ASUS ROG Chakram X Origin Wireless Gaming Mouse: features and specs

The ASUS ROG Chakram X Origin (model P708) is a right-handed wireless gaming mouse built around a detachable thumb joystick. It is aimed at players of MMO and MOBA games, where many hotkeys and quick movement commands matter. It can connect by cable, a 2.4 GHz receiver or Bluetooth, so it moves easily between a desktop and a laptop.

What the sensor and polling rate mean

ASUS fits the mouse with its ROG AimPoint optical sensor, rated at up to 36,000 dpi. DPI describes how far the cursor travels for a given movement of the mouse. Most players use a few hundred to a few thousand dpi, so the top figure matters less than having a sensor that stays accurate across the settings you actually use.

The 8000 Hz polling rate is the other headline number. It means the mouse can report its position up to 8,000 times a second, against 1,000 for many gaming mice. Higher rates can make cursor movement feel smoother on a fast monitor, but they also ask more of the computer's processor, and the full rate is typically available only when the mouse is used wired or on the 2.4 GHz link.

Three ways to connect

ASUS lists three modes: wired USB, low-latency 2.4 GHz RF and Bluetooth, which can pair with up to three devices. The 2.4 GHz link is the usual choice for gaming because it keeps delay low. Bluetooth is handy for a laptop or tablet when you are away from your main setup, and the cable is there for charging or for the highest polling rate.

ASUS quotes up to 150 hours of battery life, and states up to 114 hours of play in 2.4 GHz mode. Battery figures like these depend on lighting, polling rate and settings, so expect shorter times with the more demanding options.

The detachable joystick and buttons

The mouse has seven buttons plus a four-way directional joystick, which ASUS counts as 11 programmable inputs. The joystick can be swapped for others in different sizes, and it can work as an analogue or a digital control. In practice, a thumb joystick lets you map movement, ability groups or camera control without reaching for the keyboard. A DPI-on-the-scroll feature lets you change sensitivity on the fly using the wheel.

At 123 g (about 0.6 lb), it is heavier than the ultralight mice that are popular in fast shooters. The extra weight comes from the battery and the joystick module.

Hot-swap switches and easy customisation

The Push-Fit Switch Socket II lets you replace the main click switches without soldering. It accepts 3-pin mechanical switches and 5-pin optical micro switches, so you can change click force or replace a switch that wears out. The buttons and cover are held by magnets rather than screws, and there is a customisable badge.

For glide, the mouse has 100% PTFE feet and a soft ROG Paracord cable.

Who it suits

It suits players who use lots of hotkeys, such as MMO and MOBA fans, and those who like to tinker with switches and parts. It works with PC and Mac, though the configuration software may offer more on some systems than others.

What to check before you buy

• Hand size and grip: it is a right-handed design at about 5.2 x 3.0 x 1.7 inches, so make sure the shape suits your hand and grip style.
• Weight: 123 g is heavier than many competitive mice.
• Software: check that the configuration software supports your operating system and the features you want.
• Receiver and ports: confirm you have a free USB port for the receiver or cable.
• Spare parts: check which switches and joystick sizes are in the box, and which you would need to buy separately.
• Battery habits: plan where you will charge it, since quoted hours drop with high polling rates.

The short version

• A right-handed, tri-mode wireless gaming mouse with a 36,000 dpi sensor and 8000 Hz polling.
• Detachable joystick and 11 programmable inputs, aimed at MMO and MOBA games.
• Hot-swappable 3-pin and 5-pin optical switches, with screw-less magnetic buttons.
• Up to 150 hours of battery life as quoted, and 114 hours in 2.4 GHz mode.
• 123 g, with PTFE feet; works with PC and Mac.

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