow mechanical switches, designed to offer a fluid and responsive gaming experience. These switches feature a 1.8 mm activation pointa initial strength of 40 gf it’s a total strength of 53 gfclassifying itself as “linear refined”.
The slightly higher actuation point compared to other linear switches offers a good balance between speed and precision in pressing the keys. This means that the keys respond promptly while requiring minimally more pressure, minimizing accidental activations. The initial force of 40 gf and the total force of 53 gf help maintain a smooth feel when typing and gaming, without sacrificing satisfying feedback.
These switches boast a stainless steel stem material POM composite with upper PC housing and lower POM housing. This combination allows for exceptional smoothness of the keys, ensuring a fluid experience. Furthermore, the design “walled stem” (walled stem) improves the stability of the keys and prevents the intrusion of dust, increasing the longevity of the switches. A distinctive feature of the ROG NX Snow switches is their loudness. Thanks to factory lubrication, these switches produce a “Thocky” sound while pressing the keys. They are also factory lubricated stabilizerswhich surprised us both for the sound offered and for the stabilization of the keys.
The ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless keycaps feature a design that could divide user opinion. The ROG-style key font it is very “gaming-like”, which could be excessively flashy for more sober tastes. Furthermore, the concave shape of the keys may not be appreciated by those who prefer a flatter profile, requiring a longer adaptation period for writing.
However, not everything is to be discarded. The medium key height, similar to the Cherry profile, helps reduce wobble and offers greater stability when typing. This might be especially appreciated by users looking for precision and responsiveness in their gaming experience. The material used for the keycaps is a ABS with an anti-UV coating, ensuring good resistance to wear and shine over time. However, some may prefer the more premium feel offered by double-shot PBT keycaps.
Generally speaking, switches and keycaps seem to be going in the same direction. The needle leans heavily towards the gaming side and much less towards that of productivity.
Let’s sum it up
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is an excellent gaming keyboard for those looking for a compact, reliable and high-performance device. It offers a number of attractive features, including smooth mechanical switches, excellent battery life, and rich RGB lighting. However, the choice of keycaps and the high price (around €190.00) may not be for everyone.
If you’re looking for a high-end gaming keyboard and don’t mind spending a little more, the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is a great choice. It offers an excellent gaming experience and a series of features that make it versatile and suitable for different needs. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer PBT keycaps with a more understated design, there are alternatives on the market that may be better suited to you.
The new Asus gaming keyboard
Points in favor
- Excellent battery life
- Stable and reliable wireless connection
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Keycaps
- Sound
Points against
- Keycap design not suitable for everyone
- Quite uncomfortable wrist rest
- Prezzo