The ASUS ROG Falchion Ace is the latest addition to the Falchion series of compact gaming keyboards. It is a wired mechanical keyboard with dual USB-C connectors. It is available in 3 switch options: NX Red, NX Brown and NX Blue (linear, tactile and clicky respectively), along with two colour choices: Moonlight White and Black.
We have received the Moonlight White variant with ROG NX Brown tactile switches for review, so read on to find out what we think of this compact keyboard.
What’s In The Box?
- ASUS ROG Falchion Ace mechanical keyboard
- Polycarbonate cover
- USB-C cable
- Warranty card
- User guide
- Sticker pack
Keyboard Design
The ROG Falchion Ace carries over most of the design elements from the original Falchion. It has a 65% layout, making it very compact at only 306mm long and 101mm wide.
You also get two pairs height-adjustable feet, allowing for a total of 3 different keyboard tilt adjustments. The ROG NX mechanical switches are factory lubricated for a smoother typing feel and “thocky” sound. ROG has also treated the acoustics of the board with sound dampening foam.
The included polycarbonate case comes with 4 rubber feet attached. Not only you can use the case to cover your keyboard during transport, it also doubles as a base for your keyboard.
Keyboard Features
Dual USB-C Connectivity
Unlike the original Falchion, the Falchion Ace does not have support for wireless connectivity. It instead has two USB-C ports on each side to connect to two separate devices. Users can swap between devices via the switch situated between the USB-C ports. Also, it is definitely easier to cable manage as you get the option of having either connecting your own custom coiled cables on either side of the board.
PBT Doubleshot Keycaps
With custom keycaps becoming more popular and affordable, it is great to see that ROG uses PBT doubleshot keycaps for the Falchion Ace. The legends of each key is sharp, and the keycaps feel high quality. The keycap profile is similar to Cherry profile, where each row is pronounced enough that I rarely need to look where I am typing.
ROG Switch Stabilisers
ROG took a step further by tuning and lubricating the stabilisers on the spacebar, shift and enter keys as well, making the keyboard feel sturdy and smooth to type on without rattling.
Touch Panel Controls
The touch control panel is located top-left corner of the Falchion Ace. You can use it to adjust the volume, copy/ paste, or assign macro keys for different gaming situations.
Onboard Memory
The Falchion Ace has onboard memory capable of storing up to 6 different profiles, allowing users to use them anywhere at any time.
Polycarbonate Cover
The keyboard comes included with a polycarbonate case that can protect the keyboard during transport, which doubles as a base by placing the keyboard on top of it. However, the cover just sits on the keyboard without any ways to secure it. It does provide some reasonable protection as it only flexes a little when pressed.
Software And Customization
ASUS ROG Falchion Ace can be customised with the Armoury Crate software. You can access a myriad of settings, such as remapping each key, setup the touch panel functions, lighting effects and update the firmware.
For deeper lighting customisation, you can use Aura Sync to synchronise the lighting effects with supported devices.
Typing Experience
The ASUS ROG Falchion Ace feels great to type on. Each keystroke feels consistent and sturdy. The stabilisers and sound dampening foam does a great job at reducing ping for produce a pleasant sound.
The ROG NX Brown tactile switch used in our review sample feels great to type and game on. The actuation point is 2mm and requires 58gf of force. The bump is more pronounced than the more traditional MX Cherry Brown, and bottoming out results in a satisfying ‘thocc’.
It is also easy to find a comfortable tilt to type on using the adjustable feet, though I would recommend getting a palm rest for those with smaller hands.
Switching to a 65% layout might appear daunting to some, but for gamers it actually improves the overall ergonomics. The mouse position is more natural and you do not have to over-extend your right arm while gaming.
Final Thoughts
The ROG Falchion Ace is a well-built, compact keyboard that both typists and gamers will enjoy. While it lacks wireless support from the original Falchion, it is more affordable and retains most of the features and designs that makes the original Falchion so great. Even for keyboards enthusiasts, this keyboard would not disappoint.
For more information on the Falchion Ace, do check out ASUS ROG’s official website.
