Asus ROG Azoth X review: A premium keyboard built for customization

Best Prices Today: Asus ROG Azoth X

With the Asus ROG Azoth X, the Taiwanese manufacturer is venturing into the world of custom gaming keyboards and presenting a high-end 75% wireless keyboard. It’s clear at first glance that this is no run-of-the-mill keyboard, but a compact luxury typewriter with an OLED display, rotary wheel and individually replaceable switches.

Our Moonlight White version is particularly striking: an elegant white and silver design with a few contrasting black keys that will impress even die-hard enthusiasts.

In this detailed practical test, we clarify whether the Asus ROG Azoth shines just as brightly in everyday use as it does in the display case and whether Asus can actually keep up with the boutique brands. By the way, you can find even more recommended models in our comparison test of gaming keyboards.

Friedrich Stiemer

Asus ROG Azoth X: Design

Despite its compact 75% layout, the Asus ROG Azoth X weighs in at an astonishing 1.2 kilograms (326 x 136 x 40 millimetres), giving it a high-quality and robust feel. Asus achieves this with a metal frame (elegant silver on the white version) and an extremely sturdy plastic base.

The plastic base is necessary to avoid interfering with wireless performance. However, this does not detract from the torsional rigidity. Everything fits perfectly, nothing creaks. Most of the keycaps are made of durable, high-quality PBT plastic using a double-shot moulding process, which means that wear and tear is hardly an issue even after prolonged use.

In the white model, the keycaps are mostly white with a few black accents (such as on the arrow keys and the Esc key), which gives the board a distinctive look. The lettering is clearly visible, and all secondary functions (FN functions) are discreetly printed on the front of the caps.

The caps have a slightly concave surface and a medium-height design, similar to the Cherry profile. In our tests, this resulted in a pleasant typing experience. Only the texture of the keycaps could be more grippy.

Some may find them a little slippery, but in practice this does not affect typing accuracy or grip. On the plus side, thanks to PBT, fingerprints and greasy smudges are virtually non-existent.

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A 2-inch OLED display sits enthroned in the upper right corner of the Asus ROG Azoth X, flanked by a three-way rotary switch with a pressure function. This mini grayscale display serves as a versatile information center:

It displays the battery level, volume, active profiles and even live system data (such as CPU temperature or utilization) and can be customized with individual animations. It’s conveniently controlled via the rotary wheel, which can be used to adjust the volume, lighting brightness or music playback, for example.

In everyday use, the OLED panel proves to be a nice extra with a high coolness factor, but its practical use is rather limited. Many functions are displayed on the PC monitor anyway, and while an easily readable battery level or a funny GIF are nice, you don’t really need the display. We find the screen eye-catching and versatile, and those who enjoy personalization will appreciate it.

Friedrich Stiemer

The underside of the Asus ROG Azoth X reveals a slide switch for switching between 2.4 GHz operation, Bluetooth and cable mode, as well as a hidden compartment for the USB receiver. Two fold-out feet with two height settings allow you to adjust the typing angle.

A palm rest was conspicuously absent from the first Azoth version. Fortunately, the Asus ROG Azoth X we tested comes with a high-quality palm rest made of soft silicone.

This pad is pleasantly non-slip and noticeably relieves strain on the wrists, which is particularly welcome given the case height of four centimeters (without the fold-out feet).

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Speaking of what’s included in the box: the manufacturer provides the Asus ROG Azoth X with a whole host of accessories. In addition to the keyboard and pad, the box contains a two-meter USB-C-to-A cable (sleeved and robust), a USB extension adapter for the dongle, and tools for ambitious hobbyists.

A keycap and switch puller are included – but you’ll have to do without the DIY lubrication kit that comes with the non-X version. Three additional ROG NX switches and a replacement CTRL keycap round off the package.

This generous range of accessories underlines the DIY approach of the Asus ROG Azoth X: even without any modding experience of your own, you can get started right away and try out other switches, for example.

Friedrich Stiemer

Asus ROG Azoth X: Typing

When it comes to typing, the Asus ROG Azoth X puts on a performance that will amaze many a keyboard nerd. Asus has dug deep into its bag of custom tricks: the switches are housed in a gasket mount design, meaning that the top plate (PCB) is surrounded by silicone buffers to minimize typing noise and vibrations.

In addition, four layers of damping foam and silicone pads are used. The result is impressive: background noise or clattering? Not a chance! Every keystroke feels satisfying and precise, nothing wobbles or echoes. Even the large keys (space bar, return, shift) are completely clatter-free and stable thanks to generously lubricated stabilizers.

The springs in the switches do not cause a metallic “ping” or scratching sound. All that remains is a muffled, pleasant clicking sound that is pleasing to the ear and acceptable in terms of volume even in quiet office environments. Until now, we’ve only seen this in elaborately modded custom keyboards.

