I am an aesthetics-first girly when it comes to my peripherals — but guess what? I think I’ve found a keyboard that’s not just gorgeous but is also a powerhouse. Say hello to my new favourite: the ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Keyboard! (Try saying that three times fast.)
This keyboard has wowed me for weeks now with its appealing design, functionality, and beautiful sounds orchestrated while quietly tapping away. Although I’m not always the softest typer, it still holds up under my often aggressive gaming!
Functionality and Design
The Strix Scope II’s layout is 96% (hence the 96) of a full mechanical keyboard, keeping all function and number keys in a more compact design. When I started using this keyboard, I wasn’t sure if I would like the compact design as I found the keys too close together. I only use full keyboards or TKLs, so the 96 was an adjustment. However, after much use, I quickly became accustomed to the design and it no longer became an issue.
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What I love most about this keyboard is that it comes with pre-lubricated switches, meaning those thicker acoustics are already raring to go. Equipped with linear “Snow” switches and sound-dampening foam pads, the typing experience is a dream. My previous keyboards have always been very clicky-clacky, and I can now say I have officially been converted to the quiet side.
Also available in black, I’ve been using the new colour Moonlight White which is gorgeous! I have previously favoured black peripherals but am slowly changing my set up to white, as it’s clean and the RGB lights compliment the shade beautifully. To customise the lighting, ROG’s Armoury Crate software is available to download for free on PC. Armoury Crate offers basic effects, light intensity, a full colour wheel, and synchronisation across multiple devices.
What’s in the box?
As this is a full mechanical keyboard, the box includes the correct tools to safely remove your switches. This was very intimidating to me as I haven’t ever found the need to customise my keyboard but I thought to give it a go by replacing the space bar for the ROG design spacebar which was included. As I am typing out this review, it’s safe to say the operation was a success.
If you prefer a heavier switch with a refined, clicky sound, the box did include extra “Storm” switches. I was happy with my “Snow” switches so these were not tested.
How quick is the Strix Scope II 96?
The response time is impressive when gaming, the keyboard has a tri-mode connection with either wired USB, Bluetooth, or RF 2.4Ghz mode. I have been using the RF with the dongle and I’ve had no stability issues and my sessions have been completely uninterrupted. The battery life on this keyboard is an absolute beast, with ROG saying it could last up to 1500+ hours (noting this is with the lights off). I’m yet to charge my keyboard and it’s been close to four weeks of casual work and gaming!
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As a content creator, being able to quickly access tools to help capture my content is such a time saver. The Strix Scope II comes with 5 pre-programmed hotkeys for Xbox Game Bar and recording functions — fantastic. Keys F1 through to F5 are pre-programmed to Open Game Bar, Print Screen, Record the last 30 seconds, Start/Pause recording and mute/unmute your microphone.
The keyboard also features a scroll wheel with a larger ROG-sized button that you can press to filter through functions such as volume control, media, and lighting. Overall, it’s a very comfortable keyboard and the addition of an attachable wrist rest is a bonus. The supplied rest can be maneuvered to three tilt positions.
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How much is the ROG Strix Scope II 96?
The ROG Strix Scope II is priced at $299 AUD and is available directly through ASUS ROG, JB Hi Fi, Amazon and Scorptec. For this mid to high range keyboard, you’re getting what you pay for.
I’ve used my fair share of mechanical keyboards over the years but this one has impressed me. Many modern gaming keyboards feel the same, so it’s refreshing to discover a product that’s taken its design a step further with quality in mind. For a true mechanical keyboard that caters to not only your gaming but creating needs as well, I can’t recommend the ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Keyboard more.
The ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Keyboard was supplied to Quest Daily for the purpose of this review. Quest Daily has no affiliation with the product purchase pages shared above and does not receive any commission from the sale of the product.
