ASUS ROG Claymore II Wired & Wireless Keyboard (2025)

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ASUS ROG Claymore II Review (2025): Is This Modular Marvel Still the Ultimate Flexible Keyboard?

Imagine a keyboard that can transform to perfectly match your task – a compact Tenkeyless (TKL) for intense gaming sessions, a full-size layout for productivity, or even a unique setup with the numpad on the left. That’s the promise of the ASUS ROG Claymore II, a keyboard renowned for its unique modularity. But does this innovative design from a couple of years ago still make it a top contender in 2025? Let’s find out if it’s the right investment for you.

Why the Claymore II Stands Out: The Modular Advantage

This is the keyboard’s killer feature: the detachable numpad.

TKL for Gaming: Remove the numpad entirely for a compact TKL layout, giving you maximum space for mouse movement.
Full-Size for Productivity: Snap the numpad onto the right side for traditional number crunching and data entry.
Left-Handed Power: Attach the numpad to the left side! This keeps your mouse hand closer to the main keys while still providing numpad access, or opens up unique macro possibilities for creatives and gamers.
Macro Pad Potential: The numpad itself features customizable keys and a volume roller, acting almost like a dedicated macro pad when needed.

This unmatched flexibility means the Claymore II can genuinely be the only keyboard you need for vastly different tasks.

Performance Under the Hood: Speed and Precision

Unique ROG RX Optical Switches: Forget key wobble. These switches use a unique square stem and X-stabilizer design for incredibly stable, consistent keystrokes. Being optical, they register presses via a light beam, offering near-instant actuation (1ms response) perfect for competitive gaming. Available in RX Red (Linear) and RX Blue (Clicky) options.
Lag-Free Wireless or Solid Wired: Game wirelessly without compromise using the reliable 2.4GHz RF connection (via USB dongle) that boasts a wired-like 1ms response time. Prefer a direct connection or need to charge? Plug in via USB-C.

Built Tough, Designed for Comfort

Premium Construction: This keyboard feels substantial and durable, ready for intense use.
Shine-Resistant PBT Keycaps: Enjoy high-quality PBT keycaps that resist the oily shine common on lesser materials, keeping your keyboard looking sharp.
Magnetic Wrist Rest Included: A comfortable, detachable plush wrist rest is included right in the box, providing crucial ergonomic support for long sessions.
Convenient USB Passthrough: Need to plug in your mouse, headset, or flash drive? A handy USB passthrough port is built right into the keyboard.

Power, Lights, and Customization

Long-Lasting Battery: Keep gaming wirelessly with up to 43 hours of battery life even with the vibrant RGB lighting turned on (or up to 144 hours with RGB off).
Quick Recharge: Low on power? USB-C fast charging gets you back in the game quickly – just 30 minutes of charging can provide up to 18 hours of use (lighting off).
Dazzling Aura Sync RGB: Customize per-key RGB lighting with millions of colors and numerous effects. Sync it seamlessly with other ASUS Aura Sync-compatible gear for an immersive setup, even in wireless mode.
Onboard Memory: Save your favorite lighting profiles and key bindings directly to the keyboard’s memory (up to 6 profiles), so your settings travel with you.

Key Specifications Summary

Switch Options: ROG RX Red Optical Mechanical (Linear), ROG RX Blue Optical Mechanical (Clicky)
Layout: Modular (Full-size or TKL, numpad attachable left/right)
Connectivity: Wired (USB-C), Wireless (2.4GHz RF via USB dongle)
Polling Rate: 1,000 Hz
Keycaps: PBT Doubleshot
Features: Detachable numpad with programmable keys/volume roller, Detachable magnetic wrist rest, USB 2.0 Passthrough, Per-key Aura Sync RGB, Onboard Memory
Battery Life: Up to 43 hrs (RGB On) / 144 hrs (RGB Off)
Approximate Cost (April 2025): ~$269.99 USD (Check current retailers as prices may vary)

What Buyers Should Consider in 2025

While innovative, keep these points in mind:

The Premium Price Tag: At around $270, this is a significant investment. You’re paying for the unique modularity, optical switches, and premium ROG features.
Potential Numpad Wobble: Some users have noted a very slight wobble or flex where the numpad attaches. It might depend on the specific unit or how firmly it’s connected, but it’s a possibility to be aware of.
Weight & Portability: Due to its solid build and features, this is a heavier keyboard. It’s not the best choice if you need something ultra-portable for frequent travel.
RX Switch Feel: The stable, smooth feel of RX optical switches is excellent, but different from traditional Cherry MX style switches. If you have a strong preference for a specific traditional switch, try these first if possible.

Quick Alternatives Check (2025 Landscape):

Logitech G915 TKL: Offers a low-profile wireless experience, different switch feel, no modularity, and often found at a lower price now (but has Micro-USB).
Corsair K100 RGB: A wired flagship with different optical switches, more dedicated macro options, but lacks wireless and modularity.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro: Another premium wired option with different switch choices, strong macro features, but no wireless or detachable numpad.
(Consider other modular options if available in 2025, but the Claymore II remains unique in its specific implementation)

The Verdict for Versatility Seekers (2025)

The ASUS ROG Claymore II is an excellent choice if:

Maximum layout flexibility is your top priority – seamlessly switching between TKL, full-size, or left-handed numpad.
You want high-performance, lag-free wireless combined with a reliable wired option.
You appreciate the stable, wobble-free feel and speed of ROG RX optical switches.
You value a premium build with PBT keycaps and an included wrist rest.
You’re invested in the ASUS ROG ecosystem and want Aura Sync integration.
The premium price is acceptable for its unique feature set.

You Might Look Elsewhere if:

You’re on a tighter budget.
You need an ultra-portable or lightweight keyboard.
You strongly prefer the feel of traditional mechanical switches (like Cherry MX Brown/Red/Blue).
The potential for a slight numpad wobble concerns you greatly.
You don’t need or value the modular numpad feature.

Even in 2025, the ASUS ROG Claymore II’s core concept remains remarkably compelling. Its ability to adapt its layout on the fly is unmatched, and it backs that up with solid performance, premium materials, and thoughtful features. If that unique versatility solves a real problem for your gaming or productivity workflow, the Claymore II justifies its premium price tag and remains a standout choice