Friedrich Stiemer

The test sample comes with Asus’s own “ROG NX Snow V2” switches: linear switches that are installed in the white version ex works. These are basically the same as the NX Red (linear), but are milky white in color and, according to Asus, have been fine-tuned for a particularly “clean” and rich sound.

Technically, they have a short actuation distance of 1.8 millimeters with an initial force of 40 grams and a bottom-out resistance of around 53 grams. This is slightly lighter than classic Cherry MX Reds and enables very smooth, fast input.

In fact, the pre-lubricated NX Snow V2s feel extremely smooth: no bouncing, no scratching, just pure linearity. In heated gameplay, the Asus ROG Azoth X registers commands without delay; the 1000-hertz polling rate in 2.4 GHz operation and N-key rollover ensure reliable, lag-free input.

Even during hectic FPS battles or MOBA clicking, the wireless gaming keyboard proved to be responsive and precise. In this respect, it is in no way inferior to classic gaming keyboards.

Friedrich Stiemer

If you don’t like the pressure point of the included switches, that’s no problem: the Asus ROG Azoth X supports hot-swapping for 3- and 5-pin switches, so you can swap any switch for your preferred model during operation.

In our test, we tentatively replaced some of the ROG NX Snow V2 switches with tactile models – thanks to the included tool, this was quick and easy, and the keyboard continued to function without a hitch.

Friedrich Stiemer

Another highlight is the specially tuned, lubricated stabilisers on the larger keys. They come from the factory with sufficient lubricant, preventing the usual rattling of the space bar and other keys.

In our test, the space bar was one of the best we have ever experienced on a pre-built keyboard: firm and yet buttery smooth to the touch. Here you can clearly see the influence of the custom keyboard community that Asus has incorporated into the Azoth X.

Friedrich Stiemer

But how does it feel to type on overall? In short: excellent. The combination of springy gasket mounts and dampened switches results in a slightly springy typing feel: just enough flex for comfort without feeling spongy. Long typing sessions (such as writing this review) are a breeze.

Even “counter-testers” in the editorial office noticed the difference. With the standard NX Snow V2, the keystroke is relatively light. Those coming from heavier or tactile switches may need a little time to adjust.

But this is exactly where the Asus ROG Azoth X shows its strength, because switching to heavier Kailh Box White (clicky) or other switches takes just a few minutes. After that, the keyboard once again provides feedback that is perfect for your individual taste.

In all cases, the typing noise remains pleasantly low thanks to the insulation. In short: right out of the box, the Asus ROG Azoth X offers a top-class typing experience that is hardly reminiscent of an “off-the-shelf keyboard”.

Friedrich Stiemer

Asus ROG Azoth X: Connectivity and battery life

A premium keyboard is of little use if it constantly fails. But here, too, the Asus ROG Azoth X scores highly. The wireless connection via the 2.4 GHz USB dongle (manufacturer’s designation: “Asus SpeedNova”) runs absolutely smoothly and stably. There were no connection interruptions during our test period.

Alternatively, Bluetooth 5.1 can also be used, for example, to pair the keyboard with up to three devices and switch quickly between them using the Fn key. Practical for multi-device users: with a single keystroke, the Asus ROG Azoth X jumps from your PC to your laptop or tablet.

Of course, the keyboard can also be operated in the traditional way via a USB-C cable or simply continue to be used while charging. A switch on the back allows you to choose between Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz or cable operation.

The Asus ROG Azoth X even comes with the ROG Omni Receiver, which allows a single dongle to control both the Azoth X and a compatible Asus ROG mouse at the same time. This frees up one USB port.

Friedrich Stiemer

The Azoth’s battery life is simply phenomenal. Asus has installed a generous 4,000 mAh battery, which gives the keyboard marathon running times. In Bluetooth mode without lighting, we achieved well over 2,000 hours (that’s over 80 days!) of runtime on a single charge.

In 2.4 GHz mode, Asus also specifies around 2,000 hours without RGB/OLED. We cannot verify this information due to a lack of long-term testing, but it seems plausible. If you switch on the RGB lighting, the battery life still drops to around 130 hours.

If you activate OLED and RGB at the same time, you can expect around 62 hours of continuous operation before you need to recharge. In our mixed practical use (alternating between work and gaming, moderate lighting, occasional OLED info display active), we only had to reconnect the charging cable after more than six weeks.

This is a simply outstanding value. This makes the Asus ROG Azoth X perfect for LAN parties or for working on the go without having to constantly think about charging. Incidentally, charging is done via USB-C; a full charge takes a good six hours, but thanks to the aforementioned runtimes, this is a rather rare ritual.

