Final Thoughts on the ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX Keyboard
Releasing a magnetic switch, Hall effect keyboard might not have necessarily been on ASUS’s roadmap, but with the popularity of rapid trigger, speed tab and even custom actuation points it is something that ASUS had to offer.
For their first foray into this type of keyboard I think they’ve done a good job and added features that set this keyboard apart from other magnetic switch keyboards out there. Some things that really stand out to me is that you do get a dedicated rapid trigger toggle. Rapid trigger is not something you necessarily want on when say you are typing so having an easy toggle switch is great. The touch panel is unique and really helpful. It makes making adjustments easy without taking up extra space on the keyboard for things like multimedia keys, etc. Then you have the two USB ports. These can be used to have the keyboard connected to two machine and toggle between them or just the ability to have your cabling on the side of the keyboard that you prefer.
As far as the typing and gaming experience goes it is quite good. The extra layers of dampening and PBT keycaps really help with that. You are going to get a really smooth and satisfying sound out of this keyboard whether you are typing or gaming and of course all of those cool features like custom actuation points, rapid trigger, and speed tap work flawlessly here.
I was a bit disappointed to only see one switch type available for this keyboard, which is ASUS’s ROG HFX magnetic switches. These are a linear switch so if you want a tactile or clicky switch you are out of luck. Also the full version of Armoury Crate is sluggish and takes forever to install, luckily you can install Armoury Crate gear which is a cut-down version for just this keyboard.
I think that if you are looking for a magnetic switch keyboard in the 65% form factor this is going to be a solid choice and it offers features that make it stand out. Right now you can pick this keyboard up at our favorite online retailer for $144. Overall ThinkComputers gives the ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX Keyboard a 9 out of 10 score.
Pros:
– Solid build quality with multiple dampening layers
– PBT keycaps
– Magnetic switches offer custom actuation point, rapid trigger, speed tap & more
– Rapid trigger toggle & touch panel
– Dual USB ports with toggle switch
– Included keyboard cover / tray
Cons:
– Only 1 switch option
– Armoury Crate experience keeps getting worse
