ASUS has announced the ROG Claymore II keyboard. And it’s an interesting keyboard that builds on the unique identity of its predecessor. Which is being a unique combination of a full-sized and a tenkeyless keyboard.
Much like the first generation, the ASUS ROG Claymore II has a detachable numpad. And it’s a pretty neat idea, as it allows you to ditch it when you’re gaming, and reattach it when you’re working. You can even attach it to the left of the keyboard’s main body, if you so desire.
There’s a slight sliding motion required, but otherwise it can be attached or detached very easily. As before, it has a large scroll wheel on this segment. But what’s new are the four additional keys for macros, which may be a reason why you might want it on the left.
Going back to the main body, the ASUS ROG Claymore II has a traditional wired mode via USB-C. You also get access to a 2.4GHz wireless mode via a provided dongle. It has a built-in 4000mAh battery for this, allowing it to run for up to 40 hours before it needs to be reconnected. This can be stretched to 100 hours if you turn the RGB lighting off. And charging for 30 minutes can get you 18 hours of gameplay time.
For its switches, the ROG Claymore II uses the company’s own RX optical mechanical switches. This comes in a clicky blue variant, or a linear red one.
ASUS did not provide details on pricing and availability of the ROG Claymore II. Though The Verge reports that it will be available some time in the second quarter of the year.