Friedrich Stiemer

Asus ROG Azoth X: Software and OLED control

As sophisticated as the hardware and features of the Asus ROG Azoth X are, Asus unfortunately slips up when it comes to software – and this is a recurring theme. Like almost all ROG peripherals, the Azoth X relies on the in-house management software Armoury Crate, which has an extremely dubious reputation.

Our test confirmed this: the program is bulky and takes ages to load, it’s overloaded with functions and its design is confusing. Every setting for the keyboard has to be found in some submenu and it isn’t always the most intuitive to locate.

Even more serious: the stability and reliability of the software left a lot to be desired in our test run. There were regular crashes, frozen menus or error messages when attempting to install firmware updates for the keyboard.

In some cases, Armoury Crate did not recognize our Azoth X correctly or failed in the middle of the update process. Only after several attempts and PC restarts was it possible to update the firmware, which was extremely frustrating. Such problems should not occur with a keyboard this expensive.

Friedrich Stiemer

The good news is that many of the core functions of the Asus ROG Azoth X can be used without any software at all. Asus has equipped the keyboard with a number of on-the-fly options: FN combinations can be used to switch profiles, record macros, change lighting modes and brightness, or toggle Windows key lock mode and N-key rollover, among other things.

In combination with the OLED display and the rotary knob, most of the settings can actually be adjusted directly on the keyboard. Here’s an example: Pressing and holding the wheel opens a menu in the OLED where you can change settings such as RGB brightness, effects or system info display by turning the wheel, without any software at all.

For many users, this means that they won’t need to install Armoury Crate at all, or only once to perform any firmware updates. In fact, there is even a web-based version called “Gear Link” that is significantly less cumbersome.

This is a good alternative to the sluggish Armoury Crate, which does not require installation. We hope that Asus will continue to optimize Armoury Crate, or even provide official QMK/VIA support for the Azoth X in the future, which many enthusiasts would welcome.

Friedrich Stiemer

Another minor drawback for power users: the Asus ROG Azoth X only allows simple assignments. The FN level (secondary assignments) is fixed and cannot be reprogrammed.

Compared to genuine custom solutions with completely freely assignable layers (e.g. thanks to QMK), this is a limitation that may not matter to 99 percent of normal users, but is relevant for absolute keyboard professionals.

Nevertheless, the software’s range of functions is sufficient for the target group of demanding gamers and occasional modders. You can reassign all the main keys as desired, assign macros, configure extensive RGB effects and personalize the OLED display (e.g. text, system monitor or animations). Once Armoury Crate is running, it works reliably – it’s just that getting there can be a bit bumpy.

Friedrich Stiemer

Is the Asus ROG Azoth X worth it?

The Asus ROG Azoth X – especially in the stylish white edition – proves to be an all-round impressive package for enthusiasts with deep pockets. The workmanship is first-class, the materials are high-quality and the typing and sound quality significantly surpasses typical gaming keyboards. Rarely has a pre-built keyboard reminded us so much of a lovingly tuned custom keyboard. From the very first keystroke, everything feels “smooth” and well thought out: lubricated switches, insulated housing, discreet acoustics, long battery life. Asus has thought of almost everything. Added to this are useful extras such as the handy OLED display, hot-swap support and flexible tri-mode connectivity (USB, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz).

Of course, such luxury comes at a price: Asus currently charges around $300 for the keyboard. This makes the Azoth X one of the most expensive keyboards on the market. The price-performance ratio is therefore moderate, as there are niche brands that offer similar features without OLED for significantly less. But to be fair, if you compare the Azoth X with a custom-built keyboard (e.g. GMMK Pro, Keychron Q1 including switches, keycaps, wireless mod, etc.), the price becomes more relative. The Asus ROG Azoth X delivers near-perfect tuning straight out of the box and saves hours of tinkering – you’ll pay for this convenience though. For many enthusiasts, this is likely to be an attractive option, provided their budget allows.

Apart from the price, there are only a few points of criticism, but they are significant: First and foremost, the Armoury Crate software lags behind the overall high-quality hardware and urgently needs improvement. Secondly, the OLED display is stylish, but in everyday use it’s more of a gimmick – those who can do without it will find cheaper alternatives without a screen that perform just as well. And thirdly, with its 75% layout, the Azoth is not designed for users who need a numeric keypad – but that is in the nature of things and not the fault of the product itself.

The overall package though is impressive and is aimed at demanding users who are looking for a pre-configured yet modular keyboard. This is a recommended option, especially for those who want to enter the world of DIY mechanical keyboards without having to solder and screw things together themselves. Even seasoned custom keyboard fans are likely to recognize that Asus has done a lot of things right.