The ASUS ROG Keris II Origin is the latest addition to the ASUS gaming rodent range: the Keris II Ace is getting a sibling that aims to score points with new and replaceable microswitches. Otherwise, both gaming mice share many similarities, as our test shows.
Technical data
| The product | Keris II Origin |
| Ergonomics | Ergonomic (for right-handers) |
| Sensor | ROG AimPoint Pro |
| Sensor type | Optical |
| DPI | 100 – 42.000 |
| IPS | 750 |
| Acceleration | 70G |
| Polling rate | 1,000 Hz; 8,000 Hz (with ROG Polling Rate Booster) |
| Hardware acceleration | None |
| Number of keys | 7 (6 programmable) |
| Key material | ABS plastic |
| Switch | ROG Micro Switch II |
| Switch weight | 64 grams |
| Dimensions | 121 mm x 67 mm x 42 mm |
| Cable length / material | 2 meters / fabric sheathing |
| Connection | USB type A to USB type C |
| Connectivity | Wireless (2.4 GHz receiver); wired; Bluetooth |
| Battery life | Up to 127 hours (wireless); up to 192 hours (Bluetooth) |
| Price (RRP) | € 149.90 * |
ASUS ROG Keris II Origin with revised design
- 64 gram weight
- ergonomic for right-handers
- comfortable grip
At 64 grams, the new ASUS ROG Keris II Origin is slightly heavier than the Ace, but otherwise has the same dimensions. It is not entirely clear where the higher weight comes from. The two mice also share many similarities in terms of design.
However, there are differences in two key aspects. On the one hand, the new Keris II Origin comes with a slightly refreshed design. There is now an ROG logo on the left side of the mouse, which also shines in the customizable RGB lighting. Together with the mouse wheel and logo on the back of the mouse, this results in three zones.
The second innovation is the interchangeable design. This is because the gaming mouse relies on the so-called “ROG Push-Fit Switch Socket II”. This makes it possible to remove the back of the mouse in just a few simple steps in order to replace the micro switches on both primary buttons.
To do this, simply remove the two screws on the underside, slide the back backwards and you can access the inside of the rodent. The ASUS ROG Keris II Origin also features the brand new ROG Micro Switches II, which are even more robust and designed for 100 million clicks. In addition, they now trigger even faster and more precisely. And if they do break, you’ll find two additional switches in the scope of delivery.
The Keris II Origin once again relies on an ergonomic design with a high mouse back, which means that the rodent is aimed exclusively at right-handed users. Both primary buttons also come with a pleasantly non-slip surface coating, which makes the mouse feel excellent in the hand.
Like the Ace, the mouse comes in a choice of black or white and impresses with its elegant appearance and pleasantly non-slip surface. The build quality leaves nothing to be desired. If you prefer even more grip, you can use the grip tape included in the scope of delivery.
There are a total of four triangular PTFE gliding feet at the bottom. If that’s not enough, there are two particularly large gliding surfaces included. You will also find the mode switch, a pairing button and the DPI switch on the underside. Everything as usual.
Sensor and practical test
- 42,000 DPI
- triple connectivity
- outstanding switches
With the exception of the micro switches, the technical features of the ASUS ROG Keris II Origin are the same as those of the Keris II Ace. You get the same ROG AimPoint Pro sensor, which delivers incredible performance with up to 42,000 DPI. It achieves a maximum speed of 750 IPS and a mouse acceleration of 50G – absolute top values that should also inspire gamers with an affinity for esports.
The resolution can be adjusted in 50 DPI increments. The polling rate is limited to 1,000 Hz by default, which should be absolutely sufficient for most people. However, with the help of the polling rate booster (which is unfortunately not included here), this can be increased to 8,000 Hz, which reduces the latency many times over.
The precision, speed and performance of the ASUS ROG Keris II Origin are beyond reproach. Inputs and even minimal movements are implemented with incredible precision. Even professionals get their money’s worth here.
Especially those who like to play with palm or claw grip will get their money’s worth here. Especially as almost every parameter can be adjusted via the companion app. From the preferred angle and angle detection to the lift-off distance. This makes the Keris II Origin undoubtedly one of the best and most precise gaming mice currently available.
The brand new ROG Scarbard II gaming mouse pad, which comes with a new fabric surface with an arctic gray finish, also deserves great praise. A special surface coating repels water, oil and dust and ensures that the mouse glides smoothly. At 900 x 400 mm, the XXL version also offers plenty of space and the gliding properties of the mouse pad are excellent.
The mouse can be used either wired or wirelessly in the 2.4 GHz standard, which is virtually latency-free thanks to ROG SpeedNova Wireless Technology. The mouse also comes with the new ROG Omni Receiver. This allows several of the manufacturer’s devices to be paired with just one USB dongle. This leaves an additional USB-A port free. The dongle also fits into the underside of the mouse, which is great if you want to take it with you on the go. A Bluetooth connection is also available as an option, which results in a noticeably longer battery life.
Battery and software
- Strong battery life of up to 127h via radio
- practical web software
The battery life of the ASUS ROG Keris II Origin is also outstanding. In 2.4 GHz wireless mode, the gaming mouse lasts a strong 127 hours with the lighting deactivated. With RGB it is still an excellent 82 hours – both values at a polling rate of 1,000 Hz.
The rodent is even more enduring via Bluetooth: A maximum of 192 hours without RGB and 91 hours with RGB are then possible. ASUS has evidently given the mouse an even larger battery, as the Keris II Ace outperforms it in some areas.
There is also additional praise for the companion app. This is because the somewhat confusing and resource-hungry Armoury Crate software is no longer absolutely necessary. Instead, the ASUS ROG Keris II Origin is now configured via the Gear Link web interface – without you having to download any software.
However, you don’t have to accept any losses in terms of functionality. DPI setting, angle, lighting (complete or individual for each zone) and much more can be adjusted in the clear interface.
Calibration for various mouse pads from the manufacturer, including the Moonstone L (our test) made of glass, is possible; alternatively, you can also trigger the surface calibration manually. It is also possible to customize the key assignment for a total of five buttons, while in the power options, for example, you can set a warning for the lighting when a certain battery level is reached.
ASUS ROG Keris II Origin Review: Conclusion
The new ASUS ROG Keris II Origin is very similar to the Keris II Ace, which we were able to test last year. Nevertheless, there are some improvements that make the mouse unique. The new Micro Switches II trigger even more precisely and quickly, which is noticeably beneficial to performance (although they were beyond reproach anyway).
It is also commendable that the housing can be opened to replace the switches if necessary. There is also an additional RGB lighting zone and a slightly larger battery. In terms of features and the sensor, the Keris II Origin is once again right up there with the best gaming mice.
The excellent gliding properties, the ultra-precise sensor and the triple connectivity are particularly worthy of praise here, making the ASUS ROG Keris II Origin an interesting – but expensive – choice for all right-handers. Unfortunately, left-handers are left out in the cold due to the ergonomic shape.
- Pleasant grip
- 42,000 DPI
- Triple connectivity
- Chic RGB lighting
- Long battery life
- High price
- Not for left-handers
ASUS ROG Keris II Origin
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Software
Value For Money
91/100
Outstanding gaming mouse with a non-slip design, excellent sensor and extensive features. Only the high price is an annoyance.
